Selected quad for the lemma: nature_n

Word A Word B Word C Word D Occurrence Frequency Band MI MI Band Prominent
nature_n blessing_n confusion_n great_a 20 3 2.0850 3 false
View all documents for the selected quad

Text snippets containing the quad

ID Title Author Corrected Date of Publication (TCP Date of Publication) STC Words Pages
A29583 Sancta Sophia, or, Directions for the prayer of contemplation &c. extracted out of more then (sic) XL treatises / written by the late Ven. Father F. Augustin Baker, a monke of the English congregation of the Holy Order of S. Benedict, and methodically digested by the R.F. Serenvs Cressy of the same order and congregation ...; Sancta Sophia Baker, Augustine, 1575-1641. 1657 (1657) Wing B480; ESTC R16263 412,832 848

There are 35 snippets containing the selected quad. | View original text

by_o reason_n yet_o such_o image_n continue_v in_o the_o fancy_n and_o such_o motion_n in_o the_o body_n the_o mind_n will_v be_v stupefy_v and_o the_o resistance_n of_o reason_n will_v ofttimes_o be_v so_o feeble_a as_o that_o in_o the_o opinion_n of_o the_o person_n it_o will_v pass_v for_o no_o resistance_n at_o all_o yea_o rather_o the_o soul_n will_v be_v persuade_v that_o she_o have_v deliberate_o consent_v consider_v the_o continuance_n of_o they_o after_o that_o she_o be_v full_o awake_a and_o have_v reflect_v on_o they_o 10._o notwithstanding_o unless_o in_o such_o soul_n the_o reason_n do_v not_o only_o reflect_v upon_o the_o sinfullnes_n of_o such_o impure_a thought_n if_o consent_v to_o but_o likewise_o in_o the_o very_a same_o instant_n that_o she_o make_v such_o a_o reflection_n the_o will_v be_v deliberate_o move_v to_o the_o approve_v of_o they_o they_o may_v be_v assure_v that_o there_o have_v pass_v no_o culpable_a consent_n to_o they_o again_o if_o the_o general_a disposition_n of_o such_o soul_n be_v such_o as_o that_o seldom_o or_o never_o either_o speech_n or_o deliberate_a action_n do_v proceed_v from_o they_o conformable_a to_o such_o impure_a imagination_n they_o may_v confident_o judge_v that_o there_o be_v no_o danger_n of_o have_v incur_v a_o mortal_a sin_n 11._o above_o all_o thing_n the_o devout_a soul_n be_v to_o be_v careful_a that_o she_o be_v not_o dishearten_v by_o occasion_n of_o such_o tentation_n from_o pursue_v constant_o her_o appoint_a recollection_n the_o best_a she_o can_v notwithstanding_o that_o then_o above_o all_o other_o time_n such_o thought_n will_v throng_v into_o her_o mind_n so_o that_o she_o will_v think_v it_o almost_o unlawful_a to_o appear_v before_o god_n be_v full_a of_o such_o impure_a image_n but_o she_o be_v to_o consider_v that_o now_o be_v the_o proper_a time_n to_o show_v her_o fidelity_n to_o god_n no_o thanks_o to_o she_o if_o she_o adhere_v to_o god_n when_o nature_n make_v no_o opposition_n but_o rather_o find_v a_o gust_n in_o it_o but_o if_o amid_o these_o tempest_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n she_o will_v firm_o adhere_v to_o god_n when_o such_o adhesion_n become_v so_o extreme_o painful_a to_o she_o this_o be_v thankeworthy_a then_o she_o will_v show_v herself_o a_o valiant_a soldier_n of_o our_o lord_n &_o worthy_a of_o that_o testimony_n that_o he_o give_v of_o she_o who_o have_v judge_v her_o fit_a and_o capable_a of_o encounter_v such_o furious_a enemy_n 11._o a_o great_a blessing_n and_o happiness_n it_o be_v that_o in_o all_o internal_a confusion_n obscurity_n etc._n etc._n we_o can_v always_o make_v a_o election_n of_o god_n with_o the_o superior_a will_n the_o which_o be_v effectual_o do_v whatsoever_o disorder_n be_v in_o the_o imagination_n or_o in_o inferior_a nature_n they_o do_v rather_o increase_v then_o prejudice_n our_o merit_n 12._o indeed_o this_o be_v that_o great_a most_o efficacious_a and_o universal_a remedy_n against_o all_o tentation_n to_o wit_n a_o actual_a conversion_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o god_n in_o prayer_n for_o thereby_o the_o soul_n be_v unite_v to_o god_n either_o she_o will_v loose_v the_o image_n and_o memory_n of_o the_o tentation_n for_o the_o present_a or_o however_o she_o do_v with_o far_o more_o efficacy_n oppose_v and_o work_v contrary_a to_o such_o tentation_n then_o if_o she_o have_v fix_v her_o eye_n with_o a_o direct_a renounce_n and_o detestation_n of_o they_o for_o in_o a_o actual_a union_n with_o god_n be_v include_v a_o virtual_a detestation_n of_o all_o thing_n contrary_a to_o he_o both_o for_o present_a and_o future_a and_o also_o thereby_o the_o soul_n adhere_v to_o she_o only_o good_a with_o who_o they_o be_v absolute_o inconsistent_a 13._o this_o remedy_n therefore_o which_o contain_v in_o it_o all_o the_o virtue_n of_o all_o other_o particular_a remedy_n be_v often_o and_o serious_o to_o be_v recommend_v to_o internal_a contemplative_a liver_n for_o indeed_o none_o but_o such_o as_o live_v abstract_v life_n can_v without_o great_a force_n and_o difficulty_n be_v in_o a_o disposition_n at_o pleasure_n to_o introvert_v and_o recollect_v shemselue_n however_o let_v every_o soul_n that_o be_v capable_a thereof_o use_v it_o it_o be_v the_o plain_a easy_a secure_a and_o most_o infallible_a cure_n of_o all_o other_o 14._o those_o that_o be_v thorough_o practise_v in_o prayer_n can_v only_o be_v unite_v in_o w●ll_n to_o god_n but_o perceive_v themselves_o to_o be_v so_o unite_v while_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n both_o the_o representation_n of_o those_o tentation_n remain_v in_o the_o imagination_n and_o understanding_n and_o much_o trouble_n likewise_o in_o inferior_a nature_n all_o which_o notwithstanding_o be_v not_o any_o hindrance_n or_o prejudice_n to_o such_o union_n yea_o by_o occasion_n of_o these_o thing_n a_o more_o perfect_a and_o intense_a union_n may_v be_v cause_v 15._o the_o light_n obtain_v by_o prayer_n for_o the_o discover_n of_o the_o cause_n ground_n and_o remedy_n of_o such_o tentation_n and_o the_o grace_n to_o resist_v they_o be_v wonderful_a and_o incredible_a to_o those_o that_o do_v not_o practice_v prayer_n by_o neglect_n of_o which_o many_o live_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o tentation_n and_o yet_o do_v not_o know_v they_o to_o be_v such_o or_o know_v they_o yet_o have_v no_o strength_n nor_o will_n to_o resist_v they_o but_o most_o certain_a it_o be_v that_o a_o soul_n which_o due_o prosecute_v internal_a prayer_n according_a to_o her_o present_a ability_n can_v scarce_o possible_o be_v so_o overcome_v with_o a_o tentation_n as_o habitual_o to_o yield_v to_o it_o or_o however_o to_o die_v in_o it_o indeed_o there_o be_v no_o security_n that_o a_o soul_n ordinary_o be_v capable_a of_o in_o this_o life_n but_o by_o the_o mean_n of_o prayer_n chap._n x._o §_o 1._o of_o scrupulosity_n about_o externall_n duty_n as_o the_o office_n fast_v etc._n etc._n §_o 2._o tender_a soul_n ought_v to_o seek_v full_a information_n touch_v such_o obligation_n which_o be_v not_o out_o of_o politic_a end_n to_o be_v deny_v they_o §_o 3._o 4._o 5._o 6._o several_a case_n of_o indulgence_n about_o the_o office_n §_o 7._o 8._o 9_o 10._o some_o learned_a doctor_n do_v free_a particular_a religious_a person_n not_o in_o holy_a order_n from_o a_o necessary_a obligation_n of_o say_v the_o office_n in_o private_a §_o 11._o a_o advice_n touch_v the_o same_o 1._o in_o the_o next_o place_n the_o special_a externall_n duty_n about_o which_o tender_a soul_n be_v apt_a to_o admit_v scrupulosity_n be_v many_o yea_o some_o be_v so_o inordinate_o timorous_a that_o they_o can_v give_v way_n to_o unsatisfaction_n in_o almost_o every_o thing_n that_o they_o do_v or_o say_v but_o the_o principal_a and_o most_o common_a especial_o in_o religion_n be_v these_o 1._o the_o obligation_n of_o religious_a person_n to_o poverty_n obedience_n regular_n fast_v say_v of_o the_o office_n in_o public_a or_o private_a etc._n etc._n 2._o the_o duty_n of_o examination_n of_o the_o conscience_n in_o order_n to_o confession_n and_o confession_n in_o self_n with_o communicate_v afterward_o 2._o the_o general_a proper_a remedy_n against_o scrupulosity_n arise_v upon_o occasion_n of_o any_o of_o these_o matter_n be_v a_o true_a information_n of_o the_o extent_n of_o the_o say_a obligation_n and_o sure_o spiritual_a directour_n be_v oblige_v to_o allow_v as_o much_o latitude_n to_o wellminded_a timorous_a soul_n in_o all_o these_o thing_n as_o reason_n will_v possible_o admit_v consider_v that_o such_o be_v apt_a to_o make_v a_o good_a use_n of_o the_o great_a condescendency_n therefore_o it_o will_v be_v a_o fault_n inexcusable_a before_o god_n if_o confessor_n out_o of_o a_o vain_a policy_n to_o the_o end_n to_o keep_v tender_a soul_n in_o a_o continual_a dependence_n and_o captivity_n under_o they_o shall_v conceal_v from_o they_o any_o relaxation_n allow_v by_o doctor_n or_o just_a reason_n and_o timorous_a soul_n when_o they_o have_v receive_v information_n from_o person_n capable_a of_o know_v and_o unlikely_a to_o deceive_v they_o they_o ought_v to_o believe_v and_o rest_v upon_o they_o and_o to_o account_v all_o rise_n of_o fear_n or_o suspicion_n to_o the_o contrary_a to_o be_v unlawful_a 3._o more_o particular_o for_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v the_o divine_a office_n since_o all_o that_o understand_v latin_n may_v acquaint_v themselves_o with_o all_o the_o dispensation_n and_o large_a allowance_n afford_v by_o doctor_n i_o conceive_v it_o most_o requisite_a that_o such_o ignorant_a tender_a soul_n especial_o woman_n as_o may_v come_v to_o see_v or_o read_v these_o instruction_n shall_v not_o be_v leave_v in_o a_o ignorance_n or_o uncertainty_n hereabout_o for_o why_o shall_v any_o additional_a burden_n of_o a_o religious_a life_n lie_v more_o heavy_a on_o those_o that_o be_v least_o able_a to_o bear_v they_o and_o such_o as_o will_v be_v far_o from_o be_v less_o careful_a in_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 reas●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 a●_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
to_o she_o i_o say_v it_o be_v moral_o impossible_a for_o such_o a_o soul_n so_o love_v god_n deliberate_o &_o habitual_o to_o yield_v to_o the_o love_n of_o any_o thing_n but_o god_n only_o &_o in_o order_n to_o he_o or_o to_o stop_v in_o any_o inferior_a degree_n of_o love_n to_o he_o the_o frailty_n of_o nature_n &_o many_o unavoidable_a distraction_n &_o tentation_n may_v &_o general_o do_v hinder_v most_o soul_n from_o attain_v or_o even_o approach_v to_o such_o perfection_n to_o such_o uninterrupt_a attention_n &_o union_n with_o god_n as_o be_v practise_v by_o adam_n in_o innocency_n &_o by_o a_o few_o perfect_a soul_n in_o all_o age_n but_o nothing_o but_o the_o want_n of_o true_a sincere_a love_n will_v hinder_v the_o aspire_a thereto_o according_a to_o the_o measure_n &_o strength_n of_o grace_n that_o each_o soul_n in_o her_o order_n enjoy_v and_o both_o reason_n &_o experience_n witness_v this_o truth_n in_o all_o manner_n of_o love_n lawful_a or_o unlawful_a for_o we_o see_v that_o whersoever_o the_o love_n to_o riches_n honour_n empire_n or_o pleasure_n be_v the_o tyrannize_a affection_n so_o as_o to_o cause_v the_o person_n to_o place_v his_o suppose_a happiness_n in_o any_o of_o these_o such_o person_n neither_o will_n nor_o can_v be_v so_o dispose_v wilful_o surcease_v a_o continual_a progress_n in_o pursuinge_v their_o design_n endless_o neither_o can_v they_o admit_v a_o habitual_a &_o deliberate_a adherence_n with_o affection_n to_o any_o other_o object_n though_o not_o ruinous_a but_o in_o a_o inferior_a degree_n prejudicial_a to_o what_o they_o principal_o affect_v cap._n ii_o §_o 1._o common_o those_o only_a be_v say_v to_o aspire_v to_o perfection_n that_o consecrate_v themselves_o to_o god_n §_o 2._o a_o natural_a devotion_n &_o propension_n to_o seek_v god_n of_o which_o the_o degree_n be_v infinite_o various_a §_o 3._o 4._o 5._o yet_o all_o range_v under_o two_o state_n active_a &_o contemplative_a §_o 6._o 7._o general_o most_o soul_n be_v of_o a_o mix_v temper_n between_o both_o hence_o come_v the_o difficulty_n of_o the_o guide_n of_o soul_n §_o 8._o at_o the_o first_o entrance_n into_o internal_a way_n all_o soul_n seem_v to_o be_v of_o a_o active_a temper_n 1._o notwithstanding_o although_o all_o christian_n be_v oblige_v to_o aspire_v to_o perfection_n &_o to_o lead_v spiritual_a life_n sanctify_v all_o their_o action_n &_o employment_n by_o prayer_n yet_o the_o effectual_a practice_n of_o this_o obligation_n be_v so_o very_o rare_a that_o in_o ordinary_a speech_n those_o only_o be_v say_v to_o aspire_v unto_o perfection_n who_o have_v be_v so_o high_o favour_v by_o god_n as_o to_o have_v be_v call_v by_o he_o from_o all_o solicitous_a engagement_n in_o worldhy_a affair_n so_o as_o to_o make_v the_o only_a business_n &_o employment_n of_o their_o life_n to_o be_v the_o serve_v adore_a love_a meditate_v &_o pray_v unto_o god_n the_o attend_v to_o &_o follow_a his_o divine_a inspiration_n etc._n etc._n in_o a_o state_n of_o competent_a abstraction_n &_o solitude_n &_o this_o most_o ordinary_o &_o perfect_o in_o a_o religious_a profession_n or_o if_o in_o the_o world_n yet_o in_o a_o course_n of_o life_n divide_v &_o separate_v from_o the_o world_n 2._o there_o seem_v indeed_o to_o remain_v even_o natural_o in_o all_o soul_n a_o certain_a propension_n to_o seek_v god_n though_o not_o at_o all_o for_o himself_o but_o meerelie_o for_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o nature_n &_o selfe-end_n which_o be_v a_o kind_n of_o natural_a devotion_n &_o be_v to_o be_v find_v even_o in_o heretic_n yea_o jew_n &_o heathen_n &_o this_o more_o or_o less_o according_a to_o their_o several_a disposition_n &_o corporal_a complexion_n the_o variety_n of_o which_o be_v wonderful_a &_o almost_o incredible_a now_o when_o divine_a grace_n adjoin_v itself_o to_o such_o good_a propension_n it_o promote_v &_o increase_v they_o rectify_v what_o be_v amiss_o in_o they_o especial_o by_o purify_n the_o intention_n &_o make_v they_o to_o seek_v god_n only_o for_o god_n himself_o &_o no_o unworthy_a in_o feriour_a end_n of_o nature_n but_o it_o do_v not_o at_o all_o alter_v the_o complexion_n itself_o but_o conduct_n soul_n in_o spiritual_a way_n suitable_o to_o their_o several_a disposition_n by_o a_o almost_o infinite_a variety_n of_o path_n &_o fashion_n yet_o all_o tend_v to_o the_o same_o general_a end_n with_o be_v the_o union_n of_o our_o spirit_n with_o god_n by_o perfect_a love_n 3._o notwithstanding_o all_o these_o variety_n of_o disposition_n &_o way_n of_o which_o we_o shall_v treat_v more_o full_o when_o we_o come_v to_o speak_v of_o internal_a prayer_n may_v commodious_o enough_o be_v reduce_v in_o gross_a to_o two_o rank_n to_o wit_n active_a &_o contemplative_a spirit_n both_o which_o aspire_v to_o a_o perfection_n of_o union_n in_o spirit_n with_o god_n by_o perfect_a love_n &_o for_o that_o purpose_n in_o gross_a practice_n &_o make_v use_n of_o the_o same_o mean_v necessary_a to_o that_o end_n to_o wit_n mortification_n &_o prayer_n but_o yet_o the_o manner_n both_o of_o their_o union_n &_o prayer_n &_o consequent_o of_o their_o mortification_n also_o be_v very_o different_a and_o the_o root_n of_o such_o difference_n be_v the_o forementioned_a variety_n of_o propension_n &_o natural_a disposition_n to_o internal_a way_n 4._o for_o first_o the_o propension_n which_o be_v in_o some_o soul_n to_o devotion_n be_v of_o such_o a_o nature_n that_o it_o incline_v they_o much_o to_o buisy_n their_o imagination_n &_o to_o frame_v in_o their_o mind_n motive_n to_o the_o divine_a love_n by_o internal_a discourse_n so_o as_o that_o with_o out_o such_o reason_n &_o use_n of_o image_n they_o can_v seldom_o with_o any_o efficacy_n raise_v or_o fix_v their_o affection_n on_o god_n such_o disposition_n be_v not_o patient_a of_o much_o solitude_n or_o recollection_n more_o than_o shall_v be_v necessary_a to_o enable_v they_o to_o produce_v &_o maintain_v a_o right_a intention_n in_o outward_a do_n &_o work_n of_o charity_n to_o the_o which_o they_o be_v powerful_o incline_v and_o the_o mortification_n most_o willing_o practise_v by_o they_o be_v usual_o external_a &_o oftentimes_o voluntary_o assume_v the_o which_o make_v a_o great_a show_v &_o procure_v very_o great_a esteem_n from_o other_o and_o proportionable_o hereto_o the_o divine_a love_n &_o union_n produce_v by_o such_o mean_n be_v very_o vigorous_a but_o less_o pure_a &_o spiritual_a apt_a to_o express_v itself_o by_o much_o sensible_a devotion_n &_o tenderness_n the_o state_n therefore_o &_o perfection_n of_o these_o soul_n be_v call_v the_o state_n &_o perfection_n of_o a_o active_a life_n 3._o again_o other_o be_v natural_o of_o a_o propension_n to_o seek_v god_n in_o the_o obscurity_n of_o faith_n with_o a_o more_o profound_a introversion_n of_o spirit_n &_o with_o less_o activity_n &_o motion_n in_o sensitive_a nature_n &_o with_o out_o the_o use_n of_o grosser_n image_n yet_o with_o far_o great_a simplicity_n purity_n &_o efficacy_n and_o consequent_o such_o soul_n be_v not_o of_o themselves_o much_o incline_v to_o external_a work_n except_o when_o god_n call_v they_o thereto_o by_o secret_a inspiration_n or_o engage_v they_o therein_o by_o command_n of_o superior_n but_o they_o seek_v rather_o to_o purify_v themselves_o &_o inflame_v their_o heart_n in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n by_o internal_a quiet_a &_o pure_a actuation_n in_o spirit_n by_o a_o total_a abstraction_n from_o creature_n by_o solitude_n both_o externall_n and_o especial_o internal_a so_o dispose_v themselves_o to_o receive_v the_o influx_n &_o inspiration_n of_o god_n who_o guidance_n chief_o they_o endeavour_v to_o follow_v in_o all_o thing_n and_o the_o mortification_n practise_v by_o they_o though_o less_o remarkable_a yet_o be_v fair_a more_o efficacious_a be_v profound_a and_o penetrate_a even_o to_o the_o most_o secret_a deordination_n of_o the_o spirit_n by_o a_o constant_a pursuance_n of_o such_o exercise_n their_o spirit_n become_v naked_a &_o empty_a of_o all_o strange_a affection_n image_n &_o distraction_n the_o divine_a spirit_n only_o live_v &_o operate_v in_o they_o afford_v they_o light_n to_o perceive_v &_o strength_n to_o subdue_v self-love_n in_o its_o most_o secret_a and_o to_o all_o other_o imperceptible_a insinuation_n and_o by_o consequence_n they_o attain_v unto_o a_o union_n with_o god_n far_o more_o strict_a &_o immediate_a than_o the_o former_a by_o a_o love_n much_o more_o masculine_a pure_a &_o divine_a and_o the_o state_n and_o perfection_n of_o these_o happy_a soul_n be_v call_v the_o state_n and_o perfection_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n 6._o now_o though_o all_o internal_a disposition_n of_o soul_n by_o which_o mankind_n be_v more_o diversify_v then_o by_o outward_a feature_n may_v convenient_o enough_o be_v range_v under_o these_o two_o state_n yet_o we_o be_v not_o to_o conceive_v that_o each_o
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 whi●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
of_o enormous_a sin_n yet_o they_o may_v be_v no_o less_o dangerous_a because_o less_o corrigible_a such_o as_o be_v those_o spiritual_a sin_n of_o pride_n murmur_a factiousnes_n envy_n ambition_n &c_n &c_n beside_o which_o how_o be_v it_o possible_a for_o they_o to_o give_v a_o account_n of_o sin_n of_o omission_n of_o the_o want_n of_o perfect_v their_o soul_n by_o prayer_n of_o the_o avoid_n of_o which_o they_o never_o take_v any_o care_n although_o their_o profession_n and_o vow_n oblige_v they_o thereto_o 6._o again_o if_o tepidity_n though_o not_o in_o so_o high_a a_o degree_n be_v find_v in_o soul_n that_o be_v acquaint_v speculative_o with_o the_o internal_a way_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o their_o obligation_n to_o pursue_v they_o in_o order_n to_o perfection_n but_o either_o for_o want_n of_o courage_n dare_v not_o apply_v themselves_o serious_o to_o they_o or_o do_v it_o very_o faint_o cold_o or_o with_o frequent_a interruption_n and_o only_o be_v not_o resolve_v to_o relinquish_v and_o abjure_v such_o way_n such_o as_o though_o they_o have_v not_o a_o wilful_a affection_n to_o venial_a sin_n yet_o be_v for_o the_o most_o part_n wilful_o negligent_a in_o resist_v they_o such_o soul_n ought_v to_o consider_v that_o their_o case_n in_o all_o respect_n approach_v near_o to_o the_o miserable_a condition_n of_o the_o former_a and_o they_o will_v have_v guilt_n enough_o to_o take_v away_o all_o comfort_n almost_o in_o a_o religious_a state_n and_o to_o give_v they_o just_a apprehension_n for_o the_o future_a life_n of_o which_o they_o have_v no_o security_n 7._o for_o when_o such_o soul_n approach_v near_o unto_o death_n they_o will_v then_o too_o late_o consider_v that_o for_o want_n of_o diligent_a prayer_n there_o may_v be_v yea_o assure_o be_v in_o they_o a_o world_n of_o inordination_n impurity_n and_o defect_n undiscovered_a by_o they_o and_o therefore_o can_v neither_o be_v acknowledge_v nor_o bewail_v so_o that_o they_o can_v not_o have_v any_o assurance_n of_o the_o state_n and_o inclination_n of_o their_o soul_n beside_o they_o know_v themselves_o to_o have_v be_v guilty_a of_o a_o life_n spend_v in_o a_o uninterrupt_a ingratitude_n to_o god_n who_o give_v they_o light_n to_o see_v the_o way_n to_o perfection_n and_o which_o their_o profession_n oblige_v they_o to_o walk_v in_o and_o yet_o wilful_o they_o neglect_v to_o make_v use_n of_o such_o light_n or_o to_o make_v progress_n in_o those_o way_n &c._n &c._n and_o this_o be_v a_o aggravation_n of_o guilt_n beyond_o the_o former_a they_o be_v conscious_a likewise_o of_o a_o unexcusable_a and_o long_o continue_a unfaithfullnes_n never_o almost_o comply_v with_o the_o divine_a inspiration_n which_o daily_o urge_v they_o to_o put_v themselves_o resolute_o into_o that_o only_a secure_a way_n of_o a_o internal_a life_n nor_o ever_o vigorous_o resist_v the_o sin_n and_o imperfection_n which_o they_o do_v discover_v in_o themselves_o etc._n etc._n such_o sad_a thought_n as_o these_o press_v as_o usual_o they_o do_v one_o upon_o another_o near_o the_o approach_n of_o death_n what_o grievous_a apprehension_n what_o terrible_a uncerteinty_n must_v they_o need_v cause_n in_o tepid_a soul_n then_o most_o sensible_a of_o danger_n and_o fear_n so_o that_o their_o life_n will_v be_v full_a of_o anguish_n and_o continual_a remorse_n and_o their_o death_n very_o uncomfortable_a 8._o last_o to_o all_o these_o misery_n of_o a_o tepid_a life_n this_o also_o may_v be_v add_v as_o a_o increase_n of_o the_o guilt_n and_o consequent_o a_o aggravation_n of_o the_o dangerous_a state_n of_o soul_n infect_v with_o that_o poison_n which_o be_v that_o they_o do_v not_o only_a themselves_n most_o ungrateful_o withdraw_v their_o own_o affection_n from_o god_n and_o divine_a thing_n but_o by_o their_o ill_a example_n by_o mispend_v the_o time_n in_o vain_a extrovert_v conversation_n by_o discountenance_v those_o that_o be_v f●ruourous_a in_o internal_a way_n etc._n etc._n they_o infect_v their_o companion_n and_o so_o treacherous_o defraud_v almighty_a god_n of_o the_o affection_n of_o other_o also_o so_o that_o a_o tepid_v religious_a person_n though_o give_v to_o no_o enormous_a excess_n be_v oft_o more_o harmful_a in_o a_o community_n than_o a_o open_a scandalous_a liver_n because_o none_o that_o have_v any_o care_n of_o himself_o but_o will_n beware_v of_o such_o a_o one_o as_o this_o latter_a be_v whereas_o a_o tepid_a soul_n unperceiveable_o instill_v into_o other_o the_o poisonous_a infection_n wherewith_v herself_o be_v taint_v 9_o from_o the_o ground_n and_o consideration_n here_o mention_v it_o do_v appear_v how_o necessary_a it_o be_v for_o a_o devout_a soul_n both_o in_o the_o beginning_n and_o pursuance_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n to_o excite_v and_o fortify_v her_o courageous_a resolution_n not_o to_o be_v daunt_v by_o discouragement_n either_o from_o within_o or_o without_o but_o at_o what_o price_n soever_o and_o with_o what_o labour_n and_o suffering_n soever_o with_o fervour_n to_o persevere_v in_o the_o exercise_n and_o duty_n belong_v thereto_o account_v tepidity_n and_o spiritual_a sloth_n as_o the_o very_a bane_n of_o he●_n whole_a design_n the_o which_o if_o it_o be_v yield_v unto_o though_o but_o a_o little_a it_o will_v gather_v more_o force_n and_o at_o last_o grow_v irresistible_a 10._o but_o withal_o she_o be_v to_o be_v advise_v that_o such_o her_o courage_n and_o fervour_n must_v be_v exercise_v not_o impetuous_o out_o of_o passion_n or_o such_o impulse_n as_o a_o fit_a of_o sensible_a devotion_n will_v sometime_o produce_v in_o she_o but_o this_o fervour_n and_o resolution_n must_v chief_o be_v seat_v in_o the_o superior_a will_n and_o regulate_v by_o spiritual_a discretion_n according_a to_o her_o present_a force_n both_o natural_a and_o supernatural_a and_o the_o measure_n of_o grace_n bestow_v on_o she_o and_o no_o further_o for_o there_o may_v be_v as_o much_o harm_n by_o out_o run_a grace_n as_o by_o neglect_v to_o correspond_v unto_o it_o hence_o it_o oft_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o many_o wellminded_a soul_n be_v either_o push_v foward_a by_o a_o indiscrete_a passionate_a zeal_n or_o advise_v by_o unexperienced_a directour_n to_o undertake_v unnecessary_o and_o voluntary_o either_o rigorous_a mortification_n or_o excessive_a task_n of_o devotion_n and_o want_v strength_n to_o continue_v they_o have_v become_v able_a to_o do_v nothing_o at_o all_o so_o that_o affect_v too_o hasty_o to_o attain_v unto_o perfection_n soon_o than_o god_n do_v enable_v they_o thereto_o they_o so_o over_o burden_n themselves_o that_o they_o be_v force_v to_o give_v over_o quite_o all_o tendance_n to_o it_o therefore_o we_o must_v be_v content_v to_o proceed_v in_o such_o a_o pace_n as_o may_v be_v last_v and_o that_o will_v suffice_v cap._n vi_o §_o 2._o etc._n etc._n a_o confirmation_n of_o what_o have_v be_v say_v particular_o of_o the_o necessity_n of_o a_o strong_a resolution_n and_o courage_n to_o persevere_v shw_v by_o the_o parable_n of_o a_o pilgrim_n travel_v to_o jerusalem_n out_o of_o scala_fw-la perfectionis_fw-la 1._o now_o for_o a_o further_a confirmation_n and_o more_o effectual_a recommendation_n of_o what_o have_v hitherto_o be_v deliver_v touch_v the_o nature_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n in_o general_a the_o supereminent_a nobleness_n of_o its_o end_n the_o great_a difficulty_n to_o be_v expect_v in_o it_o and_o the_o absolute_a necessity_n of_o a_o firm_a courage_n to_o persevere_v and_o continual_o to_o make_v progress_n in_o it_o whatsoever_o it_o cost_v we_o with_o out_o which_o resolution_n it_o be_v in_o vain_a to_o set_v one_o step_n forward_o in_o these_o way_n i_o will_v here_o annexe_v a_o passage_n extract_v out_o of_o that_o excellent_a treatise_n call_v scala_fw-la perfectionis_fw-la write_v by_o that_o eminent_a contemplative_a d._n walter_n hilton_n a_o carthusian_n monk_n in_o which_o under_o the_o parable_n of_o a_o devout_a pilgrim_n desirous_a to_o travel_v to_o jerusalem_n which_o he_o interpret_v the_o vision_n of_o peace_n or_o contemplation_n he_o deliver_v instruction_n very_o proper_a and_o efficacious_a touch_v the_o behaviour_n requisite_a in_o a_o devout_a soul_n for_o such_o a_o journey_n the_o true_a sense_n of_o which_o aduises_n i_o will_v take_v liberty_n so_o to_o deliver_v brief_o as_o notwithstanding_o not_o to_o omit_v any_o important_a matter_n there_o more_o large_o and_o according_a to_o the_o old_a fashion_n express_v 21.22.23_o scala_fw-la perfect_a par_fw-fr 2._o cap._n 21.22.23_o 2._o there_o be_v a_o man_n say_v he_o that_o have_v a_o great_a desire_n to_o go_v to_o jerusalem_n and_o because_o he_o know_v not_o the_o right_a way_n he_o address_v himself_o for_o advice_n to_o one_o that_o he_o hope_v be_v not_o unskillful_a in_o it_o and_o ask_v he_o whether_o there_o be_v any_o way_n passable_a thither_o the_o other_o answer_v that_o the_o way_n thither_o be_v both_o long_a and_o full_a of_o very_o great_a
