abound_v 3._o but_o as_o for_o spiritual_a book_n the_o intention_n of_o a_o internal_a liver_n ought_v not_o to_o be_v such_o as_o be_v that_o of_o those_o who_o live_v extrovert_v life_n who_o read_v they_o out_o of_o a_o vain_a curiosity_n or_o to_o be_v thereby_o enable_v to_o discourse_v of_o such_o sublime_a matter_n without_o any_o particular_a choice_n or_o consideration_n whether_o they_o be_v suitable_a to_o their_o spirit_n for_o practice_v or_o no._n a_o contemplative_a soul_n in_o read_v such_o book_n must_v not_o say_v this_o be_v a_o good_a book_n or_o passage_n but_o moreover_o this_o be_v useful_a &_o proper_a for_o i_o &_o by_o god_n grace_n i_o will_v endeavour_v to_o put_v in_o execution_n in_o due_a time_n &_o place_n the_o good_a instruction_n contain_v in_o it_o as_o far_o as_o they_o be_v good_a for_o i_o 4._o for_o such_o soul_n the_o book_n most_o proper_a be_v these_o follow_a scala_fw-la perfectionis_fw-la write_v by_o f._n walter_n hilton_n the_o cloud_n of_o unknowing_a write_v by_o a_o unknown_n author_n the_o secret_a path_n of_o divine_a love_n as_o likewise_o the_o anatomy_n of_o the_o soul_n write_v by_o r._n f._n constant_a in_o barbanson_n a_o capucin_n the_o book_n entitle_v of_o the_o threefold_a will_n of_o god_n write_v by_o r.f._n benet_n fitch_n alias_o ganfield_n a_o capucin_n likewise_o the_o work_n of_o s._n teresa_n of_o b._n john_n de_fw-fr cruse_n likewise_o harphius_n thaulerus_n suso_n rusbrochius_n richardus_fw-la de_fw-fr s._n victore_fw-la gerson_n etc._n etc._n and_o of_o the_o ancient_n the_o live_v of_o the_o ancient_a father_n live_v in_o the_o desert_n &_o cassian_n his_o conference_n of_o certain_a ancient_a hermit_n recommend_v particular_o unto_o we_o by_o our_o holy_a father_n s._n basiles_n rule_v etc._n etc._n then_o for_o soul_n that_o tend_v to_o perfection_n in_o a_o active_a life_n book_n most_o proper_a be_v the_o work_n of_o rodriguez_n of_o perfection_n the_o duke_n of_o gandy_n of_o good_a work_n mons_fw-la de_fw-fr sales_n ludovicus_n de_fw-fr puente_n etc._n etc._n and_o last_o book_n of_o a_o mix_a nature_n be_v granatensis_n blosius_n etc._n etc._n indeed_o few_o spiritual_a book_n there_o be_v wherein_o there_o be_v not_o a_o intermingle_v of_o such_o instruction_n now_o i_o shall_v advise_v soul_n in_o a_o active_a life_n not_o at_o all_o to_o meddle_v with_o instruction_n belong_v to_o contemplation_n but_o apply_v themselves_o to_o the_o precept_n &_o exercise_n of_o a_o active_a life_n to_o use_v they_o in_o order_n to_o the_o end_n thereof_o the_o perfection_n of_o external_a christian_a charity_n 5._o in_o all_o spiritual_a book_n as_o likewise_o in_o all_o that_o treat_v of_o christian_a morality_n such_o instruction_n as_o concern_v the_o essential_a quality_n &_o practice_n of_o virtue_n be_v to_o be_v esteem_v proper_a to_o all_o soul_n yet_o not_o so_o the_o motive_n manner_n &_o circumstance_n of_o exercise_v the_o say_a virtue_n 6._o in_o read_v of_o spiritual_a book_n if_o any_o thing_n touch_v prayer_n &c_n &c_n occur_v as_o ofttimes_o it_o will_v happen_v that_o the_o spiritual_a disciple_n understand_v not_o let_v he_o pass_v it_o over_o &_o neither_o unnecessary_o trouble_v his_o own_o brain_n nor_o make_v it_o a_o business_n to_o trouble_v other_o about_o the_o understanding_n of_o it_o perhaps_o in_o time_n after_o more_o read_v &_o especial_o more_o experience_n in_o prayer_n he_o will_v come_v to_o understand_v it_o 7._o and_o as_o for_o those_o thing_n which_o he_o either_o do_v indeed_o or_o think_v he_o understand_v they_o let_v he_o not_o be_v hasty_a to_o apply_v they_o to_o himself_o by_o practice_n out_o of_o his_o own_o natural_a judgement_n or_o like_n but_o let_v he_o observe_v his_o own_o spirit_n way_n &_o internal_a guidance_n by_o god_n &_o according_o make_v use_v of_o they_o otherwise_o instead_o of_o reap_v benefit_n such_o inconvenience_n may_v happen_v that_o it_o will_v have_v be_v better_a he_o have_v never_o read_v nor_o be_v able_a to_o read_v any_o book_n at_o all_o but_o only_o to_o have_v follow_v his_o own_o internal_a light_n as_o many_o good_a soul_n have_v do_v that_o never_o can_v read_v &_o yet_o seek_v god_n in_o simplicity_n of_o their_o heart_n &_o pray_v without_o any_o prescribe_a method_n practise_v likewise_o according_a to_o the_o invitation_n &_o impulse_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n have_v attein_v to_o perfect_a contemplation_n 8._o general_o mystic_a author_n write_v according_a to_o their_o own_o experience_n in_o their_o own_o soul_n when_o they_o treat_v of_o the_o several_a degree_n of_o prayer_n &_o the_o several_a manner_n of_o divine_a operation_n in_o soul_n in_o such_o degree_n as_o if_o the_o same_o instruction_n will_v serve_v indefinite_o for_o all_o other_o whereas_o such_o be_v the_o in_o explicable_a variety_n of_o internal_a disposition_n that_o the_o same_o course_n &_o order_n in_o all_o thing_n will_v scarce_o serve_v any_o two_o soul_n therefore_o if_o the_o indiscreet_a reader_n without_o consider_v their_o own_o spirit_n &_o enablement_n shall_v upon_o the_o authority_n of_o any_o book_n either_o tarry_v too_o long_o in_o a_o inferior_a degree_n of_o prayer_n when_o god_n have_v fit_v they_o &_o do_v call_v they_o to_o a_o high_a or_o in_o a_o foolish_a ambition_n shall_v being_n unprepared_a presume_v to_o a_o degree_n of_o prayer_n too_o sublime_a &_o spiritual_a for_o they_o there_o will_v be_v no_o end_n of_o difficulty_n doubt_n &_o consultation_n 9_o but_o of_o all_o error_n the_o great_a &_o most_o dangerous_a be_v the_o indiscreet_a imitate_v the_o example_n &_o practice_n of_o saint_n in_o particular_a extraordinary_a corporal_a mortification_n voluntary_o yet_o by_o god_n special_a direction_n assume_v by_o they_o as_o labour_n fasting_n watch_n discipline_n &c_n &c_n for_o such_o a_o forwardness_n in_o other_o not_o call_v thereto_o to_o be_v extraordinary_a likewise_o it_o be_v much_o to_o be_v fear_v proceed_v mere_o from_o pride_n &_o self-love_n &_o will_v produce_v no_o better_a effect_n than_o the_o nourish_a of_o the_o same_o inordinate_a affection_n and_o if_o such_o have_v not_o the_o courage_n &_o patience_n as_o it_o can_v be_v expect_v they_o shall_v have_v to_o persevere_v in_o such_o exercise_n this_o will_v cause_v infirmity_n of_o body_n deâection_n of_o mind_n &_o weariness_n if_o not_o a_o utter_a cast_n of_o a_o spiritual_a course_n 10._o the_o benefit_n that_o we_o ought_v &_o easy_o may_v reap_v from_o the_o read_n of_o such_o extraordinary_a practice_n of_o other_o be_v to_o admire_v god_n way_n in_o the_o conduct_v of_o his_o saint_n &_o to_o take_v occasion_n from_o thence_o of_o humble_v &_o despise_v of_o ourselves_o see_v how_o short_a we_o come_v of_o they_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o their_o virtue_n but_o no_o further_o to_o imitate_v they_o in_o such_o thing_n than_o we_o may_v be_v assure_v that_o god_n direct_v we_o by_o a_o supernatural_a light_n &_o enable_v we_o by_o a_o extraordinary_a grace_n yea_o &_o moreover_o till_o we_o have_v obtain_v the_o leave_n &_o approbation_n of_o a_o prudent_a director_n till_o this_o be_v let_v we_o supply_v with_o a_o good_a will_n what_o our_o force_n will_v not_o reach_v unto_o and_o above_o all_o thing_n we_o must_v take_v heed_n that_o we_o do_v not_o entangle_v ourselves_o by_o lay_v obligation_n or_o vow_n upon_o our_o soul_n about_o such_o matter_n the_o which_o we_o shall_v have_v difficulty_n to_o discharge_v ourselves_o from_o when_o by_o trial_n we_o find_v the_o inconvenience_n 11._o mystic_a writer_n in_o express_v the_o spiritual_a way_n in_o which_o they_o have_v be_v lead_n do_v oft_o seem_v to_o differ_v extreme_o from_o one_o another_o the_o which_o difference_n notwithstanding_o if_o right_o understand_v be_v mere_o in_o the_o phrase_n &_o manner_n of_o expression_n and_o the_o ground_n hereof_o be_v because_o the_o pure_a immaterial_a operation_n of_o perfect_a soul_n in_o prayer_n &_o especial_o the_o operation_n of_o god_n in_o soul_n in_o which_o they_o be_v patient_n only_o be_v so_o sublime_a that_o intelligible_a word_n &_o phrase_n can_v perfect_o express_v they_o &_o therefore_o they_o be_v force_v to_o invent_v new_a word_n the_o best_a they_o can_v or_o to_o borrow_v similitude_n from_o corporal_a thing_n etc._n etc._n to_o make_v their_o conception_n more_o intelligible_a &_o thus_o do_v each_o one_o according_a to_o the_o manner_n that_o he_o find_v or_o conceive_v in_o himself_o or_o according_a to_o his_o skill_n in_o language_n no_o wonder_n therefore_o if_o there_o seem_v to_o be_v diversity_n among_o they_o herupon_o the_o author_n of_o the_o cloud_n observe_v that_o great_a harm_n may_v come_v by_o understand_v thing_n literal_o gross_o &_o sensible_o which_o howsoever_o they_o be_v express_v be_v intend_v &_o ought_v to_o be_v understand_v spiritual_o 12._o some_o good_a
to_o obey_v &_o believe_v the_o superior_a declare_v against_o the_o former_a inspiration_n for_o though_o nothing_o that_o a_o superior_a in_o such_o circumstance_n can_v say_v will_v make_v the_o former_a inspiration_n not_o to_o have_v come_v from_o god_n yet_o his_o declare_v against_o it_o will_v show_v it_o not_o to_o be_v of_o force_n now_o since_o that_o all_o such_o inspiration_n do_v &_o aught_o to_o suppose_v the_o consent_n or_o at_o least_o the_o non-opposition_n of_o the_o superior_a before_o they_o be_v put_v in_o practice_n and_o therefore_o they_o be_v to_o give_v place_n to_o a_o inspiration_n of_o obey_v which_o be_v absolute_a true_a it_o be_v that_o in_o such_o a_o case_n it_o may_v happen_v that_o the_o superior_a may_v commit_v a_o great_a fault_n &_o must_v expect_v to_o be_v accountable_a to_o god_n for_o it_o but_o howsoever_o the_o subject_n in_o obey_v such_o a_o undue_a command_n shall_v not_o only_o be_v innocent_a but_o also_o merit_v thereby_o because_o in_o both_o case_n he_o do_v well_o first_o in_o be_v prepare_v to_o obey_v the_o former_a inspiration_n which_o be_v conditional_a &_o afterward_o in_o contradict_v that_o to_o obey_v a_o second_o inspiration_n of_o submit_v to_o his_o superior_a which_o be_v absolute_a 9_o as_o it_o concern_v therefore_o particular_a soul_n to_o depend_v principal_o upon_o their_o internal_a director_n so_o likewise_o be_v superior_n &_o spiritual_a guide_n no_o less_o oblige_v to_o penetrate_v into_o the_o disposition_n of_o their_o subject_n &_o disciple_n &_o to_o discover_v by_o what_o special_a way_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n conduct_n they_o &_o suitable_o thereto_o to_o conform_v themselves_o &_o to_o comply_v with_o the_o intention_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n and_o this_o duty_n our_o holy_a patriarch_n in_o the_o 64._o chap._n of_o his_o rule_n require_v from_o all_o abbot_n or_o superior_n forbid_v they_o to_o use_v rigour_n in_o the_o correction_n of_o their_o subject_n or_o so_o rude_o to_o scour_v the_o vessel_n as_o thereby_o to_o endanger_v the_o break_n of_o they_o he_o will_v not_o have_v they_o likewise_o to_o be_v restless_o suspicious_a &_o jealous_a over_o their_o subject_n but_o in_o their_o imposition_n to_o use_v great_a discretion_n which_o he_o call_v the_o mother_n of_o virtue_n consider_v each_o one_o ability_n &_o say_v with_o jacob_n if_o i_o force_v my_o flock_n to_o travail_v beyond_o their_o strength_n they_o will_v all_o of_o they_o die_v at_o once_o etc._n etc._n if_o the_o superior_a therefore_o in_o a_o humour_n of_o command_a on_o his_o own_o head_n shall_v impose_v command_n on_o his_o subject_n without_o any_o regard_n to_o the_o divine_a will_n &_o guidance_n such_o command_n will_v probable_o prove_v unprosperous_a as_o to_o the_o subject_n &_o certain_o very_o dangerous_a to_o the_o superior_a yet_o so_o it_o may_v be_v that_o the_o subject_n may_v reap_v spiritual_a profit_n by_o they_o for_o than_o it_o may_v please_v god_n to_o give_v he_o a_o interiour_n enablement_n to_o turn_v such_o undue_a command_n to_o his_o own_o good_a &_o advancement_n by_o increase_a in_o he_o the_o habit_n of_o resignation_n &_o humility_n it_o will_v indeed_o be_v very_o hard_a for_o imperfect_a soul_n to_o reap_v benefit_n by_o such_o impertinent_a superior_n but_o as_o for_o perfect_a one_o they_o have_v both_o light_n &_o spiritual_a strength_n to_o convert_v all_o the_o most_o unreasonable_a command_n of_o superior_n to_o the_o benefit_n &_o advancement_n of_o their_o own_o soul_n 10._o in_o case_n a_o superior_a shall_v forbid_v his_o subject_n to_o pray_v at_o this_o or_o that_o time_n or_o shall_v command_v he_o to_o spend_v no_o long_o than_o such_o a_o small_a space_n of_o time_n in_o internal_a prayer_n as_o will_v not_o suffice_v for_o his_o advancement_n in_o the_o internal_a way_n of_o the_o spirit_n the_o rule_n of_o perfection_n require_v the_o subject_n to_o obey_v his_o superior_a yet_o he_o may_v with_o all_o humility_n remonstrate_v to_o he_o his_o spiritual_a necessity_n acquaint_v he_o with_o the_o great_a benefit_n that_o his_o soul_n find_v in_o a_o constant_a performance_n of_o his_o recollection_n &_o in_o attend_v to_o divine_a inspiration_n and_o what_o prejudice_n it_o may_v be_v to_o he_o to_o be_v forbid_v or_o abridge_v of_o they_o but_o if_o the_o superior_a do_v persist_v he_o must_v be_v obey_v and_o god_n will_v some_o other_o way_n supply_v the_o loss_n the_o subject_n find_v in_o such_o particular_a obedience_n now_o though_o a_o superior_a can_v no_o more_o forbid_v in_o general_a the_o use_n of_o internal_a prayer_n &_o of_o observe_v divine_a inspiration_n than_o he_o can_v forbid_v the_o love_v or_o obey_v of_o god_n yet_o whether_o prayer_n shall_v be_v exercise_v at_o such_o certain_a appoint_a time_n or_o for_o such_o a_o determinate_a space_n of_o time_n that_o be_v within_o the_o limit_n of_o a_o superior_n authority_n and_o how_o he_o employ_v that_o authority_n it_o will_v concern_v he_o to_o consider_v for_o if_o he_o guide_v soul_n according_a to_o his_o own_o will_n and_o not_o god_n and_o sure_o god_n internal_a inspiration_n be_v his_o will_n beside_o the_o guilt_n that_o he_o shall_v contract_v by_o the_o abuse_n of_o his_o authority_n he_o must_v expect_v that_o all_o the_o harm_n or_o prejudice_n that_o his_o subject_n soul_n through_o his_o miscarriage_n shall_v incur_v will_v be_v heap_v &_o multiply_v upon_o his_o soul_n 11._o but_o concern_v the_o duty_n &_o obligation_n of_o superior_n towards_o soul_n who_o profession_n be_v to_o tread_v these_o internal_a way_n of_o contemplation_n more_o shall_v be_v say_v hereafter_o in_o its_o proper_a place_n where_o it_o shall_v be_v demonstrate_v that_o these_o instruction_n be_v so_o far_o from_o preiudice_v their_o authority_n that_o true_a cordial_a obedience_n will_v never_o nor_o can_v be_v perfect_o perform_v to_o they_o but_o by_o such_o soul_n as_o be_v most_o zealous_a &_o constant_a in_o the_o essential_a duty_n of_o prayer_n and_o attend_v to_o the_o inspiration_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n 12._o to_o conclude_v this_o whole_a discourse_n concern_v divine_a inspiration_n as_o these_o aduises_n be_v not_o curious_o to_o be_v apply_v to_o the_o practice_n of_o fearful_a scrupulous_a soul_n who_o unquiet_a thought_n make_v they_o in_o a_o manner_n incapable_a of_o either_o light_n or_o impulse_n of_o god_n spirit_n in_o matter_n about_o which_o their_o scrupulosity_n be_v exercise_v so_o in_o those_o case_n they_o be_v to_o follow_v instruction_n peculiar_o proper_a to_o they_o but_o