aspire_v and_o attain_v to_o such_o internal_a perfection_n without_o which_o the_o externall_n observance_n will_v be_v of_o no_o value_n but_o rather_o be_v final_o rest_v in_o without_o far_a application_n to_o the_o spirit_n empty_a hypocritical_a formality_n and_o more_o particular_o as_o touch_v the_o conference_n of_o the_o father_n write_v by_o cassian_n and_o express_o recommend_v to_o we_o by_o our_o holy_a father_n we_o reasonable_o may_v and_o aught_o to_o judge_v that_o his_o intention_n be_v we_o shall_v in_o a_o special_a manner_n make_v use_n of_o the_o instruction_n and_o example_n there_o deliver_v by_o prudent_a holy_a and_o experience_a contemplative_n as_o a_o rule_n and_o patterne_n to_o which_o we_o shall_v conform_v ourselves_o principal_o in_o our_o internal_a exercise_n as_o be_v much_o more_o useful_a and_o proper_a for_o we_o than_o any_o instruction_n about_o such_o matter_n to_o be_v find_v in_o the_o writing_n of_o other_o far_a more_o learned_a holy_a father_n of_o the_o church_n who_o general_o direct_v their_o speech_n to_o such_o as_o lead_v common_a life_n in_o the_o world_n 18._o this_o obligation_n be_v so_o manifest_a and_o unquestionable_a how_o can_v those_o new_a interpreter_n of_o our_o holy_a rule_n be_v excuse_v that_o extend_v the_o profession_n of_o a_o religious_a person_n no_o further_o then_o to_o the_o performance_n of_o exterior_a obedience_n and_o observance_n literal_o express_v in_o the_o rule_n or_o signify_v by_o the_o express_a command_n of_o superior_n sure_o they_o forget_v that_o it_o be_v to_o god_n only_o that_o we_o make_v our_o vow_n and_o not_o to_o man_n but_o only_o as_o his_o substitute_n and_o as_o appoint_v by_o he_o to_o take_v care_n of_o the_o purify_n our_o soul_n for_o the_o destroy_n therefore_o of_o so_o unreasonable_a a_o interpretation_n yet_o too_o likely_a to_o be_v embrace_v by_o the_o tepid_a spirit_n of_o this_o age_n it_o will_v suffice_v only_o to_o look_v upon_o the_o form_n of_o a_o religious_a profession_n institute_v by_o our_o holy_a father_n in_o the_o 58._o chapter_n in_o these_o word_n suscipiendus_fw-la autem_fw-la in_fw-la oratorio_fw-la etc._n etc._n that_o be_v let_v he_o that_o be_v to_o be_v receive_v to_o a_o religious_a profession_n promise_v in_o the_o presence_n of_o the_o whole_a community_n assemble_v in_o the_o church_n before_o god_n and_o his_o saint_n 1._o a_o constant_a stability_n in_o that_o state_n 2._o a_o conversion_n of_o his_o manner_n 3._o and_o obedience_n now_o of_o the_o three_o thing_n so_o solemn_o and_o with_o such_o affright_a circumstance_n vow_v conversion_n of_o manner_n can_v signify_v no_o other_o thing_n but_o internal_a purity_n of_o the_o soul_n obedience_n indeed_o seem_v to_o regard_v the_o outward_a observance_n of_o the_o rule_n yet_o sure_o with_o a_o eye_n to_o the_o principal_a end_n of_o all_o external_a duty_n of_o all_o christian_n and_o much_o more_o of_o those_o that_o aspire_v to_o the_o perfection_n of_o divine_a love._n and_o as_o for_o stability_n it_o regard_v both_o these_o add_v to_o they_o a_o perseverance_n and_o a_o continual_a progress_n in_o both_o to_o the_o end_n 19_o these_o thing_n consider_v if_o god_n so_o earnest_o protest_v to_o the_o jew_n say_v my_o soul_n hate_v your_o new_a moon_n your_o solemn_a feast_n and_o sacrifice_n which_o yet_o be_v observance_n ordain_v by_o himself_o and_o this_o because_o those_o that_o practise_v they_o with_o all_o exactness_n rest_v in_o the_o outward_a action_n and_o neglect_v inward_a purity_n of_o the_o heart_n typify_v by_o they_o much_o more_o will_n god_n despise_v and_o hate_v a_o exact_a performance_n of_o regular_a observance_n command_v by_o man_n when_o the_o practiser_n of_o they_o do_v not_o refer_v they_o to_o the_o only_a true_a end_n regard_v by_o the_o institutour_n which_o be_v by_o they_o to_o dispose_v and_o fit_a soul_n to_o internal_a solitude_n aptness_n to_o receive_v divine_a light_n &_o grace_n and_o last_o to_o the_o practice_n of_o pure_a contemplative_a prayer_n without_o which_o a_o religious_a state_n will_v be_v no_o better_o than_o a_o mere_a outward_a occupation_n on_o trade_n and_o if_o only_o so_o consider_v it_o be_v perhaps_o less_o perfect_a than_o one_o exercise_v in_o the_o world_n by_o which_o much_o good_a commodity_n may_v be_v derive_v to_o other_o also_o 20._o again_o when_o such_o condescend_v interpreter_n do_v further_o say_v that_o all_o our_o obligation_n by_o virtue_n of_o a_o religious_a profession_n be_v to_o be_v understand_v only_o secundum_fw-la regulam_fw-la according_a to_o the_o rule_n we_o must_v know_v that_o this_o phrase_n secundum_fw-la regulam_fw-la be_v to_o be_v annex_v to_o the_o vow_n of_o obedience_n only_o import_v that_o a_o religious_a superior_a have_v not_o a_o vast_a unlimited_a authority_n but_o confine_v to_o the_o rule_n whereas_o there_o be_v no_o limit_n prescribe_v to_o conversion_n of_o manner_n to_o christian_a holiness_n and_o perfection_n in_o which_o we_o be_v oblige_v daily_o to_o make_v a_o further_a progress_n to_o the_o which_o duty_n as_o by_o become_v religious_a we_o have_v a_o great_a obligation_n so_o likewise_o have_v we_o a_o great_a necessity_n for_o though_o by_o enter_v into_o religion_n we_o do_v avoid_v many_o occasion_n and_o tentation_n to_o outward_a enormous_a sin_n yet_o we_o can_v never_o be_v free_v from_o our_o thought_n which_o will_v pursue_v we_o where_o ever_o we_o be_v and_o more_o impetuous_o and_o dangerous_o in_o solitude_n then_o in_o company_n be_v indeed_o the_o great_a pleasure_n of_o man_n whether_o they_o be_v good_a or_o bad_a for_o in_o solitude_n the_o soul_n have_v her_o whole_a free_a scope_n without_o interruption_n to_o pursue_v her_o thought_n so_o that_o a_o religious_a person_n that_o can_v think_v himself_o not_o oblige_v and_o that_o actual_o do_v not_o restrain_v and_o order_v his_o thought_n by_o divert_v and_o fix_v they_o on_o heavenly_a and_o divine_a object_n such_o a_o one_o if_o for_o want_n of_o opportunity_n he_o guard_v himself_o from_o outward_a scandalous_a crime_n yet_o he_o will_v more_v &_o more_o deep_o plunge_v himself_o in_o corrupt_a nature_n contract_v a_o great_a obscurity_n &_o incapacity_n of_o divine_a grace_n daily_o and_o such_o inward_a deordination_n will_v become_v more_o dangerous_a and_o incurable_a then_o if_o he_o have_v live_v in_o the_o world_n where_o there_o be_v so_o frequent_a diversion_n now_o a_o poor_a and_o most_o ineffectual_a remedy_n against_o these_o will_v he_o find_v in_o a_o exact_a conformity_n to_o any_o external_a observance_n whatsoever_o yea_o perhaps_o they_o will_v serve_v to_o increase_v such_o ill_a habit_n of_o soul_n by_o breed_v pride_n and_o security_n in_o it_o 21._o a_o much_o better_o and_o more_o profitable_a interpreter_n of_o our_o holy_a rule_n therefore_o be_v devout_a s._n bernard_n in_o many_o passage_n in_o his_o work_n and_o particular_o in_o those_o word_n of_o his_o in_o a_o epistle_n to_o william_n a_o abbot_n of_o the_o same_o order_n attendite_fw-la in_o regulam_fw-la dei_fw-la etc._n etc._n that_o be_v be_v attentive_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o god_n the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n be_v within_o you_o that_o be_v it_o consist_v not_o outward_o in_o the_o fashion_n of_o our_o clothes_n or_o manner_n of_o our_o corporal_a diet_n but_o in_o the_o virtue_n of_o our_o inner_a man_n but_o you_o will_v say_v what_o do_v thou_o so_o enforce_v upon_o we_o spiritual_a duty_n as_o that_o thou_o condemne_v a_o care_n of_o the_o external_a obseruamce_n enjoin_v by_o the_o rule_n of_o s._n benedict_n no_o by_o no_o mean_n but_o my_o meaning_n be_v that_o the_o former_a spiritual_a duty_n must_v necessary_o and_o indispensable_o be_v do_v and_o yet_o these_o lastre_n must_v not_o be_v omit_v but_o otherwise_o when_o it_o shall_v happen_v that_o one_o of_o these_o two_o must_v be_v omit_v in_o such_o case_n these_o be_v much_o rather_o to_o be_v omit_v than_o those_o former_a for_o by_o how_o much_o the_o spirit_n be_v more_o excellent_a and_o noble_a than_o the_o body_n by_o so_o much_o be_v spiritual_a exercise_n more_o profitable_a than_o corporal_a 22._o neither_o will_v it_o avail_v the_o forementioned_a interpreter_n to_o say_v that_o their_o meaning_n be_v not_o to_o prejudice_n the_o obligation_n of_o religious_a person_n to_o internal_a duty_n but_o only_o to_o show_v that_o such_o obligation_n be_v ground_v on_o the_o divine_a law_n impose_v on_o they_o as_o christian_n and_o not_o on_o a_o externall_n law_n make_v by_o man_n and_o voluntary_o undergo_v for_o in_o opposition_n to_o this_o excuse_n beside_o what_o have_v be_v say_v concern_v the_o make_n of_o our_o vow_n to_o god_n and_o the_o express_a obligation_n therein_o to_o a_o internal_a conversion_n of_o mamner_n we_o be_v to_o know_v that_o by_o virtue_n of_o our_o religious_a vow_n we_o be_v oblige_v to_o a_o far_o
be_v god_n himself_o who_o by_o the_o ministry_n of_o a_o angel_n teach_v s._n anthony_n this_o art_n &_o most_o secure_a method_n of_o aspire_v to_o contemplation_n when_o be_v unable_a to_o keep_v his_o mind_n continual_o bend_v in_o actual_a prayer_n he_o grow_v weary_a of_o solitude_n &_o in_o a_o never_a disposition_n to_o quit_v it_o at_o which_o time_n a_o angel●_n appear_v to_o he_o busy_o employ_v in_o make_v basket_n of_o the_o rind_n of_o palm_n signify_v to_o he_o that_o it_o be_v god_n will_n that_o he_o shall_v after_o the_o same_o manner_n intermit_v his_o devotion_n so_o spend_v the_o time_n that_o he_o can_v not_o employ_v in_o prayer_n 10._o such_o be_v the_o externall_n daily_a employment_n of_o the_o ancient_a contemplative_n &_o so_o great_a virtue_n do_v they_o find_v in_o they_o for_o the_o advancement_n of_o their_o spirit_n by_o which_o mean_v so_o many_o of_o they_o attain_v to_o so_o sublime_a a_o degree_n of_o contemplation_n yea_o &_o general_o most_o of_o they_o arrive_v to_o very_o great_a simplicity_n of_o spirit_n &_o almost_o continual_a recollectednes_n 11._o but_o when_o afterward_o by_o the_o most_o plentifully-flowing_a charity_n of_o devout_a christian_n there_o be_v not_o only_o take_v from_o religious_a all_o necessity_n of_o sustain_v themselves_o by_o corporal_a labour_n but_o they_o be_v moreover_o rich_o furnish_v and_o enable_v to_o supply_v the_o want_v of_o many_o other_o we_o may_v well_o judge_v that_o it_o will_v become_v a_o hard_a matter_n to_o persuade_v a_o continuance_n of_o much_o manual_a labour_n pure_o and_o only_o for_o the_o great_a good_a of_o the_o spirit_n when_o otherwise_o it_o be_v both_o needle_n and_o afflict_v to_o the_o body_n hence_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o since_o necessary_o some_o employment_n beside_o prayer_n must_v be_v find_v out_o for_o the_o entertain_n of_o those_o solitary_a liver_n learn_v as_o the_o most_o noble_a of_o all_o other_o be_v make_v choice_n of_o yet_o so_o that_o for_o many_o age_n corporal_a labour_n be_v not_o whole_o exclude_v 12._o yet_o ●his_n be_v not_o the_o sole_a nor_o i_o suppose_v the_o principal_a ground_n of_o so_o great_a and_o almost_o universal_a a_o change_n as_o afterward_o follow_v in_o the_o manner_n and_o fashion_n of_o a_o coenobiticall_a life_n but_o we_o may_v reasonable_o impute_v the_o say_a exchange_n of_o labour_n for_o study_n in_o a_o principal_a manner_n to_o the_o good_a providence_n of_o god_n over_o his_o church_n that_o stand_v in_o such_o extreme_a need_n of_o another_o sort_n of_o labourer_n in_o god_n vineyard_n and_o consequent_o to_o the_o charity_n of_o religious_a man_n themselves_o who_o during_o that_o most_o horrible_a ignorance_n and_o depravation_n reign_v over_o all_o the_o world_n almost_o beside_o think_v themselves_o oblige_v to_o repay_v the_o wonderful_a charity_n of_o good_a christian_n by_o extend_v a_o great_a charity_n in_o communicate_v to_o they_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a thing_n for_o their_o temporal_a hence_o come_v a_o necessity_n of_o engage_v themselves_o in_o the_o cure_n of_o soul_n and_o government_n of_o the_o church_n the_o which_o indeed_o for_o several_a age_n be_v in_o a_o sort_n whole_o sustain_v by_o they_o yea_o moreover_o by_o their_o zeal_n labour_n and_o wisdom_n the_o light_n of_o divine_a truth_n be_v spread_v abroad_o among_o heathen_n also_o and_o many_o province_n and_o kingdom_n adjoin_v to_o the_o church_n these_o thing_n consider_v no_o wonder_n be_v there_o if_o the_o introduce_v of_o read_v and_o study_n in_o the_o place_n of_o manual_a labour_n be_v avoidable_o necessary_a 13._o but_o perhaps_o some_o there_o may_v be_v not_o so_o well_o affect_v or_o please_v with_o the_o present_a reputation_n or_o commodidity_n enjoy_v by_o religious_a person_n that_o assent_v to_o what_o have_v be_v here_o say_v will_v notwithstanding_o infer_v that_o since_o learning_n be_v now_o become_v so_o much_o dilate_v in_o the_o world_n by_o the_o zeal_n and_o charity_n of_o ancient_a monastical_a religious_a there_o be_v no_o long_o any_o the_o like_a necessity_n of_o their_o interess_a themselves_o in_o ecclesiastical_a affair_n and_o therefore_o that_o they_o ought_v to_o return_v to_o their_o old_a corporal_a employment_n and_o labour_n 14._o herto_o it_o may_v be_v reply_v that_o even_o still_o there_o be_v much_o need_n of_o they_o consider_v the_o far_o great_a frequentation_n of_o sacrament_n in_o these_o day_n above_o the_o ancient_a time_n but_o moreover_o if_o in_o these_o time_n wherein_o learning_n and_o knowledge_n be_v so_o expose_v to_o all_o sort_n of_o man_n religious_a person_n shall_v quit_v study_n return_v to_o their_o ancient_a employment_n of_o manual_a labour_n from_o which_o as_o have_v be_v say_v god_n himself_o do_v doubtless_o withdraw_v they_o beside_o that_o their_o ignorance_n will_v render_v they_o the_o universal_a object_n of_o contempt_n through_o the_o whole_a church_n it_o will_v likewise_o expose_v they_o as_o for_o their_o state_n as_o a_o prey_n to_o all_o that_o either_o envy_a or_o covet_v the_o scarce_o subsistence_n leave_v they_o and_o as_o to_o their_o soul_n they_o will_v be_v obnoxious_a to_o be_v turn_v hither_o and_o thither_o by_o the_o variety_n of_o directour_n that_o will_v undertake_v to_o guide_v they_o and_o by_o these_o mean_v all_o man_n will_v be_v deter_v from_o adjoin_v themselves_o unto_o they_o for_o continue_v a_o succession_n 15._o now_o though_o as_o have_v be_v say_v such_o a_o change_n have_v be_v after_o this_o manner_n make_v in_o the_o external_a employment_n of_o religious_a person_n yet_o still_o the_o same_o essential_a indispensable_a obligation_n of_o aspire_v to_o contemplation_n remain_v for_o the_o attain_n to_o which_o although_o study_v join_v with_o prayer_n seem_v in_o some_o regard_v to_o be_v less_o advantageous_a than_o ancient_o such_o labour_n as_o the_o egyptian_a monk_n etc._n etc._n undertake_v be_v yet_o it_o have_v please_v god_n in_o goodness_n to_o his_o seruamt_n in_o a_o good_a measure_n to_o recompense_v that_o disadvantage_n by_o raise_v up_o several_a holy_a person_n to_o teach_v more_o accurate_o then_o former_o the_o knowledge_n and_o practice_n of_o pure_a internal_a contemplative_a prayer_n for_o since_o it_o can_v be_v deny_v that_o to_o person_n far_o more_o distract_v by_o study_n then_o ancient_o they_o be_v by_o labour_n which_o do_v not_o hinder_v a_o moderate_a quiet_a attention_n to_o god_n vocal_a prayer_n though_o never_o so_o much_o prolong_v have_v not_o ordinary_o speak_v sufficient_a force_n to_o recollect_v the_o mind_n habitual_o or_o to_o suppress_v and_o cure_v the_o many_o inordinate_a affection_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o use_n of_o appoint_a daily_a recollection_n have_v seem_v to_o be_v of_o absolute_a necessity_n without_o which_o the_o spirit_n of_o contemplation_n will_v be_v quite_o lose_v so_o that_o to_o such_o prayer_n we_o may_v most_o principal_o impute_v the_o great_a light_n and_o help_n for_o contemplation_n afford_v by_o some_o late_a saint_n in_o religious_a order_n and_o in_o the_o world_n also_o to_o the_o great_a benefit_n of_o god_n church_n that_o sole_a exercise_n in_o a_o good_a measure_n make_v amends_o for_o all_o other_o defect_n in_o which_o we_o seem_v to_o come_v short_a of_o the_o ancient_n chap._n vii_o §_o 1._o of_o special_a duty_n of_o religious_a person_n §_o 2._o a_o religious_a person_n ought_v to_o desire_v to_o be_v always_o under_o obedience_n §_o 3._o 4._o quality_n necessary_a in_o a_o religious_a superior_a §_o 5._o 6._o 7._o 8._o 9_o that_o active_a spirit_n be_v very_o improper_a to_o govern_v such_o as_o be_v contemplative_a the_o ground_n of_o the_o difference_n §_o 10._o a_o fearful_a example_n in_o bernardinus_fw-la othinus_n show_v how_o dangerous_a the_o neglect_n of_o internal_a prayer_n be_v in_o a_o religious_a superior_a 1._o have_v thus_o large_o set_v down_o the_o proper_a and_o only_a end_n of_o a_o religious_a profession_n to_o wit_n purity_n and_o simplicity_n of_o soul_n to_o be_v obtain_v by_o recollect_v contemplative_a prayer_n alone_o i_o will_v further_o add_v some_o more_o special_a duty_n belong_v to_o religious_a person_n according_a to_o their_o several_a relation_n and_o quality_n as_o superior_n or_o other_o subordinate_a officer_n subject_n etc._n etc._n for_o as_o for_o the_o proper_a virtue_n of_o a_o religious_a state_n as_o obedience_n poverty_n humility_n etc._n etc._n the_o handle_n of_o they_o be_v reserve_v to_o the_o follow_a treatise_n 2._o now_o with_o what_o mind_n a_o devout_a soul_n ought_v to_o embrace_v a_o religious_a profession_n be_v signify_v to_o we_o in_o that_o notable_a passage_n in_o our_o holy_a father_n rule_n where_o he_o say_v in_o coenobio_fw-la degens_fw-la desiderat_fw-la sibi_fw-la abbatem_fw-la praeesse_fw-la that_o be_v whosoever_o live_v in_o a_o religious_a community_n be_v desirous_a that_o
public_a good_a be_v concern_v 5._o general_o there_o be_v great_a fervour_n in_o soul_n at_o their_o first_o entrance_n into_o religion_n therefore_o if_o any_o one_o show_v unrulines_n obstinacy_n and_o indevotion_n during_o their_o noviceship_n small_a good_a be_v to_o be_v expect_v from_o they_o 6._o a_o little_a devoutnes_n will_v not_o serve_v to_o countervail_v ill_a inclination_n to_o lie_v dissemble_a factiousnes_n a_o humour_n of_o calummate_v &c_n &c_n for_o a_o great_a and_o scarce_o to_o be_v hope_v for_o measure_n of_o grace_n will_v be_v requisite_a to_o subdue_v such_o pernicious_a quality_n on_o the_o contrary_a a_o good_a nature_n even_o where_o there_o be_v not_o so_o much_o devotion_n yet_o will_v bear_v up_o a_o soul_n and_o make_v she_o a_o tolerable_a member_n of_o a_o community_n it_o be_v likewise_o a_o great_a disposition_n for_o grace_n which_o it_o may_v well_o be_v hope_v will_v one_o day_n follow_v and_o that_o such_o a_o one_o will_v become_v devout_a especial_o this_o may_v be_v hope_v for_o in_o those_o that_o have_v natural_o a_o good_a sound_a judgement_n which_o be_v much_o to_o be_v consider_v 7._o now_o by_o a_o good_a nature_n i_o mean_v not_o such_o a_o one_o as_o be_v general_o in_o the_o world_n style_v so_o to_o wit_n a_o facility_n and_o easiness_n to_o grant_v a_o request_n or_o to_o comply_v with_o other_o on_o the_o contrary_a for_o as_o much_o as_o regard_v a_o coenobiticall_a life_n i_o account_v such_o to_o be_v a_o ill_a nature_n be_v easy_o seduce_v and_o pervert_v by_o a_o good_a nature_n therefore_o in_o this_o place_n i_o mean_v such_o a_o one_o as_o be_v endue_v with_o modesty_n gentleness_n quietness_n humility_n patience_n love_n of_o truth_n and_o other_o such_o moral_o good_a quality_n which_o be_v good_a disposition_n for_o christian_a perfection_n now_o a_o person_n of_o a_o ill_a nature_n that_o will_v make_v a_o good_a show_v out_o of_o hope_n to_o steal_v a_o profession_n ought_v the_o rather_o for_o his_o dissimulation_n to_o be_v reject_v 8._o and_o indeed_o subtle_a nature_n be_v much_o to_o be_v take_v heed_n of_o some_o novice_n will_v behave_v themselves_o so_o cunning_o as_o at_o the_o end_n of_o their_o probation_n none_o can_v be_v able_a to_o produce_v any_o special_a accusation_n against_o they_o &_o yet_o they_o may_v in_o their_o conscience_n believe_v they_o to_o be_v unfit_a in_o this_o case_n every_o one_o be_v to_o follow_v their_o own_o judgement_n and_o especial_a heed_n be_v to_o be_v take_v of_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o master_n or_o mistress_n of_o the_o novice_n who_o be_v most_o to_o be_v credit_v as_o have_v the_o opportunity_n &_o mean_n to_o espy_v and_o penetrate_v more_o deep_o into_o their_o interiour_n disposition_n 9_o this_o goodness_n or_o virtuousness_n of_o nature_n be_v a_o essential_a point_n and_o far_o more_o to_o be_v regard_v then_o those_o accidental_a one_o as_o strength_n of_o bodily_a complexion_n acuteness_n of_o wit_n gracefullnes_n of_o behaviour_n skill_n in_o sing_v nobility_n portion_n etc._n etc._n and_o particular_o for_o this_o last_o how_o far_o religious_a soul_n ought_v to_o be_v from_o regard_v riches_n or_o gain_v in_o matter_n of_o this_o nature_n or_o for_o such_o carnal_a end_n to_o admit_v those_o that_o be_v unfit_a or_o who_o god_n have_v not_o send_v the_o general_n decree_n of_o the_o church_n in_o the_o first_o ecumenical_a council_n of_o lateran_n can_n 64._o will_v show_v beside_o the_o practice_n of_o antiquity_n as_o we_o may_v read_v in_o a_o epistle_n of_o s._n augustin_n sure_o the_o only_a way_n of_o sound_v conuent_v secure_o even_o in_o regard_n of_o temporality_n be_v by_o make_v choice_n only_o of_o those_o to_o who_o god_n have_v give_v fit_v disposition_n whereby_o we_o may_v engage_v his_o omnipotence_n in_o their_o preservation_n 10._o those_o therefore_o upon_o who_o suffrage_n the_o admission_n and_o profession_n of_o newcomer_n do_v depend_v be_v to_o consider_v that_o they_o be_v entrust_v by_o the_o whole_a congregation_n with_o a_o matter_n of_o such_o consequence_n as_o not_o only_o the_o present_a but_o future_a welfare_n or_o ruin_n of_o conuent_v be_v interest_v in_o their_o proceed_n all_o which_o trust_n they_o shall_v betray_v if_o any_o undue_a consideration_n of_o friendship_n kindred_n gain_n etc._n etc._n or_o a_o zeal_n of_o multiply_a conuent_v which_o be_v but_o carnal_a shall_v corrupt_v their_o judgment_n 11._o sure_o therefore_o in_o all_o reason_n none_o shall_v be_v admit_v into_o community_n profess_v the_o aspire_n to_o contemplation_n but_o only_o such_o as_o be_v dispose_v thereto_o and_o that_o be_v willing_a yea_o desirous_a to_o spend_v their_o whole_a life_n in_o solitude_n prayer_n &_o regular_a observance_n without_o any_o design_n or_o thought_n of_o ever_o be_v employ_v abroad_o yet_o always_o with_o a_o entire_a submission_n to_o the_o ordinance_n of_o superior_n 12._o and_o indeed_o as_o be_v say_v before_o concern_v superior_n that_o active_a spirit_n be_v to_o direct_v the_o contemplative_a do_v endanger_v the_o extinguish_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o contemplation_n so_o likewise_o if_o such_o be_v without_o choice_n admit_v the_o same_o mischief_n will_v follow_v yea_o i_o be_o persuade_v that_o many_o active_a spirit_n though_o of_o a_o good_a seemly_a outward_a carriage_n be_v no_o less_o harmful_a to_o a_o community_n than_o a_o lesser_a number_n of_o loose_a spirit_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o by_o their_o good_a exterior_a show_v they_o will_v seem_v worthy_a of_o superiority_n to_o which_o also_o their_o activity_n will_v incline_v they_o and_o those_o be_v they_o indeed_o say_v thaulerus_n that_o be_v persecutor_n of_o contemplation_n for_o have_v a_o good_a opinion_n of_o themselves_o and_o their_o own_o way_n which_o loose_a spirit_n have_v not_o they_o think_v themselves_o even_o oblige_v to_o depress_v those_o other_o good_a soul_n that_o do_v not_o judge_v those_o external_a exercise_n and_o fashion_n suitable_a to_o their_o profession_n and_o for_o this_o reason_n they_o will_v by_o faction_n seek_v to_o increase_v their_o number_n yea_o and_o to_o strengthen_v their_o own_o party_n they_o will_v not_o spare_v to_o join_v with_o loose_a spirit_n for_o their_o own_o interest_n yield_v to_o their_o disorder_n neither_o when_o they_o have_v compass_v their_o end_n by_o the_o ruin_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o contemplation_n will_v unquietness_n cease_v for_o in_o a_o community_n whole_o consist_v of_o active_a spirit_n faction_n and_o partiality_n for_o several_a end_n and_o design_n will_v never_o be_v want_v 13._o now_o the_o same_o care_n that_o superior_n ought_v to_o have_v about_o the_o choice_n and_o admission_n of_o virtuous_a and_o fit_a soul_n into_o community_n must_v be_v continue_v in_o the_o manage_n and_o direct_v of_o they_o be_v admit_v great_a care_n therefore_o be_v to_o be_v take_v that_o the_o misbehaviour_n of_o novice_n do_v not_o proceed_v from_o want_n of_o knowledge_n &_o instruction_n in_o matter_n of_o the_o spirit_n that_o so_o it_o may_v appear_v that_o if_o they_o do_v not_o well_o it_o be_v for_o want_n of_o good_a will_n and_o not_o of_o light_n now_o it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v expect_v that_o novice_n shall_v be_v perfect_a it_o will_v suffice_v that_o they_o serious_o tend_v to_o it_o by_o a_o constant_a pursuance_n of_o internal_a prayer_n and_o abstraction_n of_o life_n 14._o above_o all_o thing_n therefore_o superior_n ought_v to_o allow_v to_o their_o subject_n a_o competent_a time_n daily_o for_o their_o recollection_n which_o be_v the_o food_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o to_o deny_v which_o will_v be_v a_o great_a tyramny_n then_o to_o refuse_v corporal_a food_n to_o slave_n after_o their_o travail_n he_o deserve_v not_o the_o name_n of_o a_o religious_a man_n say_v caietan_n no_o not_o of_o a_o christian_a say_v thaulerus_n that_o do_v not_o every_o day_n spend_v some_o reasonable_a space_n in_o his_o interiour_n s._n bernard_n will_v not_o excuse_v even_o pope_n eugenius_n himself_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o those_o continual_o most_o distractive_a weighty_a affair_n of_o the_o popedom_n from_o this_o duty_n the_o want_n whereof_o be_v more_o harmful_a to_o the_o soul_n then_o that_o of_o corporal_a food_n be_v to_o the_o body_n for_o he_o that_o fast_v one_o day_n beside_o the_o present_a pain_n he_o find_v will_v the_o next_o have_v a_o better_a and_o more_o eager_a appetite_n but_o a_o soul_n that_o through_o neglect_n be_v deprive_v of_o her_o daily_a food_n of_o prayer_n will_v the_o next_o day_n have_v a_o less_o stomach_n and_o disposition_n to_o it_o and_o so_o in_o time_n will_v come_v willing_o and_o even_o with_o pleasure_n to_o starve_v in_o spirit_n and_o to_o such_o neglect_n and_o loathe_n of_o prayer_n she_o will_v come_v if_o superior_n do_v hinder_v or_o indeed_o not_o encourage_v she_o
nor_o afford_v so_o great_a edification_n &c_n &c_n 12._o it_o be_v folly_n &_o inexcusable_a pride_n for_o soul_n not_o diligent_o &_o faithful_o pursue_v internal_a prayer_n &_o not_o yet_o perfect_o practise_v patience_n &_o resignation_n in_o cross_n &_o necessary_a mortification_n send_v by_o god_n or_o attend_v their_o present_a condition_n of_o life_n to_o attempt_v the_o undertake_n of_o those_o which_o belong_v not_o to_o they_o but_o be_v mere_o devise_v by_o themselves_o for_o want_v a_o divine_a light_n how_o can_v they_o perceive_v or_o judge_v they_o to_o be_v proper_a for_o they_o and_o if_o they_o be_v unable_a to_o encounter_v difficulty_n which_o be_v ordinary_a &_o necessary_a why_o shall_v they_o think_v themselves_o prepare_v for_o extraordinary_a one_o so_o that_o there_o be_v nothing_o which_o make_v these_o to_o be_v supportable_a but_o only_o that_o they_o proceed_v from_o selfe-iudgment_n &_o self-will_a &_o by_o consequence_n be_v more_o please_v then_o distasteful_a to_o nature_n 13._o the_o inconvenience_n attend_v the_o indiscreet_a passionate_a use_n of_o such_o mortification_n be_v much_o great_a in_o a_o internal_a life_n tend_v to_o contemplation_n then_o in_o a_o active_a because_o liberty_n of_o spirit_n be_v much_o more_o necessary_a in_o the_o former_a then_o in_o this_o latter_a the_o which_o liberty_n be_v extreme_o prejudice_v by_o such_o unnecessary_a obligation_n and_o fetter_n lay_v by_o a_o soul_n upon_o herself_o 14._o and_o for_o this_o reason_n the_o supernumerary_a mortification_n which_o may_v prove_v more_o useful_a &_o which_o be_v least_o prejudicial_a to_o this_o liberty_n be_v those_o that_o least_o work_n upon_o the_o mind_n as_o corporal_a labour_n not_o of_o obligation_n be_v more_o beneficial_a than_o the_o over-multiplying_a of_o voluntary_a vocal_a prayer_n the_o practice_n whereof_o will_v probable_o prejudice_n the_o true_a exercise_n not_o only_o of_o internal_a recollection_n but_o also_o of_o such_o vocal_a prayer_n as_o be_v of_o obligation_n aod_a of_o all_o other_o the_o most_o beneficial_a be_v those_o that_o regard_v not-doing_a as_o more_o silence_n more_o solitude_n etc._n etc._n than_o a_o person_n by_o regular_a ordinance_n be_v oblige_v to_o such_o mortification_n as_o these_o if_o the_o person_n use_v discretion_n &_o abstain_v from_o impose_v on_o himself_o a_o oblige_a necessity_n may_v sometime_o be_v proffitable_o undertake_v by_o more_o imperfect_a soul_n 15._o i_o do_v not_o therefore_o whole_o exclude_v even_o imperfect_a soul_n from_o the_o use_n of_o extraordinary_a mortification_n for_o such_o may_v be_v god_n will_n that_o they_o may_v undertake_v they_o and_o upon_o that_o supposition_n most_o certain_a it_o be_v that_o they_o will_v much_o hasten_v their_o advancement_n to_o perfection_n as_o he_o that_o run_v if_o he_o be_v able_a to_o hold_v on_o will_v soon_o come_v to_o his_o journey_n end_n than_o he_o that_o content_v himself_o with_o a_o ordinary_a travel_a pace_n but_o if_o indiscreet_o he_o will_v force_v himself_o to_o run_v beyond_o his_o breath_n and_o strength_n that_o advantage_n which_o he_o get_v for_o a_o little_a while_n will_v not_o countervail_v the_o loss_n he_o sustain_v afterward_o 16._o now_o the_o sign_n and_o mark_n by_o which_o a_o soul_n may_v inform_v herself_o whether_o the_o extraordinary_a mortification_n assume_v by_o she_o do_v proceed_v from_o a_o safe_a &_o good_a principle_n that_o be_v from_o a_o divine_a motive_n &_o not_o a_o impulse_n of_o nature_n &_o passion_n may_v be_v these_o she_o may_v esteem_v they_o to_o come_v from_o god_n 1._o if_o she_o bear_v herself_o well_o in_o the_o ordinary_a mortification_n of_o necessity_n support_v cheerful_o &_o courageous_o both_o the_o usual_a austerity_n of_o her_o religious_a state_n &_o also_o all_o accidental_a cross_n 2._o in_o case_n it_o be_v with_o the_o advice_n &_o approbation_n of_o her_o spiritual_a director_n that_o be_v skilful_a in_o discern_v of_o spirit_n 3._o if_o the_o soul_n in_o the_o continuance_n of_o it_o find_v a_o chearfullnes_n &_o resolutenes_n for_o if_o there_o follow_v any_o discontentednes_n or_o melancholy_n that_o be_v a_o very_a ill_a sign_n 4._o if_o the_o occasion_n of_o undertake_v it_o be_v a_o quiet_a constant_a internal_a invitation_n &_o not_o some_o sudden_a humour_n of_o passion_n remorse_n or_o some_o fit_n of_o sensible_a devotion_n or_o a_o ambition_n to_o imitate_v other_o &c_n &c_n especial_o if_o the_o matter_n of_o the_o mortification_n have_v any_o peril_n in_o it_o to_o corporal_a health_n &c_n &c_n for_o then_o the_o impulse_n to_o undertake_v it_o have_v need_n be_v very_o certain_a &_o strong_a 5._o if_o by_o perseverance_n in_o it_o the_o virtue_n of_o humility_n be_v increase_v 6._o last_o if_o it_o dispose_v the_o soul_n to_o better_a recollection_n &_o to_o a_o great_a constancy_n &_o fervour_n in_o prayer_n 17._o but_o to_o conclude_v this_o point_n there_o be_v very_o few_o that_o need_v complain_v of_o want_n of_o mortification_n or_o that_o be_v put_v to_o a_o necessity_n of_o seek_v they_o all_o observance_n whatsoever_o even_o the_o least_o that_o be_v practise_v in_o religion_n or_o in_o the_o submission_n to_o a_o spiritual_a director_n and_o much_o more_o all_o contradiction_n humiliation_n &_o pennance_n be_v profitable_a mortification_n yea_o even_o the_o act_n of_o authority_n practise_v by_o superior_n if_o they_o be_v do_v not_o out_o of_o nature_n or_o a_o love_n of_o command_v but_o in_o obedience_n to_o the_o rule_n &_o with_o a_o foresight_n that_o god_n will_v expect_v a_o account_n concern_v they_o be_v such_o also_o and_o if_o all_o these_o be_v too_o little_a a_o faithful_a pursuance_n of_o internal_a prayer_n together_o with_o abstraction_n of_o life_n will_v sufficient_o abate_v nature_n &_o will_v no_o doubt_n general_o speak_v be_v effectual_a to_o bring_v soul_n to_o perfection_n if_o they_o live_v out_o their_o due_a time_n and_o if_o not_o yet_o death_n find_v they_o in_o the_o right_a way_n will_v bring_v they_o to_o their_o desire_a end_n and_o last_o such_o be_v the_o care_n &_o tenderness_n of_o god_n towards_o soul_n that_o true_o &_o cordial_o consecrate_v themselves_o to_o he_o that_o if_o these_o mortification_n be_v not_o sufficient_a he_o will_v by_o a_o special_a providence_n procure_v other_o &_o such_o as_o shall_v be_v most_o proper_a yea_o a_o very_a sublime_a mystic_a author_n confident_o protest_v that_o rather_o than_o such_o a_o soul_n shall_v receive_v prejudice_n by_o the_o want_n of_o they_o god_n will_v by_o a_o miracle_n immediate_o provide_v they_o or_o by_o a_o supernatural_a light_n &_o forcible_a impulse_n direct_v &_o move_v she_o to_o find_v they_o chap._n vi_o §_o 1._o of_o certain_a sort_n of_o mortification_n which_o be_v more_o general_a §_o 2._o 3._o 4._o the_o first_o be_v abstraction_n of_o life_n wherein_o it_o consist_v etc._n etc._n §_o 5._o 6._o etc._n etc._n the_o second_o be_v solitude_n several_a kind_n of_o solitude_n the_o benefit_n of_o it_o and_o the_o mean_n to_o procure_v it_o the_o strictness_n of_o s._n benedict_v rule_n in_o require_v it_o perfect_a solitude_n be_v only_o for_o such_o as_o be_v perfect_a 1._o after_o this_o general_a distinction_n of_o mortification_n before_o we_o come_v to_o the_o special_a kind_n regard_v the_o several_a passion_n or_o affection_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o be_v mortify_v for_o indeed_o the_o only_a subject_n of_o mortification_n be_v our_o affection_n &_o not_o any_o other_o faculty_n but_o only_o in_o order_n to_o our_o affection_n i_o will_v brief_o set_v down_o more_o universal_a &_o unlimited_a mortification_n that_o be_v such_o as_o regard_v not_o any_o one_o single_a passion_n but_o many_o yea_o either_o the_o whole_a person_n or_o some_o member_n that_o be_v the_o instrument_n of_o many_o passion_n as_o the_o tongue_n such_o indefinite_a mortification_n be_v these_o 1_o abstraction_n of_o life_n 2._o solitude_n 3._o silence_n &_o 4._o peace_n or_o tranquillity_n of_o mind_n 2._o first_o therefore_o for_o abstraction_n the_o duty_n thereof_o consist_v in_o this_o that_o we_o abstain_v 1._o from_o intermeddle_v with_o thing_n not_o pertain_v to_o we_o and_o 2._o for_o such_o thing_n as_o belong_v to_o we_o to_o do_v that_o we_o do_v they_o with_o a_o reseruednes_n of_o our_o affection_n not_o pour_v they_o out_o upon_o they_o be_v due_a only_o to_o god_n himself_o yet_o this_o do_v not_o hinder_v we_o from_o do_v our_o duty_n with_o a_o sufficient_a attention_n &_o care_n 3._o that_o we_o not_o only_o relinquish_v all_o unnecessary_a conversation_n &_o correspondency_n complemental_a visit_n &c_n &c_n but_o likewise_o all_o engagement_n of_o affection_n in_o particular_a freindships_n this_o last_o be_v necessary_a in_o religious_a community_n because_o from_o such_o freindships_n proceed_v parciality_n faction_n murmur_n &_o most_o dangerous_a distraction_n &_o multiplicity_n for_o the_o avoid_n
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 a●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 freind●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 i●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
good_a resolution_n let_v she_o according_o with_o courage_n put_v in_o execution_n daily_o often_o renew_v it_o when_o she_o find_v herself_o to_o become_v slack_a or_o negligent_a 9_o last_o in_o the_o execution_n of_o these_o duty_n and_o of_o all_o other_o her_o employment_n she_o must_v always_o have_v at_o least_o a_o virtual_a intention_n of_o direct_v they_o all_o to_o god_n make_v he_o the_o final_a end_n of_o all_o and_o often_o time_n likewise_o she_o must_v frame_v a_o actual_a intention_n of_o the_o same_o now_o when_o god_n be_v indeed_o and_o in_o the_o true_a disposition_n of_o the_o soul_n the_o end_n of_o her_o action_n he_o communicate_v a_o supernaturality_n &_o a_o kind_n of_o divinity_n unto_o they_o and_o unless_o he_o be_v true_o the_o end_n they_o have_v no_o merit_n at_o all_o 10._o now_o it_o be_v certain_a that_o only_o by_o the_o practice_n of_o internal_a prayer_n this_o purity_n of_o intention_n can_v be_v obtain_v in_o what_o danger_n be_v those_o soul_n that_o do_v whole_o neglect_v it_o neither_o will_v a_o few_o interrupt_v occasional_a offering_n of_o our_o action_n to_o god_n be_v sufficient_a to_o procure_v a_o stable_a habit_n of_o such_o purity_n without_o constant_a set_v exercise_n of_o prayer_n &_o mortification_n all_o the_o virtue_n that_o such_o oblation_n have_v be_v a_o little_a to_o diminish_v the_o impurity_n of_o those_o particular_a action_n but_o they_o do_v not_o at_o all_o or_o very_o inconsiderable_o increase_n or_o strengthen_v the_o habit_n of_o divine_a love_n in_o the_o soul_n the_o virtue_n therefore_o of_o such_o act_n be_v to_o be_v measure_v according_a to_o the_o state_n that_o the_o soul_n be_v in_o 11._o if_o a_o internal_a liver_n do_v practice_v such_o occasional_a offering_n of_o daily_a action_n i_o shall_v advise_v he_o 1._o not_o to_o multiply_v such_o act_n too_o thick_a one_o upon_o the_o other_o so_o as_o to_o endanger_v to_o hurt_v the_o head_n or_o distract_v the_o imagination_n or_o hinder_v the_o necessary_a liberty_n of_o spirit_n 2._o let_v not_o they_o be_v a_o hindrance_n to_o other_o more_o perfect_a &_o profitable_a elevation_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o god_n or_o aspiration_n if_o the_o soul_n find_v herself_o invite_v thereto_o or_o if_o they_o be_v relish_v to_o she_o 12._o it_o be_v unquestionable_a that_o the_o offering_n of_o our_o suffering_n to_o god_n will_v be_v far_o more_o profitable_a to_o the_o soul_n than_o the_o offer_v of_o mere_a work_n that_o have_v in_o they_o little_a or_o nothing_o contrary_a to_o our_o natural_a inclination_n yet_o even_o that_o also_o without_o constant_a prayer_n will_v be_v of_o little_a force_n 13._o i_o dare_v with_o confidence_n profess_v that_o the_o observe_n of_o the_o foresay_v simple_a direction_n will_v be_v far_o more_o available_a to_o the_o procure_a purity_n of_o intention_n in_o most_o soul_n than_o such_o a_o curious_a examination_n of_o our_o daily_a work_n as_o be_v prescribe_v by_o a_o late_a worthy_a contemplative_a of_o our_o nation_n who_o require_v in_o every_o work_n six_o quality_n punctual_o to_o be_v observe_v viz._n that_o it_o be_v do_v 1._o actual_o 2._o one●y_n 3._o willing_o 4._o assure_o 5._o clear_o 6._o speedy_o for_o the_o love_n &_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o he_o exact_v of_o a_o soul_n careful_o to_o search_v whether_o any_o of_o these_o condition_n have_v be_v want_v and_o consequent_o to_o be_v more_o circumspect_a in_o the_o future_a which_o sure_o will_v be_v a_o employment_n extreme_o distractive_a and_o full_a of_o solicitude_n though_o it_o may_v be_v he_o himself_o find_v much_o good_a by_o such_o a_o practice_n and_o be_v able_a to_o do_v it_o with_o simplicity_n 4._o it_o be_v far_o more_o easy_a for_o a_o imperfect_a soul_n to_o exercise_v purity_n of_o intention_n in_o action_n that_o be_v of_o obligation_n &_o do_v either_o in_o order_n to_o any_o law_n or_o any_o command_n of_o superior_n then_o in_o those_o that_o be_v leave_v to_o her_o own_o choice_n and_o therefore_o it_o will_v be_v good_a for_o such_o a_o one_o either_o to_o have_v she_o daily_o &_o ordinary_a employment_n prescribe_v to_o she_o by_o her_o spiritual_a director_n or_o to_o ordain_v they_o to_o herself_o upon_o good_a consideration_n before_o hand_n yet_o so_o as_o not_o to_o prejudice_n due_a liberty_n of_o spirit_n 15._o in_o every_o recollection_n the_o soul_n do_v either_o direct_o &_o express_o or_o at_o least_o virtual_o renew_v her_o first_o fundamental_a purpose_n of_o tend_v in_o all_o her_o action_n externall_n and_o internal_a to_o the_o perfect_a love_n of_o god_n and_o then_o also_o she_o discover_v &_o correct_v such_o defect_n and_o transgression_n of_o this_o purpose_n as_o have_v pass_v out_o of_o the_o time_n of_o prayer_n our_o recollection_n therefore_o be_v the_o fountain_n &_o root_n whence_o all_o our_o future_a work_n have_v their_o virtue_n &_o merit_n &_o in_o they_o purity_n of_o intention_n be_v most_o perfect_o exercise_v 16._o the_o do_n or_o suffering_n of_o a_o contemplative_a liver_n though_o oft_o time_n with_o much_o repugnancy_n in_o inferior_a nature_n yet_o do_v partake_v more_o of_o purity_n of_o intention_n &_o merit_n than_o the_o voluntary_a action_n of_o active_a liver_n or_o of_o one_o that_o do_v not_o constant_o pursue_v internal_a prayer_n albeit_o the_o action_n of_o these_o do_v seem_v to_o be_v do_v with_o great_a alacrity_n &_o facility_n &_o to_o the_o doer_n seem_v to_o proceed_v pure_o out_o of_o charity_n and_o withal_o cause_v great_a admiration_n in_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o beholder_n the_o reason_n be_v because_o the_o action_n of_o the_o former_a be_v do_v pure_o out_o of_o a_o divine_a inspiration_n and_o also_o in_o great_a simplicity_n &_o unity_n their_o regard_n to_o god_n be_v not_o hinder_v by_o the_o image_n accompany_v such_o action_n whereas_o active_a liver_n immediate_o contemplate_v multiplicity_n yea_o in_o prayer_n itself_o they_o be_v not_o without_o multiplicity_n though_o they_o do_v direct_v that_o multiplicity_n more_o direct_o to_o one_o then_o in_o action_n out_o of_o prayer_n 17._o now_o since_o purity_n of_o intention_n consist_v in_o regard_v god_n with_o simplicity_n that_o be_v without_o mixture_n of_o image_n or_o affection_n to_o creature_n it_o concern_v internal_a liver_n to_o use_v as_o great_a care_n &_o discretion_n as_o may_v be_v not_o to_o intrude_v themselves_o unnecessary_o into_o distractive_a employment_n 18._o even_o the_o most_o perfect_a soul_n be_v apt_a to_o have_v less_o purity_n of_o intention_n in_o thing_n grateful_a to_o nature_n then_o in_o such_o as_o be_v mortify_v therefore_o in_o the_o former_a they_o may_v do_v well_o to_o frame_v a_o actual_a upright_a intention_n 19_o the_o repugnancy_n that_o contemplative_a liver_n do_v find_v ofttimes_o in_o the_o discharge_n of_o externall_n employment_n proceed_v not_o so_o much_o out_o of_o any_o unwillingnes_n to_o obey_v as_o out_o of_o a_o averseness_n from_o leave_v their_o internal_a solitude_n and_o abstraction_n yet_o such_o repugnancy_n in_o inferior_a nature_n be_v easy_o subdue_v at_o least_o so_o far_o that_o it_o shall_v not_o be_v a_o hindrance_n to_o obedience_n and_o duty_n 20._o true_a purity_n of_o intention_n be_v best_a discern_v in_o the_o begin_n of_o a_o action_n for_o ordinary_o we_o set_v upon_o externall_n work_n out_o of_o a_o sudden_a impulse_n and_o like_n of_o nature_n and_o afterward_o we_o cozen_v ourselves_o with_o a_o force_a good_a intention_n fasten_v upon_o they_o so_o think_v that_o in_o they_o we_o do_v pure_o seek_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o faint_o renounce_v our_o interest_n of_o nature_n it_o be_v indeed_o better_a to_o do_v thus_o then_o to_o continue_v such_o action_n upon_o the_o same_o motive_n upon_o which_o they_o be_v begin_v but_o no_o action_n be_v perfect_o meritorious_a and_o pure_a but_o such_o as_o have_v for_o their_o first_o principle_n a_o divine_a light_n &_o impulse_n and_o be_v continue_v in_o virtue_n of_o the_o same_o 21._o therefore_o a_o certain_a ancient_n holy_a hermit_n be_v accustom_v before_o he_o set_v upon_o any_o work_n to_o make_v a_o pause_n for_o some_o time_n like_o one_o who_o thought_n be_v busy_v about_o some_o other_o matter_n and_o be_v ask_v why_o he_o do_v so_o he_o answer_v all_o our_o action_n be_v in_o themselves_o nothing_o worth_a but_o like_o a_o rough_a unshape_a piece_n of_o timber_n they_o have_v no_o gracefullnes_n in_o they_o unless_o we_o adorn_v &_o guild_v they_o over_o with_o a_o pure_a intention_n direct_v they_o to_o the_o love_n &_o glory_n of_o god_n or_o as_o one_o that_o be_v to_o shoot_v at_o a_o mark_n do_v first_o careful_o fix_v his_o eye_n upon_o it_o otherwise_o he_o will_v shoot_v at_o random_n so_o do_v i_o fix_v my_o eye_n upon_o god_n who_o be_v to_o be_v our_o only_a
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 b●_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 th●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 s●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