for_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v all_o other_o well-disposed_n soul_n that_o lead_v contemplative_a life_n this_o doctrine_n ought_v to_o be_v serious_o recommend_v to_o they_o and_o they_o be_v to_o be_v teach_v how_o to_o practice_v it_o for_o by_o this_o &_o no_o other_o way_n can_v they_o assure_o understand_v or_o perform_v the_o divine_a will_n in_o the_o which_o alone_o consist_v spiritual_a perfection_n by_o these_o inspiration_n alone_o the_o interiour_n be_v regulate_v without_o which_o all_o exterior_a good_a carriage_n be_v little_a avayleable_a to_o perfection_n no_o externall_n director_n can_v order_v the_o interiour_n operation_n of_o the_o soul_n either_o in_o prayer_n or_o mortification_n none_o but_o god_n alone_o who_o know_v &_o search_v the_o heart_n of_o men._n and_o his_o principal_a way_n of_o direct_v be_v by_o his_o inspiration_n the_o which_o by_o the_o acknowledgement_n of_o all_o good_a christian_n be_v necessary_a to_o every_o action_n to_o make_v it_o good_a or_o meritorious_a these_o inspiration_n therefore_o we_o must_v follow_v therefore_o they_o may_v be_v know_v for_o we_o can_v not_o be_v oblige_v to_o follow_v a_o invisible_a &_o undiscernible_a light_n we_o know_v not_o what_o and_o if_o they_o may_v be_v know_v sure_o the_o rule_n here_o prescribe_v for_o that_o purpose_n to_o wit_n abstraction_n of_o life_n &_o pure_a resign_v prayer_n be_v the_o most_o secure_a and_o most_o efficacious_a mean_n to_o come_v to_o that_o knowledge_n and_o to_o procure_v grace_n to_o work_v according_o 13._o and_o it_o may_v very_o reasonable_o be_v believe_v that_o the_o principal_a ground_n &_o reason_n why_o true_a spirituality_n be_v in_o these_o day_n so_o rare_a and_o why_o matter_n go_v so_o amiss_o among_o soul_n that_o pretend_v to_o aspire_v to_o contemplation_n be_v because_o this_o most_o necessary_a duty_n of_o observe_v and_o follow_a divine_a inspiration_n be_v either_o unknown_n or_o wilful_o misunderstand_v and_o suspect_v if_o not_o deride_v by_o some_o who_o in_o popular_a opinion_n be_v hold_v and_o desire_v to_o pass_v for_o chief_a master_n in_o spirituality_n and_o no_o wonder_n be_v it_o that_o such_o shall_v be_v disaffect_v to_o this_o doctrine_n of_o the_o perfect_a practice_n whereof_o themselves_o be_v incapable_a by_o reason_n of_o their_o distractive_a
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 angelâ_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 âhis_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
a_o abbot_n shall_v be_v set_v over_o he_o from_o whence_o we_o ought_v to_o infer_v that_o the_o intention_n of_o a_o religious_a person_n ought_v ever_o to_o be_v to_o live_v in_o subjection_n to_o the_o will_n of_o another_o and_o in_o such_o a_o mind_n to_o continue_v all_o his_o life_n and_o therefore_o those_o that_o ready_o accept_v &_o much_o more_o those_o that_o ambitious_o seek_v government_n and_o prelature_n may_v reasonable_o be_v judge_v to_o be_v lead_v by_o a_o spirit_n direct_o opposite_a to_o the_o spirit_n of_o religion_n and_o sure_o he_o that_o shall_v serious_o consider_v of_o what_o difficul_n y_z and_o of_o what_o extreme_a danger_n the_o office_n of_o a_o superior_a be_v what_o terrible_a threaten_n our_o holy_a father_n so_o oft_o denounce_v from_o god_n against_o a_o negligent_a partial_a and_o unfaithful_a discharge_n of_o such_o a_o office_n will_v think_v it_o far_o fit_a to_o be_v the_o object_n of_o his_o fear_n and_o aversion_n then_o of_o his_o desire_n therefore_o that_o superior_a that_o do_v not_o find_v himself_o more_o willing_a to_o give_v up_o his_o place_n then_o to_o retain_v it_o aught_o to_o suspect_v that_o he_o be_v scarce_o in_o a_o good_a state_n 3._o now_o to_o the_o end_n that_o both_o subject_n may_v be_v inform_v what_o quality_n they_o be_v to_o regard_v in_o the_o elect_v of_o superior_n and_o also_o superior_n be_v put_v in_o mind_n what_o be_v expect_v from_o they_o in_o the_o discharge_n of_o such_o a_o office_n due_o impose_v on_o they_o i_o will_v from_o s._n bernard_n set_v down_o three_o necessary_a condition_n or_o endowment_n by_o which_o superior_n be_v to_o direct_v their_o subject_n the_o which_o be_v 1._o verbum_fw-la 2._o exemplum_fw-la &_o 3_o oratio_fw-la that_o be_v exhortation_n good_a example_n and_o prayer_n add_v moreover_o maior_fw-la autem_fw-la horum_fw-la est_fw-la oratio_fw-la nam_fw-la et_fw-la si_fw-la vocis_fw-la virtus_fw-la sit_fw-la &_o operis_fw-la et_fw-la operi_fw-la tamen_fw-la &_o voci_fw-la gratiam_fw-la efficaciamque_fw-la promeretur_fw-la oratio_fw-la that_o be_v of_o those_o three_o necessary_a quality_n the_o great_a and_o most_o necessary_a be_v prayer_n for_o although_o there_o be_v much_o virtue_n in_o exhortation_n and_o example_n yet_o prayer_n be_v that_o which_o procure_v efficacy_n and_o success_n to_o both_o the_o other_o 4._o from_o which_o testimony_n and_o authority_n yea_o even_o from_o the_o light_n of_o natural_a reason_n we_o may_v firm_o conclude_v that_o the_o spirit_n of_o prayer_n be_v so_o absolute_o necessary_a to_o a_o religious_a superior_a that_o without_o it_o he_o can_v exercise_v his_o charge_n proffitable_o either_o to_o himself_o or_o his_o subject_n and_o consequent_o that_o to_o a_o superior_a in_o a_o order_n who_o spirit_n be_v contemplation_n it_o be_v necessary_a that_o he_o have_v attain_v to_o a_o good_a establish_a habit_n of_o contemplative_a prayer_n for_o as_o have_v be_v say_v in_o the_o forego_n discourse_n concern_v spiritual_a guide_n how_o can_v such_o a_o superior_a without_o knowledge_n gain_v by_o experience_n inculcate_v the_o so_o necessary_a duty_n of_o recollection_n and_o prayer_n nay_o rather_o will_v he_o not_o be_v more_o likely_a to_o discountenance_v those_o exercise_n in_o which_o he_o be_v not_o skill_v and_o from_o which_o perhaps_o he_o have_v a_o aversion_n 5._o therefore_o that_o too_o ordinary_o maintain_v position_n of_o some_o that_o active_a spirit_n be_v more_o fit_a for_o superiority_n and_o externall_n employment_n then_o contemplative_a which_o be_v to_o be_v leave_v to_o the_o solitude_n and_o sequestration_n to_o which_o their_o spirit_n incline_v they_o be_v indeed_o most_o unreasonable_a &_o groundless_a 6._o on_o the_o contrary_a no_o doubt_n there_o be_v but_o that_o the_o decay_n of_o religion_n have_v principal_o proceed_v from_o this_o preposterous_a disorder_n viz._n that_o in_o most_o religious_a community_n active_a spirit_n have_v get_v the_o advantage_n to_o possess_v themselves_o of_o prelature_n and_o spiritual_a pastourship_n over_o the_o contemplative_a though_o the_o state_n of_o religion_n be_v institute_v only_o for_o contemplation_n and_o this_o have_v happen_v even_o since_o contemplative_a prayer_n have_v be_v restore_v by_o person_n extraordinary_o raise_v by_o god_n as_o rusbrochius_n thaulerus_n s._n teresa_n etc._n etc._n so_o that_o religious_a community_n have_v be_v order_v even_o in_o the_o point_n of_o spirituallity_n by_o spirit_n of_o a_o quite_o different_a &_o contrary_a temper_n to_o that_o for_o which_o they_o be_v intend_v 7._o indeed_o it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v wonder_v at_o that_o active_a spirit_n shall_v so_o prevail_v consider_v that_o those_o who_o be_v true_o of_o a_o contemplative_a disposition_n and_o design_n know_v well_o the_o difficulty_n and_o danger_n of_o superiority_n how_o full_a of_o extroversion_n distraction_n and_o solicitude_n it_o be_v and_o what_o occasion_n and_o tentation_n there_o be_v in_o it_o to_o raise_v nourish_v and_o satisfy_v sensual_a affection_n pride_n etc._n etc._n to_o the_o peril_n of_o extinguish_v the_o spirit_n of_o prayer_n except_o in_o soul_n far_o advance_v in_o prayer_n and_o mortification_n such_o i_o say_v be_v therefore_o just_o afraid_a of_o and_o do_v use_v all_o lawful_a mean_n to_o avoid_v the_o care_n and_o government_n of_o other_o whereas_o active_a spirit_n that_o live_v in_o religion_n not_o be_v capable_a of_o such_o prayer_n as_o will_v raise_v they_o much_o out_o of_o nature_n have_v not_o the_o like_a apprehension_n of_o such_o employment_n but_o on_o the_o contrary_n be_v lead_n by_o natural_a desire_n of_o preeminence_n and_o love_n of_o liberty_n and_o believe_v that_o those_o who_o be_v true_a internal_a liver_n will_v not_o submit_v themselves_o to_o all_o the_o way_n &_o policy_n use_v for_o the_o increase_a the_o temporal_a good_a of_o their_o community_n do_v not_o fear_v to_o offer_v themselves_o yea_o and_o ambitious_o to_o seek_v dominion_n over_o other_o false_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n persuade_v themselves_o that_o their_o only_a motive_n be_v charity_n and_o a_o desire_n to_o promote_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o the_o advancement_n both_o temporal_a and_o spiritual_a of_o their_o conuent_v or_o congregation_n but_o what_o the_o effect_n be_v experience_n show_v 8._o true_a it_o be_v that_o it_o can_v be_v avoid_v but_o that_o many_o unfit_a spirit_n will_v oft_o be_v admit_v into_o religious_a order_n very_o different_a from_o the_o disposition_n requisite_a though_o it_o belong_v to_o superior_n to_o provide_v as_o well_o as_o may_v be_v against_o such_o a_o abuse_n but_o such_o be_v admit_v of_o active_a disposition_n the_o best_a be_v to_o employ_v they_o in_o active_a exercise_n &_o externall_n matter_n as_o in_o the_o office_n of_o procuration_n dispense_v building_n and_o the_o like_a but_o as_o for_o prelacy_n the_o charge_n of_o instruct_v novice_n or_o other_o office_n pertain_v to_o the_o direct_n of_o soul_n it_o be_v the_o destruction_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o contemplation_n to_o employ_v active_a disposition_n in_o such_o for_o how_o can_v they_o without_o light_n or_o experience_n direct_a soul_n in_o way_n unknowen_a to_o themselves_o yea_o which_o through_o ignorance_n or_o mistake_v they_o perhaps_o disapprove_v 9_o beside_o upon_o exact_a consideration_n it_o will_v be_v find_v that_o in_o the_o point_n of_o government_n contemplative_a spirit_n that_o have_v make_v a_o good_a progress_n in_o internal_a prayer_n have_v great_a advantage_n above_o the_o active_a for_o such_o be_v careful_a themselves_o to_o use_v all_o due_a abstraction_n will_v less_o molest_v themselves_o and_o other_o with_o impertinent_a business_n not_o pry_v too_o narrow_o into_o all_o passage_n as_o if_o they_o seek_v occasion_n of_o show_v their_o authority_n and_o ability_n in_o make_v unnecessary_a reprehension_n to_o the_o disquiet_v of_o community_n but_o for_o peace_n sake_n they_o will_v sometime_o even_o silere_fw-la a_o bonis_fw-la pass_v over_o many_o thing_n which_o do_v seem_v a_o little_a amiss_o wherein_o they_o show_v great_a prudence_n and_o also_o cause_v much_o profit_n to_o subject_n 2._o such_o be_v diligent_a about_o their_o own_o recollection_n do_v out_o of_o a_o love_n to_o silence_n patience_n &_o peace_n forbear_v the_o do_v or_o impose_v of_o a_o multitude_n of_o unnecessary_a task_n upon_o other_o 3._o by_o mean_n of_o prayer_n they_o obtain_v light_a to_o order_v all_o thing_n to_o the_o benefit_n of_o their_o subject_n soul_n and_o in_o case_n they_o have_v err_v or_o be_v defective_a in_o any_o thing_n they_o discover_v and_o amend_v it_o in_o their_o next_o recollection_n 4._o in_o the_o manner_n and_o fashion_n of_o their_o whole_a comportment_n a_o certain_a divine_a grace_n shine_v forth_o which_o be_v of_o great_a efficacy_n to_o win_v their_o subject_n heart_n to_o obedience_n and_o divine_a love._n 5._o yea_o if_o by_o corporal_a infirmity_n they_o be_v disable_v to_o attend_v
other_o or_o force_v herself_o to_o continue_v meditation_n she_o will_v make_v no_o progress_n at_o all_o yea_o on_o the_o contrary_a the_o extreme_a painefullnes_n of_o invent_v motive_n now_o unnecessary_a and_o tie_v herself_o to_o method_n and_o prescribe_a form_n will_v be_v to_o she_o so_o distractive_a so_o void_a of_o all_o taste_n and_o comfort_n and_o so_o insupportable_a that_o not_o be_v suffer_v to_o follow_v god_n invitation_n call_v to_o a_o exercise_n of_o the_o will_n she_o will_v be_v in_o danger_n to_o give_v quite_o over_o all_o internal_a prayer_n whereas_o by_o pursue_v god_n call_v she_o will_v every_o day_n get_v light_a to_o discover_v more_o and_o more_o her_o secret_a inward_a defect_n and_o grace_n to_o mortify_v and_o amend_v they_o and_o such_o her_o mortification_n be_v exercise_v rather_o by_o transcend_v &_o forget_v the_o object_n of_o her_o inordinate_a affection_n than_o a_o direct_a combat_v against_o they_o and_o this_o state_n of_o prayer_n do_v proper_o answer_n to_o that_o which_o be_v common_o call_v the_o illuminative_a way_n because_o iâ_n it_o the_o soul_n with_o little_a reflection_n on_o herself_o or_o heâ_n own_o obscurity_n by_o reason_n of_o sin_n &c_n &c_n tend_v direct_o and_o immediate_o to_o god_n by_o who_o she_o be_v enlighten_v and_o adorn_v with_o all_o virtue_n and_o grace_n 12._o in_o the_o three_o place_n a_o soul_n after_o a_o long_a exercise_n in_o force_a affection_n of_o the_o will_n to_o god_n represent_v to_o the_o understanding_n by_o image_n far_o more_o subtle_a and_o spiritual_a then_o former_o yea_o endeavour_v to_o contemplate_v he_o in_o the_o darkness_n and_o obscurity_n of_o a_o blind_a and_o naked_a faith_n void_a of_o all_o distinct_a and_o express_a image_n will_v by_o little_a and_o little_o grow_v so_o well_o dispose_v to_o he_o that_o she_o will_v have_v less_o need_n of_o force_v herself_o to_o produce_v good_a affection_n to_o he_o or_o of_o prescribe_v to_o herself_o determinate_a form_n of_o act_n or_o affection_n on_o the_o contrary_a divine_a love_n will_v become_v so_o firm_o establish_v in_o the_o soul_n so_o whole_o and_o only_o fill_v and_o possess_v it_o that_o it_o will_v become_v as_o it_o be_v a_o new_a soul_n unto_o the_o soul_n as_o constant_o breathe_v forth_o feruorous_a act_n of_o love_n and_o as_o natural_o almost_o as_o the_o lung_n do_v send_v forth_o breath_n 13._o and_o here_o begin_v the_o state_n of_o pure_a contemplation_n the_o end_n of_o all_o exercise_n of_o a_o internal_a life_n in_o this_o bless_a state_n the_o actuation_n and_o aspiration_n be_v so_o pure_a &_o spiritual_a that_o the_o soul_n herself_o often_o time_n be_v not_o able_a to_o give_v a_o account_n what_o she_o do_v and_o no_o wonder_n since_o they_o do_v not_o proceed_v from_o any_o forethought_a or_o election_n of_o her_o own_o but_o be_v suggest_v to_o she_o by_o the_o divine_a spirit_n entire_o possess_v she_o and_o although_o in_o these_o most_o sublime_a and_o blind_a elevation_n of_o the_o will_v the_o imagination_n and_o understanding_n with_o their_o image_n be_v not_o absolute_o exclude_v yet_o so_o unperceptible_a be_v their_o operation_n that_o it_o be_v no_o wonder_n if_o many_o mystical_a writer_n speak_v according_a to_o what_o they_o feel_v and_o experience_v in_o themselves_o have_v say_v that_o in_o pure_a contemplation_n the_o will_n without_o the_o understanding_n be_v only_o operative_a as_o for_o the_o mortification_n proper_a to_o this_o state_n they_o be_v as_o unexpressible_a as_o the_o prayer_n indeed_o prayer_n and_o mortification_n seem_v to_o be_v now_o become_v the_o same_o thing_n for_o the_o light_n in_o which_o the_o soul_n walk_v be_v so_o clear_a and_o wonderful_a that_o the_o small_a imperfection_n be_v clear_o discover_v and_o by_o prayer_n alone_o mortify_v prayer_n be_v the_o whole_a business_n of_o the_o life_n interrupt_v by_o sleep_n only_o and_o not_o alway_v then_o neither_o true_a