the_o mortification_n of_o which_o we_o be_v now_o to_o treat_v of_o be_v such_o a_o one_o as_o be_v incident_a more_o particular_o to_o tender_v devout_a soul_n especial_o woman_n that_o pursue_v the_o exercise_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n the_o which_o be_v usual_o call_v scrupulosity_n which_o be_v a_o mix_v kind_n of_o passion_n the_o most_o contrary_a to_o that_o peace_n of_o mind_n necessary_a in_o a_o spiritual_a course_n of_o any_o other_o as_o be_v envenom_a with_o whatsoever_o cause_n anxiety_n and_o inward_a torment_n almost_o in_o all_o other_o passion_n it_o regard_v sin_n and_o hell_n the_o most_o abhor_a and_o most_o terrible_a object_n of_o all_o other_o and_o it_o be_v compose_v of_o all_o the_o bitterness_n that_o be_v find_v in_o fear_n despair_n ineffectual_a desire_n uncertainty_n of_o judgement_n jealousy_n etc._n etc._n and_o penetrate_v to_o the_o very_a mind_n and_o spirit_n obscure_v and_o trouble_v the_o under_o stand_v our_o only_a director_n and_o torture_v the_o will_n by_o pluck_v it_o violent_o contrary_a way_n almost_o at_o the_o same_o time_n it_o cause_v the_o most_o pestilent_a disorder_n that_o a_o wellmeaning_n soul_n be_v capable_a of_o in_o so_o much_o as_o if_o it_o be_v obstinate_o cherish_v it_o sometime_o end_v in_o direct_a frenzy_n or_o which_o be_v worse_o a_o desperate_a forsake_v of_o all_o duty_n of_o virtue_n and_o piety_n and_o where_o it_o be_v in_o a_o less_o degree_n yet_o it_o cause_v image_n so_o distract_n so_o intime_o penetrate_v &_o so_o close_o stick_v to_o the_o mind_n and_o by_o consequence_n be_v so_o destructive_a to_o prayer_n with_o recollectednes_n that_o it_o deserve_v all_o care_n and_o prudence_n to_o be_v use_v for_o the_o prevent_n or_o expel_v it_o 4._o for_o which_o purpose_n i_o will_v here_o according_a to_o the_o best_a light_n that_o god_n have_v give_v i_o afford_v such_o tender_a soul_n as_o be_v upon_o this_o rack_n of_o scrupulosity_n the_o best_a advice_n i_o can_v and_o such_o ac_fw-la if_o they_o will_v have_v the_o courage_n to_o practice_v according_o i_o do_v not_o doubt_v but_o through_o god_n help_v they_o will_v be_v preserve_v from_o the_o dangerous_a consequence_n of_o such_o a_o passion_n i_o shall_v insist_v with_o more_o than_o a_o ordinary_a copiousnes_n upon_o this_o subject_n because_o this_o so_o dangerous_a a_o passion_n be_v but_o too_o ordinary_a among_o soul_n of_o the_o best_a disposition_n 5._o but_o in_o the_o first_o place_n i_o must_v make_v this_o protestation_n that_o these_o foll_v wing_n instruction_n in_o which_o a_o great_a yet_o necessary_a condescendency_n be_v allow_v in_o many_o case_n do_v belong_v unto_o &_o application_n of_o they_o only_o to_o be_v make_v by_o such_o tender_a fearful_a soul_n as_o desire_v and_o intend_v sincere_o to_o follow_v internal_a prayer_n and_o other_o duty_n of_o a_o spiritual_a life_n with_o as_o much_o courage_n &_o diligence_n as_o their_o frailty_n will_v permit_v such_o do_v indeed_o too_o often_o stand_v in_o need_n and_o be_v worthy_a of_o all_o assistance_n &_o indulgence_n that_o reason_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n can_v possible_o allow_v as_o be_v person_n thrt_n will_v probable_o turn_v all_o to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n &_o good_a of_o their_o soul_n and_o not_o to_o the_o ease_n or_o contentment_n of_o sensual_a nature_n which_o they_o account_v their_o great_a enemy_n and_o much_o less_o to_o unlawful_a liberty_n 6._o i_o do_v protest_v therefore_o against_o all_o extroverted_a liver_n or_o any_o of_o different_a temper_n and_o exercise_n that_o shall_v presume_v to_o apply_v or_o assume_v unto_o themselves_o any_o indulgence_n etc._n etc._n here_o not_o belong_v to_o they_o for_o they_o will_v but_o mislead_v themselves_o and_o reap_v harm_n by_o so_o do_v it_o seldom_o fall_v out_o that_o such_o person_n have_v a_o fear_n of_o a_o sin_n commit_v or_o of_o the_o mortal_a heynousnes_n of_o it_o but_o that_o it_o be_v very_o likely_a that_o it_o be_v such_o a_o one_o and_o have_v be_v commit_v and_o therefore_o for_o no_o difficulty_n of_o nature_n nor_o for_o the_o avoid_n of_o trouble_n of_o mind_n ought_v they_o to_o expect_v any_o dispensation_n from_o due_a examination_n of_o their_o conscience_n express_v confession_n &c_n &c_n whereas_o a_o thousand_o to_o one_o the_o forementioned_a tender_a soul_n do_v take_v those_o for_o mortal_a sin_n which_o be_v mere_a tentation_n yea_o perhaps_o pure_a mistake_n and_o therefore_o to_o oblige_v they_o to_o such_o strict_a examination_n or_o confession_n will_v only_o nourish_v their_o most_o distract_n anguish_v of_o mind_n &_o furnish_v they_o with_o new_a matter_n of_o scrupulosity_n 7._o now_o to_o encourage_v such_o tender_a wellminded_n soul_n to_o make_v use_n of_o these_o or_o any_o other_o the_o like_a advice_n proper_a for_o they_o i_o desire_v they_o to_o take_v notice_n that_o that_o very_a disposition_n to_o wit_n a_o tender_a fearfullnes_n of_o offend_a god_n which_o render_v they_o obnoxious_a to_o this_o so_o pernicious_a a_o passion_n be_v such_o a_o one_o as_o if_o they_o can_v avoid_v this_o inconvenience_n will_v be_v the_o most_o advantageous_a of_o all_o other_o to_o enable_v they_o to_o make_v a_o speedy_a progress_n in_o internal_a way_n and_o to_o attain_v to_o purity_n of_o heart_n the_o immediate_a disposition_n to_o contemplation_n above_o all_o other_o so_o that_o this_o be_v the_o only_a snare_n that_o the_o devil_n have_v to_o hinder_v they_o namely_o by_o take_v advantage_n from_o such_o tenderness_n to_o fill_v their_o mind_n full_a of_o multiplicity_n and_o unquiet_a apprehension_n with_o the_o which_o snare_n if_o they_o suffer_v themselves_o to_o be_v entangle_v they_o will_v find_v that_o scrupulosity_n will_v be_v far_o from_o be_v effectual_a to_o cure_v any_o of_o their_o imperfection_n yea_o it_o will_v make_v contemplative_a prayer_n impossible_a to_o be_v attain_v and_o god_n grant_v that_o those_o be_v the_o worst_a and_o most_o dangerous_a effect_n of_o it_o 8._o such_o tenderness_n of_o conscience_n that_o be_v natural_a to_o many_o frequent_o happen_v to_o be_v much_o increase_v immediate_o after_o the_o enter_v into_o a_o internal_a course_n of_o life_n and_o therefore_o then_o especial_a care_n ought_v to_o be_v use_v for_o for_o the_o prevent_n of_o the_o fearful_a apprehension_n which_o be_v the_o usual_a consequence_n of_o it_o and_o the_o ground_n of_o such_o increase_n of_o tenderness_n at_o that_o time_n be_v not_o so_o much_o a_o conscience_n of_o former_a sin_n as_o too_o severe_a a_o judgement_n of_o their_o present_a imperfection_n the_o which_o seem_v to_o be_v multiply_v by_o reason_n of_o the_o continual_a opposition_n that_o corrupt_a nature_n give_v to_o their_o present_a exercise_n as_o likewise_o because_o ●y_a the_o practice_n of_o such_o exercise_n they_o have_v a_o new_a light_n to_o discover_v a_o world_n of_o defect_n former_o invisible_a to_o they_o hence_o they_o become_v fearful_a of_o their_o present_a condition_n and_o know_v as_o yet_o no_o other_o remedy_n but_o confession_n they_o torment_v themselves_o with_o anxious_a preparation_n thereto_o and_o their_o fear_n yet_o not_o cease_v by_o have_v receive_v absolution_n and_o beside_o the_o same_o opposition_n of_o sensuality_n against_o internal_a prayer_n continue_v they_o begin_v to_o suspect_v their_o former_a confession_n which_o therefore_o they_o renew_v so_o that_o all_o their_o thought_n almost_o be_v take_v up_o with_o these_o suspicion_n of_o themselves_o unsatisfaction_n in_o their_o confession_n &c_n &c_n and_o by_o give_v way_n to_o such_o anxious_a customary_a confession_n to_o which_o also_o perhaps_o they_o be_v encourage_v by_o their_o indiscreet_a guide_n they_o endanger_v themselves_o to_o contract_v a_o incurable_a disease_n of_o most_o pernicious_a scrupulosity_n and_o servile_a fear_n from_o which_o terrible_a anguish_n deiectednes_n and_o heartlesnes_n in_o all_o spiritual_a duty_n do_v follow_v with_o danger_n of_o render_v the_o state_n of_o religion_n or_o at_o least_o of_o a_o internal_a life_n begin_v a_o condition_n less_o fruitful_a yea_o more_o dangerous_a than_o a_o common_a extroverted_a life_n in_o the_o world_n will_v have_v be_v 9_o devout_a fowl_n therefore_o be_v earnest_o wish_v to_o make_v timely_a provision_n against_o these_o inconueniency_n &_o courageous_o to_o resist_v scrupulosity_n in_o the_o beginning_n according_a to_o the_o advice_n here_o follow_a and_o above_o all_o thing_n to_o use_v their_o best_a endeavour_n and_o prudence_n as_o far_o as_o it_o belong_v to_o they_o as_o likewise_o their_o prayer_n to_o god_n that_o they_o fall_v not_o into_o the_o hand_n of_o directour_n that_o will_v feed_v this_o humour_n to_o they_o in_o such_o a_o state_n most_o pernicious_a of_o frequent_a iterate_a confession_n either_o particular_a or_o general_n if_o such_o care_n be_v have_v in_o the_o beginning_n there_o be_v no_o disease_n more_o easy_o curable_a
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 s●y●ng_v the_o office_n fast_v etc._n etc._n in_o both_o whi●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 when●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
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 the●_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 ther●_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
life_n yea_o we_o find_v example_n of_o saint_n that_o upon_o command_n of_o superior_n have_v cast_v themselves_o into_o river_n or_o leap_v down_o precipice_n or_o take_v coal_n of_o fire_n into_o their_o hand_n etc._n etc._n but_o we_o be_v to_o suppose_v that_o in_o these_o case_n there_o be_v a_o special_a divine_a instinct_n both_o in_o the_o superior_a command_a &_o the_o subject_n obey_v as_o the_o event_n show_v the_o say_v subject_n have_v never_o miscarry_v but_o be_v miraculous_o deliver_v from_o any_o harm_n by_o what_o they_o so_o do_v in_o obedience_n and_o therefore_o the_o like_a example_n can_v be_v draw_v into_o a_o rule_n 16._o the_o several_a defect_n in_o point_n of_o obedience_n the_o avoid_v of_o which_o defect_n constitute_v several_a degree_n of_o true_a religious_a obedience_n be_v reckon_v by_o turrecremata_fw-la to_o be_v these_o which_o follow_v viz._n 1._o to_o do_v some_o but_o not_o all_o thing_n enjoin_v 2._o if_o all_o yet_o imperfect_o &_o incomplete_o 3._o or_o not_o in_o the_o manner_n requisite_a 4._o or_o not_o upon_o the_o first_o simple_a bid_n but_o expect_v a_o second_o command_n or_o perhaps_o one_o in_o form_n &_o in_o virtue_n of_o obedience_n 5._o or_o to_o do_v it_o with_o reluctance_n &_o unwillingenes_n 6._o or_o after_o the_o discuss_v the_o reasonableness_n &_o lawfullnes_n of_o the_o command_n 7._o to_o go_v slow_o &_o lazy_o about_o it_o 8._o to_o do_v it_o rash_o &_o without_o fit_a preparation_n 9_o for_o want_v of_o a_o resolute_a purpose_n beforehand_o to_o obey_v absolute_o and_o universal_o to_o be_v in_o a_o readiness_n to_o contradict_v when_o command_n come_v upon_o the_o sudden_a rather_o than_o to_o hasten_v to_o obey_v 10._o then_o to_o obey_v indeed_o yet_o not_o without_o repine_v or_o at_o least_o a_o show_v of_o it_o in_o the_o countenance_n 11._o or_o however_o with_o sadness_n &_o deiectednes_n 12._o to_o obey_v in_o great_a matter_n but_o not_o so_o ready_o in_o small_a 13._o to_o obey_v in_o the_o substance_n of_o the_o thing_n command_v but_o not_o according_a to_o the_o intention_n of_o the_o superior_a or_o la_o 14._o the_o command_n be_v unpleasing_a to_o suspect_v or_o judge_v ill_a of_o the_o superior_n intention_n 15._o to_o make_v pretend_a excuse_n of_o insufficiency_n 16._o to_o be_v of_o so_o troublesome_a &_o froward_a a_o humour_n as_o to_o discourage_v the_o superior_a from_o impose_v any_o command_n 17._o out_o of_o a_o opinion_n of_o one_o own_o judgement_n or_o sufficiency_n to_o sleight_n the_o superior_n way_n of_o government_n 18._o to_o seek_v to_o draw_v the_o superior_a to_o one_o own_o way_n &_o opinion_n and_o so_o in_o effect_n to_o become_v as_o superior_a 19_o when_o one_o do_v the_o thing_n command_v to_o do_v it_o with_o a_o willling-fraudulent_a insufficiency_n 20._o not_o to_o do_v it_o with_o all_o chearfullnes_n and_o readiness_n 21._o last_o not_o to_o obey_v with_o a_o perfect_a intention_n for_o god_n glory_n &_o love_n 17._o now_o lest_o a_o beginner_n shall_v be_v discourage_v see_v so_o many_o condition_n requisite_a to_o perfect_a obedience_n &_o so_o many_o defect_n to_o be_v avoid_v he_o must_v consider_v that_o god_n do_v not_o expect_v at_o the_o first_o from_o he_o a_o obedience_n in_o all_o point_v perfect_a it_o be_v well_o that_o he_o do_v the_o command_n without_o sin_n that_o be_v not_o make_v the_o principal_a motive_n to_o be_v outward_a sensual_a respect_n &_o without_o behave_v himself_o with_o a_o deliberate_a defectuousnes_n murmur_v etc._n etc._n by_o practice_v in_o obey_v according_a to_o one_o power_n a_o soul_n will_v by_o little_a &_o little_o wear_v away_o the_o defect_n as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o learning_n of_o any_o art_n or_o trade_n a_o obedience_n though_o imperfect_a so_o it_o be_v not_o sinful_a merit_v somewhat_o and_o beside_o it_o dispose_v the_o person_n to_o amend_v it_o the_o next_o time_n by_o take_v notice_n of_o the_o defect_n and_o be_v willing_a to_o be_v admonish_v 18._o it_o be_v no_o marvel_n neither_o be_v it_o a_o fault_n that_o the_o body_n be_v weary_v &_o exhaust_v with_o many_o obedience_n there_o shall_v thereupon_o be_v find_v in_o inferior_a nature_n a_o reluctance_n but_o the_o mind_n or_o will_n shall_v never_o be_v weary_a or_o backward_a but_o remain_v ever_o invincible_a force_v inferior_a nature_n to_o comply_v to_o the_o utmost_a of_o her_o power_n but_o yet_o according_a to_o discretion_n 19_o in_o case_n a_o superior_a command_n a_o subject_a thing_n not_o only_o heavy_a &_o grievous_a to_o nature_n but_o even_o such_o as_o be_v apparent_o contrary_a to_o health_n &_o corporal_a strength_n as_o a_o rigorous_a conformity_n to_o regular_a abstinence_n fast_v watch_n &c_n &c_n the_o subject_n must_v neither_o refuse_v the_o command_n nor_o show_v any_o unwillingnes_n to_o obey_v but_o have_v after_o good_a consideration_n &_o experience_n find_v himself_o unable_a &_o infirm_a he_o may_v lawful_o declare_v unto_o the_o superior_a such_o his_o infirmity_n so_o he_o do_v it_o as_o the_o rule_n express_v it_o patient_fw-la &_o opportune_a with_o patience_n &_o take_v a_o opportune_a time_n for_o it_o not_o sudden_o querulous_o &_o in_o passion_n but_o in_o case_n the_o superior_a do_v persist_v the_o subject_n must_v obey_v submit_v both_o body_n will_n &_o judgement_n &_o so_o commit_v the_o issue_n to_o god_n and_o then_o the_o success_n what_o ever_o it_o be_v can_v but_o be_v good_a 20._o if_o the_o thing_n command_v be_v grateful_a to_o nature_n honourable_a please_v &c_n &c_n it_o be_v not_o good_a nor_o secure_a to_o be_v overforward_a in_o obey_v it_o be_v better_a so_o it_o may_v be_v do_v without_o offence_n to_o seek_v to_o avoid_v it_o wish_v that_o other_o may_v rather_o be_v employ_v or_o however_o to_o undertake_v it_o as_o obedience_n only_o &_o as_o it_o be_v against_o our_o will_n but_o if_o the_o matter_n be_v harsh_a to_o nature_n we_o be_v to_o do_v it_o with_o all_o possible_a readiness_n &_o chearfullnes_n be_v desirous_a that_o other_o shall_v be_v exempt_v from_o it_o 21._o it_o be_v not_o very_o hard_o internal_o to_o resolve_v universal_o to_o forsake_v one_o own_o will_n submit_v it_o to_o another_o but_o real_o &_o actual_o to_o perform_v this_o at_o all_o time_n whensoever_o obedience_n be_v impose_v &_o that_o frequent_o &_o when_o the_o thing_n be_v of_o difficulty_n &_o contradiction_n to_o nature_n and_o it_o may_v be_v impose_v by_o a_o superior_a against_o who_o the_o subject_n have_v some_o disaffection_n in_o nature_n or_o of_o who_o he_o have_v a_o mean_a opinion_n &_o when_o the_o subject_n himself_o be_v in_o a_o ill_a humour_n of_o obey_v or_o when_o the_o obedience_n though_o perform_v never_o so_o cheerful_o &_o exact_o yet_o be_v usual_o ill_o accept_v censure_v &c_n &c_n this_o require_v a_o great_a courage_n &_o perfect_a selfe-deniall_n &_o much_o more_o to_o persevere_v in_o such_o obedience_n to_o the_o end_n of_o one_o life_n with_o meekness_n &_o patient_a subjection_n 22._o and_o a_o yet_o great_a degree_n of_o perfection_n be_v it_o to_o which_o notwitstanding_n internal_a liver_n ought_v to_o aspire_v for_o a_o religious_a person_n that_o be_v hardly_o &_o injurious_o treat_v by_o his_o superior_a to_o be_v content_a &_o desirous_a that_o he_o shall_v continue_v to_o use_v he_o so_o or_o worse_o so_o it_o may_v be_v without_o offence_n to_o god_n &_o so_o that_o no_o harm_n may_v come_v to_o the_o superior_n soul_n thereby_o 23._o there_o be_v no_o command_n though_o never_o so_o impertinent_a or_o distract_n that_o can_v prejudice_n perfect_a soul_n that_o be_v come_v to_o a_o establish_a state_n of_o recollection_n &_o habitual_o enjoy_v the_o divine_a presence_n but_o great_a harm_n &_o danger_n may_v come_v thereby_o to_o the_o imperfect_a the_o which_o notwithstanding_o by_o patience_n quietness_n &_o meekness_n in_o obey_v may_v come_v to_o make_v their_o profit_n even_o from_o they_o also_o so_o that_o though_o they_o lose_v one_o way_n by_o a_o hindrance_n to_o their_o recollection_n they_o may_v repair_v that_o loss_n by_o root_a these_o virtue_n more_o firm_o in_o their_o soul_n however_o the_o superior_a must_v expect_v to_o have_v a_o severe_a account_n require_v of_o he_o for_o indiscreet_a &_o harmful_a imposition_n lay_v upon_o his_o subject_n 24._o a_o memorable_a example_n of_o obedience_n join_v with_o a_o mortification_n very_o sensible_a to_o humble_a soul_n to_o wit_n a_o mortification_n cause_v by_o a_o obligation_n to_o accept_v undue_a &_o unproportionable_a honour_n we_o read_v of_o in_o the_o story_n of_o the_o great_a s._n basile_n who_o have_v obtain_v at_o his_o own_o request_n from_o a_o neighbour_n bishop_n a_o priest_n to_o attend_v he_o recommend_v as_o a_o humble_a &_o obedient_a person_n s._n basile_n for_o a_o
over_o our_o passion_n that_o they_o break_v not_o forth_o so_o as_o to_o indispose_v we_o even_o for_o present_a recollection_n &_o much_o less_o for_o the_o appoint_a recollection_n which_o be_v to_o follow_v 6._o such_o as_o do_v practice_v mortification_n in_o a_o measure_n suitable_a to_o their_o state_n thereby_o root_a out_o those_o inordinate_a assection_n which_o cause_n distraction_n in_o prayer_n &_o be_v hindrance_n to_o a_o state_n of_o recollectednes_n for_o as_o that_o fundamental_a precept_n of_o love_a god_n oblige_v a_o soul_n at_o least_o never_o to_o do_v any_o thing_n contrary_a thereto_o so_o do_v that_o of_o prayer_n oblige_v that_o we_o shall_v always_o be_v in_o a_o disposition_n &_o readiness_n to_o it_o 20._o therefore_o let_v soul_n consider_v in_o what_o a_o unsecure_a and_o dangerous_a state_n they_o remain_v that_o content_n themselves_o with_o a_o few_o heartless_a distract_a vocal_a prayer_n since_o not_o any_o tentation_n can_v be_v resist_v without_o a_o actual_a exercise_n of_o prayer_n &_o that_o the_o best_a prayer_n that_o the_o soul_n can_v make_v beside_o it_o be_v not_o with_o prayer_n as_o with_o other_o art_n or_o habit_n a_o student_n by_o cessation_n from_o study_n do_v not_o present_o loose_v nor_o so_o much_o as_o diminish_v the_o knowledge_n that_o he_o have_v before_o but_o a_o soul_n that_o be_v not_o in_o actual_a prayer_n or_o at_o least_o in_o a_o immediate_a disposition_n &_o a_o habitual_a desire_n of_o prayer_n sink_v present_o into_o nature_n &_o lose_v much_o of_o that_o strength_n that_o she_o have_v former_o there_o be_v not_o always_o occasion_n to_o exercise_v particular_a virtue_n as_o temperance_n patience_n chastity_n &c_n &c_n because_o tentation_n do_v not_o always_o assault_v we_o but_o we_o may_v always_o pray_v &_o always_o we_o have_v need_v so_o to_o do_v for_o a_o soul_n except_o she_o be_v in_o prayer_n or_o that_o the_o virtue_n of_o prayer_n be_v alive_a in_o she_o be_v in_o a_o state_n of_o distraction_n &_o disunion_n from_o god_n &_o consequent_o expose_v to_o all_o manner_n of_o enemy_n be_v withal_o deprive_v of_o the_o only_a mean_n to_o resist_v they_o so_o that_o the_o danger_n &_o misery_n of_o a_o unrecollected_a life_n be_v inexplicable_a chap._n v._n §_o 1._o the_o second_o condition_n requisite_a in_o affective_a prayer_n to_o wit_n fervour_n or_o devotion_n §_o 2._o 3._o 4._o the_o seat_n of_o this_o devotion_n be_v not_o necessary_o the_o sensitive_a part_n of_o the_o soul_n §_o 5._o 6._o 7._o of_o a_o twofold_a sensible_a devotion_n §_o 7._o it_o be_v neither_o to_o be_v neglect_v nor_o too_o much_o prise_v §_o 8._o 9_o certain_a exterior_a effect_n of_o sensible_a devotion_n from_o which_o great_a inconvenience_n may_v ensue_v §_o 10._o sensible_a devotion_n no_o sure_a sign_n of_o true_a grace_n a_o fearful_a example_n thereof_o §_o 11._o 12._o 23._o what_o use_v imperfect_a soul_n be_v to_o make_v of_o it_o §_o 14._o fear_n be_v to_o be_v repress_v §_o 15._o perfect_a soul_n in_o small_a danger_n by_o it_o §_o 16._o of_o the_o prayer_n of_o aridity_n quite_o contrary_a to_o sensible_a yet_o not_o to_o true_a devotion_n §_o 17._o 18._o 19_o the_o excellent_a benefit_n that_o may_v come_v from_o the_o prayer_n of_o aridity_n §_o 20._o the_o cause_n of_o aridity_n §_o 21_o 22._o vocal_a prayer_n &_o meditation_n not_o so_o much_o subject_n thereto_o §_o 23._o 24._o more_o good_a come_v from_o prayer_n of_o aridity_n courageous_o pursue_v then_o from_o the_o prayer_n of_o sensible_a devotion_n §_o 25._o the_o superior_a soul_n &_o its_o good_a disposition_n do_v not_o depend_v on_o the_o temper_n of_o sensitive_a nature_n §_o 26._o 27._o mean_v to_o beget_v courage_n in_o the_o prayer_n of_o aridity_n §_o 25._o how_o a_o soul_n be_v to_o behave_v herself_o in_o the_o most_o violent_a distress_n in_o prayer_n §_o 29._o the_o prayer_n exercise_v by_o imperfect_a soul_n during_o aridity_n be_v not_o proper_o in_o spirit_n 1._o as_o 1._o prayer_n for_o the_o quantity_n or_o extension_n of_o it_o be_v to_o be_v incessant_a at_o least_o the_o virtue_n of_o it_o be_v to_o be_v a_o ingredient_n in_o all_o other_o work_n whether_o they_o be_v study_v labour_n conversation_n &c._n &c._n the_o which_o may_v be_v without_o any_o prejudice_n at_o all_o to_o the_o work_n yea_o to_o the_o great_a improvement_n &_o supernaturalize_v of_o it_o so_o far_o that_o where_o prayer_n be_v want_v the_o most_o specious_a work_n be_v of_o no_o value_n at_o all_o so_o in_o the_o next_o place_n 2._o as_o to_o the_o quality_n or_o intention_n of_o it_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v instantissima_fw-la say_v our_o holy_a father_n in_o prologue_n with_o all_o possible_a fervour_n &_o earnestness_n for_o prayer_n be_v the_o most_o immediate_a &_o most_o perfect_a act_n of_o charity_n to_o god_n aught_o like_o charity_n itself_o to_o proceed_v ex_fw-la toto_fw-la cord_n ex_fw-la tota_fw-la anima_fw-la &_o ex_fw-la totis_fw-la viribus_fw-la from_o the_o whole_a heart_n the_o whole_a soul_n &_o the_o whole_a strength_n therefore_o as_o he_o offend_v against_o the_o precept_n of_o charity_n that_o employ_v either_o his_o spirit_n sensitive_a soul_n or_o corporal_a strength_n on_o any_o thing_n but_o god_n or_o which_o have_v respect_n to_o god_n his_o love_n or_o glory_n so_o if_o in_o our_o prayer_n we_o do_v willing_o suffer_v our_o thought_n to_o wander_v upon_o any_o thing_n but_o god_n or_o if_o we_o harbour_v any_o desire_n in_o sensitive_a nature_n that_o will_v hinder_v the_o free_a tendance_n of_o our_o spirit_n to_o god_n in_o prayer_n or_o if_o we_o employ_v our_o corporal_a strength_n about_o any_o other_o matter_n but_o such_o as_o may_v &_o aught_o to_o be_v intend_v for_o god_n in_o our_o prayer_n we_o do_v so_o far_o neglect_v to_o correspond_v to_o this_o duty_n of_o fervour_n &_o instance_n which_o ought_v to_o be_v in_o prayer_n 2._o notwithstanding_o this_o be_v not_o so_o to_o be_v understand_v as_o if_o we_o be_v oblige_v either_o to_o employ_v our_o corporal_a force_n or_o member_n or_o to_o force_v our_o sensible_a affection_n to_o concur_v in_o our_o prayer_n to_o god_n or_o as_o if_o god_n do_v require_v that_o this_o fervour_n shall_v always_o be_v in_o sensitive_a nature_n for_o that_o be_v not_o always_o in_o our_o power_n yea_o on_o the_o contrary_a the_o sensual_a part_n move_v often_o against_o our_o will_n be_v insensible_a averse_a &_o impatient_a of_o accompany_v our_o spiritual_a actuation_n which_o common_o do_v mortify_v &_o contradict_v the_o desire_n of_o nature_n 2._o and_o moreover_o when_o sensible_a fervour_n &_o devotion_n do_v insinuate_v itself_o in_o our_o recollection_n especial_o in_o imperfect_a soul_n it_o do_v rather_o endanger_v to_o depress_v the_o operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n then_o advance_v they_o &_o do_v perhaps_o more_o nourish_v self-love_n then_o contribute_v to_o the_o increase_n of_o divine_a love_n 3._o it_o be_v sufficient_a therefore_o if_o this_o fervour_n be_v in_o our_o superior_a will_n alone_o though_o sensitive_a nature_n seem_v to_o partake_v nothing_o of_o it_o so_o that_o our_o prayer_n may_v then_o be_v say_v to_o be_v instant_a &_o feruorous_a when_o the_o will_v out_o of_o a_o worthy_a &_o high_a esteem_n of_o this_o most_o necessary_a &_o most_o excellent_a duty_n resolute_o &_o with_o perseverance_n pursue_v they_o notwithstanding_o any_o contradiction_n in_o nature_n or_o discouragement_n from_o without_o for_o that_o must_v needs_o be_v a_o great_a fervour_n of_o spirit_n that_o contradict_v the_o contrary_a malignant_a fervour_n of_o nature_n &_o underualewe_n all_o sensible_a case_n &_o contentment_n compare_v with_o the_o spiritual_a good_a that_o be_v cause_v by_o prayer_n 4._o this_o be_v that_o good_a quality_n which_o our_o saviour_n in_o the_o parable_n of_o he_o who_o at_o midnight_n go_v to_o his_o neighbour_n to_o borrow_v three_o loaf_n of_o bread_n for_o the_o entertainment_n of_o a_o friend_n that_o be_v then_o arrive_v call_v by_o a_o homely_a name_n to_o wit_n improbitatem_fw-la or_o as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o original_a impudence_n the_o which_o quality_n notwithstanding_o he_o require_v in_o our_o prayer_n to_o god_n &_o promise_v a_o infallible_a success_n thereto_o now_o that_o improbity_n or_o impudence_n imply_v a_o importunate_a earnestness_n a_o resolution_n to_o take_v no_o denial_n nor_o to_o stand_v upon_o nice_a civility_n but_o ra_o she_o then_o to_o return_v empty_a to_o force_v out_o a_o grant_n even_o by_o weary_v out_o the_o person_n to_o who_o we_o address_v ourselves_o so_o that_o it_o include_v both_o a_o great_a fervour_n &_o a_o uncessant_a perseverance_n in_o such_o fervour_n the_o which_o be_v in_o a_o high_a degree_n in_o those_o who_o spend_v their_o whole_a life_n as_o it_o be_v in_o one_o continual_a prayer_n yea_o in_o one_o only_a petition_n