it_o be_v that_o by_o other_o necessity_n of_o corporal_a nature_n refection_n study_v conversation_n or_o business_n it_o may_v be_v depress_v a_o little_a from_o the_o height_n in_o which_o it_o be_v when_o the_o soul_n set_v itself_o to_o attend_v to_o god_n only_o but_o still_o it_o continue_v with_o efficacy_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o all_o those_o avocation_n and_o this_o be_v true_o and_o proper_o that_o which_o mystic_n do_v style_v the_o vnitive_a way_n because_o herein_o the_o soul_n be_v in_o a_o continual_a union_n in_o spirit_n with_o god_n have_v transcend_v all_o creature_n and_o herself_o too_o the_o which_o be_v become_v as_o it_o be_v amnihilate_v &_o god_n be_v all_o in_o all_o 14._o there_o be_v no_o state_n of_o spirituality_n beyond_o this_o but_o yet_o this_o state_n may_v infinite_o increase_v in_o degree_n of_o purity_n the_o operation_n of_o the_o soul_n grow_v more_o and_o more_o spiritual_a intime_fw-la and_o divine_a without_o all_o limitation_n in_o this_o state_n it_o be_v that_o the_o soul_n be_v prepare_v for_o divine_a inaction_n passive_a union_n and_o grace_n most_o admirable_a and_o most_o efficacious_a to_o purify_v she_o as_o perfect_o as_o in_o the_o condition_n of_o this_o life_n she_o be_v capable_a now_o it_o be_v that_o god_n provide_v for_o soul_n dear_o belove_v by_o he_o trial_n and_o desolation_n incomprehensible_a to_o the_o unexperienced_a lead_v they_o from_o light_n to_o darkness_n and_o from_o thence_o to_o light_v again_o in_o all_o which_o change_v the_o soul_n keep_v herself_o in_o the_o same_o equality_n and_o tranquillity_n as_o know_v that_o by_o they_o all_o she_o approach_v near_a and_o near_o to_o god_n plunge_v herself_o more_o and_o more_o profound_o in_o he_o a_o soul_n that_o be_v come_v to_o this_o state_n be_v above_o all_o instructour_n and_o instruction_n a_o divine_a light_n be_v her_o guide_n in_o all_o manner_n of_o thing_n in_o a_o word_n it_o be_v not_o she_o that_o now_o life_n but_o christ_n and_o his_o holy_a spirit_n that_o live_v reign_v and_o operate_v in_o she_o 15._o these_o be_v the_o three_o state_n of_o a_o spiritual_a contemplative_a life_n distinguish_v according_a to_o the_o three_o state_n or_o degree_n of_o internal_a prayer_n as_o for_o vocal_a prayer_n it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v esteem_v a_o peculiar_a degree_n of_o prayer_n but_o it_o may_v and_o do_v accompany_v all_o these_o state_n without_o any_o change_n in_o the_o substance_n of_o the_o prayer_n though_o with_o very_o great_a variety_n in_o the_o actuation_n of_o the_o soul_n during_o its_o exercise_n for_o while_o the_o soul_n be_v in_o the_o imperfect_a degree_n of_o meditation_n she_o perform_v her_o vocal_a prayer_n with_o the_o use_n of_o grosser_n image_n and_o much_o distractednes_n but_o be_v arrive_v to_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o will_n she_o recite_v they_o with_o less_o multiplicity_n and_o some_o good_a measure_n of_o recollection_n and_o be_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o aspiration_n her_o vocal_a prayer_n become_v likewise_o aspirative_a and_o vnitive_a not_o at_o all_o distract_n she_o but_o rather_o drive_v her_o more_o profound_o and_o intime_o into_o god_n 16._o now_o god_n be_v both_o the_o principle_n and_o object_n of_o all_o our_o internal_a exercise_n be_v after_o several_a way_n represent_v to_o the_o mind_n in_o they_o for_o 1._o in_o meditation_n the_o soul_n as_o yet_o much_o immerse_v in_o sense_n be_v force_v to_o make_v use_n of_o a_o distinct_a grosser_n image_n by_o which_o to_o apprehend_v he_o as_o the_o humanity_n of_o our_o lord_n and_o the_o mystery_n belong_v thereto_o and_o sometime_o such_o attribute_n of_o the_o divinity_n as_o be_v most_o obvious_a and_o easy_a to_o be_v conceive_v and_o which_o do_v produce_v more_o sensible_a motion_n in_o our_o imperfect_a soul_n as_o his_o justice_n mercy_n power_n etc._n etc._n 2._o but_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o act_n of_o the_o will_n the_o understand_a endeavour_n to_o apprehend_v god_n in_o the_o obscure_a notion_n of_o faith_n and_o when_o she_o be_v sometime_o force_v to_o make_v use_n of_o more_o particular_a sensible_a image_n the_o mind_n after_o a_o short_a reflection_n on_o they_o give_v place_n to_o the_o recollect_v actuation_n of_o the_o will_v alone_o 3._o but_o be_v arrive_v to_o aspiration_n which_o be_v active_a contemplatian_n the_o soul_n make_v use_v of_o no_o particular_a express_a image_n at_o all_o but_o content_v herself_o with_o the_o only_a general_a obscure_a notion_n of_o god_n which_o faith_n teach_v she_o 17._o now_o though_o it_o may_v seem_v that_o the_o most_o perfect_a have_v no_o great_a advantage_n in_o this_o regard_n over_o the_o more_o imperfect_a since_o all_o that_o be_v endue_v with_o ordinary_a knowledge_n do_v sufficient_o believe_v and_o be_v assure_v that_o god_n be_v infinite_a and_o incomprehensible_a can_v be_v true_o represent_v by_o any_o particular_a image_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
the_o exercise_n of_o divine_a love_n which_o be_v most_o perfect_o perform_v in_o internal_a prayer_n in_o attention_n to_o and_o union_n with_o god_n in_o spirit_n what_o a_o expert_a persuade_v &_o subtle_a master_n love_n be_v beyond_o study_n or_o consideration_n we_o see_v even_o in_o natural_a and_o secular_a business_n one_o that_o be_v immerse_v in_o sensual_a love_n to_o any_o person_n have_v no_o need_n of_o instruction_n or_o book_n to_o teach_v he_o the_o art_n of_o love_v we_o see_v how_o skilful_a on_o the_o sudden_a such_o a_o one_o become_v in_o the_o way_n how_o to_o please_v the_o person_n belove_v he_o lose_v not_o neither_o out_o of_o ignorance_n nor_o negligence_n the_o least_o opportunity_n to_o ingratiate_v himself_o he_o understand_v the_o mind_n and_o intention_n of_o the_o other_o by_o the_o least_o sign_n the_o motion_n of_o a_o hand_n the_o cast_n of_o a_o eye_n be_v sufficient_a to_o inform_v he_o and_o set_v he_o on_o work_n to_o attempt_v any_o thing_n or_o procure_v any_o thing_n that_o may_v content_v the_o party_n the_o like_a subtlety_n and_o perspicacy_n we_o may_v see_v in_o those_o earthy_a soul_n which_o cleave_v with_o a_o earnest_a affection_n unto_o riches_n what_o subtle_a way_n do_v they_o find_v out_o to_o increase_v their_o wealth_n such_o trifle_a inconsiderable_a thing_n they_o make_v use_v of_o for_o that_o purpose_n as_o another_o will_v not_o take_v notice_n of_o or_o can_v not_o see_v how_o to_o make_v profit_n by_o they_o they_o have_v almost_o a_o prophetical_a spirit_n to_o foresee_v danger_n where_o none_o be_v and_o advantage_n probable_a or_o possible_a to_o happen_v many_o year_n after_o 17._o now_o how_o come_v it_o to_o pass_v that_o the_o eye_n of_o love_n be_v so_o quicksighted_n sure_o by_o this_o that_o where_o love_n to_o any_o particular_a object_n be_v predominant_a it_o subdue_v all_o other_o affection_n to_o all_o other_o object_n which_o will_v distract_v the_o thought_n and_o seduce_v the_o will_n from_o contemplate_v and_o adhere_v to_o the_o thing_n so_o belove_v 18._o upon_o such_o ground_n therefore_o as_o these_o it_o be_v that_o s._n augustin_n call_v divine_a love_n luminosissimam_fw-la charitatem_fw-la most_o full_a of_o light_n and_o most_o enlighten_v for_o a_o soul_n that_o true_o love_v god_n with_o a_o love_n worthy_a of_o he_o have_v the_o mind_n clear_v from_o all_o strange_a image_n and_o the_o will_v purify_v from_o all_o strange_a affection_n be_v thereby_o enable_v pure_o to_o contemplate_v god_n without_o any_o distraction_n at_o all_o and_o be_v desirous_a in_o all_o thing_n to_o please_v he_o know_v how_o to_o make_v advantage_n of_o all_o occurrence_n light_a and_o darkness_n consolation_n and_o desolation_n pain_n and_o pleasure_n all_o these_o contribute_v to_o the_o advance_v of_o this_o love._n yea_o there_o be_v nothing_o so_o indifferent_a or_o in_o its_o own_o nature_n so_o inconsiderable_a but_o that_o such_o a_o soul_n can_v perceive_v how_o use_n may_v be_v make_v of_o it_o to_o please_v god_n thereby_o 19_o now_o since_o pure_a love_n be_v exercise_v immediate_o to_o god_n only_o in_o pure_a prayer_n by_o which_o alone_o the_o spirit_n be_v unite_v to_o he_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o prayer_n be_v the_o only_a efficacious_a instrument_n to_o obtain_v supernatural_a light_n according_a the_o say_n of_o david_n accedite_fw-la ad_fw-la deum_fw-la &_o illuminamini_fw-la approach_v unto_o god_n by_o prayer_n and_o you_o shall_v be_v enlighten_v and_o hence_o also_o it_o be_v that_o the_o same_o holy_a prophet_n so_o earnest_o and_o frequent_o above_o twenty_o time_n in_o one_o psalm_n 118._o pray_v for_o such_o light_n to_o understand_v and_o discover_v the_o wonderful_a thing_n of_o god_n law_n and_o what_o be_v those_o wonderful_a thing_n sure_o not_o to_o be_v inform_v that_o murder_n or_o adultery_n be_v sin_n or_o general_o that_o god_n be_v to_o be_v love_v with_o the_o whole_a soul_n for_o much_o more_o knowledge_n he_o have_v then_o this_o before_o he_o pray_v but_o be_v desirous_a to_o give_v himself_o whole_o to_o god_n and_o to_o perform_v his_o will_n alone_o in_o all_o thing_n he_o so_o oft_o make_v use_n of_o prayer_n for_o the_o obtain_v a_o extraordinary_a light_n to_o be_v have_v no_o other_o way_n but_o by_o prayer_n that_o he_o may_v thereby_o be_v enable_v to_o discover_v and_o find_v out_o the_o divine_a will_n in_o all_o manner_n of_o case_n and_o doubtful_a circumstance_n 20._o now_o only_a such_o inspiration_n and_o such_o illumination_n as_o these_o do_v spiritual_a person_n pretend_v to_o by_o the_o mean_a of_o prayer_n and_o attend_v to_o god_n and_o if_o they_o do_v exercise_v prayer_n with_o a_o due_a fervour_n and_o constancy_n these_o they_o shall_v most_o certain_o enjoy_v and_o that_o in_o such_o a_o measure_n that_o whereas_o the_o great_a part_n of_o ordinary_a good_a christian_n be_v so_o dim-sighted_n as_o to_o see_v the_o divine_a will_n only_o in_o circumstance_n where_o there_o be_v a_o necessary_a obligation_n so_o that_o they_o spend_v the_o far_o great_a part_n of_o their_o life_n in_o action_n that_o do_v no_o way_n advance_v they_o in_o divine_a love_n be_v wrought_v chief_o in_o virtue_n of_o the_o principle_n of_o self-love_n and_o interest_n of_o nature_n those_o that_o be_v perfect_o internal_a liver_n be_v cloud_v by_o no_o vain_a image_n and_o distract_v by_o no_o inferior_a affection_n do_v see_v the_o divine_a will_n clear_o in_o the_o minute_a affair_n which_o they_o according_o make_v advantage_n by_o to_o improve_v themselves_o in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o according_a to_o the_o degree_n of_o love_n so_o proportionable_o be_v the_o degree_n of_o light_n and_o thus_o i_o suppose_v the_o pretend_a inconvenience_n suspect_v to_o flow_v from_o the_o publish_n of_o this_o doctrine_n will_v appear_v to_o be_v only_o pretend_v and_o causeless_o fear_v 21._o but_o the_o other_o objection_n at_o the_o first_o sight_n seem_v more_o considerable_a as_o imply_v a_o far_o great_a and_o more_o certain_a inconvenience_n and_o danger_n that_o may_v ensue_v upon_o the_o publish_n of_o this_o doctrine_n concern_v divine_a inspiration_n illumination_n and_o call_n for_o thus_o they_o argue_v it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v that_o the_o fanatic_a sectary_n which_o now_o swarm_v in_o england_n more_o than_o ever_o will_v be_v ready_a to_o take_v advantage_n from_o hence_o to_o justify_v all_o their_o frenzy_n and_o disorder_n all_o which_o they_o impute_v with_o all_o confidence_n to_o divine_a inspiration_n illumination_n and_o impulse_n for_o can_v we_o forbid_v they_o to_o practice_v what_o we_o ourselves_o teach_v to_o be_v a_o christian_a duty_n and_o yet_o it_o be_v apparent_a what_o fearful_a and_o execrable_a effect_n the_o practice_n of_o this_o pretend_a duty_n do_v produce_v among_o they_o it_o be_v by_o inspiration_n say_v they_o that_o their_o progenitour_n do_v break_v out_o of_o the_o church_n and_o by_o inspiration_n they_o do_v still_o introduce_v endlesse_o new_a fancy_n and_o practice_n it_o be_v by_o inspiration_n that_o they_o endanger_v the_o ruin_n of_o christianity_n itself_o by_o infinite_a schism_n and_o pestilent_a reformation_n it_o be_v by_o inspiration_n that_o they_o employ_v the_o gospel_n to_o destroy_v the_o gospel_n from_o thence_o preach_v heresy_n in_o church_n and_o chamber_n sedition_n in_o state_n rebellion_n against_o prince_n and_o prelate_n so_o destroy_v all_o order_n unity_n and_o peace_n every_o where_o these_o thing_n consider_v what_o can_v be_v more_o reasonable_a than_o that_o we_o shall_v take_v heed_n how_o we_o furnish_v they_o thus_o with_o arm_n to_o maintain_v themselves_o and_o to_o fight_v against_o god_n &_o his_o church_n 22._o this_o be_v the_o objection_n which_o though_o it_o have_v a_o fearful_a show_v yet_o be_v well_o examine_v it_o will_v prove_v no_o less_o weak_o ground_v then_o the_o former_a for_o the_o demonstrate_v therefore_o of_o the_o inconsequence_n of_o it_o i_o will_v by_o way_n of_o preparation_n lay_v down_o these_o follow_a undeniable_a principle_n brief_o mention_v before_o viz._n 23._o first_n that_o divine_a inspiration_n be_v so_o absolute_o necessary_a in_o precept_n for_o the_o avoid_v of_o sin_n and_o in_o counsel_n for_o the_o gain_n of_o perfection_n that_o without_o they_o no_o action_n of_o we_o can_v be_v good_a or_o meritorious_a yea_o the_o duty_n of_o obligation_n which_o we_o perform_v or_o counsel_n of_o perfection_n free_o obey_v by_o we_o be_v only_o so_o far_o acceptable_a to_o god_n as_o they_o proceed_v from_o his_o inspiration_n and_o motion_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n this_o be_v not_o only_o a_o undoubted_a verity_n but_o one_o of_o the_o most_o fundamental_a verity_n of_o christian_a religion_n which_o attribute_n all_o good_a in_o we_o to_o the_o divine_a grace_n and_o what_o be_v grace_n but_o the_o divine_a inspiration_n of_o
in_o which_o they_o direct_v we_o be_v in_o their_o nature_n indifferent_a and_o be_v order_v only_o towards_o a_o more_o perfect_a love_a of_o god_n and_o withdraw_v we_o from_o creature_n whereas_o all_o the_o misery_n and_o almost_o all_o the_o disorder_n and_o enormous_a vice_n of_o the_o nation_n be_v the_o effect_n of_o their_o mislead_v light_n 34._o thus_o stand_v the_o case_n between_o catholic_n inspiration_n and_o the_o pretend_a inspiration_n of_o sectary_n such_o be_v that_o spirit_n of_o charity_n and_o peace_n and_o so_o divine_a be_v the_o effect_n of_o it_o direct_v the_o mind_n of_o good_a humble_a obedient_a &_o devout_a catholic_n and_o such_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o disorder_n revenge_n wrath_n rebellion_n etc._n etc._n and_o so_o dismal_a be_v the_o effect_n of_o that_o spirit_n wherewith_o selfe-opinionated_n presumptuous_a frantic_a sectary_n be_v agitate_a what_o resemblance_n what_o agreement_n can_v there_o be_v between_o these_o two_o this_o evil_a spirit_n though_o it_o sacrilegious_o usurp_v the_o name_n yet_o it_o do_v not_o so_o much_o as_o counterfeit_v the_o operation_n of_o the_o good_a one_o or_o if_o with_o the_o name_n it_o do_v sometime_o seem_v to_o counterfeit_v some_o outward_a resemblance_n and_o to_o some_o person_n show_v demure_a look_v &c_n &c_n yet_o the_o aequivocation_n and_o hypocrisy_n be_v so_o gross_a and_o palpable_a that_o they_o must_v put_v out_o their_o eye_n that_o perceive_v it_o not_o 35._o shall_v we_o then_o extinguish_v and_o in_o a_o sort_n exorcise_v the_o good_a divine_a spirit_n for_o fear_v it_o shall_v raise_v up_o the_o evil_a one_o with_o it_o or_o rather_o shall_v we_o not_o confident_o assure_v ourselves_o that_o upon_o the_o appear_a of_o the_o good_a one_o the_o evil_a one_o will_v either_o vanish_v or_o the_o hideousnes_n of_o it_o will_v affright_v all_o from_o harken_v to_o it_o shall_v we_o forbid_v the_o sun_n to_o rise_v because_o in_o some_o unclean_a rot_a marsh_n some_o fog_n will_v arise_v with_o it_o we_o may_v as_o well_o annul_v the_o sacrament_n forbid_v prayer_n extinguish_v the_o scripture_n &c_n &c_n for_o from_o all_o these_o the_o devil_n have_v malicious_o take_v advantage_n to_o pervert_v and_o damn_v thousand_o of_o soul_n 36._o no_o doubt_v it_o be_v but_o that_o among_o those_o seduce_a and_o seduce_a people_n great_a number_n there_o be_v that_o if_o they_o be_v charitable_o instruct_v in_o such_o way_n of_o discern_v spirit_n they_o will_v be_v susprise_v and_o start_v to_o see_v to_o what_o kind_n of_o directour_n and_o guide_n they_o have_v unwary_o commit_v their_o soul_n if_o such_o as_o these_o can_v persuade_v and_o i_o beseech_v god_n they_o may_v even_o while_o they_o be_v yet_o out_o of_o the_o church_n for_o a_o while_n to_o suspend_v the_o pursuance_n of_o their_o busy_a design_n and_o reform_v of_o other_o and_o retire_v themselves_o into_o solitude_n allow_v themselves_o the_o leisure_n to_o turn_v their_o eye_n inward_a into_o their_o own_o spirit_n and_o as_o well_o as_o they_o can_v to_o practice_v the_o humble_a selfe-renouncing_a resign_v way_n of_o spiritual_a prayer_n teach_v in_o this_o book_n thereby_o to_o procure_v from_o god_n such_o light_n as_o then_o may_v be_v trust_v to_o nor_o they_o nor_o we_o shall_v ever_o repent_v that_o the_o publish_n of_o such_o doctrine_n as_o these_o give_v they_o a_o happy_a occasion_n to_o do_v so_o 37._o and_o what_o great_a satisfaction_n can_v catholic_n have_v in_o their_o way_n and_o what_o great_a advantage_n can_v they_o have_v over_o all_o those_o that_o be_v out_o of_o the_o church_n than_o this_o proof_n make_v good_a by_o universal_a experience_n viz._n that_o whosoever_o sincere_o and_o constant_o give_v himself_o to_o the_o practice_n of_o such_o perfect_a prayer_n as_o be_v here_o teach_v if_o he_o be_v already_o a_o catholic_n he_o will_v most_o certain_o ever_o remain_v so_o and_o if_o he_o be_v not_o yet_o in_o the_o church_n he_o will_v become_v afraid_a of_o remain_v his_o owâe_a pastor_n and_o guide_n for_o never_o any_o catholic_n that_o exercise_v spiritual_a prayer_n cease_v to_o be_v a_o catholic_n till_o he_o first_o cease_v so_o to_o pray_v and_o the_o spirit_n of_o such_o prayer_n in_o any_o perfection_n never_o rest_v upon_o any_o soul_n that_o be_v out_o of_o the_o catholic_n church_n 38._o and_o this_o i_o suppose_v may_v suffice_v not_o only_o to_o justify_v the_o truth_n and_o innocency_n of_o this_o our_o doctrine_n concern_v divine_a inspiration_n but_o also_o the_o lawfullnes_n yea_o conveniency_n yea_o even_o the_o necessity_n of_o publish_v it_o to_o the_o world_n and_o this_o for_o those_o very_a reason_n wherewith_o other_o will_v deter_v us._n for_o the_o obiectour_n be_v afraid_a of_o the_o publication_n of_o it_o least_o franctick_a sectary_n shall_v think_v themselves_o justify_v in_o their_o pretence_n and_o on_o the_o contrary_a i_o conceive_v the_o publication_n necessary_a lest_o they_o shall_v think_v themselves_o justify_v in_o their_o pretence_n which_o till_o they_o see_v how_o unlike_a to_o true_a divine_a light_n and_o inspiration_n they_o be_v they_o may_v have_v some_o show_v for_o i_o do_v not_o intend_v when_o i_o call_v it_o our_o doctrine_n to_o appropriate_v it_o to_o any_o person_n or_o community_n for_o it_o be_v the_o very_a same_o that_o have_v in_o all_o age_n be_v teach_v by_o all_o saint_n experience_v in_o internal_a way_n as_o will_v be_v demonstrate_v by_o infinite_a testimony_n ancient_a and_o modern_a if_o god_n shall_v engage_v we_o to_o such_o a_o labour_n by_o the_o opposition_n of_o any_o one_o true_a it_o be_v that_o the_o pious_a and_o sublime_a author_n of_o the_o treatise_n here_o abridge_v have_v doubtless_o by_o the_o guidance_n and_o assistance_n of_o a_o supernatural_a light_n spend_v more_o thought_n about_o this_o subject_n and_o take_v more_o pain_n in_o encouragng_n wellminded_n soul_n to_o fit_n themselves_o for_o the_o receive_n of_o such_o light_n in_o distinguish_v it_o from_o false_a light_n and_o in_o show_v the_o bless_a effect_n of_o it_o etc._n etc._n then_o perhaps_o any_o other_o author_n former_o do_v and_o that_o be_v all_o for_o the_o doctrine_n in_o substance_n be_v all_o old_a as_o christianity_n itself_o and_o can_v show_v strange_a or_o new_a but_o only_o to_o such_o to_o who_o in_o these_o day_n antiquity_n do_v seem_v the_o great_a novelty_n 39_o have_v thus_o by_o declare_v the_o insufficiency_n of_o these_o objection_n against_o the_o publish_n of_o the_o follow_a instruction_n open_v the_o barrier_n to_o give_v this_o book_n a_o free_a escape_n to_o range_v abroad_o at_o liberty_n and_o my_o only_a intention_n be_v for_o god_n glory_n to_o benefit_v thy_o soul_n dear_a reader_n for_o as_o for_o the_o mean_a or_o sinister_a end_n of_o gain_v credit_n or_o esteem_v with_o other_o thereby_o the_o ambition_n be_v so_o unworthy_a my_o profession_n and_o withal_o so_o poor_a and_o unreasonable_a consider_v that_o i_o can_v appropriate_v nothing_o to_o myself_o but_o a_o little_a pain_n in_o transcribe_v &_o digest_v another_o man_n labour_n that_o i_o can_v think_v myself_o liable_a to_o any_o suspicion_n with_o thou_o in_o that_o regard_n therefore_o to_o the_o end_n i_o may_v according_a to_o my_o utmost_a ability_n facilitate_v thy_o receive_n good_a to_o thy_o spirit_n hereby_o though_o i_o have_v no_o more_o objection_n to_o answer_n yet_o by_o converse_v with_o certain_a pious_a and_o learned_a person_n to_o who_o perusal_n and_o judgement_n this_o book_n be_v present_v have_v find_v that_o some_o few_o passage_n in_o it_o be_v not_o so_o very_o clear_o express_v but_o that_o even_o a_o uninteress_v and_o unpassionate_a reader_n may_v perhaps_o stop_v a_o little_a at_o they_o i_o think_v expedient_a to_o let_v thou_o good_a reader_n be_v acquaint_v what_o satisfaction_n i_o give_v to_o they_o 40._o one_o point_n that_o seem_v to_o require_v a_o explication_n be_v that_o in_o the_o 1._o treat_n 2._o section_n 2._o chap._n where_o be_v treat_v of_o what_o care_n a_o spiritual_a disciple_n ought_v to_o take_v in_o the_o choice_n of_o a_o sit_v directour_n for_o to_o leave_v a_o matter_n of_o such_o importance_n to_o the_o election_n of_o a_o unexperienced_a &_o perhaps_o young_a &_o ignorant_a soul_n seem_v to_o they_o neither_o convenient_a nor_o prudent_a beside_o that_o in_o religious_a community_n such_o a_o permission_n will_v be_v a_o infringe_n of_o all_o due_a order_n and_o submission_n to_o superior_n but_o hereto_o be_v reply_v 1._o that_o religious_a person_n be_v express_o except_v in_o the_o book_n 2._o and_o as_o for_o other_o this_o very_a same_o advice_n be_v long_o since_o give_v by_o the_o bishop_n of_o geneva_n auila_n etc._n etc._n true_a it_o be_v notwithstanding_o that_o there_o may_v oft_o be_v find_v in_o the_o world_n many_o good_a devout_a soul_n
a_o foolish_a pronenes_n to_o discover_v their_o interior_a nor_o without_o a_o just_a necessity_n continue_v to_o seek_v instruction_n from_o without_o nothing_o will_v excuse_v it_o but_o the_o want_n of_o internal_a light_n in_o some_o special_a doubtful_a case_n &_o then_o also_o they_o have_v a_o internal_a inspiration_n &_o motion_n to_o seek_v it_o from_o other_o in_o which_o case_n it_o be_v indeed_o their_o divine_a internal_a master_n that_o they_o obey_v who_o speak_v unto_o they_o by_o the_o external_a director_n appoint_v unto_o they_o by_o god_n the_o devout_a reader_n may_v further_o see_v what_o the_o forementioned_a excellent_a author_n of_o scala_fw-la perfectionis_fw-la say_v to_o this_o purpose_n in_o the_o 2._o part_n &_o 91._o chapter_n as_o likewise_o the_o author_n of_o the_o book_n call_v the_o cloud_n of_o unknowing_a chap._n 49._o &_o 54._o 3._o now_o to_o the_o end_n to_o enable_v the_o soul_n to_o make_v a_o good_a choice_n i_o mean_v such_o a_o soul_n as_o have_v freedom_n to_o make_v she_o own_o choice_n i_o will_v set_v down_o the_o quality_n necessary_a to_o be_v find_v in_o a_o good_a director_n by_o which_o title_n i_o do_v not_o mean_v simple_o a_o confessarius_fw-la that_o be_v only_o to_o hear_v fault_n confess_v to_o give_v absolution_n &_o there_o a_o end_n for_o the_o ordinary_a quality_n of_o learning_n &_o prudence_n be_v sufficien_fw-fr thereto_o but_o by_o a_o spiritual_a director_n i_o intend_v one_o that_o beside_o this_o be_v to_o instruct_v the_o disciple_n in_o all_o the_o peculiar_a duty_n of_o a_o internal_a life_n that_o be_v to_o judge_v of_o her_o propension_n to_o contemplative_a way_n &_o that_o can_v at_o least_o teach_v she_o how_o she_o may_v fit_a herself_o with_o a_o degree_n of_o prayer_n proper_a for_o she_o that_o know_v all_o the_o degree_n of_o internal_a prayer_n &_o can_v determine_v how_o long_o she_o be_v to_o remain_v in_o such_o a_o degree_n &_o when_o to_o change_v it_o for_o a_o high_a that_o can_v judge_v what_o employment_n &c._n &c._n be_v helpful_a or_o hinder_v to_o her_o progress_n in_o internal_a way_n but_o especial_o that_o can_v teach_v she_o how_o to_o dispose_v herself_o to_o hearken_v to_o &_o follow_v god_n internal_a teach_n &_o to_o stand_v in_o no_o more_o need_n of_o consult_v her_o externall_n directour_n etc._n etc._n such_o be_v the_o proper_a office_n of_o a_o guide_n to_o enable_v he_o whereto_o there_o be_v general_o by_o spiritual_a writer_n require_v three_o principal_a quality_n 1._o a_o good_a natural_a judgement_n 2._o learning_n 3._o experience_n 4._o but_o because_o it_o be_v scarce_o to_o be_v hope_v for_o in_o all_o place_n &_o for_o all_o soul_n to_o find_v a_o director_n absolute_o perfect_a &_o qualify_v with_o all_o manner_n of_o fit_a condition_n therefore_o the_o say_a writer_n do_v dispute_v what_o quality_n be_v the_o most_o necessary_a to_o make_v a_o director_n capable_a of_o a_o sufficient_a discharge_n of_o his_o office_n now_o for_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v the_o first_o condition_n to_o wit_n a_o good_a natural_a judgement_n though_o by_o all_o it_o be_v acknowledge_v to_o be_v insufficient_a alone_o yet_o be_v it_o so_o absolute_o necessary_a that_o without_o it_o no_o considerable_a experience_n can_v be_v attein_v &_o learn_v if_o it_o be_v join_v with_o a_o extravagant_a capricious_a spirit_n will_v prove_v rather_o pernicious_a then_o advantageous_a therefore_o the_o question_n remain_v between_o learning_n &_o experience_n whether_o of_o the_o two_o be_v the_o more_o necessary_a 5._o but_o true_o this_o scarce_a deserve_v to_o be_v a_o question_n for_o though_o for_o the_o assoyl_a of_o ordinary_a doubt_n &_o case_n of_o conscience_n as_o about_o fast_v say_v the_o divine_a office_n confession_n restitution_n &c_n &c_n learning_n be_v the_o principal_a condition_n to_o be_v look_v after_o in_o one_o that_o be_v to_o be_v a_o guide_n for_o such_o purpose_n notwthstand_v since_o the_o office_n of_o the_o spiritual_a director_n that_o now_o we_o seek_v after_o be_v to_o be_v exercise_v in_o such_o internal_a matter_n of_o the_o spirit_n as_o have_v be_v say_v to_o wit_n contemplative_a prayer_n attend_v to_o divine_a inspiration_n &c_n &c_n it_o be_v the_o resolute_a judgement_n of_o gerson_n auila_n s._n teresa_n b._n john_n de_fw-fr cruse_n seraphinus_n firmanus_n &c_n &c_n that_o no_o trust_n be_v to_o be_v give_v to_o learning_n without_o experience_n but_o much_o to_o experience_n though_o without_o learning_n and_o to_o this_o purpose_n it_o be_v observable_a that_o for_o the_o most_o part_n the_o instrument_n that_o god_n have_v be_v please_v both_o in_o ancient_a &_o modern_a time_n to_o employ_v in_o the_o instruct_v &_o guide_v of_o soul_n to_o the_o perfection_n of_o contemplative_a prayer_n have_v be_v person_n of_o small_a learning_n but_o great_a experience_n such_o as_o be_v s._n anthony_n s._n benedict_n s._n francis_n s._n teresa_n &c_n &c_n 6._o no_o learning_n therefore_o that_o may_v be_v get_v by_o study_n &_o read_v though_o of_o all_o the_o contemplative_a book_n that_o now_o be_v extant_a will_v alone_o serve_v to_o enable_v any_o one_o to_o be_v a_o competent_a director_n for_o internal_a liver_n but_o there_o be_v necessary_a experience_n &_o practice_v in_o the_o same_o prayer_n &_o other_o internal_a exercise_n that_o be_v to_o be_v teach_v for_o never_o so_o many_o year_n spend_v in_o discursive_a prayer_n will_v little_o avayle_v to_o qualify_v any_o person_n to_o become_v a_o proper_a &_o profitable_a director_n for_o soul_n that_o tend_v to_o contemplation_n as_o all_o enclose_a religious_a man_n &_o woman_n be_v oblige_v to_o do_v 7._o yea_o it_o be_v much_o more_o safe_a for_o a_o wellmeaning_n soul_n to_o trust_v to_o her_o own_o internal_a light_n though_o obscure_a &_o to_o such_o instruction_n as_o book_n which_o treat_v of_o such_o kind_n of_o prayer_n will_v afford_v she_o or_o else_o to_o the_o guidance_n of_o a_o virtuous_a humble-minded_n directour_n who_o though_o he_o have_v but_o a_o very_a small_a proportion_n either_o of_o experience_n or_o learning_n yet_o out_o of_o humility_n will_v not_o assume_v unto_o himself_o authority_n to_o judge_v of_o thing_n above_o his_o reach_n but_o will_v encourage_v the_o soul_n either_o to_o seek_v out_o one_o more_o intelligent_a or_o to_o follow_v the_o direction_n of_o her_o own_o spirit_n illuminate_v by_o grace_n then_o to_o confide_v in_o such_o directour_n as_o believe_v &_o will_v fain_o have_v the_o world_n do_v so_o too_o that_o the_o spiritual_a exercise_n be_v the_o most_o perfect_a kind_n of_o internal_a prayer_n &_o by_o consequence_n who_o best_o advice_n will_v be_v to_o make_v she_o suspect_v all_o tract_n &_o invitation_n wherewith_n god_n shall_v draw_v she_o to_o a_o more_o sublime_a quiet_a pure_a prayer_n in_o spirit_n from_o which_o such_o directour_n will_v pluck_v she_o down_o to_o multiplicity_n distraction_n &_o unquietnes_n the_o best_a prayer_n that_o they_o can_v teach_v be_v that_o which_o be_v exercise_v more_o gross_o in_o the_o imagination_n in_o figure_v of_o seene_n posture_n &_o representation_n or_o by_o curious_a painful_a discourse_n in_o the_o understanding_n fettr_n her_o likewise_o with_o nice_a form_n &_o method_n in_o meditation_n both_o very_a insupportable_a &_o also_o unproffitable_a yea_o pernicious_a to_o the_o design_n of_o such_o soul_n that_o tend_v to_o contemplation_n though_o very_o good_a &_o proper_a for_o those_o who_o live_v active_a life_n what_o order_n can_v such_o directour_n give_v touch_v the_o true_a use_n of_o aspiration_n of_o which_o there_o be_v great_a variety_n or_o concern_v other_o subtle_a pure_a elevation_n annihilation_n or_o internal_a reposefull_a silent_a prayer_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o much_o less_o help_n be_v to_o be_v expect_v from_o they_o in_o the_o case_n of_o those_o strange_a in_o explicable_a privatious_a the_o which_o be_v of_o infinite_a variety_n befalling_a to_o many_o soul_n high_o advance_v in_o contemplation_n 8._o what_o a_o misery_n therefore_o be_v it_o to_o see_v contemplative_a order_n yea_o even_o those_o of_o the_o great_a solitude_n &_o abstraction_n of_o life_n afford_v they_o so_o great_a advantage_n for_o contemplation_n to_o seek_v rule_n for_o contemplative_a prayer_n from_o those_o who_o profession_n be_v so_o absolute_o contrary_a thereto_o and_o the_o more_o that_o such_o incompetent_a directour_n be_v practise_v &_o advance_v in_o skill_n about_o their_o own_o exercise_n the_o more_o unfit_a be_v they_o to_o become_v guide_n to_o contemplative_a spirit_n &_o the_o more_o dangerous_a be_v it_o to_o rely_v upon_o they_o for_o such_o experience_n join_v with_o learning_n will_v make_v they_o confident_a that_o their_o own_o way_n be_v the_o very_o best_a for_o all_o &_o zealous_a to_o draw_v all_o other_o to_o a_o like_n &_o admiration_n of_o it_o most_o certain_a it_o