which_o be_v to_o be_v unite_v in_o will_n &_o affection_n to_o god_n only_o 5._o these_o therefore_o be_v two_o quality_n requisite_a in_o prayer_n 1._o earnestness_n or_o fervour_n &_o 2._o perseverance_n both_o which_o be_v likewise_o include_v in_o the_o term_n instantissima_fw-la give_v to_o prayer_n by_o our_o holy_a father_n imperfect_a soul_n will_v be_v apt_a to_o suspect_v ofttimes_o that_o their_o prayer_n be_v unefficacious_a as_o be_v deprive_v of_o these_o condition_n 1._o the_o former_a when_o they_o do_v not_o perceive_v a_o tenderness_n &_o melt_a devotion_n in_o sensitive_a nature_n 2._o and_o the_o late_a they_o will_v fear_v be_v want_v whensoever_o they_o find_v themselves_o though_o unwilling_o distract_v therefore_o to_o the_o end_n to_o prevent_v mistake_n &_o that_o a_o right_a judgement_n may_v be_v make_v of_o these_o two_o to_o wit_n sensible_a devotion_n &_o distraction_n i_o will_v treat_v of_o they_o both_o showing_z what_o good_a or_o ill_a effect_n may_v proceed_v from_o the_o former_a and_o what_o remedy_n may_v be_v apply_v to_o hinder_v any_o inconvenience_n from_o the_o latter_a 6._o there_o be_v a_o twofold_a sensible_a devotion_n 1._o the_o first_o be_v that_o which_o we_o now_o speak_v of_o which_o be_v find_v in_o good_a but_o imperfect_a soul_n &_o it_o begin_v in_o sensitive_a nature_n cause_v great_a tenderness_n there_o &_o from_o thence_o it_o mount_v up_o to_o the_o spirit_n produce_v good_a &_o melt_a affection_n to_o god_n &_o especial_o in_o discursive_a prayer_n to_o the_o humanity_n &_o suffering_n of_o our_o lord_n 2._o another_o sensible_a devotion_n there_o be_v of_o perfect_a soul_n the_o which_o begin_v in_o the_o spirit_n &_o abound_v there_o overflows_a &_o by_o communication_n descend_v into_o inferior_a sensitive_a nature_n cause_v like_o effect_n to_o the_o former_a now_o there_o be_v little_a need_n to_o give_v caution_n of_o instruction_n concern_v the_o use_n of_o this_o because_o perfect_a soul_n walk_v in_o a_o clear_a light_n &_o be_v establish_v in_o a_o generous_a love_n of_o the_o superior_a will_n towards_o god_n be_v not_o in_o danger_n to_o be_v transport_v with_o the_o please_a effect_n which_o it_o be_v apt_a to_o produce_v in_o inferior_a nature_n nor_o to_o fall_v into_o spiritual_a gluttony_n by_o which_o their_o affection_n may_v be_v withdraw_v from_o god_n &_o fix_v on_o such_o mean_a gift_n of_o he_o as_o these_o be_v that_o therefore_o which_o i_o shall_v here_o speak_v concern_v sensible_a devotion_n be_v to_o be_v apply_v unto_o that_o which_o be_v find_v in_o soul_n less_o perfect_a for_o for_o such_o only_a all_o these_o instruction_n be_v mean_v 7._o su●h_o soul_n than_o be_v to_o be_v inform_v that_o though_o sensible_a devotion_n be_v indeed_o at_o the_o first_o a_o good_a gift_n of_o god_n intend_v by_o he_o for_o their_o encouragement_n &_o advancement_n in_o his_o pure_a love_n as_o it_o be_v therefore_o not_o to_o be_v neglect_v so_o neither_o be_v it_o over_o high_o to_o be_v prise_v for_o as_o very_o good_a effect_n may_v flow_v from_o it_o be_v well_o &_o discreet_o use_v so_o on_o the_o contrary_a without_o such_o discretion_n it_o may_v prove_v very_o pernicious_a endanger_v to_o plunge_v they_o more_o deep_o in_o self-love_n &_o corrupt_a nature_n in_o which_o it_o be_v much_o immerse_v and_o so_o it_o will_v produce_v a_o effect_n direct_o contrary_a to_o that_o for_o which_o prayer_n be_v ordain_v a_o soul_n therefore_o be_v to_o separate_v that_o which_o be_v good_a &_o profitable_a in_o such_o devotion_n from_o that_o which_o be_v imperfect_a &_o dangerous_a renounce_v &_o mortify_v this_o latter_a &_o with_o discretion_n give_v way_n &_o make_v her_o profit_n of_o the_o other_o 8._o the_o special_a sign_n &_o effect_n of_o such_o sensible_a devotion_n be_v ofttimes_o very_o conspicuous_a in_o the_o alteration_n cause_v by_o it_o in_o corporal_a nature_n draw_v tear_n from_o the_o eye_n procure_v heat_n and_o reddnes_n in_o the_o face_n spring_v motion_n in_o the_o heart_n like_a to_o the_o leap_v of_o a_o fi●h_n in_o the_o water_n say_v harphius_n and_o in_o some_o it_o cause_v so_o perceivable_a a_o open_n and_o shut_v in_o the_o heart_n say_v he_o that_o it_o may_v be_v hear_v and_o from_o such_o unusual_a motion_n &_o agitation_n about_o the_o heart_n a_o windy_a vapour_n will_v now_o &_o then_o mount_v up_o to_o the_o head_n cause_v a_o prick_a pain_n there_o the_o which_o if_o the_o head_n be_v not_o strong_a may_v continue_v a_o good_a space_n yea_o if_o good_a care_n be_v not_o take_v to_o interrupt_v such_o impetuosity_n of_o the_o spirit_n the_o blood_n will_v first_o boil_v &_o afterward_o will_v grow_v thick_a and_o congealed_a incapable_a of_o motion_n and_o this_o once_o happen_v the_o inward_a sweetness_n former_o feel_v will_v be_v turn_v into_o sadness_n dejection_n and_o stupidity_n thence_o will_v follow_v complaint_n that_o the_o soul_n be_v forsake_v of_o god_n yea_o she_o will_v be_v in_o danger_n desperate_o to_o renounce_v all_o further_a seek_v of_o god_n and_o the_o more_o that_o she_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o recover_v her_o former_a sensible_a affection_n the_o far_a will_v she_o be_v from_o it_o &_o impatience_n for_o this_o will_v render_v she_o still_o more_o indispose_v more_o darken_v in_o the_o understanding_n &_o more_o stupefy_v in_o her_o affection_n 9_o now_o all_o these_o inconvenience_n proceed_v from_o self-love_n &_o a_o too_o gluttonous_a delectation_n in_o sensible_a sweetness_n the_o which_o if_o they_o be_v accompany_v with_o any_o extraordinary_a visit_n there_o will_v follow_v it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v yet_o far_o more_o dangerous_a effect_n in_o unprepared_a soul_n the_o which_o will_v probable_o take_v occasion_n from_o thence_o to_o nourish_v pride_n in_o themselves_o &_o a_o contempt_n of_o other_o 10._o to_o abate_v the_o too_o high_a esteem_n that_o unwary_a soul_n may_v have_v of_o this_o sensible_a fervour_n &_o devotion_n it_o may_v be_v observe_v that_o it_o be_v not_o always_o a_o sign_n of_o a_o good_a disposition_n or_o holiness_n in_o the_o soul_n for_o we_o read_v of_o several_a impious_a person_n that_o have_v enjoy_v it_o so_o history_n make_v mention_n of_o a_o certain_a wicked_a tyrant_n call_v william_n prince_n of_o juliers_n how_o at_o his_o devotion_n in_o the_o midnight_n of_o our_o lord_n natuity_n he_o twice_o or_o thrice_o feel_v so_o great_a a_o internal_a sweetness_n in_o divine_a visitation_n that_o he_o profess_v afterward_o that_o he_o will_v be_v content_a to_o purchase_v with_o the_o loss_n of_o half_a his_o dominion_n such_o another_o consolation_n yet_o after_o his_o death_n it_o be_v reveil_v to_o a_o certain_a holy_a person_n that_o he_o be_v in_o hell_n condemn_v to_o torment_n equal_a to_o those_o that_o that_o wicked_a persecute_v imperour_n maxentius_n suffer_v 11._o the_o root_n of_o such_o sensible_a sweetness_n be_v oftentimes_o a_o mere_a natural_a temper_n of_o body_n yea_o by_o god_n permission_n the_o devil_n also_o will_v be_v forward_o enough_o to_o raise_v &_o increase_v it_o in_o immortified_a self-willed_n soul_n know_v that_o they_o will_v make_v ill_a use_n of_o it_o either_o to_o the_o augment_v of_o their_o pride_n or_o to_o a_o presumptuous_a undertake_v of_o mortification_n above_o their_o strength_n by_o which_o in_o a_o short_a time_n their_o spirit_n will_v be_v so_o exhaust_v &_o their_o force_n enfeeble_v that_o they_o will_v become_v unable_a any_o more_o to_o correspond_v with_o divine_a grace_n even_o in_o duty_n necessary_o belong_v to_o their_o profession_n and_o when_o this_o happen_v than_o all_o sweetness_n of_o devotion_n cease_v &_o in_o place_n thereof_o succeed_v anguish_n scrupulosity_n pusillanimity_n &_o perhaps_o even_o desperation_n therefore_o wellminded_n soul_n be_v to_o take_v special_a care_n of_o prevent_v these_o effect_n of_o sensible_a devotion_n the_o which_o without_o great_a vigilance_n they_o be_v in_o danger_n to_o incur_v and_o thereupon_o harphius_n advise_v earnest_o such_o to_o moderate_v with_o discretion_n the_o violent_a impulse_n of_o their_o internal_a desire_n to_o god_n for_o say_v he_o if_o they_o shall_v always_o to_o the_o utmost_a extent_n of_o their_o ability_n pursue_v they_o they_o will_v find_v themselves_o in_o a_o short_a time_n quite_o exhaust_v &_o disable_v to_o perform_v even_o easy_a and_o more_o necessary_a obligation_n 12._o the_o true_a use_n &_o benefit_n therefore_o that_o imperfect_a soul_n ought_v to_o make_v of_o sensible_a devotion_n when_o god_n send_v it_o be_v this_o that_o without_o rest_v much_o on_o it_o or_o force_v themselves_o to_o continue_v it_o they_o shall_v make_v it_o a_o instrument_n to_o fortify_v &_o establish_v the_o solid_a true_a love_n &_o esteem_v of_o god_n in_o the_o superior_a soul_n &_o to_o confirm_v a_o unshake_a resolution_n in_o themselves_o never_o
to_o desist_v from_o seek_v he_o by_o the_o internal_a way_n of_o the_o spirit_n even_o in_o time_n of_o desertion_n &_o aridity_n 13._o and_o if_o they_o will_v make_v this_o use_n of_o it_o then_o from_o what_o cause_n soever_o it_o proceed_v yea_o though_o the_o devil_n himself_o help_v or_o change_v the_o body_n shall_v have_v cause_v it_o no_o harm_n can_v come_v unto_o they_o thereby_o for_o a_o soul_n be_v most_o secure_a while_o she_o neglect_v &_o disesteeme_v the_o effect_n of_o sensible_a devotion_n as_o far_o as_o they_o be_v please_v to_o sensitive_a nature_n &_o transcend_v it_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o exercise_v herself_o towards_o god_n quiet_o yet_o resolute_o in_o the_o superior_a will_n and_o by_o the_o like_a practice_n may_v a_o soul_n obtain_v the_o like_a security_n in_o all_o extraordinary_a doubtful_a case_n of_o vision_n ecstasy_n &c_n &c_n 14._o more_o particular_o for_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v tear_n which_o be_v usual_a effect_n of_o sensible_a devotion_n a_o soul_n must_v be_v wary_a that_o she_o give_v not_o free_a scope_n unto_o they_o what_o ever_o the_o object_n or_o cause_n be_v whether_o it_o be_v compassion_n to_o our_o lord_n suffering_n or_o contrition_n for_o her_o own_o sin_n &c_n &c_n in_o all_o case_n it_o be_v best_o to_o suppress_v they_o rather_o than_o to_o give_v they_o a_o free_a liberty_n to_o flow_v for_o otherwise_o beside_o the_o harm_n that_o may_v outward_o happen_v to_o the_o body_n by_o impair_n the_o health_n or_o weaken_v the_o head_n they_o will_v keep_v she_o still_o below_o in_o sensitive_a nature_n &_o immortification_n with_o little_a or_o no_o advancement_n towards_o the_o true_a love_n of_o god_n on_o the_o contrary_a they_o do_v hinder_v the_o elevation_n of_o the_o spirit_n by_o obscure_v the_o mind_n that_o it_o can_v discover_v her_o secret_a defect_n nor_o what_o will_v best_o keep_v she_o in_o her_o way_n let_v she_o therefore_o exercise_v these_o act_n in_o the_o superior_a soul_n &_o will_n from_o whence_o all_o merit_n come_v and_o by_o which_o they_o be_v perform_v with_o quietness_n &_o stillnes_n yet_o withal_o more_o efficacious_o then_o in_o sensitive_a nature_n 15._o the_o case_n be_v otherwise_o in_o perfect_a soul_n when_o god_n by_o a_o extraordinary_a grace_n bestow_v on_o they_o the_o gift_n of_o tear_n as_o to_o s._n arsenius_n who_o be_v say_v to_o have_v flow_v almost_o continual_o with_o they_o for_o in_o this_o case_n they_o do_v begin_v from_o the_o spirit_n who_o operation_n inferior_a nature_n do_v not_o at_o all_o hinder_a but_o rather_o promote_v in_o they_o and_o such_o tear_n flow_v tanquam_fw-la plwia_fw-la in_o vellus_fw-la like_o a_o shower_n of_o rain_n into_o a_o fleece_n of_o wool_n without_o the_o least_o disturbance_n &_o bitterness_n in_o inferior_a nature_n which_o be_v a_o grace_n very_o rare_o if_o at_o all_o grant_v to_o imperfect_a soul_n and_o therefore_o those_o upon_o who_o it_o be_v bestow_v may_v &_o no_o doubt_n will_v without_o any_o danger_n comply_v with_o it_o since_o it_o can_v flow_v from_o no_o other_o cause_n but_o god_n only_o &_o the_o effect_n of_o it_o will_v not_o be_v to_o depress_v the_o spirit_n but_o rather_o to_o draw_v sensitive_a nature_n upward_o into_o the_o spirit_n cause_v it_o likewise_o to_o concur_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o divine_a love_n so_o as_o that_o the_o soul_n may_v say_v with_o david_n cor_fw-la meum_fw-la &_o caro_fw-la mea_fw-la exult_v averunt_fw-la in_o deum_fw-la viwm_fw-la sensitive_a nature_n not_o only_o join_v with_o the_o spirit_n in_o serve_v &_o love_v of_o god_n but_o likewise_o find_v its_o contentment_n therein_o without_o the_o least_o prejudice_n to_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o way_n to_o attain_v to_o this_o solid_a &_o secure_a sensible_a fervour_n be_v by_o a_o discreet_a underualue_v &_o repress_v of_o that_o which_o be_v original_o &_o mere_o sensible_a 16._o now_o it_o will_v not_o be_v impertinent_a on_o this_o occasion_n to_o take_v notice_n of_o another_o sort_n of_o temper_n in_o prayer_n of_o a_o quite_o contrary_a nature_n in_o the_o which_o the_o inferior_a soul_n seem_v to_o have_v no_o part_n at_o all_o in_o the_o actuation_n of_o the_o spirit_n towards_o god_n yea_o be_v not_o only_o unactive_a but_o very_o repugnant_a unto_o they_o find_v a_o great_a deal_n of_o uneasine_n &_o pain_n in_o they_o so_o that_o the_o whole_a prayer_n seem_v to_o be_v make_v by_o the_o spirit_n the_o heart_n or_o sensitive_a appetite_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n find_v much_o bitterness_n in_o it_o and_o the_o imagination_n in_o a_o sort_n refuse_v to_o suggest_v necessary_a image_n thereto_o any_o further_a than_o as_o the_o superior_a soul_n by_o virtue_n of_o the_o dominion_n it_o have_v over_o it_o do_v even_o by_o mere_a force_n constrain_v it_o 17._o there_o be_v scarce_o any_o soul_n that_o give_v themselves_o to_o internal_a prayer_n but_o some_o time_n or_o other_o do_v find_v themselves_o in_o great_a indisposition_n thereto_o have_v great_a obscurity_n in_o the_o mind_n &_o great_a insensibility_n in_o the_o affection_n so_o that_o if_o imperfect_a soul_n be_v not_o well_o instruct_v &_o prepare_v they_o will_v be_v in_o danger_n in_o case_n that_o such_o contradiction_n in_o inferior_a nature_n continue_v long_o to_o be_v deject_a yea_o and_o perhaps_o deter_v from_o pursue_v prayer_n for_o they_o will_v be_v apt_a to_o think_v that_o their_o recollection_n be_v to_o no_o purpose_n at_o all_o since_o for_o as_o much_o as_o seem_v to_o they_o whatsoever_o they_o think_v or_o actuate_v towards_o god_n be_v mere_a loss_n of_o time_n and_o of_o no_o worth_a at_o all_o &_o therefore_o that_o it_o will_v be_v more_o profitable_a for_o they_o to_o employ_v their_o time_n some_o other_o way_n 18._o yea_o some_o soul_n there_o be_v conduct_v by_o almighty_a god_n by_o no_o other_o way_n but_o only_o by_o such_o prayer_n of_o aridity_n find_v no_o sensible_a contentment_n in_o any_o recollection_n but_o on_o the_o contrary_a continual_a pain_n &_o contradiction_n and_o yet_o by_o a_o privy_a grace_n &_o courage_n imprint_v deep_o in_o the_o spirit_n cease_v not_o for_o all_o that_o but_o resolute_o break_v through_o all_o difficulty_n and_o continue_v the_o best_a they_o can_v their_o internal_a exercise_n to_o the_o great_a advancement_n of_o their_o spirit_n 19_o it_o will_v indeed_o be_v very_o hard_a and_o moral_o impossible_a for_o any_o soul_n but_o such_o as_o have_v natural_o a_o good_a propension_n to_o introversion_n to_o continue_v constant_a to_o their_o recollection_n when_o aridity_n obscurity_n and_o desolation_n continue_v a_o long_a time_n for_o it_o be_v this_o propension_n alone_o assi_v by_o divine_a grace_n that_o hold_v they_o to_o their_o recollection_n &_o that_o enable_v they_o to_o bear_v themselves_o up_o in_o all_o their_o difficulty_n and_o tentation_n 20._o the_o cause_n of_o this_o aridity_n and_o indisposition_n to_o prayer_n ordinary_o speak_v for_o sometime_o god_n for_o the_o trial_n of_o his_o servant_n may_v &_o oft_o do_v send_v or_o permit_v such_o tentation_n to_o fall_v on_o they_o be_v principal_o a_o certain_a particular_a natural_a complexion_n of_o some_o &_o especial_o of_o those_o who_o by_o their_o corporal_a temper_n be_v most_o fit_v for_o the_o exercise_n of_o sensible_a affection_n for_o of_o all_o other_o such_o be_v most_o obnoxious_a to_o these_o aridity_n and_o obscurity_n because_o the_o humour_n and_o spirit_n of_o the_o body_n together_o with_o the_o change_n of_o weather_n &c_n &c_n have_v a_o far_o great_a influence_n upon_o these_o sensible_a affection_n then_o upon_o the_o mere_a operation_n either_o of_o the_o understanding_n or_o will_n which_o do_v not_o so_o much_o depend_v upon_o the_o body_n and_o therefore_o whensoever_o the_o say_v corporal_a disposition_n come_v by_o any_o accident_n to_o be_v alter_v such_o affectionate_a soul_n be_v apt_a to_o fall_v into_o these_o internal_a distress_n &_o be_v in_o such_o a_o afflict_a disconsolate_a condition_n they_o be_v not_o able_a to_o help_v themselves_o by_o any_o discourse_n to_o which_o ordinary_o they_o be_v indispose_v from_o this_o ground_n it_o be_v that_o devout_a woman_n who_o natural_o do_v more_o abound_v with_o sensible_a affection_n than_o man_n be_v more_o subject_a to_o be_v afflict_v &_o persecute_v with_o these_o aridity_n 21._o such_o discouragement_n do_v least_o appear_v in_o vocal_a prayer_n the_o which_o befit_v all_o kind_n of_o spirit_n &_o all_o sort_n of_o temper_n whether_o they_o discourse_v internal_o or_o not_o and_o whether_o they_o can_v produce_v internal_a act_n of_o the_o will_n upon_o conceive_a image_n or_o not_o for_o all_o these_o at_o all_o time_n and_o howsoever_o they_o be_v corporal_o dispose_v may_v make_v their_o profit_n more_o or_o less_o of_o vocal_a prayer_n 22._o the_o prayer_n of_o meditation_n likewise_o
in_o those_o for_o who_o it_o be_v proper_a be_v not_o usual_o much_o assault_v with_o such_o aridity_n except_o it_o be_v sometime_o towards_o the_o end_n of_o such_o prayer_n when_o soul_n will_v endeavour_v to_o draw_v good_a affection_n from_o a_o precedent_a motive_n consider_v by_o the_o understanding_n for_o then_o the_o heart_n may_v sometime_o prove_v barren_a or_o averse_a from_o such_o affection_n but_o however_o they_o that_o practise_v meditation_n may_v find_v some_o remedy_n by_o surcease_n the_o produce_v of_o affection_n &_o may_v either_o betake_v themselves_o to_o exercise_v mere_a act_n of_o the_o will_n which_o be_v not_o so_o affective_a or_o retire_v themselves_o to_o their_o internal_a discourse_n 23._o the_o pain_n &_o anguish_n that_o good_a soul_n suffer_v from_o these_o aridity_n be_v very_o grievous_a be_v a_o kind_n of_o continual_a martyrdom_n and_o therefore_o the_o merit_n of_o constancy_n in_o prayer_n notwithstanding_o such_o discouragment_n in_o nature_n be_v the_o great_a and_o soul_n to_o who_o god_n shall_v give_v such_o constancy_n will_v find_v their_o exercise●_n both_o much_o more_o secure_a however_o disgustful_a they_o be_v yea_o &_o much_o more_o profitable_a then_o if_o they_o have_v flow_v with_o sensible_a affection_n for_o all_o manner_n of_o good_a be_v get_v by_o prayer_n of_o aridity_n courageous_o prosecute_v all_o virtue_n be_v exercise_v in_o it_o it_o be_v both_o prayer_n and_o most_o efficacious_a mortification_n too_o 24._o and_o indeed_o the_o only_a general_a effectual_a remedy_n against_o any_o inconvenience_n that_o may_v be_v cause_v by_o such_o aridity_n be_v this_o generosity_n of_o resolution_n not_o to_o seek_v contentment_n in_o nature_n by_o internal_a exercise_n nor_o to_o quit_v they_o for_o any_o dullnes_n coldness_n or_o aversion_n whatsoever_o let_v but_o soul_n do_v the_o best_a they_o can_v or_o know_v &_o they_o will_v find_v that_o their_o spiritual_a progress_n in_o the_o true_a solid_a &_o only_o meritorious_a love_n of_o god_n will_v not_o at_o all_o be_v hinder_v but_o rather_o advance_v by_o such_o froward_a indisposition_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n 25._o and_o such_o courage_n &_o effectual_a resolution_n may_v well_o enough_o consist_v with_o these_o discouragement_n for_o the_o spirit_n who_o operation_n do_v not_o much_o depend_v on_o the_o corporal_a disposition_n may_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o all_o sensible_a aridity_n &_o obscurity_n perform_v its_o function_n with_o great_a efficacy_n the_o intellective_a faculty_n be_v at_o all_o time_n capable_a of_o illumination_n &_o the_o will_n of_o receive_v grace_n &_o strength_n from_o god_n and_o the_o light_n &_o grace_n which_o we_o receive_v at_o such_o time_n be_v far_o more_o pure_a &_o divine_a then_o when_o corporal_a affection_n do_v abound_v for_o than_o they_o be_v communicate_v pure_o to_o the_o spirit_n and_o consequent_o the_o operation_n perform_v in_o virtue_n of_o such_o light_n &_o grace_n be_v more_o noble_a and_o meritorious_a because_o it_o be_v apparent_a that_o nature_n neither_o do_v nor_o can_v mingle_v she_o own_o interest_n in_o they_o so_o that_o they_o may_v confident_o be_v adjudge_v to_o be_v supernatural_a &_o divine_a the_o essential_a profit_n of_o a_o soul_n consist_v in_o the_o light_n &_o love_n of_o the_o spirit_n such_o light_n &_o love_v therefore_o which_o be_v get_v with_o so_o much_o difficulty_n &_o in_o such_o struggle_a of_o nature_n be_v far_o more_o pure_a generous_a &_o withal_o more_o solide_o root_v in_o the_o soul_n then_o that_o which_o be_v get_v by_o the_o exercise_n of_o sensible_a affection_n because_o all_o the_o while_n there_o be_v a_o continual_a combat_n against_o self-love_n &_o all_o the_o most_o secret_a subtle_a &_o deep_o hide_a snare_n of_o it_o so_o that_o all_o virtue_n become_v thus_o root_v in_o the_o depth_n of_o the_o spirit_n &_o have_v be_v produce_v by_o the_o mean_n &_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o sharp_a tentation_n there_o be_v less_o fear_n that_o they_o will_v be_v extinguish_v by_o other_o follow_a trial_n 26._o now_o at_o the_o first_o to_o the_o end_n to_o attain_v unto_o this_o most_o necessary_a courageousnes_n of_o mind_n such_o soul_n may_v do_v well_o to_o help_v themselves_o during_o their_o aridity_n with_o the_o best_a motive_n &_o most_o efficacious_a affection_n that_o they_o can_v furnish_v themselves_o withal_o either_o out_o of_o their_o own_o invention_n or_o by_o collection_n out_o of_o book_n as_o likewise_o frequent_o to_o urge_v &_o even_o force_v themselves_o to_o the_o love_n of_o god_n by_o such_o eiaculatory_a prayer_n &_o desire_n as_o these_o o_o my_o god_n when_o shall_v i_o love_v thou_o as_o thou_o deserve_v when_o shall_v i_o love_v as_o i_o be_o love_v by_o thou_o o_o that_o i_o be_v free_v from_o myself_o that_o i_o may_v only_o love_v thou_o excita_fw-la potentiam_fw-la tuam_fw-la &_o veni_fw-la veni_fw-la domine_fw-la &_o noli_fw-la tardare_fw-la exurgat_fw-la deus_fw-la &_o dissipentur_fw-la inimici_fw-la eius_fw-la &c_n &c_n 27._o such_o affection_n as_o these_o let_v a_o devout_a soul_n exercise_n in_o her_o recollection_n likewise_o the_o best_a she_o can_v in_o case_n she_o can_v see_v how_o other_o way_n to_o do_v better_o although_o without_o any_o gust_n or_o sensible_a contentment_n and_o god_n will_v not_o fail_v to_o accept_v &_o plentiful_o reward_n her_o good_a will_n &_o thereby_o promote_v she_o in_o such_o manner_n as_o he_o best_o know_v she_o may_v be_v sure_a that_o since_o he_o have_v give_v she_o the_o generous_a courage_n to_o serve_v he_o without_o present_a wage_n he_o will_v at_o least_o in_o the_o next_o life_n multiply_v rewards_o upon_o she_o infinite_o above_o her_o expectation_n and_o she_o ought_v to_o account_v it_o a_o proof_n of_o his_o special_a love_n &_o esteem_v of_o she_o that_o he_o have_v select_v she_o to_o be_v a_o martyr_n of_o love_n &_o a_o soldier_n to_o who_o courage_n he_o commit_v the_o most_o difficult_a &_o hazardous_a employment_n 28._o in_o case_n that_o internal_a distress_n in_o prayer_n be_v so_o violent_a that_o the_o soul_n to_o her_o seem_n can_v only_o keep_v herself_o in_o a_o outward_a posture_n of_o prayer_n all_o that_o she_o think_v or_o do_v appear_v to_o she_o so_o utter_o void_a of_o all_o spirit_n of_o devotion_n love_n &_o reverence_n to_o god_n that_o she_o may_v rather_o suspect_v it_o to_o be_v injurious_a to_o he_o let_v she_o be_v patient_a &_o abstain_v from_o disquiet_v her_o mind_n with_o murmur_a complaint_n &_o by_o all_o mean_n let_v she_o be_v sure_a not_o to_o betake_v herself_o to_o consolation_n in_o creature_n or_o recreative_a diversion_n in_o time_n appoint_v for_o recollection_n &_o then_o all_o will_v be_v very_o well_o god_n will_v require_v no_o more_o of_o she_o than_o she_o be_v well_o able_a to_o do_v &_o he_o know_v that_o it_o be_v not_o in_o her_o power_n always_o to_o subdue_v nature_n yet_o she_o may_v &_o must_v always_o withdraw_v her_o consent_n from_o its_o sinful_a suggestion_n &_o do_v so_o there_o will_v be_v no_o danger_n therefore_o for_o what_o she_o can_v do_v let_v she_o be_v humble_v &_o resign_v and_o such_o humble_a resignation_n will_v prove_v a_o very_a efficacious_a prayer_n 29._o now_o it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v suppose_v that_o internal_a prayer_n exercise_v by_o imperfect_a soul_n during_o aridity_n through_o the_o advantage_n of_o a_o natural_a propension_n be_v a_o true_o pure_a &_o spiritual_a prayer_n because_o as_o yet_o their_o exercise_n be_v indeed_o in_o sense_n yet_o it_o be_v in_o the_o noble_a &_o supreme_a part_n of_o sensuality_n tend_v much_o towards_o the_o spirit_n whereby_o they_o in_o that_o case_n do_v enjoy_v a_o internal_a light_n more_o clear_a &_o pure_a then_o while_o they_o exercise_v with_o flow_a affection_n in_o so_o much_o as_o their_o operation_n be_v then_o abstract_v from_o grosser_n sensuality_n and_o the_o more_o strong_a that_o their_o propension_n to_o introversion_n be_v the_o more_o easy_o &_o quick_o do_v they_o raise_v themselves_o to_o that_o clear_a superior_a region_n of_o light_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o such_o a_o propension_n &_o aptitude_n to_o internal_a way_n draw_v the_o person_n endow_v with_o it_o more_o &_o more_o deep_o towards_o the_o spirit_n in_o the_o perfect_a operation_n whereof_o consist_v the_o consummation_n of_o a_o internal_a life_n chap._n vi_o §_o 1._o 2._o a_o second_o discouragement_n in_o prayer_n opposite_a to_o perseverance_n to_o wit_n distraction_n §_o 3._o distraction_n be_v a_o necessary_a effect_n of_o original_a sin_n etc._n etc._n §_o 4._o 5._o distraction_n about_o object_n to_o which_o we_o hear_v a_o inordinate_a affection_n be_v most_o harmful_a §_o 6._o a_o remedy_n against_o they_o §_o 7._o 8._o 9_o remedy_n against_o all_o inconvenience_n that_o may_v come_v from_o distraction_n §_o 10._o difference_n