be_v that_o this_o be_v the_o very_a cause_n why_o not_o only_o the_o spirit_n of_o contemplation_n but_o even_o the_o knowledge_n almost_o of_o it_o be_v again_o lose_v in_o many_o contemplative_a order_n notwithstanding_o so_o few_o year_n be_v past_a since_o it_o be_v reviue_v by_o those_o eminent_a light_n s._n teresa_n b._n john_n de_fw-fr cruse_n barbanzon_n etc._n etc._n 9_o i_o may_v true_o say_v that_o neither_o natural_a indgment_n learning_n nor_o experience_n all_o together_o be_v absolute_o sufficient_a to_o qualify_v a_o person_n for_o the_o employment_n of_o guide_a soul_n in_o all_o case_n in_o the_o internal_a way_n of_o the_o spirit_n but_o very_o oft_o a_o actual_a supernatural_a illumination_n will_v moreover_o be_v requisite_a &_o necessary_a though_o true_a it_o be_v that_o experience_a person_n have_v great_a advantage_n beyond_o what_o wit_n or_o learning_n can_v afford_v and_o such_o for_o matter_n beyond_o their_o experience_n no_o doubt_n will_v often_o remit_v soul_n to_o god_n &_o their_o own_o observation_n the_o which_o be_v a_o quality_n &_o office_n not_o to_o be_v expect_v from_o person_n that_o bring_v no_o better_a endowment_n with_o they_o to_o the_o manage_n of_o contemplative_a soul_n but_o only_a subtlety_n of_o wit_n &_o learning_n or_o experience_n in_o a_o quite_o different_a &_o much_o inferior_a exercise_n of_o prayer_n such_o experience_n be_v as_o i_o say_v rather_o a_o disadvantage_n for_o such_o will_v resolve_v all_o case_n &_o though_o the_o direction_n they_o give_v must_v needs_o be_v improper_a yet_o they_o will_v be_v very_o absolute_a in_o require_v obedience_n whereas_o a_o person_n experience_v in_o the_o same_o internal_a way_n be_v humble_a withal_o for_o else_o say_v auila_n he_o also_o will_v probable_o be_v faulty_a too_o though_o he_o be_v not_o in_o all_o case_n able_a to_o give_v a_o resolute_a judgement_n yet_o find_v his_o own_o deficiency_n he_o will_v make_v a_o doubt_n of_o the_o matter_n &_o therpon_o out_o of_o humility_n will_v not_o scorn_v but_o rather_o be_v desirous_a to_o consult_v &_o take_v advice_n from_o other_o more_o able_a to_o resolve_v 10._o herpon_o it_o be_v that_o s._n teresa_n as_o it_o be_v record_v in_o her_o life_n much_o complain_v of_o the_o hurt_n that_o such_o resolute_a &_o in_o sufficient_a teacher_n do_v to_o she_o &_o will_v do_v to_o other_o and_o thaulerus_n worthy_o style_v a_o illuminate_v doctor_n profess_v of_o himself_o in_o a_o certain_a sermon_n that_o unless_o he_o be_v special_o illuminate_v by_o god_n for_o the_o solution_n of_o a_o doubt_n propose_v to_o he_o he_o will_v remit_v the_o party_n to_o god_n himself_o to_o be_v instruct_v in_o prayer_n what_o to_o do_v and_o let_v not_o such_o a_o one_o doubt_v say_v he_o but_o that_o god_n will_v be_v his_o faithful_a counsellor_n moreover_o he_o find_v great_a fault_n with_o those_o arrogant_a person_n that_o reprehend_v soul_n for_o suffer_v themselves_o to_o be_v guide_v by_o the_o instinct_n &_o internal_a light_n &_o motion_n proceed_v from_o god_n spirit_n &_o for_o their_o call_v such_o by_o the_o title_n of_o new_a spirit_n or_o pretender_n to_o extraordinary_a illumination_n whereas_o say_v he_o those_o that_o take_v all_o their_o instruction_n from_o person_n &_o book_n will_v with_o very_o small_a success_n pursue_v the_o way_n of_o the_o spirit_n 11._o it_o be_v a_o miserable_a thing_n to_o see_v how_o this_o employment_n of_o direct_v soul_n which_o above_o all_o other_o be_v most_o difficult_a &_o exceed_v even_o the_o ability_n of_o a_o angel_n yet_o out_o of_o a_o ambitious_a humour_n be_v invade_v by_o person_n whole_o unfit_a for_o it_o &_o that_o without_o any_o vocation_n from_o god_n voluntary_o undertake_v it_o so_o that_o no_o marvel_n it_o be_v if_o so_o little_a good_a come_v from_o such_o intruder_n not_o one_o of_o a_o thousand_o say_v auila_n be_v capable_a of_o so_o sublime_a a_o task_n nay_o say_v the_o holy_a bishop_n of_o geneva_n not_o one_o often_o thousand_o and_o most_o certain_a it_o be_v that_o those_o who_o so_o free_o offer_v themselves_o to_o so_o divine_a a_o employment_n do_v thereby_o show_v themselves_o to_o want_n the_o most_o necessary_a qualification_n to_o wit_n humility_n &_o a_o true_a knowledge_n of_o its_o difficulty_n &_o therefore_o their_o direction_n be_v most_o to_o be_v suspect_v 12._o hereupon_o thaulerus_n say_v that_o a_o soul_n intend_v perfection_n ought_v to_o seek_v out_o a_o experience_a servant_n of_o god_n though_o it_o cost_v she_o a_o journey_n of_o many_o german_a mile_n but_o say_v he_o if_o such_o a_o friend_n can_v be_v find_v then_o will_v a_o simple_a confessarius_fw-la serve_v though_o never_o so_o ignorant_a for_o even_o by_o such_o man_n do_v the_o holy_a ghost_n speak_v by_o reason_n of_o their_o office_n so_o that_o they_o may_v secure_o be_v submit_v to_o &_o obey_v even_o in_o thing_n which_o they_o do_v not_o well_o understand_v 13._o if_o a_o soul_n that_o be_v fearful_a &_o scrupulous_a be_v to_o choose_v a_o director_n she_o ought_v to_o avoid_v one_o of_o the_o like_a temper_n for_o passion_n which_o blind_v the_o seeker_n will_v also_o blind_v the_o director_n &_o so_o the_o blind_a will_v lead_v the_o blind_a 14._o it_o be_v not_o necessary_a that_o the_o person_n consult_v with_o about_o difficulty_n concern_v internal_a prayer_n shall_v be_v learn_v or_o in_o holy_a order_n except_o doubt_n concern_v matter_n of_o faith_n of_o case_n of_o conscience_n intervene_v for_o though_o lay-person_n &_o woman_n be_v not_o allow_v by_o the_o church_n to_o preach_v public_o yet_o be_v they_o not_o forbid_v to_o give_v private_a instruction_n in_o matter_n of_o that_o nature_n to_o any_o that_o shall_v have_v recourse_n to_o they_o and_o of_o the_o good_a success_n of_o such_o instructour_n we_o have_v diverse_a example_n as_o in_o the_o lay_v man_n that_o convert_v thâulerus_n a_o learned_a doctor_n &_o a_o religious_a man_n and_o likewise_o in_o s._n catherine_n of_o sienna_n s._n teresa_n &c_n &c_n and_o in_o a_o well_o govern_v monastery_n of_o woman_n where_o a_o good_a course_n of_o internal_a prayer_n approve_v by_o superior_n and_o learned_a divine_n be_v once_o well_o settle_v it_o be_v very_o expedient_a that_o instruction_n concern_v it_o shall_v rather_o come_v from_o superior_n within_o because_o otherwise_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o frequent_a change_n of_o directour_n perhaps_o of_o contrary_a spirit_n &_o many_o of_o they_o little_o practise_v in_o such_o prayer_n soul_n will_v be_v govern_v uncertain_o &_o be_v in_o danger_n to_o be_v put_v out_o of_o their_o way_n 15._o though_o it_o seem_v evident_o more_o reasonable_a &_o more_o proportionable_a to_o the_o spirit_n of_o person_n profess_v a_o religious_a state_n to_o be_v conduct_v by_o other_o of_o the_o s_o ne_fw-fr profession_n caeteris_fw-la paribus_fw-la then_o by_o such_o as_o be_v stranger_n thereto_o yet_o scarce_o any_o directour_n can_v be_v find_v more_o improper_a for_o such_o suppose_v that_o they_o tend_v to_o contemplation_n then_o be_v religious_a guide_n of_o active_a spirit_n that_o know_v no_o further_o of_o prayer_n than_o meditation_n &_o that_o show_v more_o zeal_n for_o a_o exact_a observance_n of_o ceremony_n or_o a_o multiply_a of_o external_a voluntary_a austerity_n the_o which_o of_o themselves_o &_o unless_o they_o be_v guide_v by_o god_n spirit_n have_v no_o special_a influence_n on_o the_o spirit_n but_o only_o serve_v either_o for_o a_o outward_a show_v of_o rigour_n or_o for_o keep_v soul_n from_o mispending_a the_o time_n then_o for_o the_o more_o essential_a internal_a duty_n of_o prayer_n solitude_n of_o spirit_n interiour_n mortification_n &c_n &c_n much_o more_o profitable_a to_o such_o soul_n will_v be_v a_o director_n though_o not_o of_o any_o religious_a profession_n that_o will_v impose_v on_o soul_n only_o such_o austerity_n as_o be_v essential_o necessary_a to_o a_o internal_a life_n such_o as_o be_v perfect_a abstraction_n silence_n solitude_n convenient_a abstinence_n &c_n &c_n and_o for_o other_o matter_n not_o much_o necessary_a nor_o much_o effectual_a leave_v they_o in_o a_o due_a moderate_a liberty_n of_o spirit_n especial_o such_o as_o will_v not_o impose_v on_o they_o any_o form_n of_o mental_a prayer_n however_o like_v or_o practise_v by_o themselves_o but_o for_o such_o matter_n rathet_n leave_v they_o to_o the_o conduct_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n &_o that_o will_v not_o torture_v they_o with_o painful_a iterate_v coustumary_a confession_n &c_n &c_n 16._o and_o whereas_o it_o will_v be_v perhaps_o object_v that_o probable_o such_o directour_n be_v stranger_n as_o to_o the_o special_a distinctive_a spirit_n of_o such_o a_o order_n or_o community_n may_v endanger_v in_o their_o disciple_n a_o loss_n of_o the_o say_a spirit_n i_o must_v profess_v that_o i_o understand_v not_o what_o be_v mean_v by_o
25._o the_o general_a remedy_n against_o almost_o all_o difficulty_n be_v these_o two_o 1._o riddance_n 2._o patience_n the_o former_a consist_v in_o afford_v to_o the_o soul_n some_o ease_n &_o latitude_n as_o far_o as_o a_o good_a conscience_n will_v permit_v in_o such_o thing_n as_o be_v apt_a to_o perplex_v well-minded_n tender_a soul_n as_o confession_n say_v of_o the_o office_n obligation_n to_o the_o ordinance_n of_o the_o church_n &_o some_o kind_n of_o tentation_n in_o all_o which_o thing_n such_o soul_n be_v to_o be_v teach_v to_o neglect_v &_o transcend_v scrupulous_a nicety_n &_o they_o be_v likewise_o to_o be_v prudent_o free_v from_o the_o practice_n of_o coustumes_n not_o obligatory_a and_o this_o remedy_n be_v proper_a against_o scrupulosity_n disintangle_v the_o soul_n from_o many_o snare_n which_o otherwise_o will_v prove_v a_o great_a hindrance_n to_o she_o the_o other_o remedy_n of_o patience_n &_o abide_n be_v reasonable_a in_o case_n of_o aridity_n desolation_n &_o other_o such_o discouragement_n in_o a_o internal_a life_n in_o which_o case_n the_o devout_a soul_n be_v to_o be_v exhort_v to_o behave_v herself_o as_o well_o as_o she_o can_v &_o to_o be_v quiet_o resign_v for_o what_o with_o all_o her_o industry_n she_o can_v help_v above_o all_o thing_n she_o be_v to_o be_v hearten_v to_o pursue_v courageous_o her_o appoint_a recollection_n in_o despite_n of_o all_o such_o opposition_n raise_v by_o the_o devil_n or_o corrupt_a nature_n &_o permit_v by_o god_n for_o her_o good_a the_o which_o if_o she_o do_v she_o will_v either_o disperse_v these_o tentation_n or_o obtain_v a_o divine_a light_n to_o perceive_v that_o the_o way_n both_o most_o proper_a &_o most_o secure_a by_o which_o god_n purpose_v to_o lead_v she_o to_o perfection_n be_v the_o way_n of_o aridity_n &_o obscurity_n as_o b_o john_n de_fw-fr cruse_n teach_v in_o his_o treatise_n call_v mount_n carmel_n and_o when_o she_o once_o perceive_v this_o than_o they_o will_v not_o only_o be_v supportable_a but_o even_o acceptable_a to_o she_o however_o if_o a_o soul_n do_v know_v or_o can_v be_v persuade_v how_o much_o better_o it_o be_v for_o she_o to_o suffer_v a_o little_a bitterness_n arise_v from_o such_o difficulty_n or_o perplexity_n then_o to_o hasten_v for_o a_o remedy_n by_o seek_v help_n from_o other_o or_o by_o turn_v herself_o to_o unnecessary_a solace_n in_o creature_n and_o also_o with_o what_o confidence_n she_o may_v expect_v satisfaction_n from_o her_o internal_a master_n if_o she_o will_v serious_o by_o prayer_n seek_v to_o he_o she_o will_v save_v both_o herself_o &_o her_o director_n much_o trouble_n &_o inconvenience_n 26._o the_o instructor_n must_v use_v great_a wariness_n that_o he_o do_v not_o raise_v doubt_n &_o scruple_n in_o his_o scholar_n mind_n by_o move_a needle_n &_o indiscreet_a question_n or_o by_o impertinent_a discourse_n concern_v spiritual_a matter_n for_o thereby_o he_o may_v come_v to_o raise_v such_o doubt_n as_o himself_o shall_v not_o be_v able_a to_o resolve_v &_o to_o put_v they_o so_o far_o out_o of_o their_o way_n as_o perhaps_o they_o will_v never_o be_v able_a to_o find_v it_o again_o therefore_o in_o ordinary_a conversation_n it_o be_v more_o fit_a that_o the_o subject_n of_o discourse_n shall_v be_v some_o external_a &_o indifferent_a matter_n wherein_o the_o party_n be_v not_o much_o concern_v than_o such_o as_o regard_v the_o interiour_n experience_n show_v how_o much_o inconvenience_n do_v come_v to_o soul_n by_o the_o conversation_n of_o such_o as_o be_v great_a pretender_n to_o skill_n in_o spirituality_n &_o therefore_o out_o of_o vanity_n or_o a_o mistake_a charity_n be_v apt_a when_o there_o be_v no_o need_n to_o be_v offer_v instruction_n about_o spiritual_a matter_n 27._o some_o soul_n do_v see_v their_o way_n before_o they_o far_o better_a than_o other_o &_o therefore_o do_v move_v fewuer_o question_n the_o instructor_n therefore_o be_v to_o behave_v himself_o towards_o they_o all_o according_a to_o the_o quality_n &_o need_n of_o each_o spirit_n always_o remember_v that_o his_o office_n be_v not_o to_o teach_v his_o own_o way_n nor_o indeed_o any_o determinate_a way_n of_o prayer_n &c_n &c_n but_o to_o instruct_v his_o disciple_n how_o they_o may_v themselves_o find_v out_o the_o way_n proper_a for_o they_o by_o observe_v themselves_o what_o do_v good_a &_o what_o cause_v harm_n to_o their_o spirit_n in_o a_o word_n that_o he_o be_v only_a god_n usher_n &_o must_v lead_v soul_n in_o god_n way_n &_o not_o his_o own_o 28._o of_o all_o other_o spiritual_a person_n it_o concern_v woman_n especial_o to_o be_v very_o spare_v in_o consultation_n &_o when_o necessity_n require_v to_o be_v brief_a in_o deliver_v their_o difficulty_n for_o otherwise_o many_o inconvenience_n will_v follow_v as_o 1._o loss_n of_o time_n both_o to_o the_o disciple_n &_o instructor_n 2._o distraction_n far_o more_o hurtful_a than_o if_o they_o be_v busy_v about_o the_o most_o encombr_a employment_n of_o the_o community_n 3._o danger_n of_o multiply_v new_a perplexity_n by_o fear_v that_o they_o have_v not_o give_v a_o full_a &_o a_o right_a account_n of_o themselves_o &c_n &c_n beside_o one_o difficulty_n will_v be_v apt_a to_o beget_v a_o new_a one_o so_o that_o instead_o of_o seek_v peace_n by_o disburden_v of_o the_o conscience_n by_o their_o indiscretion_n they_o may_v come_v both_o to_o trouble_v the_o peace_n of_o their_o instructour_n &_o to_o plunge_v themselves_o in_o incurable_a perplexity_n &_o obscurity_n of_o mind_n 4._o great_a cause_n there_o be_v to_o fear_v that_o there_o may_v upon_o such_o occasion_n of_o unnecessary_a consultation_n ensue_v dangerous_a familiarity_n &_o freindships_n with_o such_o as_o may_v prove_v very_o unfit_a counselor_n thereupon_o s._n francis_n xaverius_n say_v that_o seldom_o be_v there_o so_o much_o good_a to_o be_v expect_v from_o the_o frequent_a treaty_n between_o person_n of_o different_a sex_n as_o there_o be_v peril_n in_o they_o to_o both_o 29._o this_o may_v suffice_v concern_v the_o quality_n &_o office_n of_o a_o external_a director_n as_o for_o more_o special_a duty_n belong_v to_o he_o in_o more_o particular_a case_n as_o scrupulosity_n mortification_n etc._n etc._n it_o shall_v be_v treat_v when_o we_o come_v to_o speak_v of_o such_o particular_a subject_n as_o likewise_o of_o the_o obligation_n of_o superior_n about_o the_o promote_a the_o spiritual_a good_a of_o their_o subject_n soul_n although_o they_o be_v not_o consult_v with_o in_o the_o nature_n of_o spiritual_a guide_n somewhat_o shall_v be_v say_v in_o the_o follow_a discourse_n concern_v the_o state_n of_o a_o religious_a profession_n cap._n iii_o §_o 1._o of_o read_v which_o be_v next_o to_o prayer_n §_o 2._o some_o book_n may_v be_v read_v for_o diversion_n §_o 3._o but_o spiritual_a book_n only_o for_o the_o soul_n profit_n §_o 4._o 5._o book_n proper_a for_o contemplative_n etc._n etc._n §_o 6._o not_o to_o stop_v in_o obscure_a place_n §_o 7._o not_o to_o practice_v direction_n but_o such_o as_o be_v suitable_a to_o the_o spirit_n §_o 9_o 10._o extraordinary_a practice_n of_o saint_n in_o mortification_n not_o to_o be_v imitate_v without_o great_a caution_n §_o 11_o why_o mystic_a author_n seem_v to_o write_v diverse_o §_o 12._o some_o author_n indiscreet_o require_v perfection_n at_o first_o §_o 13._o reading_n must_v give_v way_n to_o prayer_n §_o 14_o how_o mortification_n be_v to_o be_v practise_v in_o reading_n §_o 15._o 16._o divine_a inspiration_n to_o be_v observe_v in_o apply_v instruction_n and_o particular_o of_o those_o in_o this_o book_n §_o 17._o a_o soul_n follow_v god_n may_v without_o book_n or_o instructour_n be_v lead_v to_o perfect_a contemplation_n 1._o a_o second_o mean_v by_o which_o the_o divine_a spirit_n teach_v devout_a soul_n be_v the_o read_n of_o pious_a book_n and_o this_o exercise_n i_o esteem_v for_o worth_a &_o spiritual_a profit_n to_o be_v next_o unto_o prayer_n 2._o as_o for_o ordinary_o book_n as_o ecclesiastical_a story_n &c_n &c_n it_o may_v be_v permit_v to_o soul_n even_o in_o religion_n to_o read_v they_o for_o a_o innocent_a diversion_n &_o recreation_n so_o that_o be_v not_o the_o principal_a end_n but_o that_o the_o intention_n further_o be_v by_o such_o diversion_n to_o dispose_v a_o weary_a soul_n the_o better_a afterward_o to_o pursue_v her_o internal_a exercise_n and_o this_o permission_n now_o be_v the_o more_o reasonable_a since_o that_o in_o religious_a community_n of_o man_n bodily_a labour_n be_v almost_o out_o of_o date_n &_o in_o place_n thereof_o read_v &_o study_n have_v succeed_v as_o now_o the_o principal_a daily_a employment_n of_o keligious_a person_n who_o live_v much_o less_o abstract_v from_o the_o world_n be_v almost_o force_v to_o comply_v with_o the_o custom_n of_o the_o present_a time_n in_o which_o learning_n be_v so_o value_v &_o so_o
interior_a counsel_n of_o god_n seek_v by_o a_o resigned_n persevere_v prayer_n to_o which_o our_o lord_n have_v give_v a_o express_a promise_n say_v whatsoever_o you_o shall_v ask_v in_o my_o name_n believe_v that_o you_o shall_v receive_v it_o &_o it_o shall_v happen_v unto_o you_o and_o such_o be_v the_o practice_n of_o b._n angela_n de_fw-fr fulginio_n etc._n etc._n 21._o to_o this_o purpose_n it_o be_v very_o observable_a in_o the_o life_n of_o the_o same_o b._n angela_n that_o god_n command_v she_o to_o set_v down_o in_o write_v this_o passage_n which_o be_v the_o only_a one_o for_o which_o she_o receive_v such_o a_o command_n to_o wit_n that_o he_o will_v take_v away_o his_o light_n and_o grace_n from_o those_o who_o be_v bring_v immediate_o to_o their_o internal_a master_n will_v be_v so_o ungrateful_a as_o to_o forsake_v he_o and_o be_v take_v themselves_o to_o a_o externall_n one_o yea_o and_o that_o moreover_o such_o shall_v have_v a_o curse_n from_o he_o namely_o if_o they_o do_v persist_v in_o recede_v from_o the_o divine_a conduct_n constant_o prefer_v humane_a direction_n before_o god_n 22._o yet_o this_o advice_n of_o be_v constant_a to_o a_o resolution_n so_o make_v be_v to_o give_v place_n 1._o in_o case_n a_o superior_a shall_v command_v any_o thing_n contrary_a thereto_o for_o a_o superior_a must_v be_v obey_v even_o against_o such_o a_o interiour_n counsel_n because_o a_o soul_n be_v not_o only_o counsel_v but_o also_o command_v to_o obey_v her_o superior_n so_o that_o whensoever_o a_o superior_a do_v deliberate_o disapprove_v a_o counsel_n so_o receive_v a_o devout_a soul_n be_v to_o believe_v that_o now_o it_o be_v god_n will_n that_o his_o former_a counsel_n shall_v cease_v from_o be_v any_o further_o oblige_v 2._o in_o case_n that_o any_o other_o different_a circumstance_n shall_v occur_v which_o may_v perhaps_o alter_v the_o state_n of_o the_o difficulty_n notwithstanding_o such_o a_o change_n be_v not_o to_o be_v make_v upon_o this_o last_o ground_n without_o new_a recur_v to_o god_n for_o light_n yea_o though_o the_o reason_n for_o a_o change_n be_v never_o so_o clear_a yet_o it_o be_v best_o it_o shall_v be_v make_v in_o virtue_n of_o prayer_n to_o the_o end_n it_o may_v be_v do_v with_o great_a purity_n of_o intention_n 23._o now_o in_o all_o case_n of_o such_o like_a nature_n the_o purpose_n and_o resolution_n be_v seldom_o to_o be_v make_v in_o the_o very_a time_n of_o our_o recollection_n both_o because_o as_o have_v be_v say_v the_o think_v on_o such_o matter_n be_v not_o the_o proper_a subject_n of_o prayer_n but_o be_v very_o distractive_a and_o likewise_o because_o the_o internal_a illustration_n and_o motion_n of_o god_n spirit_n be_v better_o perceive_v after_o prayer_n when_o the_o soul_n have_v be_v recollect_v do_v reflect_v on_o they_o 24._o but_o it_o be_v otherwise_o in_o matter_n of_o resignation_n or_o when_o we_o pray_v for_o patience_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o mind_n in_o cross_n and_o difficulty_n for_o in_o such_o case_n we_o be_v to_o make_v our_o good_a purpose_n in_o our_o prayer_n themselves_o and_o oft_o be_v to_o renew_v they_o afterward_o because_o such_o purpose_n do_v of_o themselves_o present_o appear_v to_o be_v clear_a and_o obligatory_a and_o beside_o they_o be_v proper_a matter_n for_o prayer_n 25._o after_o that_o a_o soul_n have_v make_v a_o resolution_n in_o the_o case_n and_o after_o the_o manner_n aforesaid_a and_o likewise_o have_v put_v the_o same_o in_o practice_n let_v the_o issue_n be_v what_o it_o will_v whether_o profitable_a or_o harmful_a to_o nature_n yet_o must_v she_o never_o esteem_v the_o election_n to_o have_v be_v amiss_o nor_o must_v she_o hearken_v to_o the_o suggestion_n of_o nature_n the_o which_o find_v in_o such_o practise_v something_o contrary_a to_o her_o inclination_n will_v be_v apt_a by_o subtle_a insinuation_n to_o move_v the_o soul_n to_o repent_v and_o to_o undo_v what_o she_o have_v do_v such_o a_o erroneous_a judgement_n procure_v by_o corrupt_a nature_n be_v to_o be_v despise_v and_o depose_v for_o well_o may_v we_o happen_v to_o err_v in_o the_o manner_n of_o execute_v such_o counsel_n give_v we_o by_o god_n and_o thereby_o or_o by_o some_o other_o mean_n inconvenience_n or_o harm_n may_v sometime_o befall_v we_o but_o the_o election_n in_o itself_o make_v in_o the_o manner_n aforesaid_a be_v good_a and_o it_o will_v be_v a_o act_n of_o immortification_n to_o blame_v it_o or_o to_o be_v sorry_a for_o it_o god_n for_o our_o good_a do_v often_o turn_v our_o best_a deed_n to_o our_o great_a mortification_n and_o thereby_o we_o reap_v a_o double_a benefitt_a 26._o in_o such_o doubtful_a case_n as_o have_v here_o be_v speak_v of_o a_o soul_n must_v not_o expect_v a_o apparent_a evident_a certitude_n as_o spiritual_a writer_n say_v for_o god_n to_o keep_v the_o soul_n in_o humility_n do_v not_o use_v to_o give_v a_o absolute_a assurance_n of_o the_o matter_n itself_o simple_o consider_v but_o only_o a_o certainty_n of_o be_v direct_v and_o draw_v more_o to_o one_o side_n of_o the_o difficulty_n then_o to_o the_o other_o the_o which_o side_n in_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o say_a author_n be_v to_o be_v choose_v and_o follow_v as_o the_o divine_a will._n so_o that_o any_o advantage_n or_o preponderation_n though_o never_o so_o little_a towards_o one_o side_n more_o than_o another_o make_v certitude_n enough_o of_o god_n will_n as_o for_o stand_v to_o it_o if_o there_o be_v no_o perceptible_a difference_n or_o lean_v either_o way_n the_o soul_n be_v either_o to_o take_v advice_n from_o some_o other_o or_o to_o supply_v it_o with_o her_o natural_a impartial_a reason_n or_o even_o as_o it_o be_v by_o lot_n to_o choose_v whether_o she_o think_v good_a and_o what_o she_o do_v after_o this_o manner_n she_o may_v equivalent_o be_v say_v to_o do_v as_o by_o the_o direction_n and_o impulse_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n because_o it_o be_v god_n will_v and_o appointment_n that_o when_o himself_o do_v not_o direct_v we_o immediate_o by_o his_o spirit_n we_o shall_v make_v use_n of_o other_o inferior_a external_a way_n the_o best_a we_o can_v for_o our_o direction_n in_o all_o thing_n always_o intend_v his_o glory_n and_o increase_n in_o his_o love_n only_o 27._o it_o will_v be_v a_o vain_a presumptuous_a and_o dangerous_a tempt_a of_o god_n to_o go_v and_o pray_v to_o the_o end_n to_o know_v his_o will_n in_o thing_n command_v by_o know_a law_n and_o by_o lawful_a superior_n for_o they_o be_v appoint_v by_o he_o as_o the_o most_o assure_a interpreter_n of_o his_o will_n and_o to_o expect_v any_o more_o be_v to_o pretend_v to_o extraordinary_a illumination_n and_o call_n which_o be_v neither_o to_o be_v desire_v nor_o trust_v to_o because_o there_o will_v be_v great_a danger_n of_o illusion_n by_o the_o devil_n counterfeit_n a_o good_a angel_n and_o he_o that_o be_v so_o presumptuous_a in_o his_o practice_n deserve_v that_o god_n permit_v such_o illusion_n chap._n viii_o §_o 1._o 2._o 3._o sufficient_a assurance_n may_v be_v have_v that_o inspiration_n be_v from_o god_n §_o 4._o 5._o 6._o 7._o a_o soul_n therefore_o may_v secure_o commit_v herself_o to_o god_n guidance_n and_o why_o §_o 8._o no_o danger_n if_o a_o soul_n shall_v sometime_o be_v mistake_v take_v that_o for_o a_o inspiration_n which_o be_v not_o so_o 1._o now_o all_o these_o instruction_n and_o exhortation_n to_o attend_v unto_o and_o depend_v on_o the_o divine_a inspiration_n will_v be_v in_o vain_a yea_o all_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n that_o he_o will_v give_v he_o holy_a spirit_n to_o those_o that_o pray_v for_o it_o as_o they_o ought_v will_v be_v as_o vain_a if_o there_o be_v no_o mean_n to_o be_v assure_v of_o such_o inspiration_n that_o they_o be_v from_o god_n by_o a_o assurance_n i_o mean_v of_o hope_n for_o a_o certainty_n of_o faith_n without_o extraordinary_a revelation_n can_v be_v have_v of_o such_o matter_n which_o necessary_o suppose_v the_o like_a assurance_n of_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o thaulerus_n blosius_n michael_n constantiensis_n etc._n etc._n do_v teach_v we_o how_o we_o may_v discern_v and_o with_o confidence_n judge_v resolute_o what_o be_v a_o divine_a inspiration_n say_v that_o the_o devout_a soul_n which_o proceed_v with_o recollection_n &_o resignation_n in_o all_o doubtful_a matter_n of_o importance_n may_v &_o aught_o to_o take_v that_o to_o be_v the_o divine_a will_n to_o which_o she_o be_v interior_o move_v in_o or_o after_o her_o recollection_n when_o as_o passion_n do_v not_o prevail_v in_o she_o so_o long_o as_o the_o matter_n be_v not_o otherwise_o contrary_a to_o external_a obedience_n or_o other_o law_n of_o god_n or_o man_n 2._o for_o it_o be_v certain_a yea_o &_o faith_n oblige_v we_o to_o believe_v that_o
sublime_a and_o by_o all_o ancient_a saint_n deem_v so_o formidable_a a_o office_n by_o which_o they_o be_v empowerd_v and_o oblige_v with_o immaculate_a sacrifice_n and_o fervent_a prayer_n to_o be_v daily_a intercessor_n with_o god_n for_o the_o whole_a church_n presuppose_v they_o to_o have_v already_o attein_v to_o a_o good_a recollectednes_n in_o prayer_n and_o if_o moreover_o they_o have_v a_o charge_n of_o soul_n they_o will_v need_v a_o far_o great_a stability_n therein_o that_o their_o various_a employment_n may_v be_v perform_v pure_o for_o and_o in_o god_n and_o not_o break_v their_o union_n with_o he_o moreover_o by_o their_o profession_n their_o obligation_n come_v never_o to_o the_o vow_n of_o religious_a person_n for_o 1._o they_o owe_v a_o obedience_n to_o superior_n though_o not_o in_o every_o ordinary_a action_n 2._o they_o profess_v the_o same_o chastity_n 3._o they_o ought_v to_o have_v little_a more_o propriety_n in_o their_o good_n for_o whatsoever_o be_v beyond_o their_o moderate_a necessity_n &_o obligation_n of_o hospitable_a charity_n they_o can_v little_o more_o dispose_n of_o without_o wrong_n to_o the_o poor_a etc._n etc._n then_o religious_a 4._o though_o their_o employment_n require_v from_o they_o more_o conversation_n with_o other_o than_o the_o state_n of_o religious_a do_v yet_o they_o be_v as_o well_o oblige_v to_o disengage_v their_o affection_n from_o all_o love_n or_o solicitude_n about_o riches_n etc._n etc._n as_o the_o other_o be_v and_o in_o like_a manner_n to_o free_v themselves_o from_o all_o distractive_a employment_n not_o belong_v necessary_o to_o their_o call_v 10._o and_o upon_o these_o ground_n it_o be_v that_o in_o the_o ancient_n and_o best_a time_n of_o the_o church_n scarce_o any_o dare_v presume_v to_o undertake_v so_o high_a and_o perfect_a a_o call_v as_o the_o charge_n of_o soul_n be_v till_o after_o many_o year_n first_o spend_v in_o a_o kind_n of_o religious_a abstraction_n of_o life_n solitude_n silence_n great_a mortification_n and_o assiduous_a prayer_n etc._n etc._n witness_n s._n basile_n s._n gregory_n nazianzene_n s._n gregory_n nyssen_n s._n chrysostome_n s._n augustin_n s._n john_n damascene_fw-la etc._n etc._n and_o yet_o after_o they_o have_v do_v all_o this_o it_o be_v a_o wonder_n with_o what_o unwillingnes_n &_o fear_n they_o suffer_v themselves_o to_o be_v force_v to_o accept_v of_o such_o a_o charge_n what_o excuse_n prayer_n flight_n into_o the_o desert_n to_o avoid_v it_o and_o when_o they_o be_v compel_v by_o god_n or_o man_n thereto_o they_o be_v far_o from_o think_v themselves_o disoblige_v from_o a_o continuation_n of_o their_o contemplative_a exercise_n of_o abstraction_n mortification_n &_o prayer_n etc._n etc._n but_o on_o the_o contrary_n they_o steal_v time_n even_o from_o their_o necessary_a refection_n &_o sleep_v to_o employ_v in_o their_o recollection_n as_o know_v that_o nothing_o they_o can_v do_v will_v be_v acceptable_a to_o god_n further_o than_o it_o proceed_v in_o virtue_n of_o grace_n obtain_v by_o prayer_n 11._o but_o the_o best_a proof_n &_o example_n of_o the_o obligation_n of_o a_o ecclesiastical_a person_n be_v our_o bless_a saviour_n himself_o who_o though_o by_o virtue_n of_o the_o hypostatical_a union_n he_o be_v replenish_v with_o all_o manner_n of_o grace_n without_o measure_n and_o therefore_o have_v no_o need_n at_o all_o as_o for_o himself_o to_o pray_v for_o more_o yet_o to_o show_v a_o example_n most_o necessary_a to_o we_o he_o take_v not_o on_o he_o the_o employment_n of_o convert_v other_o till_o he_o have_v spend_v the_o former_a thirty_o year_n of_o his_o life_n in_o solitude_n silence_n and_o all_o the_o most_o holy_a internal_a exercise_n at_o home_n where_o he_o live_v unobserue_v &_o unknow_v unto_o the_o world_n and_o