of_o sensitive_a nature_n where_o it_o be_v join_v or_o combine_a wit●_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 af●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
peril_n do_v total_a resignation_n cut_v of_o and_o this_o not_o only_o for_o meum_fw-la &_o tuum_fw-la or_o worldly_a propriety_n in_o a_o secular_a state_n for_o the_o regulate_v whereof_o there_o be_v such_o endless_a volume_n of_o useless_a &_o perplex_a case_n disperse_v every_o where_o but_o also_o in_o external_a matter_n in_o a_o religious_a life_n either_o with_o regard_n to_o superior_n or_o among_o religious_a person_n themselves_o or_o towards_o externe_n yea_o &_o for_o matter_n of_o doubt_n mere_o internal_a be_v such_o as_o be_v in_o question_n between_o god_n &_o fearful_a or_o scrupulous_a soul_n all_o these_o i_o say_v be_v cut_v of_o by_o a_o total_a resignation_n the_o which_o do_v tend_v to_o simplicity_n peace_n &_o the_o possession_n of_o that_o one_o thing_n which_o our_o saviour_n say_v be_v only_a to_o be_v count_v necessary_a to_o wit_n the_o divine_a will_v which_o be_v god_n himself_o &_o so_o do_v reject_v all_o other_o thing_n that_o may_v hinder_v or_o delay_v the_o soul_n from_o attain_v to_o that_o one_o only_o necessary_a good_a 5._o hence_o it_o follow_v that_o that_o soul_n which_o be_v resign_v both_o for_o external_a &_o internal_a matter_n be_v not_o only_o free_v from_o peril_n that_o may_v come_v from_o tentation_n or_o contradiction_n but_o in_o a_o manner_n from_o all_o doubt_n question_n and_o debate_n whereas_o the_o unresigned_a soul_n be_v in_o a_o state_n wherein_o nothing_o can_v satisfy_v or_o secure_v her_o conscience_n 6._o a_o soul_n that_o be_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o prayer_n of_o resignation_n ought_v not_o to_o interrupt_v or_o omit_v the_o produce_v of_o act_n conformable_a thereto_o notwithstanding_o any_o fail_n or_o transgressing_n against_o good_a resolution_n former_o make_v if_o so_o be_v such_o fail_n proceed_v out_o of_o frailty_n or_o sudden_a passion_n be_v then_o ofttimes_o more_o in_o sensuality_n then_o in_o the_o superior_a will_n &_o so_o have_v less_o fault_n in_o they_o for_o notwithstanding_o such_o fail_n resignation_n hearty_o make_v will_v not_o prove_v in_o vain_a but_o in_o time_n will_v come_v to_o good_a issue_n 7._o in_o consideration_n of_o the_o eminent_a excellency_n of_o this_o duty_n of_o resignation_n i_o have_v adjoin_v several_a exercise_n of_o the_o act_n of_o that_o virtue_n exemplify_a in_o all_o kind_n of_o difficulty_n regard_v either_o external_a or_o internal_a object_n touch_v outward_a good_n friend_n ctc_n as_o likewise_o all_o accident_n that_o may_v befall_v the_o body_n as_o sickness_n pain_n want_v of_o convenience_n or_o necessary_n etc._n etc._n and_o last_o touch_v the_o soul_n as_o aridity_n tentation_n &c_n &c_n for_o the_o practise_n of_o which_o exercise_n beside_o the_o advice_n give_v in_o the_o last_o chapter_n which_o ought_v to_o be_v apply_v to_o this_o present_a purpose_n i_o think_v expedient_a to_o add_v certain_a more_o peculiar_a instruction_n here_o follow_a 8._o when_o the_o exercise_n of_o resignation_n in_o prayer_n come_v to_o be_v the_o ordinary_a daily_a exercise_n of_o a_o soul_n than_o she_o be_v establish_v in_o the_o vnitive_a way_n properly_z so_o call_v and_o wellminded_n quiet_a soul_n will_v soon_o be_v ready_a and_o ripe_a for_o the_o practice_n both_o external_a &_o internal_a of_o this_o heavenly_a virtue_n 9_o concern_v the_o matter_n or_o object_n of_o resignation_n the_o which_o be_v general_o matter_n of_o difficulty_n &_o contradiction_n to_o nature_n either_o they_o be_v 1._o such_o difficulty_n as_o be_v sure_a to_o happen_v 2._o or_o only_o probable_o of_o which_o probable_o there_o may_v be_v several_a degree_n 3._o or_o very_o unlikely_a but_o yet_o possible_a 4._o or_o last_o altogether_o impossible_a now_o in_o all_o these_o resignation_n may_v be_v proffitable_o exercise_v but_o the_o better_a the_o more_o likely_a that_o the_o thing_n be_v to_o happen_v and_o the_o best_a &_o most_o necessary_a resignation_n of_o all_o be_v in_o thing_n sure_a to_o be_v fall_v we_o &_o which_o belong_v to_o our_o state_n especial_o such_o against_o which_o our_o nature_n find_v the_o great_a difficulty_n 10._o now_o since_o these_o last_o do_v most_o frequent_o occur_v to_o our_o mind_n in_o our_o recollection_n therefore_o we_o must_v be_v the_o more_o industrious_a &_o courageous_a to_o overcome_v they_o by_o frame_v internal_a act_n of_o our_o judgement_n &_o will_n to_o entertain_v the_o say_a difficulty_n that_o so_o we_o may_v be_v prepare_v against_o the_o time_n that_o they_o do_v real_o befall_v us._n 11._o now_o have_v make_v efficacious_a &_o prevalent_a act_n of_o internal_a resignation_n if_o when_o the_o say_v difficulty_n do_v de_fw-fr facto_fw-la happen_v we_o do_v true_o &_o real_o accept_v &_o embrace_v they_o with_o our_o superior_a will_n whatsoever_o repugnance_n we_o find_v in_o our_o sensitive_a nature_n this_o will_n much_o more_o advance_v the_o soul_n in_o divine_a love_n &_o increase_v the_o good_a habit_n of_o resignation_n than_o many_o bare_a internal_a act_n will_v do_v by_o which_o the_o soul_n do_v only_o represent_v a_o difficulty_n in_o the_o imagination_n resolve_v with_o the_o will_n to_o accept_v it_o 12._o in_o perform_v these_o act_n internal_o a_o soul_n must_v be_v very_o careful_a to_o exercise_v they_o with_o most_o profound_a humility_n &_o a_o distrust_n of_o she_o own_o ability_n to_o resist_v any_o tentation_n or_o contradiction_n and_o with_o a_o entire_a trust_n and_o dependence_n on_o god_n grace_n with_o a_o firm_a faith_n in_o he_o that_o he_o will_v assist_v she_o at_o all_o time_n whensoever_o he_o shall_v bring_v such_o trial_n upon_o she_o 13._o for_o this_o reason_n i_o have_v frequent_o express_v the_o act_n of_o resignation_n either_o by_o way_n of_o oblation_n &_o delivery_n of_o the_o soul_n into_o god_n hand_n to_o be_v entire_o dispose_v of_o by_o he_o or_o of_o petition_n that_o in_o all_o such_o occurrence_n not_o our_o own_o will_n but_o god_n will_v shall_v be_v perform_v as_o for_o the_o act_n which_o be_v make_v by_o way_n of_o resolution_n or_o purpose_n though_o they_o seem_v to_o argue_v some_o confidence_n in_o our_o own_o strength_n yet_o the_o devout_a exerciser_n ought_v in_o his_o mind_n to_o exclude_v all_o such_o confidence_n 14._o the_o most_o perfect_a way_n of_o produce_v act_n of_o resignation_n as_o likewise_o all_o other_o act_n be_v by_o intend_v pure_o the_o love_n of_o god_n &_o seek_v his_o glory_n renounce_v all_o inferior_a unworthy_a interest_n of_o our_o own_o and_o therefore_o alphonsus_n in_o his_o method_n of_o serve_v god_n in_o his_o excellent_a chapter_n of_o prayer_n exhort_v all_o devout_a soul_n either_o express_o or_o virtual_o to_o exercise_v prayer_n with_o this_o intention_n but_o as_o for_o the_o exercise_n of_o aspiration_n a_o express_a &_o direct_a intention_n of_o god_n glory_n will_v scarce_o consist_v with_o it_o because_o that_o sublime_a exercise_n will_v not_o admit_v any_o reflect_a act_n to_o be_v mix_v though_o implicit_o &_o virtual_o they_o contain_v as_o much_o or_o more_o 15._o a_o soul_n need_v not_o always_o to_o oblige_v herself_o in_o her_o recollection_n in_o order_n to_o go_v through_o the_o follow_a pattern_n &_o form_n of_o resignation_n according_a to_o all_o the_o example_n give_v as_o she_o be_v advise_v to_o do_v in_o other_o immediate_a acts._n but_o she_o may_v alter_v interrupt_v omit_v or_o add_v other_o as_o she_o shall_v see_v cause_n or_o according_a to_o her_o present_a need_n or_o as_o they_o shall_v be_v interior_o suggest_v to_o she_o by_o god_n or_o her_o own_o thought_n 16._o in_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o exercise_v this_o degree_n of_o prayer_n i_o conceive_v it_o will_v be_v the_o best_a course_n for_o a_o soul_n to_o single_a out_o and_o make_v choice_n of_o such_o act_n of_o resignation_n as_o do_v regard_n such_o daily_a occur_v difficulty_n to_o which_o nature_n have_v less_o aversion_n to_o resign_v herself_o and_o from_o these_o to_o ascend_v afterward_o by_o degree_n to_o matter_n of_o more_o difficulty_n till_o at_o last_o by_o god_n grace_n she_o be_v enable_v to_o accept_v even_o those_o thing_n from_o which_o nature_n do_v most_o abhor_v for_o if_o she_o shall_v sudden_o adventure_v upon_o act_n above_o her_o present_a strength_n &_o force_n of_o mind_n she_o will_v be_v in_o danger_n to_o be_v deject_a find_v that_o she_o want_v internal_a courage_n to_o undertake_v or_o submit_v to_o such_o difficulty_n represent_v to_o her_o mind_n 17._o and_o indeed_o according_a to_o this_o method_n god_n himself_o in_o his_o most_o wise_a and_o bless_a providence_n deal_v with_o we_o proportion_v our_o trial_n and_o affliction_n to_o our_o present_a strength_n and_o to_o the_o measure_n of_o grace_n which_o he_o give_v we_o send_v to_o imperfect_a soul_n only_o ordinary_a tentation_n as_o s._n paul_n say_v 1._o cor._n 7._o and_o reserve_v the_o great_a
concern_v his_o sufficiency_n yea_o he_o may_v represent_v unto_o he_o his_o just_a ground_n of_o fear_n lest_o such_o a_o employment_n shall_v prove_v notable_o prejudicial_a to_o his_o soul_n protest_v likewise_o that_o he_o do_v not_o desire_v any_o kind_n of_o preeminence_n over_o other_o &c_n &c_n 2._o yet_o if_o the_o superior_a notwithstanding_o such_o humble_a &_o sincere_a remonstrance_n of_o the_o subject_n shall_v persist_v in_o a_o resolution_n to_o impose_v on_o he_o any_o such_o office_n whatsoever_o the_o superior_n motive_n be_v whether_o necessity_n reason_n or_o even_o passion_n the_o subject_n must_v submit_v himself_o &_o accept_v of_o it_o willing_o whatsoever_o reluctance_n there_o be_v in_o the_o imagination_n or_o nature_n against_o it_o but_o let_v he_o accept_v it_o with_o a_o pure_a intention_n for_o god_n in_o the_o spirit_n of_o obedience_n especial_o if_o the_o office_n be_v grateful_a to_o nature_n or_o to_o the_o sensual_a or_o ambitious_a desire_n of_o it_o 3._o notwithstanding_o consider_v his_o own_o frailty_n &_o the_o tentation_n likely_a to_o accompany_v such_o a_o employment_n he_o ought_v to_o undertake_v it_o with_o some_o fear_n &_o apprehension_n lest_o without_o extraordinary_a watchfullnes_n in_o prayer_n he_o may_v come_v to_o be_v corrupt_v or_o oppress_v by_o it_o 5._o in_o this_o regard_n therefore_o the_o subject_n ought_v oftentimes_o to_o renew_v &_o rectify_v his_o intention_n about_o it_o at_o least_o in_o his_o recollection_n twice_o a_o day_n for_o for_o want_n of_o care_n in_o this_o point_n it_o oft_o fall_v out_o that_o the_o office_n which_o at_o first_o be_v undertake_v out_o of_o obedience_n to_o god_n &_o superior_n come_v afterward_o to_o be_v execute_v for_o self-will_a &_o sensual_a complacence_n after_o that_o the_o spirit_n of_o devotion_n be_v abate_v or_o extinguish_v 6._o indeed_o so_o contrary_a &_o prejudicial_a to_o the_o spirit_n of_o contemplative_a prayer_n be_v the_o distraction_n &_o sollicitude_n which_o attend_v office_n that_o 1._o religious_a subject_n during_o the_o time_n of_o vacancy_n when_o they_o be_v more_o illuminate_v aught_o to_o forethink_v &_o imprint_v in_o their_o heart_n good_a purpose_n never_o to_o offer_v themselves_o to_o such_o danger_n &_o when_o they_o shall_v befall_v they_o to_o carry_v themselves_o in_o they_o vigilant_o &_o prudent_o according_a to_o their_o former_a light_n lest_o enter_v upon_o they_o unprovided_a they_o shall_v prove_v mischievous_a &_o destructive_a to_o all_o devotion_n 2._o and_o again_o superior_n if_o they_o will_v consider_v that_o their_o principal_a care_n ought_v to_o be_v for_o the_o good_a of_o soul_n will_v think_v it_o concern_v they_o to_o be_v very_o nice_a in_o expose_v to_o such_o peril_n their_o subject_n before_o that_o the_o spirit_n of_o devotion_n &_o charity_n be_v firm_o root_v in_o their_o heart_n for_o they_o also_o shall_v be_v accountable_a for_o the_o harm_n that_o their_o subject_n soul_n shall_v so_o incur_v 7._o some_o superior_n either_o being_n of_o active_a spirit_n &_o not_o know_v or_o not_o due_o esteem_v internal_a way_n or_o perhaps_o mistake_o believe_v their_o subject_n to_o be_v more_o affect_v to_o external_a employment_n then_o interior_a thereupon_o unwary_o heap_v on_o they_o business_n to_o the_o hindrance_n of_o their_o recollection_n in_o this_o case_n the_o subject_n ought_v to_o acquaint_v his_o superior_a with_o the_o inward_a disposition_n of_o his_o soul_n how_o much_o good_a he_o find_v by_o a_o constant_a exercise_n of_o prayer_n &_o what_o damage_n the_o want_n of_o it_o cause_v to_o his_o imperfect_a soul_n but_o this_o be_v do_v he_o must_v resolve_v to_o submit_v in_o case_n his_o superior_a still_o think_v fit_a to_o employ_v he_o 8._o in_o such_o circumstance_n let_v not_o the_o subject_n be_v trouble_v if_o he_o find_v it_o hard_o to_o abstain_v from_o show_v some_o outward_a mark_n of_o unwillingnes_n however_o in_o his_o superior_a will_v he_o be_v resign_v for_o indeed_o to_o show_v chearfullnes_n argue_v in_o a_o imperfect_a soul_n rather_o a_o contentedness_n to_o be_v dispense_v from_o prayer_n not_o sufficient_o esteem_v by_o he_o than_o a_o love_n to_o obedience_n yea_o such_o a_o seem_a unwillingnes_n will_v afford_v he_o a_o double_a mortification_n 1._o in_o that_o he_o contradict_v sensuality_n in_o the_o discharge_n of_o obedience_n 2._o in_o that_o he_o incur_v in_o the_o opinion_n of_o other_o a_o esteem_n of_o be_v immortify_v the_o which_o will_v be_v a_o mean_n to_o humble_v he_o 9_o when_o a_o internal_a liver_n be_v once_o actual_o &_o due_o engage_v in_o a_o office_n in_o the_o first_o place_n he_o ought_v serious_o to_o consider_v that_o come_n out_o of_o a_o state_n of_o abstraction_n &_o solitude_n into_o business_n he_o will_v thenceforward_o walk_v in_o less_o light_n then_o former_o &_o yet_o will_v be_v expose_v to_o far_o great_a peril_n by_o reason_n of_o many_o unavoidable_a occasion_n of_o distraction_n impatience_n satisfaction_n of_o sensuality_n &c_n &c_n of_o which_o he_o have_v little_a experience_n in_o time_n past_a therefore_o he_o must_v resolve_v to_o keep_v a_o more_o watchful_a guard_n over_o himself_o lest_o business_n bring_v he_o to_o a_o forgetfulness_n of_o his_o soul_n &_o of_o all_o former_a instruction_n &_o good_a purpose_n 10._o second_o to_o the_o end_n to_o secure_v himself_o from_o such_o peril_n he_o must_v in_o the_o actual_a execution_n of_o business_n be_v wary_a that_o he_o do_v not_o fix_v his_o mind_n more_o intent_o &_o affectionate_o on_o they_o then_o mere_a necessity_n shall_v require_v let_v he_o oft_o call_v to_o mind_v his_o former_a good_a resolution_n &_o review_v again_o &_o again_o these_o or_o the_o like_a instruction_n for_o without_o such_o prevention_n it_o can_v scarce_o be_v avoid_v but_o that_o he_o will_v decay_v in_o spirit_n &_o grow_v negligent_o tepid_v in_o his_o spiritual_a exercise_n since_o corrupt_a nature_n will_v be_v very_o forward_o to_o take_v any_o colourable_a pretence_n of_o quit_v internal_a recollection_n the_o only_a support_n of_o a_o spiritual_a life_n the_o which_o now_o will_v become_v more_o irksome_a by_o reason_n of_o great_a dissipation_n of_o thought_n &_o more_o frequent_a occasion_n of_o fall_v into_o immortification_n and_o therefore_o soul_n will_v be_v apt_a to_o think_v that_o the_o nature_n of_o their_o present_a employment_n be_v such_o as_o that_o they_o will_v not_o consist_v with_o the_o obligation_n of_o a_o internal_a life_n then_o they_o will_v catch_v hold_n of_o any_o advantage_n to_o dispense_v with_o they_o for_o that_o pupose_v make_v use_n of_o such_o popular_a say_n as_o this_o that_o every_o good_a work_n be_v a_o prayer_n etc._n etc._n 11._o three_o more_o particular_o in_o this_o state_n of_o active_a employment_n a_o soul_n must_v be_v careful_a as_o far_o as_o the_o office_n will_v permit_v not_o only_o to_o continue_v the_o practice_n of_o her_o former_a mortification_n &_o principal_o for_o the_o tongue_n &_o sense_n but_o also_o to_o make_v good_a use_n of_o those_o many_o new_a mortification_n which_o the_o discharge_n of_o her_o employment_n will_v afford_v her_o occasion_n to_o exercise_v and_o indeed_o since_o probable_o she_o can_v enjoy_v that_o repose_n of_o spirit_n requisite_a to_o serious_a &_o perfect_a recollection_n she_o ought_v the_o best_a she_o can_v to_o recompense_v that_o defect_n by_o increase_v the_o practice_n of_o mortification_n and_o patience_n by_o which_o mean_n she_o will_v advance_v herself_o in_o spirit_n 12._o fourth●y_o she_o must_v remember_v that_o the_o doctrine_n of_o abstraction_n most_o necessary_a in_o a_o internal_a life_n have_v place_n also_o even_o in_o distractive_a office_n at_o least_o thus_o far_o that_o the_o person_n be_v not_o to_o meddle_v in_o thing_n that_o belong_v not_o to_o his_o present_a employment_n and_o for_o such_o thing_n as_o do_v belong_v thereto_o he_o must_v be_v careful_a as_o to_o do_v they_o well_o &_o faithful_o so_o without_o bestow_v on_o they_o more_o solicitude_n than_o shall_v necessary_o be_v require_v perform_v they_o serious_o but_o yet_o with_o composednes_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o mind_n not_o suffer_v they_o to_o distract_v or_o encumber_v his_o memory_n before_o the_o time_n come_v for_o the_o execute_n of_o they_o and_o then_o abstain_v from_o passion_n &_o impetuousnes_n &_o from_o engage_v his_o affection_n to_o they_o a_o devout_a soul_n thus_o constant_o discharge_v her_o office_n will_v come_v to_o that_o liberty_n easiness_n and_o setlednes_n of_o spirit_n that_o necessary_a employment_n will_v breed_v in_o she_o no_o harmful_a distraction_n the_o cause_n of_o which_o be_v inordinate_a love_n to_o creature_n 13._o but_o five_o &_o last_o her_o principal_a care_n must_v be_v about_o her_o prayer_n although_o by_o occasion_n of_o business_n she_o can_v so_o habitual_o continue_v in_o a_o recollect_v state_n yet_o at_o
be_v to_o be_v admit_v for_o that_o purpose_n for_o as_o s._n bernard_n say_v as_o man_n be_v not_o make_v for_o the_o woman_n but_o the_o woman_n for_o man_n so_o spiritual_a exercise_n be_v not_o make_v for_o corporal_a but_o corporal_n for_o spiritual_a 34._o notwithstanding_o there_o be_v beyond_o this_o a_o perfection_n to_o be_v recommend_v to_o the_o imitation_n of_o such_o internal_a liver_n who_o grace_n &_o fervour_n have_v render_v they_o in_o a_o capacity_n of_o aspire_v to_o it_o the_o which_o the_o same_o s._n bernard_n have_v both_o by_o his_o instruction_n &_o admirable_a example_n deliver_v hypocrates_n say_v he_o do_v teach_v to_o save_v life_n in_o this_o world_n but_o christ_n &_o his_o apostle_n do_v teach_v to_o loose_v life_n he_o that_o will_v save_v his_o life_n shall_v loose_v it_o now_o which_o of_o these_o two_o master_n do●_n you_o choose_v to_o follow_v true_o that_o religious_a man_n plain_o show_n who_o he_o choose_v for_o his_o master_n who_o say_v this_o meat_n be_v ill_a for_o the_o eye_n that_o for_o the_o head_n the_o other_o for_o the_o stomach_n &c_n &c_n now_o such_o niceness_n as_o this_o the_o holy_a father_n so_o earnest_o protest_v against_o as_o almost_o to_o deny_v the_o use_n of_o physic_n to_o be_v lawful_a the_o only_a proper_a medicinal_a remedy_n for_o religious_a person_n be_v abstinence_n yea_o it_o be_v observe_v that_o he_o purposely_o make_v choice_n of_o unwholesome_a place_n to_o build_v his_o monastery_n in_o as_o be_v desirous_a that_o his_o religious_a shall_v rather_o be_v infirm_a then_o robustious_a 35._o however_o in_o the_o choice_n &_o use_n of_o diet_n or_o physic_n every_o one_o must_v follow_v that_o divine_a light_n of_o discretion_n which_o god_n give_v they_o always_o avoid_v superfluity_n &_o sometime_o content_v themselves_o with_o the_o want_n even_o of_o necessary_n they_o must_v account_v themselves_o oblige_v to_o continue_v the_o practice_n of_o the_o same_o internal_a duty_n though_o after_o another_o manner_n increase_v the_o mortification_n of_o the_o will_v which_o be_v a_o mortification_n far_o more_o pure_a &_o perfect_a though_o they_o be_v force_v to_o allow_v a_o little_a more_o to_o the_o body_n their_o mind_n be_v to_o be_v set_v upon_o the_o benefit_n which_o sickness_n bring_v with_o it_o &_o to_o use_v all_o endeavour_n to_o possess_v themselves_o of_o they_o consider_v 1._o that_o they_o have_v a_o continual_a occasion_n of_o exercise_v patience_n &_o resignation_n the_o great_a blessing_n that_o a_o soul_n be_v capable_a of_o 2._o that_o they_o have_v opportunity_n for_o more_o free_a pure_a &_o less_o distract_a recollection_n so_o that_o their_o prayer_n &_o mortification_n do_v inseparable_o attend_v one_o another_o 3._o in_o a_o word_n they_o be_v now_o in_o such_o a_o state_n by_o which_o the_o great_a saint_n have_v more_o sure_o &_o more_o speedy_o advance_v themselves_o to_o perfection_n then_o by_o many_o year_n voluntary_a external_a &_o corporal_a labour_n &_o austerity_n 36._o thaulerus_n have_v a_o say_n that_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o dear_a &_o most_o perfect_a servant_n of_o god_n be_v to_o have_v their_o soul_n full_a of_o the_o divine_a love_n &_o their_o body_n full_a of_o pain_n and_o that_o when_o they_o feel_v no_o pain_n nor_o other_o affliction_n they_o great_o apprehend_v lest_o god_n have_v forget_v they_o but_o their_o comfort_n return_v when_o god_n visit_v ihem_n with_o any_o corporal_a or_o worldly_a affliction_n then_o they_o even_o feel_v that_o it_o stand_v well_o with_o they_o for_o than_o they_o be_v in_o a_o state_n that_o of_o all_o other_o do_v best_a dispose_n for_o the_o divine_a union_n 37._o the_o suffering_n of_o our_o lord_n be_v never_o be_v perfect_o understand_v by_o read_v or_o meditate_v as_o when_o devout_a soul_n themselves_o taste_v of_o the_o like_a then_o they_o see_v and_o comfortable_o taste_v his_o love_n to_o they_o if_o their_o pain_n be_v supportable_a they_o do_v invite_v they_o to_o unite_v themselves_o to_o god_n by_o express_a act_n of_o resignation_n but_o if_o they_o be_v so_o excessive_a that_o they_o become_v incapable_a of_o make_v express_v formal_a prayer_n than_o the_o very_o suffer_v of_o those_o pain_n with_o patience_n &_o peace_n of_o mind_n be_v a_o most_o sublime_a and_o efficacious_a prayer_n then_o be_v the_o proper_a season_n for_o those_o gemitus_fw-la inenarrabiles_fw-la those_o groan_n which_o can_v be_v utter_v which_o as_o s._n paul_n say_v the_o holy_a spirit_n suggest_v to_o suffer_v humble_a &_o devout_a soul_n 38._o and_o here_o by_o the_o way_n i_o will_v recommend_v to_o those_o charitable_a person_n that_o do_v attend_v on_o the_o sick_a a_o care_n to_o behave_v themselves_o as_o become_v they_o in_o those_o mortification_n that_o attend_v such_o a_o office_n that_o they_o will_v bear_v with_o the_o passionate_a humour_n of_o their_o patient_n &_o not_o judge_v they_o for_o small_a excess_n that_o they_o will_v free_o &_o charitable_o administer_v what_o shall_v be_v requisite_a to_o their_o present_a state_n be_v assure_v that_o god_n will_v never_o be_v want_v to_o those_o that_o have_v leave_v all_o for_o he_o &_o now_o depend_v only_o upon_o he_o he_o will_v rather_o enrich_v they_o more_o for_o their_o charity_n then_o suffer_v they_o to_o be_v endamage_v by_o it_o it_o may_v be_v it_o be_v for_o the_o sick_a patient_n sake_n that_o the_o healthful_a enjoy_v a_o comfortable_a subsistence_n let_v they_o herein_o imitate_v the_o tenderness_n of_o our_o holy_a father_n to_o the_o sick_a &_o his_o care_n likewise_o to_o admonish_v their_o attendant_n of_o their_o duty_n in_o the_o 36._o chapter_n of_o his_o rule_n 39_o but_o above_o all_o thing_n a_o devout_a soul_n ought_v to_o judge_v that_o god_n have_v send_v she_o the_o most_o profitable_a trial_n of_o sickness_n not_o to_o the_o end_n to_o discharge_v she_o of_o her_o daily_a recollection_n but_o rather_o that_o she_o may_v pursue_v they_o after_o a_o more_o efficacious_a manner_n probably_n she_o will_v not_o be_v able_a to_o observe_v exact_o her_o former_a appoint_a time_n of_o prayer_n as_o also_o through_o disturbance_n of_o humour_n &_o spirit_n she_o will_v find_v great_a distraction_n yet_o if_o lift_v up_o her_o spirit_n as_o well_o as_o she_o can_v she_o offer_v both_o her_o pain_n &_o distraction_n to_o god_n &_o withal_o if_o in_o time_n out_o of_o prayer_n she_o be_v watchful_a over_o herself_o not_o to_o give_v way_n either_o to_o the_o inordinate_a appetite_n or_o impatience_n of_o nature_n but_o to_o be_v in_o a_o continual_a state_n of_o resignation_n she_o will_v have_v little_a reason_n to_o complain_v of_o the_o imperfection_n of_o her_o prayer_n 40._o a_o soul_n can_v have_v no_o excuse_n for_o neglect_v this_o most_o necessary_a duty_n of_o prayer_n the_o time_n of_o which_o may_v more_o secure_o be_v observe_v in_o sickness_n then_o in_o health_n for_o who_o will_v trouble_v or_o interrupt_v such_o a_o one_o against_o his_o will_n or_o who_o will_v not_o permit_v he_o to_o be_v alone_o or_o to_o rest_v whensoever_o he_o have_v no_o mind_n to_o continue_v conversation_n however_o if_o the_o devout_a soul_n shall_v stand_v in_o need_n she_o may_v &_o aught_o to_o use_v all_o lawful_a foresight_n industry_n excuse_n &_o sleight_n that_o may_v be_v to_o prevent_v the_o be_v hinder_v or_o interrupt_v 41._o now_o because_o physic_v inward_o take_v do_v much_o encumber_v the_o stomach_n &_o indispose_v for_o prayer_n therefore_o i_o will_v advise_v the_o sick_a person_n 1._o not_o to_o be_v forward_o to_o seek_v or_o accept_v of_o all_o receipt_n that_o friend_n &_o visitant_n be_v apt_a to_o prescribe_v 2._o when_o he_o be_v to_o take_v physic_n whether_o in_o the_o morning_n or_o evening_n so_o to_o order_v his_o time_n as_o not_o to_o take_v it_o till_o he_o have_v perform_v his_o appoint_a recollection_n 3._o not_o to_o receive_v physic_n no_o nor_o repast_n oft_o or_o more_o than_o shall_v be_v necessary_a not_o too_o much_o neglect_v the_o body_n but_o yet_o be_v careful_a rather_o to_o attend_v to_o the_o necessity_n of_o the_o spirit_n let_v our_o patient_n therefore_o stout_o resist_v the_o invitation_n &_o tenderness_n of_o friend_n that_o be_v apt_a to_o urge_v he_o to_o eat_v more_o or_o often_o than_o shall_v be_v needful_a and_o whatsoever_o he_o shall_v receive_v let_v he_o take_v it_o in_o the_o name_n of_o god_n &_o for_o his_o sake_n neither_o with_o avidity_n if_o it_o be_v please_v to_o nature_n nor_o with_o murmur_v if_o displease_v 42_o it_o will_v be_v exceed_o difficult_a during_o pain_n or_o any_o great_a infirmity_n to_o use_v discursive_a meditation_n the_o exercise_n of_o act_n of_o the_o will_v &_o much_o more_o of_o aspiration_n be_v a_o far_o more_o proper_a prayer_n in_o such_o a_o case_n therefore_o
only_o in_o a_o imperfect_a state_n burr_n also_o in_o a_o immediate_a disposition_n to_o a_o sinful_a defect_n by_o reason_n that_o where_o god_n do_v not_o whole_o possess_v the_o soul_n the_o very_a image_n of_o creature_n can_v but_z more_o or_o less_o defile_v she_o how_o comfortable_a therefore_o &_o how_o only_o secure_a be_v a_o life_n of_o prayer_n 18._o those_o that_o be_v unexperienced_a may_v and_o often_o do_v call_v this_o a_o state_n of_o idleness_n and_o unproffitable_a cessation_n as_o martha_n complain_v against_o her_o sister_n mary_n but_o those_o that_o have_v attain_v to_o a_o taste_n of_o it_o know_v it_o to_o be_v the_o business_n of_o all_o business_n as_o s._n bernard_n call_v it_o true_a it_o be_v they_o do_v not_o without_o a_o special_a and_o certain_a inspiration_n from_o god_n interest_n themselves_o in_o external_a business_n nor_o perhaps_o employ_v much_o of_o their_o time_n and_o devotion_n in_o express_a prayer_n for_o common_a necessity_n yet_o those_o unexpressible_a devotion_n which_o they_o exercise_v &_o in_o which_o they_o tacit_o involve_v the_o needs_o of_o the_o whole_a church_n be_v far_o more_o prevalent_a with_o god_n than_o the_o busy_a endeavour_n &_o prayer_n of_o ten_o thousand_o other_o a_o few_o such_o secret_a &_o unknown_a servant_n of_o god_n be_v the_o chariot_n &_o horseman_n the_o strength_n and_o bulwark_n of_o the_o kingdom_n &_o church_n where_o they_o live_v 19_o i_o know_v that_o some_o mystic_a author_n do_v constitute_v several_a distinct_a state_n follow_a active_a contemplation_n as_o barbanson_n make_v mention_n of_o the_o state_n of_o the_o divine_a presence_n in_o the_o soul_n &_o after_o that_o of_o the_o manifestation_n of_o god_n to_o the_o spirit_n &c_n &c_n and_o in_o all_o these_o great_a variety_n of_o ascent_n &_o descent_n &c_n &c_n likewise_o f._n ben._n canfield_n in_o his_o last_o &_o most_o perfect_a state_n of_o the_o essential_a &_o supereminent_a will_n of_o god_n make_v mention_n of_o several_a distinct_a exercise_n as_o denudation_n a_o active_a &_o passive_a annihilation_n &c_n &c_n these_o author_n perhaps_o speak_v according_a to_o the_o experience_n of_o the_o divine_a operation_n in_o their_o own_o soul_n &_o with_o regard_n to_o their_o particular_a manner_n of_o prayer_n therefore_o i_o conceive_v that_o what_o they_o deliver_v needs_o not_o to_o be_v esteem_v a_o common_a measure_n for_o all_o neither_o will_v i_o deny_v but_o that_o there_o may_v be_v distinct_a state_n some_o of_o which_o i_o will_v mention_v as_o the_o great_a desolation_n etc._n etc._n but_o it_o will_v be_v to_o no_o purpose_n subtle_o to_o search_v into_o they_o those_o happy_a soul_n who_o god_n shall_v so_o high_o favour_v as_o to_o bring_v they_o to_o the_o mount_n of_o vision_n and_o contemplation_n will_v have_v no_o need_n of_o light_n from_o any_o but_o god_n to_o conduct_v they_o in_o those_o hide_a divine_a path_n and_o the_o unexperienced_a will_v reap_v but_o little_a profit_n from_o such_o curious_a inquiry_n 20._o i_o will_v therefore_o content_v myself_o with_o deliver_v in_o a_o general_a manner_n 1._o the_o nature_n of_o the_o prayer_n proper_a to_o the_o state_n of_o active_a contemplation_n 2._o and_o from_o thence_o i_o will_v proceed_v to_o treat_v modest_o concern_v passive_a union_n &_o the_o several_a kind_n of_o it_o 3._o to_o which_o i_o will_v add_v a_o brief_a discourse_n of_o that_o great_a desolation_n which_o usual_o follow_v the_o say_a union_n 4._o and_o then_o i_o will_v conclude_v the_o whole_a book_n with_o a_o very_a short_a description_n of_o the_o state_n of_o perfection_n chap._n two_o §_o 1._o 2._o of_o the_o prayer_n proper_a to_o the_o state_n of_o centemplation_n to_o wit_n aspiration_n and_o w●y_o they_o be_v so_o call_v §_o 3._o example_n of_o aspiration_n §_o 4._o ●_o etc._n etc._n agreement_n &_o difference_n between_o aspiration_n and_o other_o internal_a acts._n §_o 11._o 12._o etc._n etc._n how_o a_o soul_n become_v ripe_a for_o aspiration_n &_o pass_v to_o they_o §_o 16._o 17._o aspiration_n may_v be_v exercise_v in_o external_a business_n and_o why_o §_o 18._o 19_o great_a variety_n of_o aspiration_n to_o wit_n with_o or_o without_o word_n etc._n etc._n §_o 23._o 24._o etc._n etc._n the_o great_a benefit_n and_o fruit_n of_o aspiration_n 1._o internal_a prayer_n proper_a to_o the_o state_n of_o active_a contemplation_n consist_v of_o certain_a most_o pure_o spiritual_a operation_n of_o the_o will_n longing_n &_o thirst_v after_o god_n &_o a_o union_n with_o he_o in_o the_o supreme_a point_n of_o the_o spirit_n where_o his_o most_o proper_a dwell_v be_v 2._o these_o perfect_a operation_n be_v by_o spiritual_a author_n several_o name_v as_o elevation_n inward_a stir_n of_o the_o spirit_n aspiration_n &c_n &c_n we_o will_v in_o the_o follow_a discourse_n make_v use_n for_o the_o most_o part_n of_o this_o last_o term_n of_o aspiration_n as_o most_o proper_a in_o a_o general_a notion_n to_o express_v the_o say_a operation_n for_o 1._o by_o they_o the_o soul_n in_o a_o holy_a ambition_n do_v aspire_v to_o raise_v &_o elevate_v herself_o out_o of_o inferior_a nature_n &_o to_o mount_v to_o the_o apicem_fw-la spiritus_fw-la which_o be_v god_n throne_n 2._o by_o they_o the_o soul_n be_v inflame_v with_o divine_a love_n do_v breath_n forth_o her_o ardent_a affection_n to_o god_n as_o the_o heart_n force_v the_o lung_n to_o send_v forth_o that_o air_n which_o they_o have_v former_o suck_v in_o that_o they_o may_v draw_v in_o fresh_a air_n to_o refrigerate_v it_o so_o that_o in_o both_o there_o be_v a_o quick_a reciprocal_a motion_n of_o empty_v &_o fill_v of_o rise_v &_o fall_v for_o after_o every_o aspiration_n there_o be_v a_o short_a descent_n &_o then_o a_o mount_a high_a than_o before_o 3._o because_o as_o our_o outward_a breathe_n be_v a_o action_n as_o it_o be_v pure_o natural_a perform_v without_o any_o labour_n at_o all_o or_o so_o much_o as_o election_n so_o a_o soul_n root_v in_o charity_n breathe_v forth_o these_o pure_a aspiration_n without_o any_o force_n use_v upon_o herself_o they_o flow_a from_o she_o free_o both_o as_o to_o the_o matter_n and_o manner_n of_o they_o &_o in_o a_o sort_n natural_o 4._o because_o as_o the_o motion_n make_v in_o breathe_v do_v not_o hinder_v but_o rather_o advance_v all_o other_o motion_n &_o operation_n so_o may_v aspiration_n be_v exercise_v during_o other_o ordinary_a employment_n without_o any_o prejudice_n to_o either_o or_o without_o any_o considerable_a distraction_n except_o they_o be_v such_o business_n that_o do_v require_v a_o special_a fix_a attention_n of_o the_o mind_n with_o serious_a study_n now_o in_o such_o employment_n if_o they_o be_v impose_v by_o necessity_n or_o obedience_n the_o soul_n ought_v to_o quit_v her_o aspiration_n and_o so_o do_v she_o will_v gain_v as_o much_o by_o her_o obedience_n as_o she_o will_v by_o prayer_n 3._o now_o these_o aspiration_n be_v certain_a short_a &_o lively_a affection_n of_o the_o soul_n by_o which_o she_o express_v a_o thirsty_a longing_n after_o god_n such_o as_o these_o be_v my_o god_n when_o shall_v i_o love_v thou_o alone_o when_o shall_v i_o be_v unite_v to_o thou_o who_o have_v i_o in_o heaven_n or_o earth_n but_o thou_o alone_o o_o that_o thou_o will_v live_v &_o reign_v alone_o in_o my_o soul_n o_o my_o god_n thou_o alone_o suffise_v i_o do_v not_o thou_o know_v o_o my_o god_n that_o i_o love_v thou_o only_o let_v i_o be_v nothing_o &_o be_v thou_o all_o o_o my_o god_n o_o love_n o_o love_n o_o infinite_a universal_a good_a when_o shall_v i_o come_v &_o appear_v before_o the_o face_n of_o thou_o o_o my_o god_n let_v i_o love_v thou_o only_o &_o that_o be_v sufficient_a when_o shall_v i_o die_v that_o my_o god_n alone_o may_v live_v in_o i_o etc._n etc._n 4._o now_o the_o same_o affection_n such_o as_o these_o that_o be_v use_v in_o the_o prayer_n of_o aspiration_n may_v also_o be_v use_v for_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v the_o expression_n and_o sense_n of_o they_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o immediate_a act_n and_o even_o in_o meditation_n itself_o but_o yet_o the_o manner_n by_o which_o the_o soul_n produce_v the_o say_v affection_n be_v in_o many_o respect_v different_a in_o perfect_a &_o imperfect_a soul_n and_o the_o say_a aspiration_n be_v of_o a_o quite_o different_a nature_n from_o other_o force_a immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will._n 5._o for_o first_o such_o feruorous_a affection_n tend_v direct_o &_o immediate_o to_o god_n be_v the_o entire_a matter_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o aspiration_n whereas_o in_o immediate_a act_n they_o be_v only_o now_o &_o then_o interlace_v but_o the_o ordinary_a matter_n of_o such_o act_n be_v the_o do_v or_o forbear_v any_o thing_n for_o god_n as_o in_o act_n of_o resignation_n etc._n etc._n 6._o
molestation_n and_o affliction_n yea_o in_o that_o case_n it_o may_v reasonable_o be_v judge_v that_o they_o be_v strong_o assist_v with_o god_n holq_n spirit_n since_o they_o overcome_v so_o great_a tentation_n of_o the_o evil_a spirit_n 21._o the_o twelve_o and_o last_o rule_n it_o can_v proceed_v from_o a_o good_a spirit_n when_o soul_n visit_v with_o revelation_n &c_n &c_n shall_v obstinate_o believe_v they_o to_o be_v of_o god_n after_o they_o have_v be_v condemn_v by_o experience_a superior_n and_o directour_n unless_o the_o person_n be_v able_a to_o yield_v most_o convince_a proof_n thereof_o and_o moreover_o shall_v serious_o profess_v that_o god_n together_o with_o the_o secret_n reveyl_v have_v imprint_v in_o their_o soul_n this_o assurance_n and_o belief_n also_o certain_a it_o be_v that_o obedience_n be_v a_o most_o secure_a remedy_n against_o all_o possible_a inconvenience_n and_o can_v do_v no_o harm_n in_o no_o case_n this_o be_v that_o that_o s._n teresa_n serious_o enjoine_v and_o most_o constant_o practise_v herself_o and_o this_o in_o very_o strange_a circumstance_n when_o the_o confessarius_fw-la condemn_v she_o be_v both_o unlearned_a &_o impertinent_a etc._n etc._n but_o withal_o spiritual_a directour_n ought_v not_o to_o be_v rash_a in_o their_o proceed_n nor_o to_o judge_v till_o after_o a_o long_a experience_n and_o knowledge_n of_o the_o inward_a disposition_n of_o the_o person_n and_o a_o due_a weigh_v of_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o revelation_n discover_v to_o they_o it_o be_v likewise_o requisite_a that_o those_o that_o take_v upon_o they_o to_o judge_v of_o these_o thing_n be_v themselves_o devout_a exercise_v in_o prayer_n and_o in_o good_a state_n towards_o god_n to_o the_o end_n they_o may_v from_o he_o receive_v light_a to_o direct_v other_o 22._o in_o the_o next_o place_n as_o touch_v the_o manner_n how_o a_o soul_n after_o the_o receive_n of_o such_o supernatural_a favour_n be_v to_o behave_v herself_o the_o principal_a care_n that_o she_o ought_v to_o have_v be_v that_o she_o do_v not_o bear_v a_o deliberate_a and_o fix_a love_n to_o such_o thing_n which_o be_v due_a to_o god_n only_o and_o consequent_o that_o she_o do_v not_o either_o express_o or_o implicit_o pray_v to_o god_n to_o have_v such_o vision_n revelation_n etc._n etc._n or_o in_o case_n that_o god_n without_o her_o prayer_n have_v send_v they_o that_o she_o do_v not_o usual_o without_o necessity_n talk_v of_o such_o matter_n or_o love_v to_o hear_v other_o talk_v of_o they_o for_o these_o be_v sign_n of_o a_o undue_a affection_n to_o they_o 23._o b._n john_n de_fw-fr cruse_n say_v that_o when_o god_n do_v after_o a_o extraordinary_a manner_n make_v know_v unto_o humble_a soul_n his_o will_n that_o they_o shall_v take_v in_o hand_n some_o great_a employment_n by_o mean_n whereof_o they_o may_v likely_o gain_v a_o great_a esteem_n of_o excellency_n and_o probable_o will_v be_v in_o danger_n to_o conceive_v some_o extraordinary_a worth_a to_o be_v in_o themselves_o for_o which_o they_o be_v so_o high_o favour_v by_o god_n which_o conceit_n the_o devil_n will_v not_o fail_v to_o cherish_v and_o increase_v he_o do_v ofentimes_o rather_o increase_v then_o diminish_v the_o fear_n and_o repugnance_n that_o they_o have_v former_o to_o such_o thing_n cause_v in_o they_o a_o desire_n and_o readiness_n much_o rather_o to_o the_o undergo_n of_o some_o vile_a or_o base_a office_n thus_o he_o deal_v with_o moses_n when_o he_o send_v he_o to_o pharaoh_n and_o thus_o with_o jeremy_n etc._n etc._n but_o it_o happen_v quite_o contrary_a when_o the_o bid_n be_v from_o the_o devil_n counterfeit_n privy_o a_o divine_a mission_n for_o he_o with_o his_o commission_n cause_v a_o forwardness_n in_o soul_n to_o take_v upon_o they_o employment_n of_o excellency_n or_o otherwise_o grateful_a to_o nature_n as_o also_o a_o great_a aversion_n from_o those_o that_o either_o suspect_v or_o will_v dissuade_v they_o from_o such_o undertake_n 24._o a_o soul_n therefore_o be_v by_o serious_a consideration_n to_o raise_v and_o increase_v in_o herself_o a_o apprehension_n and_o aversion_n from_o such_o matter_n say_v with_o s._n peter_n exi_n a_o i_o etc._n etc._n go_v from_o i_o o_o lord_n for_o i_o be_o a_o sinful_a man_n and_o by_o exercise_v so_o profitable_a a_o mortification_n she_o will_v secure_v herself_o from_o all_o peril_n and_o render_v herself_o very_o acceptable_a to_o god_n serious_a instruction_n to_o a_o disappropriation_n and_o mortify_v our_o love_n to_o such_o thing_n be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o scala_n perfectionis_fw-la angela_n de_fw-fr fulginio_n and_o particular_o in_o the_o book_n call_v interiour_n abnegation_n there_o be_v this_o passage_n to_o god_n it_o belong_v to_o give_v rare_a and_o excellent_a gift_n and_o to_o the_o soul_n it_o belong_v to_o refuse_v they_o it_o be_v suitable_a to_o the_o divine_a goodness_n to_o approach_v unto_o a_o soul_n and_o the_o soul_n duty_n be_v in_o humility_n to_o draw_v back_o as_o s._n peter_n do_v it_o belong_v to_o god_n to_o elevate_v the_o soul_n and_o her_o duty_n be_v to_o humble_a and_o abase_v herself_o for_o as_o our_o nature_n in_o every_o thing_n and_o upon_o every_o occasion_n desire_v a_o proper_a excellency_n and_o sublimity_n yea_o even_o in_o thing_n holy_a and_o appertain_v to_o god_n so_o our_o spirit_n illuminate_v by_o grace_n which_o be_v superior_a to_o our_o nature_n ought_v incessant_o in_o all_o thing_n and_o occasion_n to_o seek_v to_o be_v deprive_v of_o all_o excellency_n except_o in_o essential_a virtue_n and_o to_o embrace_v all_o poverty_n and_o lowne_n even_o in_o sacred_a thing_n that_o so_o she_o be_v not_o less_o careful_a and_o resolute_a to_o overcome_v herself_o than_o nature_n be_v to_o seek_v herself_o thus_o there_o must_v be_v a_o continual_a contestation_n between_o god_n and_o the_o humble_a soul_n etc._n etc._n and_o especial_o those_o soul_n that_o be_v most_o incline_v &_o forward_o to_o embrace_v these_o high_a and_o grateful_a thing_n must_v necessary_o make_v such_o resistance_n not_o yield_v till_o pure_a necessity_n force_v they_o and_o till_o god_n take_v from_o they_o all_o power_n to_o withdraw_v themselves_o and_o to_o refuse_v the_o excellence_n of_o that_o grace_n whereunto_o he_o at_o the_o same_o time_n so_o continual_o and_o powerful_o urge_v and_o draw_v they_o instruction_n to_o the_o same_o purpose_n we_o find_v in_o auilas_fw-la epistle_n 25._o this_o be_v the_o practice_n of_o the_o holy_a virgin_n coleta_n who_o when_o god_n offer_v to_o reveyle_v unto_o her_o diverse_a secret_n answer_v lord_n god_n it_o suffice_v i_o only_o to_o know_v thou_o and_o the_o sin_n in_o which_o i_o have_v offend_v thou_o and_o to_o obtain_v thy_o pardon_n for_o they_o but_o most_o notable_a in_o this_o regard_n be_v the_o example_n of_o suso_n when_o god_n command_v he_o to_o publish_v to_o all_o estate_n in_o the_o world_n the_o pope_n bishop_n abbot_n &c._n &c._n their_o vice_n and_o enormity_n represent_v to_o he_o in_o the_o vision_n of_o the_o nine_o rock_n he_o out_o of_o that_o habitual_a fear_n and_o humility_n that_o be_v in_o he_o do_v so_o resist_v the_o execute_v such_o a_o charge_n that_o till_o he_o be_v adiur_v and_o command_v in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o holy_a trinity_n and_o and_o so_o force_v to_o it_o even_o against_o his_o will_n he_o have_v never_o yield_v and_o then_o also_o he_o submit_v himself_o with_o much_o bewail_v his_o misery_n express_v his_o fear_n of_o the_o danger_n of_o pride_n and_o therefore_o humble_o beg_v that_o his_o name_n may_v be_v conceiled_a from_o the_o world_n and_o last_o protest_v his_o desire_n and_o love_n to_o be_v direct_v to_o nothing_o but_o only_a to_o god_n himself_o his_o resistance_n indeed_o be_v so_o obstinate_a that_o god_n tell_v he_o that_o if_o he_o have_v not_o know_v that_o it_o proceed_v from_o true_a but_o indiscreet_a humility_n he_o will_v present_o have_v cast_v he_o into_o hell_n for_o it_o 26._o those_o therefore_o that_o be_v favour_v with_o extraordinary_a grace_n if_o they_o do_v due_o consider_v their_o state_n and_o danger_n will_v find_v little_a ground_n to_o exalt_v themselves_o or_o to_o despise_v other_o that_o be_v in_o a_o more_o low_a but_o withal_o far_o more_o secure_a way_n 27._o now_o for_o the_o prevent_n and_o avoid_v the_o great_a danger_n of_o ill_o use_v such_o favour_n and_o divine_a grace_n to_o the_o feed_n of_o self_n love_n and_o pride_n spiritual_a author_n do_v serious_o enjoin_v such_o person_n so_o visit_v by_o god_n not_o to_o trust_v their_o own_o judgement_n or_o to_o determine_v whether_o they_o come_v from_o god_n or_o not_o and_o much_o less_o to_o put_v in_o practice_v any_o thing_n of_o consequence_n upon_o such_o revelation_n but_o to_o refer_v themselves_o to_o the_o judgement_n and_o advice_n of_o other_o 28._o and_o herein_o great_a
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
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