during_o all_o the_o time_n of_o his_o most_o laborious_a execution_n of_o his_o prophetical_a office_n beside_o much_o prayer_n exercise_v open_o before_o other_o the_o gospel_n express_o say_v that_o his_o custom_n be_v at_o night_n to_o retire_v himself_o with_o his_o disciple_n to_o prayer_n yea_o &_o whensoever_o any_o great_a work_n be_v to_o be_v do_v as_o before_o the_o mission_n of_o the_o disciple_n and_o apostle_n that_o he_o spend_v whole_a night_n alone_o in_o prayer_n add_v hereunto_o that_o he_o utter_o refuse_v to_o meddle_v in_o secular_a affair_n or_o controversy_n he_o frequent_v the_o desert_n etc._n etc._n 12._o so_o that_o a_o ecclesiastical_a person_n both_o for_o his_o own_o sake_n and_o out_o of_o a_o tender_a love_n to_o his_o flock_n aught_o to_o think_v himself_o more_o oblige_v then_o before_o to_o the_o practice_n of_o all_o internal_a contemplative_a exercise_n and_o above_o all_o other_o of_o pure_a spiritual_a prayer_n which_o alone_o will_v sanctify_v &_o make_v successful_a both_o to_o himself_o &_o other_o all_o other_o action_n belong_v to_o his_o profession_n and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o s._n florentius_n a_o ancient_a holy_a bishop_n first_o of_o vtrecht_n and_o afterward_o of_o munster_n when_o he_o be_v reprehend_v by_o some_o for_o spend_v so_o much_o time_n in_o prayer_n as_o if_o thereby_o he_o be_v hinder_v from_o a_o more_o perfect_a discharge_n of_o his_o episcopal_a function_n return_v they_o a_o answer_v very_o become_v a_o perfect_a illuminate_v bishop_n say_v quid_fw-la vobis_fw-la insanire_fw-la videor_fw-la si_fw-la cum_fw-la multas_fw-la oves_fw-la habeam_fw-la multum_fw-la orem_fw-la that_o be_v what_o do_v you_o account_v i_o mad_a because_o have_v so_o many_o sheep_n under_o my_o charge_n i_o best_o we_o so_o much_o time_n in_o prayer_n imply_v that_o it_o be_v only_o by_o prayer_n that_o he_o can_v hope_v for_o enablement_n to_o perform_v his_o episcopal_a duty_n and_o for_o a_o blessing_n after_o the_o performance_n of_o it_o 13._o such_o be_v the_o duty_n and_o such_o the_o obligation_n of_o ecclesiastical_a person_n but_o if_o there_o be_v any_o conscious_a to_o themselves_o of_o neglect_n in_o this_o matter_n and_o desirous_a to_o repair_v past_a omission_n by_o future_a diligence_n they_o may_v if_o they_o think_v good_a make_v use_n of_o these_o simple_a instruction_n the_o which_o general_o in_o the_o substance_n be_v proper_a enough_o for_o they_o if_o they_o will_v only_o separate_v certain_a circumstance_n &_o respect_n in_o they_o which_o be_v peculiar_a to_o religious_a chap._n ii_o §_o 1._o 2._o how_o a_o secular_a person_n may_v make_v use_n of_o these_o instruction_n some_o of_o which_o do_v equal_o belong_v to_o such_o a_o one_o as_o well_o as_o to_o religious_a §_o 3._o what_o benefit_n such_o a_o one_o may_v also_o reap_v from_o instruction_n here_o peculiar_o belong_v to_o religious_a §_o 4._o 5._o 6._o 7._o 8._o 9_o such_o a_o soul_n need_v not_o to_o apprehend_v want_n if_o consecrate_v herself_o to_o god_n she_o shall_v relinquish_v worldly_a sollicitude_n 1._o in_o the_o next_o place_n as_o concern_v a_o secular_a person_n not_o in_o holy_a order_n that_o live_v a_o common_a life_n in_o the_o world_n of_o what_o sex_n or_o condition_n soever_o for_o with_o god_n there_o be_v no_o difference_n or_o acceptation_n of_o person_n to_o who_o the_o divine_a spirit_n shall_v have_v give_v a_o effectual_a call_v to_o seek_v god_n in_o these_o internal_a way_n of_o contemplation_n yet_o so_o as_o that_o they_o do_v not_o find_v themselves_o oblige_v to_o forsake_v a_o secular_a profession_n and_o to_o embrace_v a_o religious_a life_n of_o which_o state_n the_o person_n perhaps_o be_v marry_v or_o otherwise_o hinder_v be_v not_o capable_a or_o however_o find_v no_o inclination_n thereto_o such_o a_o soul_n may_v make_v benefit_n also_o of_o these_o instruction_n though_o purposely_o write_v for_o religious_a in_o as_o much_o as_o many_o of_o they_o do_v general_o belong_v to_o all_o person_n tend_v to_o perfection_n and_o those_o that_o seem_v more_o peculiar_a to_o religious_a yet_o with_o some_o qualification_n and_o application_n such_o as_o ordinary_a discretion_n will_v teach_v those_o instruction_n also_o may_v afford_v unto_o they_o some_o good_a help_n and_o useful_a benefit_n and_o for_o that_o purpose_n they_o may_v do_v well_o to_o take_v into_o their_o consideration_n and_o apply_v unto_o their_o own_o advantage_n in_o practice_n these_o follow_a advice_n 2._o a_o devout_a soul_n therefore_o be_v inspire_v by_o god_n to_o such_o a_o course_n and_o live_v in_o the_o world_n aught_o to_o conceive_v herself_o oblige_v as_o true_o and_o as_o proper_o though_o not_o altogether_o equal_o as_o any_o of_o a_o religious_a profession_n to_o the_o practice_n of_o these_o substantial_a &_o essential_a duty_n and_o instruction_n follow_a viz._n 1._o a_o strong_a resolution_n notwithstanding_o any_o contradiction_n and_o difficulty_n to_o pursue_v by_o the_o divine_a assistance_n the_o way_n tend_v to_o contemplation_n 2._o a_o equal_a care_n to_o observe_v and_o faithful_o to_o execute_v all_o divine_a inspiration_n and_o to_o dispose_v
for_o sure_o not_o corporal_a labour_n not_o the_o use_n of_o the_o sacrament_n not_o hear_v of_o sermon_n etc._n etc._n for_o all_o these_o she_o may_v have_v enjoy_v perhaps_o more_o plentiful_o in_o the_o world_n it_o be_v therefore_o only_a the_o union_n of_o the_o spirit_n with_o god_n by_o recollect_v constant_a prayer_n to_o the_o attain_n which_o divine_a end_n all_o thing_n practise_v in_o religion_n do_v dispose_v and_o to_o which_o alone_o so_o great_a impediment_n be_v find_v in_o the_o world_n 6._o the_o best_a general_a proof_n therefore_o of_o a_o good_a call_v to_o religion_n be_v a_o love_n to_o prayer_n either_o vocal_a or_o mental_a for_o if_o at_o first_o it_o be_v only_o to_o vocal_a prayer_n by_o reason_n that_o the_o soul_n be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o efficacy_n and_o excellency_n of_o internal_a contemplative_a prayer_n or_o perhaps_o have_v receive_v some_o preiudices_fw-la against_o it_o yet_o if_o she_o observe_v solitude_n careful_o and_o with_o attention_n and_o fervour_n practice_v vocal_a prayer_n she_o will_v in_o time_n either_o by_o a_o divine_a light_n perceive_v the_o necessity_n of_o join_v mental_a prayer_n to_o her_o vocal_a or_o be_v enable_v to_o practice_v her_o vocal_a prayer_n mental_o which_o be_v a_o sublime_a perfection_n 7._o it_o be_v a_o state_n therefore_o of_o recollectednes_n &_o introversion_n that_o every_o one_o enter_v into_o religion_n be_v to_o aspire_v unto_o the_o which_o consist_v in_o a_o habitual_a disposition_n of_o soul_n whereby_o she_o transcend_v all_o creature_n &_o their_o image_n the_o which_o thereby_o come_v to_o have_v little_a or_o no_o dominion_n over_o she_o so_o that_o she_o remain_v apt_a for_o immediate_a cooperation_n with_o god_n receive_v his_o inspiration_n and_o by_o a_o return_n and_o as_o it_o be_v a_o reflux_n tend_v to_o he_o and_o operate_n to_o his_o glory_n it_o be_v call_v recollectednes_n because_o the_o soul_n in_o such_o a_o state_n gather_v her_o thought_n natural_o disperse_v &_o fix_v with_o multiplicity_n on_o creature_n and_o unite_v they_o upon_o god_n and_o it_o be_v call_v introversion_n both_o because_o the_o spirit_n &_o those_o thing_n which_o concern_v it_o be_v the_o only_a object_n that_o a_o devout_a soul_n consider_v &_o value_v she_o turn_v all_o her_o sollicitude_n inward_o to_o observe_v defect_n want_n or_o inordination_n there_o to_o the_o end_n she_o may_v remedy_v supply_n &_o correct_v they_o and_o likewise_o because_o the_o proper_a seat_n the_o throne_n &_o kingdom_n where_o god_n by_o his_o holy_a spirit_n dwell_n and_o reign_v be_v the_o pure_a summity_n of_o man_n spirit_n there_o it_o be_v that_o the_o soul_n most_o perfect_o enjoy_v and_o contemplate_v god_n though_o every_o where_o as_o in_o regard_n of_o himself_o equal_o present_a yet_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o communication_n of_o his_o perfection_n present_v there_o after_o a_o far_o more_o noble_a manner_n then_o in_o any_o part_n of_o the_o world_n beside_o inasmuch_o as_o he_o communicate_v to_o the_o spirit_n of_o man_n as_o much_o of_o his_o infinite_a perfection_n as_o any_o creature_n be_v capable_a of_o be_v not_o only_o simple_a be_v as_o he_o be_v to_o inanimate_a body_n or_o life_n as_o to_o live_a creature_n or_o perception_n as_o to_o sensitive_a or_o knowledge_n as_o to_o other_o ordinary_a rational_a soul_n but_o with_o and_o beside_o all_o these_o he_o be_v a_o divine_a light_n purity_n &_o happiness_n by_o communicate_v the_o supernatural_a grace_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n to_o the_o spirit_n of_o his_o servant_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o our_o saviour_n say_v regnum_fw-la dei_fw-la intra_fw-la vos_fw-la est_fw-la the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n be_v within_o you_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v that_o religious_a solitary_a &_o abstract_a soul_n do_v endeavour_v to_o turn_v all_o their_o thought_n inward_a raise_v they_o to_o apicem_fw-la spiritus_fw-la the_o pure_a top_n of_o the_o spirit_n far_o above_o all_o sensible_a phantasm_n or_o imaginative_a discourse_n or_o grosser_n affection_n where_o god_n be_v most_o perfect_o see_v and_o most_o comfortable_o enjoy_v 7._o now_o the_o actual_a practice_n of_o this_o introversion_n consist_v principal_o if_o not_o only_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o pure_a internal_a spiritual_a prayer_n the_o perfection_n of_o which_o therefore_o ought_v to_o be_v the_o chief_a aim_n to_o which_o a_o religious_a contemplative_a soul_n be_v oblige_v to_o aspire_v so_o that_o sure_o it_o be_v a_o great_a mistake_n to_o think_v that_o the_o spirit_n of_o s._n benedict_v order_n &_o rule_n consist_v in_o a_o public_a orderly_a protract_v solemn_a sing_v of_o the_o divine_a office_n the_o which_o may_v be_v full_a as_o well_o yea_o and_o for_o the_o externall_n be_v with_o more_o advantage_n perform_v by_o secular_a ecclesiastic_n in_o cathedral_n church_n a_o motive_n to_o the_o introduce_v of_o which_o pompous_a solemnity_n may_v be_v that_o it_o be_v full_a of_o edification_n to_o other_o to_o see_v &_o hear_v a_o conspire_v of_o many_o singer_n &_o voice_n and_o it_o be_v to_o be_v suppose_v of_o heart_n too_o to_o the_o praise_v of_o god_n but_o it_o be_v not_o for_o edification_n of_o other_o that_o a_o monastical_a state_n be_v institute_v or_o ought_v to_o be_v undertake_v religious_a soul_n true_o monastical_a fly_v the_o sight_n of_o the_o world_n enter_v into_o desert_n and_o solitude_n to_o spend_v their_o life_n alone_o in_o penance_n and_o recollection_n and_o to_o purify_v their_o own_o soul_n not_o to_o give_v example_n or_o instruction_n to_o other_o such_o solitude_n be_v or_o aught_o to_o be_v seek_v by_o they_o thereby_o to_o dispose_v themselves_o for_o another_o far_o more_o profitable_a internal_a solitude_n in_o which_o creature_n be_v banish_v the_o only_a conversation_n be_v between_o god_n and_o the_o soul_n herself_o in_o the_o depth_n of_o the_o spirit_n as_o if_o beside_o they_o two_o no_o other_o thing_n be_v existent_a 8._o to_o gain_v this_o happy_a state_n a_o devout_a soul_n enter_v into_o religion_n where_o all_o imaginable_a advantage_n be_v to_o be_v find_v for_o this_o end_n at_o least_o ancient_o they_o be_v so_o and_o still_o ought_v to_o be_v but_o yet_o though_o all_o religious_a person_n ought_v to_o aspire_v to_o the_o perfection_n of_o this_o state_n it_o be_v real_o gain_v by_o very_a few_o in_o these_o time_n for_o some_o through_o ignorance_n or_o misinstruction_n by_o teacher_n that_o know_v no_o deep_o not_o a_o more_o perfect_a introversion_n then_o into_o the_o internal_a sense_n or_o imagination_n and_o other_o through_o negligence_n or_o else_o by_o reason_n of_o a_o voluntary_a pour_v forth_o their_o affection_n &_o thought_n upon_o vanity_n useless_a study_n or_o other_o sensual_a enterteinment_n be_v never_o able_a perfect_o to_o enter_v into_o their_o spirit_n and_o to_o find_v god_n there_o 9_o but_o it_o be_v wonderful_a to_o read_v of_o that_o depth_n of_o recollectednes_n &_o most_o profound_a introversion_n to_o which_o some_o ancient_a solitary_a religious_a person_n by_o long_a exercise_n of_o spiritual_a prayer_n have_v come_v in_o so_o much_o as_o they_o have_v be_v so_o absorb_v &_o even_o drown_v in_o a_o deep_a contemplation_n of_o god_n that_o they_o have_v not_o see_v what_o their_o eye_n look_v on_o nor_o feel_v what_o otherwise_o will_v greivous_o hurt_v they_o yea_o to_o so_o habitual_a a_o state_n of_o attend_v only_o to_o god_n in_o their_o spirit_n do_v some_o of_o they_o attain_v that_o they_o can_v not_o though_o they_o have_v a_o mind_n thereto_o ofttimes_o fix_v their_o thought_n upon_o any_o other_o object_n but_o god_n their_o internal_a sense_n according_a as_o themselves_o have_v describe_v it_o have_v be_v in_o a_o unexpressible_a manner_n draw_v into_o their_o spirit_n and_o therein_o so_o swallow_v up_o as_o to_o loose_v in_o a_o sort_n all_o other_o use_n a_o most_o happy_a state_n in_o which_o the_o devil_n can_v so_o much_o as_o fix_v a_o seduce_a tentation_n or_o image_n in_o their_o mind_n to_o distract_v they_o from_o god_n but_o on_o the_o contrary_a if_o he_o shall_v attempt_v it_o that_o will_v be_v a_o occasion_n to_o plunge_v they_o deep_o &_o more_o intimely_a into_o god_n 10._o and_o this_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o pure_a spiritual_a contemplative_a prayer_n the_o which_o be_v not_o only_o practise_v by_o the_o holy_a ancient_a hermit_n etc._n etc._n in_o most_o sublime_a perfection_n but_o the_o exercise_n thereof_o be_v their_o chief_n most_o proper_a &_o almost_o continual_a employment_n in_o so_o much_o as_o the_o perfection_n thereof_o be_v by_o they_o account_v the_o perfection_n of_o their_o state_n a_o large_a proof_n whereof_o shall_v be_v reserve_v till_o we_o come_v to_o speak_v of_o prayer_n for_o the_o present_a therefore_o i_o will_v content_v myself_o with_o a_o testimony_n or_o two_o relate_v by_o cassian_n out_o of_o the_o mouth_n