though_o in_o themselves_o venial_a yet_o do_v much_o obscure_v the_o divine_a light_n &_o weaken_v its_o efficacy_n yea_o even_o in_o those_o thing_n wherein_o such_o imperfect_a soul_n do_v for_o the_o substance_n of_o the_o action_n &_o its_o essentials_n follow_v the_o direction_n of_o god_n spirit_n yet_o by_o mix_v of_o sensual_a interest_n &_o end_n suggest_v by_o the_o false_a teacher_n they_o do_v diminish_v its_o lustre_n beauty_n &_o value_v and_o so_o subtle_a be_v the_o spirit_n of_o nature_n that_o it_o oft_o make_v its_o false_a suggestion_n pass_v for_o divine_a inspiration_n &_o seldom_o miss_v the_o insinuate_a its_o poison_n in_o some_o degree_n either_o into_o the_o beginning_n or_o continuation_n of_o our_o best_a action_n 5._o from_o these_o unquestionable_a ground_n thus_o true_o lay_v it_o follow_v evident_o that_o in_o all_o good_a action_n &_o especial_o in_o the_o internal_a way_n of_o the_o spirit_n which_o conduct_v to_o contemplation_n &_o perfection_n god_n alone_o be_v our_o only_a master_n &_o director_n &_o creature_n when_v he_o be_v please_v to_o use_v they_o be_v only_o his_o instrument_n so_o that_o all_o other_o teacher_n whatsoever_o whether_o the_o light_n of_o reason_n or_o external_a directour_n or_o rule_v prescribe_v in_o book_n &c_n &c_n be_v no_o further_o nor_o otherwise_o to_o be_v follow_v or_o hearken_v to_o then_o as_o they_o be_v subordinate_a &_o conformable_a to_o the_o internal_a direction_n &_o inspiration_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n or_o as_o god_n invite_v instruct_v &_o move_v we_o to_o have_v recourse_n unto_o they_o by_o they_o to_o be_v inform_v in_o his_o will_n &_o by_o he_o enable_v to_o perform_v it_o and_o that_o if_o they_o be_v make_v use_n of_o any_o other_o way_n they_o will_v certain_o mislead_v us._n 5._o this_o be_v by_o all_o mystical_a writer_n acknowledge_v so_o fundamental_a a_o truth_n that_o without_o acknowledge_v it_o &_o work_v according_a to_o it_o it_o be_v in_o vain_a to_o enter_v into_o the_o exercise_n of_o a_o internal_a contemplative_a life_n so_o that_o to_o say_v as_o too_o common_o it_o be_v say_v by_o author_n who_o pretend_v to_o be_v spiritual_a but_o have_v no_o taste_n of_o these_o mystic_a matter_n take_v all_o your_o instruction_n from_o without_o from_o externall_n teacher_n or_o book_n be_v all_o one_o as_o to_o say_v have_v nothing_o at_o all_o to_o do_v with_o the_o way_n of_o contemplation_n which_o can_v be_v teach_v by_o no_o other_o but_o god_n or_o by_o those_o who_o god_n special_o instruct_v &_o appoint_v determinate_o for_o the_o disciple_n present_a exigence_n so_o that_o it_o be_v god_n only_o that_o internal_o teach_v both_o the_o teacher_n &_o disciple_n &_o his_o inspiration_n be_v the_o only_a lesson_n for_o both_o all_o our_o light_n therefore_o be_v from_o divine_a illumination_n &_o all_o our_o strength_n as_o to_o these_o thing_n be_v from_o the_o divine_a operation_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n on_o our_o will_n &_o affection_n 7._o now_o to_o the_o end_n that_o this_o so_o important_a a_o verity_n may_v more_o distinct_o be_v declare_v &_o more_o firm_o imprint_v in_o the_o mind_n of_o all_o those_o that_o desire_v to_o be_v god_n scholar_n in_o the_o internal_a way_n of_o his_o divine_a love_n they_o be_v to_o take_v notice_n that_o the_o inspiration_n which_o be_v here_o acknowledge_v to_o be_v the_o only_a safe_a rule_n of_o all_o our_o action_n though_o of_o the_o same_o nature_n yet_o do_v extend_v further_o &_o to_o more_o &_o other_o particular_a object_n than_o the_o divine_a light_n or_o grace_n by_o which_o good_a christian_n live_v common_a life_n in_o the_o world_n be_v lead_v extend_v to_o yea_o then_o it_o do_v even_o in_o those_o that_o seek_v perfection_n by_o the_o exercise_n of_o a_o active_a life_n 8._o the_o light_n &_o virtue_n of_o common_a grace_n afford_v general_o to_o all_o good_a christian_n that_o serious_o endeavour_v to_o save_v their_o soul_n such_o internal_a illumination_n &_o motion_n as_o be_v sufficient_a to_o direct_v they_o for_o the_o resist_n of_o any_o sinful_a tentation_n or_o to_o perform_v any_o necessary_a act_n of_o virtue_n in_o circumstance_n wherein_o they_o be_v oblige_v though_o this_o direction_n be_v oft_o obey_v with_o many_o circumstantial_a defect_n and_o their_o action_n be_v so_o far_o &_o no_o further_o meritorious_a &_o please_a to_o god_n then_o as_o they_o proceed_v from_o such_o internal_a grace_n or_o inspiration_n but_o as_o for_o other_o action_n which_o in_o their_o own_o nature_n be_v not_o absolute_o of_o necessary_a obligation_n the_o which_o notwithstanding_o may_v be_v make_v instrumental_a to_o the_o advance_v &_o perfect_v of_o holiness_n in_o their_o soul_n such_o as_o be_v the_o ordinary_a &_o usual_o esteem_v indifferent_a action_n of_o their_o life_n to_o a_o due_a improovement_n of_o such_o action_n they_o have_v neither_o the_o light_n nor_o the_o strength_n or_o very_o seldom_o by_o reason_n that_o they_o live_v distract_v life_n not_o use_v such_o solitude_n &_o recollection_n as_o be_v necessary_a for_o the_o dispose_n of_o soul_n to_o the_o receive_v such_o a_o extraordinary_a light_n &_o virtue_n and_o as_o for_o those_o that_o tend_v to_o perfection_n by_o active_a exercise_n even_o the_o more_o perfect_a although_o they_o attain_v thereby_o a_o far_o great_a measure_n of_o light_n &_o grace_n by_o which_o they_o perform_v their_o necessary_a duty_n of_o holiness_n more_o perfect_o &_o with_o a_o more_o pure_a intention_n &_o likeewise_o make_v far_o great_a benefit_n for_o their_o advancement_n by_o action_n &_o occurrence_n more_o indifferent_a yet_o they_o also_o for_o want_n of_o habitual_a introversion_n &_o recollectednes_n of_o mind_n do_v pass_v over_o without_o benefit_n the_o great_a part_n of_o their_o ordinary_a action_n 9_o but_o as_o for_o contemplative_a liver_n those_o i_o mean_v that_o have_v make_v a_o sufficient_a progress_n towards_o perfection_n beside_o the_o common_a grace_n light_n or_o inspiration_n necessary_a for_o a_o due_a performance_n of_o essential_a duty_n the_o which_o they_o enjoy_v in_o a_o far_o more_o sublime_a manner_n &_o degree_n so_o as_o to_o purify_v their_o action_n from_o a_o world_n of_o secret_a impurity_n &_o subtle_a mixture_n of_o the_o interest_n &_o end_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n invisible_a to_o all_o other_o soul_n beside_o this_o light_n i_o say_v which_o be_v presuppose_v &_o prerequire_v they_o walk_v in_o a_o continual_a supernatural_a light_n &_o be_v guide_v by_o assiduous_a inspiration_n in_o regard_n of_o their_o most_o ordinary_a &_o in_o themselves_o indifferent_a action_n &_o occurrence_n in_o all_o which_o they_o clear_o see_v how_o they_o be_v to_o be_v have_v themselves_o so_o as_o to_o do_v will_n of_o god_n &_o by_o they_o also_o to_o improove_v themselves_o in_o the_o divine_a love_n the_o which_o extraordinary_a light_n be_v communicate_v unto_o they_o only_o by_o virtue_n of_o their_o almost_o continual_a recollectednes_n introversion_n &_o attention_n to_o god_n in_o their_o spirit_n 11._o more_o particular_o by_o this_o internal_a divine_a light_n a_o internal_a liver_n be_v or_o may_v be_v direct_v 1._o in_o the_o manner_n &_o circumstance_n when_o where_o &_o how_o any_o virtue_n may_v most_o proffitable_o &_o perfect_o be_v exercise_v for_o as_o for_o the_o substantial_a act_n of_o such_o a_o virtue_n &_o the_o necessary_a oblige_a circumstance_n in_o which_o it_o can_v with_o out_o mortal_a sin_n be_v omit_v the_o light_n of_o common_a sanctify_a grace_n will_v suffice_v to_o direct_v 2._o in_o the_o manner_n frequency_n length_n change_n &_o other_o circumstance_n of_o internal_a prayer_n 3._o in_o action_n or_o omission_n which_o absolute_o consider_v may_v seem_v in_o themselves_o indifferent_a &_o at_o the_o present_a there_o may_v be_v as_o to_o ordinary_a light_n a_o uncertainty_n whether_o the_o do_v or_o omission_n be_v the_o more_o perfect_a this_o be_v discover_v to_o the_o soul_n by_o these_o supernatural_a inspiration_n &_o light_n such_o action_n or_o omission_n be_v for_o example_n read_v study_v of_o such_o or_o such_o matter_n walk_v converse_v stay_v in_o or_o quit_v solitude_n in_o one_o cell_n take_v a_o journey_n undertake_v or_o refuse_v a_o employment_n accept_v or_o refuse_v inuitation_n &c_n &c_n in_o all_o which_o thing_n well-minded_a soul_n by_o solitude_n &_o introversion_n dispose_v themselves_o will_v not_o fail_v to_o have_v a_o supernatural_a light_n &_o impulse_n communicate_v to_o they_o which_o will_v enable_v they_o to_o make_v choice_n of_o that_o side_n of_o the_o doubt_n which_o if_o they_o correspond_v thereto_o will_v most_o advance_v they_o in_o spirit_n &_o suit_n with_o the_o divine_a will_n whereas_o without_o such_o light_n general_o soul_n be_v direct_v by_o a_o obscure_a light_n &_o impulse_n of_o nature_n &_o carnal_a end_n or_o interest_n without_o
the_o least_o benefit_n of_o their_o spirit_n yea_o to_o their_o great_a distraction_n &_o dissipation_n 12._o general_o &_o ordinary_o speak_v when_o there_o be_v propose_v the_o do_v or_o not_o do_v of_o any_o external_a work_n &_o that_o both_o of_o they_o be_v in_o themselves_o lawful_a the_o divine_a inspiration_n in_o contemplative_a soul_n move_v to_o the_o not-doing_a because_o the_o abstain_v from_o much_o external_a work_v &_o the_o increase_n in_o internal_a solitude_n of_o spirit_n be_v more_o suitable_a to_o their_o present_a state_n &_o to_o that_o abstraction_n of_o life_n which_o they_o profess_v except_o when_o the_o do_v may_v prove_v a_o more_o beneficial_a mortification_n to_o self-love_n or_o other_o inordinate_a affection_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n 13._o the_o special_a point_n &_o matter_n of_o omission_n which_o among_o other_o be_v usual_o the_o object_n of_o such_o divine_a call_n &_o inspiration_n may_v be_v such_o as_o these_o viz._n 1._o to_o eschew_v unnecessary_a though_o permit_v conversation_n &_o correspondence_n with_o other_o either_o by_o speak_v or_o writing_n 2._o to_o be_v very_o wary_a &_o spare_v in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o tongue_n 3._o not_o sollicitous_o to_o avoid_v occasion_n of_o mortification_n or_o affliction_n 4._o to_o avoid_v the_o encombr_n ourselves_o with_o business_n not_o pertain_v to_o us._n 5._o to_o fly_v honour_n office_n care_v over_o other_o &_o the_o like_a 6._o not_o to_o crave_v this_o or_o that_o unnecessary_a thing_n or_o commodity_n but_o to_o be_v content_a with_o out_o they_o 7._o not_o to_o question_v or_o expostulate_v why_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v say_v or_o do_v but_o to_o hold_v patience_n &_o to_o let_v thing_n be_v as_o they_o be_v 8._o not_o to_o complain_v of_o or_o accuse_v any_o 9_o in_o case_n of_o supportable_a &_o not_o harmful_a oppression_n to_o abstain_v from_o appeal_n to_o high_a superior_n 10._o to_o avoid_v the_o voluntary_a cause_v or_o procure_v a_o change_n in_o our_o present_a condition_n employment_n place_n etc._n etc._n 11._o to_o quiet_a &_o compose_v all_o manner_n of_o passion_n rise_v in_o the_o heart_n &_o all_o trouble_n in_o mind_n &_o to_o preserve_v the_o soul_n in_o peace_n tranquillity_n &_o cheerfullnes_n in_o god_n service_n 1●_n to_o avoid_v such_o thing_n or_o do_n as_o will_n distract_v our_o mind_n with_o dissipate_v image_n 13._o to_o forbear_v &_o break_v of_o all_o particular_a partial_a freindships_n &_o compliance_n 14._o to_o preserve_v convenient_a liberty_n of_o spirit_n &_o to_o abstain_v from_o enconbr_v or_o ensnare_a ourselves_o by_o any_o voluntary_o assume_v task_n obligation_n &c_n &c_n though_o in_o matter_n in_o themselves_o good_a but_o which_o may_v become_v obligatory_a prove_v hindrance_n to_o better_a thing_n 15._o in_o a_o word_n the_o divine_a inspiration_n of_o which_o we_o here_o treat_v do_v ever_o tend_v to_o a_o simplicity_n in_o thought_n word_n &_o deed_n &_o to_o all_o thing_n which_o may_v advance_v the_o more_o perfect_a exercise_n of_o obedience_n humility_n resignation_n purity_n of_o prayer_n purity_n of_o intention_n &c_n &c_n so_o that_o whatsoever_o be_v contrary_a to_o any_o of_o these_o be_v to_o be_v reject_v as_o a_o diabolical_a suggestion_n 14._o as_o for_o extraordinary_a supernatural_a inspiration_n illumination_n apparition_n voice_n conversation_n with_o spirit_n message_n from_o heaven_n &c_n &c_n a_o spiritual_a internal_a liver_n be_v forbid_v to_o pretend_v to_o or_o so_o much_o as_o desire_v they_o yea_o rather_o to_o pray_v against_o they_o lest_o he_o shall_v abuse_v they_o to_o vanity_n &_o pride_n and_o however_o never_o to_o admit_v or_o esteem_v they_o for_o such_o &_o much_o less_o to_o put_v in_o execution_n any_o thing_n that_o seem_v to_o be_v such_o a_o way_n command_v till_o they_o have_v be_v first_o examine_v judge_v &_o approve_v by_o superior_n &c_n &c_n but_o of_o this_o particular_a we_o shall_v speak_v more_o hereafter_o 15._o the_o divine_a inspiration_n light_n impulse_n or_o call_v of_o which_o we_o here_o speak_v be_v 1._o either_o such_o as_o be_v immediate_o communicate_v to_o the_o soul_n alone_o 2._o or_o also_o mediate_o with_o the_o concurrence_n of_o some_o other_o person_n or_o thing_n to_o wit_n by_o the_o mean_a of_o a_o externall_n directour_n or_o else_o by_o the_o use_n &_o read_v or_o hear_v read_v spiritual_a or_o other_o pious_a book_n we_o will_v in_o the_o first_o place_n treat_v of_o this_o latter_a way_n of_o understand_v the_o divine_a will_n because_o it_o be_v both_o more_o easy_a to_o be_v discern_v &_o also_o it_o be_v the_o way_n by_o which_o common_o imperfect_a soul_n be_v first_o instruct_v cap._n ii_o §_o 1._o 2._o why_o a_o externall_n guide_n be_v necessary_a in_o the_o beginning_n §_o 3._o 4._o 5._o 6._o the_o condition_n of_o such_o a_o guide_n of_o which_o the_o principal_a be_v experience_n in_o the_o same_o way_n beyond_o learning_n etc._n etc._n §_o 7._o 8._o active_a spirit_n can_v be_v fit_a guide_n for_o contemplative_a §_o 9_o 10._o actual_a illumination_n oft_o necessary_a to_o external_a directour_n §_o 11._o 12._o 13._o the_o office_n of_o a_o director_n may_v not_o be_v voluntary_o assume_v or_o seek_v §_o 14._o 15._o lay-person_n may_v be_v spiritual_a guide_n to_o religious_a yea_o woman_n §_o 16._o that_o be_v no_o prejudice_n to_o the_o spirit_n of_o a_o order_n §_o 17._o condition_n necessary_a in_o directour_n §_o 18._o 19_o directour_n must_v teach_v their_o disciple_n to_o seek_v light_n from_o god_n §_o 20._o sincerity_n &_o obedience_n necessary_a in_o the_o disciple_n §_o 21._o the_o gift_n of_o discern_a spirit_n necessary_a in_o a_o director_n §_o 22._o his_o instruction_n must_v be_v general_a §_o 23._o 24._o frequent_a consultation_n harmful_a §_o 25._o two_o general_a remedy_n against_o difficulty_n viz._n 1._o riddance_n 2._o patience_n §_o 26._o 27._o the_o director_n must_v not_o with_o unnecessary_a question_n raise_v doubt_n §_o 28._o great_a danger_n from_o unnecessary_a conversation_n of_o directour_n with_o woman_n §_o 29._o more_o particular_a advice_n refer_v to_o other_o follow_a place_n 1._o a_o soul_n that_o come_v out_o of_o the_o world_n to_o a_o religious_a contemplative_a life_n or_o that_o live_v yet_o in_o the_o world_n be_v abstract_v from_o the_o world_n &_o aspire_v to_o a_o state_n of_o perfection_n at_o the_o first_o ordinary_o will_v stand_v in_o need_n of_o a_o externall_n instructor_n &_o guide_n for_o most_o matter_n that_o concern_v she_o in_o that_o way_n the_o reason_n be_v because_o that_o such_o soul_n although_o be_v suppose_v to_o be_v in_o the_o state_n grace_n they_o have_v sufficient_a internal_a light_n to_o direct_v they_o in_o the_o ordinary_a duty_n of_o a_o christian_a life_n for_o the_o avoid_n of_o sin_n &_o perform_v the_o necessary_a act_n of_o virtue_n requisite_a yet_o as_o to_o the_o proper_a practice_n of_o internal_a way_n &_o to_o the_o order_n of_o common_a action_n to_o the_o advance_v of_o themselves_o towards_o contemplation_n they_o be_v indeed_o penitùs_fw-la animal_fw-la govern_v by_o sense_n &_o the_o obscure_a deceitful_a light_n of_o natural_a reason_n scarce_o know_v what_o a_o internal_a inspiration_n with_o regard_n to_o such_o matter_n be_v &_o however_o very_o much_o disable_v be_v they_o to_o discern_v or_o correspond_v to_o such_o a_o inspiration_n and_o for_o this_o reason_n their_o natural_a light_n &_o general_a knowledge_n that_o they_o have_v of_o their_o own_o insufficiency_n to_o be_v their_o own_o directour_n in_o a_o new_a unknown_a state_n will_v tell_v they_o that_o they_o must_v have_v recourse_n to_o other_o guide_v skill_v in_o those_o thing_n of_o which_o themselves_o have_v no_o experience_n yet_o even_o this_o seek_n &_o submit_v themselves_o unto_o externall_n directour_n be_v not_o to_o be_v esteem_v mere_o a_o act_n of_o nature_n or_o guide_v only_o by_o a_o natural_a light_n but_o of_o such_o inspiration_n &_o supernatural_a light_n which_o attend_v the_o action_n of_o all_o good_a christian_n by_o which_o they_o be_v teach_v &_o move_v to_o distrust_v themselves_o &_o not_o know_v as_o yet_o how_o to_o dispose_v themselves_o for_o the_o receive_n supernatural_a light_n from_o god_n much_o less_o to_o merit_v they_o grace_n direct_v they_o to_o use_v the_o mediation_n of_o other_o &_o to_o hear_v &_o ob●y_v god_n speak_v &_o ordain_v by_o they_o 2._o but_o the_o necessity_n of_o a_o externall_n instructor_n be_v general_o only_a at_o the_o begin_n of_o a_o contemplative_a course_n for_o after_o that_o soul_n by_o the_o mean_n of_o general_a direction_n give_v &_o a_o competent_a pursuit_n of_o internal_a exercise_n have_v be_v once_o put_v &_o convenient_o settle_v in_o a_o rightway_o how_o to_o seek_v for_o more_o light_n from_o god_n alone_o they_o must_v not_o afterward_o out_o of_o levity_n curiosity_n or_o
on_o the_o other_o side_n voluntary_a mortification_n be_v such_o as_o on_o our_o own_o head_n &_o without_o the_o advice_n &_o judgement_n of_o those_o that_o be_v acquaint_v with_o our_o interiour_n we_o voluntary_o assume_v or_o impose_v on_o ourselves_o either_o because_o we_o have_v see_v or_o read_v of_o other_o that_o have_v do_v the_o like_a &_o thereupon_o without_o further_a due_a consideration_n of_o our_o own_o state_n or_o ability_n we_o will_v hope_v they_o will_v advance_v we_o as_o much_o in_o the_o way_n of_o perfection_n such_o be_v voluntary_a corporal_a fast_n beyond_o what_o the_o church_n or_o regular_n observance_n do_v require_v wear_v of_o haircloth_n chain_n &c_n &c_n obstinate_a silence_n during_o the_o time_n that_o the_o order_n of_o the_o community_n do_v appoint_v conversation_n etc._n etc._n to_o these_o may_v be_v abd_v a_o assume_v the_o task_n of_o say_v so_o many_o vocal_a prayer_n rosary_n etc._n etc._n 4._o this_o distinction_n be_v premise_v the_o devout_a reader_n be_v to_o take_v notice_n that_o whatsoever_o hitherto_o have_v or_o shall_v be_v speak_v of_o the_o use_n end_n &_o benefit_n of_o mortification_n be_v to_o be_v understand_v &_o apply_v only_o to_o mortification_n of_o necessity_n and_o not_o to_o such_o as_o be_v voluntary_a and_o moreover_o that_o all_o these_o instruction_n &_o direction_n be_v intend_v only_o for_o such_o soul_n whether_o religious_a or_o other_o as_o be_v enter_v or_o desirous_a to_o enter_v into_o a_o internal_a course_n tend_v to_o contemplation_n 5._o as_o touch_v therefore_o the_o former_a sort_n of_o necessary_a mortification_n according_a to_o the_o whole_a latitude_n before_o express_v a_o devout_a soul_n be_v to_o be_v exhort_v as_o be_v her_o duty_n &_o obligation_n with_o all_o courage_n &_o fervour_n to_o accept_v &_o cheerful_o undergo_v they_o consider_v that_o beside_o the_o foremencion_v inestimable_a benefit_n attend_v they_o they_o be_v of_o great_a security_n free_a from_o all_o peril_n of_o error_n indiscretion_n or_o pride_n 6._o but_o as_o for_o voluntary_a mortification_n those_o i_o mean_v which_o be_v proper_o such_o we_o have_v nothing_o to_o do_v with_o they_o yea_o moreover_o i_o shall_v never_o persuade_v a_o spiritual_a disciple_n to_o assume_v any_o considerable_a mortification_n beside_o such_o as_o attend_v his_o present_a state_n of_o life_n till_o he_o can_v assure_v himself_o that_o he_o have_v a_o good_a call_v to_o they_o that_o be_v till_o after_o that_o have_v spend_v a_o considerable_a time_n in_o internal_a prayer_n he_o have_v receive_v light_a to_o judge_v of_o their_o fitness_n for_o he_o &_o grace_n or_o spiritual_a strength_n to_o undertake_v &_o pursue_v they_o cheerful_o &_o withal_o have_v the_o approbation_n of_o his_o superior_a or_o spiritual_a director_n yea_o though_o he_o have_v a_o body_n as_o strong_a as_o samson_n &_o withal_o a_o very_a good_a inclination_n to_o internal_a way_n i_o shall_v hardly_o be_v the_o first_o proposer_n mover_n &_o inciter_n of_o he_o to_o such_o extraordinary_a mortification_n unless_o some_o special_a occasion_n require_v they_o for_o a_o remedy_n against_o any_o special_a tentation_n then_o assalt_v he_o in_o which_o case_n they_o be_v not_o indeed_o to_o be_v esteem_v extraordinary_a and_o voluntary_a although_o supernumerary_a but_o consider_v the_o present_a state_n ordinary_a &_o necessary_a yea_o &_o if_o such_o a_o one_o shall_v ask_v my_o counsel_n about_o the_o use_n of_o such_o mortification_n &_o upon_o examination_n i_o shall_v find_v it_o to_o be_v doubtful_a whether_o it_o be_v upon_o a_o divine_a inspiration_n that_o he_o be_v move_v to_o desire_v they_o i_o shall_v take_v the_o sure_a course_n that_o be_v to_o dissuade_v he_o from_o the_o undertake_n of_o they_o 7._o it_o be_v true_a we_o find_v in_o read_v the_o life_n of_o saint_n that_o most_o of_o they_o have_v practise_v they_o &_o many_o even_o from_o their_o infancy_n but_o this_o show_v that_o spirit_n fit_a for_o extraordinary_a mortification_n be_v rare_o to_o be_v find_v be_v only_o such_o as_o god_n himself_o lead_v after_o a_o extraordinary_a manner_n to_o make_v they_o example_n of_o the_o power_n of_o his_o grace_n to_o the_o edification_n of_o many_o use_v they_o for_o his_o instrument_n in_o great_a work_n as_o for_o we_o we_o be_v not_o to_o suppose_v that_o god_n esteem_v we_o fit_a or_o intend_v we_o for_o such_o extraordinary_a matter_n therefore_o it_o may_v suffice_v we_o to_o undergo_v such_o mortification_n as_o god_n himself_o have_v provide_v for_o we_o believe_v he_o to_o know_v what_o be_v best_a for_o we_o &_o most_o proportionable_a 8._o in_o all_o our_o holy_a rule_n there_o be_v no_o provision_n nor_o order_n make_v for_o such_o extraordinary_a or_o supernumerary_a mortification_n but_o only_o in_o the_o 49._o cap._n about_o diet_n &_o in_o the_o time_n of_o lent_n etc._n etc._n and_o then_o it_o be_v forbid_v to_o undertake_v such_o without_o the_o approbation_n of_o the_o superior_a the_o neglect_n of_o which_o approbation_n be_v impute_v to_o rashness_n for_o our_o holy_a father_n as_o he_o know_v the_o inestimable_a benefit_n of_o mortification_n which_o come_v from_o god_n &_o therefore_o he_o be_v exact_a in_o require_v conformity_n to_o the_o austerity_n command_v in_o the_o rule_n so_o on_o the_o other_o side_n be_v he_o not_o ignorant_a of_o the_o great_a inconvenience_n that_o probable_o attend_v the_o undertake_v such_o extraordinary_a one_o by_o imperfect_a soul_n which_o be_v common_o induce_v thereto_o mere_o out_o of_o a_o fancy_n humour_n or_o sudden_a passion_n for_o such_o be_v seldom_o attend_v with_o any_o blessing_n from_o god_n who_o neither_o be_v oblige_v nor_o ordinary_o will_v bestow_v his_o grace_n &_o spiritual_a strength_n for_o the_o undergo_n of_o any_o morcification_n but_o such_o as_o be_v send_v by_o he_o or_o evident_o ordain_v by_o his_o inspiration_n and_o experience_n witness_n this_o because_o we_o seldom_o see_v soul_n to_o persevere_v in_o those_o which_o they_o assume_v by_o their_o own_o free_a election_n and_o while_o they_o perform_v they_o it_o be_v with_o little_a or_o no_o purity_n of_o intention_n hereupon_o it_o be_v that_o our_o holy_a father_n express_o declare_v that_o the_o divine_a inspiration_n &_o grace_n be_v to_o be_v acknowledge_v the_o root_n of_o all_o religious_a voluntary_a austerity_n by_o those_o word_n of_o his_o cap._n 40._o quibus_fw-la donat_fw-la deus_fw-la tolerantiam_fw-la abstinentiae_fw-la that_o be_v to_o who_o god_n have_v give_v the_o courage_n or_o strength_n to_o suffer_v extraordinary_a abstinence_n add_v withal_o that_o such_o voluntary_a abstinence_n must_v be_v offer_v to_o god_n cum_fw-la gaudio_fw-la sancti_fw-la spiritus_fw-la with_o joy_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n 9_o great_a caution_n therefore_o be_v to_o be_v use_v in_o the_o read_n &_o make_v use_n of_o instruction_n &_o example_n find_v especial_o concern_v this_o point_n in_o spiritual_a book_n because_o otherwise_o a_o soul_n will_v be_v in_o danger_n to_o plunge_v herself_o into_o great_a inconvenience_n &_o difficulty_n for_o while_o she_o do_v imitate_v such_o extraordinary_a practice_n it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v be_v yet_o imperfect_a she_o will_v entertain_v a_o proud_a conceit_n of_o herself_o &_o not_o receive_v grace_n to_o persevere_v she_o will_v be_v apt_a to_o draw_v from_o thence_o matter_n of_o scrupulosity_n &_o dejection_n so_o far_o as_o perhaps_o to_o become_v dishearten_v from_o further_a tendance_n in_o the_o way_n of_o the_o spirit_n yea_o such_o a_o soul_n will_v be_v liable_a to_o contract_v thereby_o a_o obscurity_n in_o her_o understanding_n especial_o if_o she_o be_v unlearned_a by_o which_o she_o will_v become_v disable_v to_o distinguish_v necessary_a mortification_n from_o voluntary_a 10._o it_o be_v a_o very_a hard_a &_o to_o many_o soul_n will_v prove_v a_o dangerous_a advice_n which_o some_o spiritual_a author_n give_v viz._n that_o a_o spiritual_a disciple_n shall_v in_o every_o thing_n that_o be_v of_o itself_o indifferent_a in_o case_n that_o several_a object_n be_v offer_v to_o choice_n take_v that_o which_o be_v most_o contrary_a to_o his_o natural_a inclination_n as_o if_o many_o several_a dish_n be_v set_v before_o we_o to_o eat_v only_o that_o which_o we_o least_o like_a &_o thus_o to_o live_v in_o a_o continual_a contradiction_n &_o cross_v of_o nature_n 11._o sure_o no_o soul_n but_o such_o as_o be_v in_o a_o good_a measure_n perfect_a be_v capable_a of_o make_v good_a use_n of_o such_o advice_n for_o only_o such_o can_v with_o facility_n discretion_n &_o profit_n practise_v they_o as_o for_o the_o less_o perfect_a if_o they_o practise_v they_o with_o any_o willingness_n it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v that_o the_o true_a ground_n be_v because_o thereby_o they_o do_v covert_o comply_v with_o nature_n some_o orhe_a way_n nourish_v selfe-esteeme_a contempt_n of_o other_o not_o so_o courageous_a