of_o two_o most_o sublime_a contemplative_n thus_o therefore_o speak_v one_o of_o they_o in_o the_o conference_n cap._n 7._o finis_fw-la monachi_fw-la &_o totius_fw-la perfectionis_fw-la culmen_fw-la in_o orationis_fw-la consummatione_fw-la consistit_fw-la that_o be_v the_o end_n of_o a_o monastical_a profession_n and_o the_o supreme_a degree_n of_o all_o perfection_n consist_v in_o the_o perfection_n of_o prayer_n and_o in_o the_o ten_o confer_v cap._n 7._o another_o say_v hic_fw-la finis_fw-la totius_fw-la perfectionis_fw-la est_fw-la ut_fw-la eo_fw-la usque_fw-la extenuata_fw-la mens_fw-la ab_fw-la omni_fw-la situ_fw-la carnali_fw-la ad_fw-la spiritualia_fw-la quotidie_fw-la sublimetur_fw-la donec_fw-la omnis_fw-la eius_fw-la conuersatio_fw-la omnisque_fw-la volutatio_fw-la cordis_fw-la una_fw-la &_o iugis_fw-la efficiatur_fw-la oratio_fw-la that_o be_v this_o be_v the_o end_n of_o all_o perfection_n that_o the_o mind_n become_v so_o purify_v from_o all_o carnal_a defilement_n that_o it_o may_v be_v raise_v up_o daily_o to_o spiritual_a thing_n till_o its_o whole_a employment_n and_o every_o motion_n of_o the_o heart_n may_v become_v one_o uninterrupted_n prayer_n 11._o now_o what_o a_o kind_n of_o prayer_n this_o be_v that_o they_o aspire_v to_o how_o sublime_a in_o spirit_n though_o ofttimes_o join_v with_o their_o vocal_a prayer_n may_v appear_v from_o that_o description_n give_v of_o it_o by_o a_o holy_a hermit_n in_o these_o word_n in_o the_o 10._o confer_v cap._n 20._o ita_fw-la ad_fw-la illam_fw-la orationis_fw-la purissimam_fw-la perveniet_fw-la qualitatem_fw-la quae_fw-la non_fw-la solum_fw-la nullam_fw-la deitatis_fw-la effigiem_fw-la in_o sva_fw-la supplicatione_n miscebit_fw-la sed_fw-la nec_fw-la ullam_fw-la quidem_fw-la in_o se_fw-la memoriam_fw-la dicti_fw-la cuiusdam_fw-la vel_fw-la facti_fw-la speciem_fw-la seu_fw-la formam_fw-la characteris_fw-la admittet_fw-la that_o be_v thus_o by_o much_o practice_n the_o soul_n will_v arrive_v to_o that_o most_o sublime_a purity_n of_o praler_n wherein_o no_o image_n at_o all_o of_o the_o divinity_n be_v mingle_v and_o which_o will_v not_o admit_v the_o least_o memory_n nor_o a_o character_n or_o representation_n of_o anything_o either_o speak_v or_o do_v the_o strange_a subtlety_n &_o spirituality_n of_o which_o prayer_n consider_v there_o be_v apply_v unto_o it_o that_o say_v of_o s._n antony_n in_o the_o 9_o conf._n chap._n 31._o non_fw-fr est_fw-fr perfecta_fw-la oratio_fw-la in_fw-la qua_fw-la se_fw-la monachus_n vel_fw-la hoc_fw-la ipsum_fw-la quod_fw-la orat_fw-la intelligit_fw-la that_o be_v that_o prayer_n be_v not_o a_o perfect_a one_o unless_o the_o religious_a person_n that_o exercise_v it_o be_v not_o able_a to_o give_v a_o account_n of_o his_o own_o thought_n that_o pass_v in_o it_o or_o do_v not_o perceive_v that_o he_o pray_v 12._o what_o great_a advantage_n the_o ancient_a hermit_n &_o other_o religious_a person_n enjoy_v for_o the_o more_o certain_a and_o more_o speedy_a attain_n to_o this_o internal_a purity_n of_o prayer_n &_o wonderful_a cleanness_n of_o spirit_n the_o end_n of_o their_o profession_n how_o much_o more_o able_a their_o bodily_a complexion_n be_v to_o support_v that_o most_o rigorous_a solitude_n those_o long_a continue_a attention_n of_o mind_n &c_n &c_n and_o how_o much_o more_o efficacious_a herto_o be_v their_o manual_a labour_n beyond_o our_o employment_n in_o study_n and_o last_o how_o by_o such_o like_a mean_n they_o with_o the_o only_a exercise_n of_o vocal_a prayer_n attain_v to_o perfect_a contemplation_n shall_v be_v show_v more_o full_o when_o we_o come_v to_o the_o last_o treatise_n concern_v internal_a prayer_n 13._o in_o this_o place_n i_o will_v content_v myself_o with_o show_v that_o by_o the_o rule_n of_o our_o holy_a father_n s_o benedict_n all_o his_o disciple_n be_v oblige_v to_o propose_v to_o themselves_o no_o other_o end_n of_o their_o religious_a profession_n but_o only_o such_o purity_n both_o of_o soul_n and_o the_o operation_n of_o it_o in_o spiritual_a prayer_n so_o that_o how_o exact_a soever_o they_o be_v in_o outward_a observance_n unless_o they_o be_v refer_v unto_o and_o efficacious_a also_o for_o the_o produce_v of_o this_o internal_a purity_n in_o some_o reasonable_a measure_n they_o shall_v not_o be_v esteem_v by_o god_n to_o have_v comply_v with_o their_o vocation_n and_o profession_n 14._o to_o this_o purpose_n we_o may_v observe_v that_o it_o be_v from_o those_o ancient_a holy_a hermit_n &_o religious_a that_o our_o holy_a father_n borrow_v the_o great_a part_n of_o his_o rule_n and_o ordinance_n which_o in_o the_o conclusion_n he_o profess_v to_o be_v mean_v only_o by_o he_o as_o a_o disposition_n whereby_o we_o may_v be_v enable_v to_o imitate_v they_o in_o their_o most_o perfect_a internal_a practice_n it_o be_v from_o they_o that_o he_o borrow_n the_o phrase_n of_o oratio_fw-la pura_fw-la pure_a prayer_n in_o the_o 20._o chap._n the_o exercise_n whereof_o beside_o the_o recite_v of_o the_o office_n he_o appoint_v daily_o as_o appear_v both_o by_o the_o same_o chapter_n of_o the_o rule_n and_o also_o by_o the_o story_n relate_v by_o s._n gregory_n of_o one_o of_o his_o monk_n who_o the_o devil_n in_o the_o shape_n of_o a_o blackmore_n tempt_v out_o of_o the_o community_n in_o the_o time_n of_o such_o recollection_n by_o which_o may_v be_v perceive_v the_o great_a fruit_n and_o efficacy_n of_o such_o prayer_n for_o the_o devil_n can_v be_v content_v he_o shall_v be_v present_a at_o the_o office_n because_o during_o that_o exercise_n he_o can_v more_o easy_o distract_v his_o mind_n but_o know_v the_o force_n of_o internal_a prayer_n how_o recollective_a it_o be_v and_o what_o light_n it_o afford_v to_o discover_v the_o inward_a defect_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o to_o obtain_v grace_n to_o correct_v they_o his_o principal_a aim_n be_v to_o withdraw_v he_o from_o so_o profitable_a a_o exercise_n and_o therefore_o to_o countermine_v the_o devil_n malice_n our_o holy_a father_n think_v it_o worth_a a_o journey_n express_o to_o cure_v the_o infirmity_n and_o prevent_v the_o danger_n of_o one_o of_o his_o seduce_a monk_n 15._o for_o this_o end_v it_o be_v that_o our_o holy_a father_n in_o the_o 58._o c._n ordeine_n superior_n in_o the_o examination_n of_o the_o spirit_n &_o disposition_n of_o newcomer_n that_o they_o shall_v most_o especial_o have_v a_o eye_n to_o this_o most_o necessary_a condition_n si_fw-la deum_fw-la veer_fw-la quaerit_fw-la if_o he_o be_v such_o a_o one_o as_o true_o seek_v god_n and_o more_o particulary_a si_fw-la sollicitùs_fw-la est_fw-la ad_fw-la opus_fw-la dei_fw-la if_o he_o have_v a_o solicitous_a care_n due_o to_o perform_v the_o work_n of_o god_n which_o he_o interpret_v to_o be_v prayer_n and_o this_o so_o principal_a a_o work_n that_o he_o ordeine_n that_o nihil_fw-la operi_fw-la dei_fw-la praeponatur_fw-la nothing_o must_v be_v prefer_v before_o it_o 16._o for_o the_o advance_v of_o this_o prayer_n that_o it_o may_v become_v such_o as_o be_v suitable_a to_o a_o contemplative_a state_n all_o other_o exterior_a observance_n be_v appoint_v 1._o by_o the_o 12._o degree_n of_o humility_n by_o frequent_a prostration_n acknowledge_v of_o secret_a imperfection_n etc._n etc._n pride_n selfelove_n &_o all_o other_o our_o corrupt_a affection_n hinder_v our_o union_n in_o spirit_n with_o god_n be_v subdue_v &_o expel_v and_o as_o our_o holy_a father_n say_v at_o the_o end_n of_o the_o last_o degree_n that_o perfect_a charity_n which_o most_o immediate_o unite_v the_o soul_n to_o god_n be_v produce_v in_o the_o soul_n 2._o by_o perfect_a obedience_n self_n judgement_n &_o self_n will_v be_v abate_v 3._o by_o fast_n watch_n &_o other_o austerity_n sensuality_n be_v mortify_v 4._o by_o religious_a poverty_n all_o distract_n care_v about_o temporal_a thing_n be_v expel_v 5._o and_o for_o the_o gain_n of_o a_o habitual_a state_n of_o recollectednes_n and_o introversion_n so_o great_a silence_n and_o solitude_n be_v so_o rigorous_o enjoin_v and_o practise_v all_o object_n of_o sensual_a affection_n remove_v all_o conversation_n with_o the_o world_n all_o relate_n or_o harken_v to_o news_n severe_o prohibit_v all_o this_o sure_o for_o no_o other_o end_n but_o that_o soul_n may_v be_v bring_v to_o a_o fit_a disposition_n to_o imitate_v those_o solitary_a and_o devout_a saint_n propose_v by_o our_o holy_a father_n for_o our_o example_n in_o their_o continual_a conversation_n with_o god_n attend_v to_o his_o divine_a inspiration_n and_o uninterrupted_n union_n of_o spirit_n with_o he_o by_o pure_a spiritual_a contemplation_n 17._o therefore_o though_o our_o holy_a lawgiver_n do_v not_o in_o his_o rule_n give_v his_o disciple_n any_o special_a instruction_n for_o order_v their_o interiour_n spiritual_a prayer_n touch_v such_o matter_n refer_v they_o to_o the_o inspiration_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n as_o himself_o say_v as_o likewise_o to_o the_o advice_n of_o the_o ancient_a father_n and_o hermit_n profess_v contemplation_n yet_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o his_o principal_a design_n be_v to_o dispose_v his_o disciple_n by_o his_o ordinance_n to_o
great_a perfection_n of_o internal_a purity_n than_o we_o be_v former_o as_o christian_n answerable_a to_o the_o great_a help_n and_o advantage_n thereto_o afford_v in_o religion_n and_o particular_o we_o have_v a_o obligation_n to_o aspire_v to_o the_o perfection_n of_o internal_a contemplative_a prayer_n the_o practice_n whereof_o be_v at_o least_o of_o extreme_a difficulty_n in_o a_o ordinary_a distract_a solicitous_a secular_a state_n 23._o and_o from_o what_o have_v be_v say_v may_v be_v collect_v this_o most_o true_a and_o profitable_a observation_n to_o wit_n that_o whosoever_o will_v attempt_v the_o restore_n of_o the_o true_a spirit_n of_o religion_n which_o be_v contemplation_n miserable_o decay_v in_o these_o day_n will_v labour_v in_o vain_a if_o he_o think_v to_o compass_v his_o holy_a design_n by_o multiply_v of_o ceremony_n inlarge_v of_o office_n increase_v of_o externall_n austeritys_n rigorous_a regulate_v of_o diet_n and_o abstinence_n etc._n etc._n all_o which_o thing_n will_v have_v little_a or_o no_o effect_n unless_o the_o mind_n of_o religious_a person_n be_v true_o instruct_v in_o the_o doctrine_n of_o contemplative_a prayer_n &_o obligation_n to_o attend_v and_o follow_v the_o internal_a guidance_n of_o god_n spirit_n which_o be_v rather_o hinder_v then_o advance_v by_o the_o excessive_a multiplication_n of_o outward_a observance_n and_o for_o this_o reason_n s._n benedict_n who_o sure_o have_v a_o most_o perfect_a light_n &_o a_o equal_a zeal_n at_o least_o to_o advance_v the_o spirit_n of_o contemplation_n be_v very_o moderate_a in_o these_o thing_n and_o on_o the_o contrary_a very_o severe_a in_o require_v the_o observation_n of_o silence_n solitude_n and_o abstraction_n of_o life_n the_o which_o do_v most_o direct_o and_o efficacious_o beget_v a_o habitual_a introversion_n and_o recollectednesse_n of_o spirit_n the_o ineffectualnesse_n therefore_o of_o these_o new_a way_n of_o reformation_n we_o see_v daily_a proof_n of_o by_o the_o short_a continuance_n of_o they_o for_o mind_n that_o be_v not_o enlighten_v nor_o enable_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o contemplative_a prayer_n suitable_a to_o their_o state_n to_o make_v a_o due_a use_n of_o such_o great_a austeritys_n for_o the_o increase_n of_o the_o say_a spirit_n become_v in_o a_o short_a time_n after_o that_o the_o first_o zeal_n much_o cause_v by_o the_o novelty_n and_o reputation_n gain_v in_o the_o world_n be_v cool_v to_o grow_v weary_a not_o find_v that_o inward_a satisfaction_n &_o profit_n which_o they_o expect_v and_o so_o they_o return_v to_o their_o former_a tepidity_n &_o relaxation_n chap._n v._n §_o 1._o 2._o 3._o a_o religious_a person_n be_v not_o perfect_a by_o his_o profession_n §_o 4._o 5._o 6._o 7._o whether_o and_o how_o far_o ignorance_n of_o the_o true_a end_n of_o religion_n will_v excuse_v §_o 8._o 9_o the_o danger_n of_o those_o that_o know_a will_v not_o pursue_v internal_a way_n of_o recollection_n which_o be_v the_o true_a end_n of_o a_o religious_a state_n and_o much_o more_o of_o those_o that_o discountenance_n it_o §_o 10._o 11._o 12._o vain_a pretence_n of_o those_o that_o discountenance_n internal_a prayer_n etc._n etc._n §_o 13._o a_o description_n of_o a_o externall_n and_o a_o internal_a monk_n out_o of_o hesychius_n 1._o our_o obligation_n therefore_o to_o tend_v to_o perfect_a internal_a purity_n &_o simplicity_n be_v so_o great_a &_o so_o undispensable_a what_o account_n think_v we_o will_v some_o religious_a person_n be_v able_a to_o give_v to_o almighty_a god_n for_o their_o miserable_a deficienty_n in_o this_o so_o essential_a a_o condition_n 2._o religion_n be_v by_o all_o acknowledge_v for_o a_o state_n of_o perfection_n not_o that_o by_o the_o mere_a take_v a_o religious_a profession_n or_o habit_n a_o person_n be_v thereby_o more_o perfect_a than_o he_o be_v before_o but_o because_o by_o renounce_v those_o distractive_a impediment_n which_o be_v in_o the_o world_n he_o put_v himself_o into_o a_o condition_n in_o which_o he_o not_o only_o may_v far_o more_o easy_o aspire_v to_o the_o perfection_n of_o divine_a love_n but_o moreover_o by_o assume_v such_o a_o state_n he_o oblige_v himself_o to_o employ_v all_o those_o advantage_n which_o he_o find_v in_o religion_n as_o mean_n to_o approach_v near_o to_o this_o perfection_n daily_o more_o than_o if_o he_o have_v continue_v in_o the_o world_n he_o either_o can_v or_o be_v oblige_v the_o which_o if_o he_o do_v not_o he_o will_v be_v so_o far_o from_o enjoy_v any_o privilege_n in_o god_n sight_n by_o the_o perfection_n of_o his_o state_n as_o that_o he_o will_v be_v accountable_a to_o god_n so_o much_o the_o more_o for_o his_o ingratitude_n and_o negligence_n in_o make_v use_n of_o such_o advantage_n and_o talent_n give_v he_o 3._o s._n paulinus_n excellent_o illustrate_v this_o truth_n by_o this_o similitude_n he_o compare_v the_o world_n to_o a_o dry_a scorch_a and_o barren_a wilderness_n and_o celestial_a happiness_n to_o a_o most_o delicious_a paradise_n divide_v from_o this_o desert_n by_o a_o deep_a and_o tempestuous_a river_n which_o must_v necessary_o be_v pass_v by_o swim_v the_o secure_a way_n to_o pass_v over_o this_o river_n be_v by_o quit_v once_o clothes_n but_o few_o there_o be_v that_o have_v the_o courage_n to_o expose_v themselves_o to_o the_o injury_n of_o the_o weather_n for_o a_o while_n and_o therefore_o adventure_v over_o clothes_n and_o all_o and_o of_o they_o god_n know_n a_o world_n miscarry_v by_o the_o way_n some_o few_o other_o such_o be_v religious_a person_n see_v this_o danger_n take_v a_o good_a resolution_n to_o divest_v themselves_o of_o their_o clothes_n and_o to_o make_v themselves_o light_a and_o nimble_a by_o cast_v away_o all_o impediment_n how_o dear_a soever_o to_o flesh_n and_o blood_n but_o yet_o this_o be_v do_v it_o remain_v that_o they_o shall_v labour_v naked_a as_o they_o be_v with_o swim_v to_o pass_v the_o river_n but_o this_o they_o neglect_v to_o do_v or_o take_v so_o little_a pain_n and_o strive_v so_o negligent_o against_o the_o wave_n and_o stream_n that_o all_o they_o do_v come_v to_o nothing_o they_o be_v in_o as_o much_o danger_n and_o as_o far_o from_o paradise_n as_o they_o be_v before_o and_o whereas_o they_o glorify_v themselves_o because_o they_o be_v naked_a that_o will_v rather_o aggravate_v their_o folly_n and_o make_v their_o negligence_n far_o more_o culpable_a in_o that_o have_v so_o great_a a_o advantage_n they_o will_v not_o take_v a_o little_a pain_n to_o do_v that_o for_o which_o they_o cast_v of_o their_o clothes_n 4._o now_o the_o impediment_n either_o much_o delay_n or_o quite_o hinder_v many_o soul_n that_o live_v in_o religion_n and_o be_v natural_o apt_a enough_o for_o the_o exercise_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n from_o comply_v with_o this_o most_o necessary_a obligation_n be_v partly_o in_o the_o understanding_n and_o partly_o in_o the_o will_n concern_v this_o latter_a which_o be_v self-love_n a_o settle_a affection_n to_o creature_n negligence_n etc._n etc._n much_o have_v already_o be_v say_v and_o more_o will_v hereafter_o be_v add_v but_o concern_v the_o other_o impediment_n seat_v in_o the_o understanding_n which_o be_v ignorance_n of_o the_o true_a way_n lead_v to_o that_o perfection_n which_o be_v the_o proper_a end_n of_o a_o religious_a contemplative_a life_n i_o will_v here_o take_v into_o consideration_n whether_o and_o how_o far_o such_o ignorance_n may_v excuse_v a_o religious_a person_n that_o do_v not_o aspire_v to_o that_o perfection_n to_o which_o his_o state_n oblige_v he_o 5._o for_o the_o clear_n of_o this_o doubt_n we_o may_v observe_v that_o there_o may_v in_o this_o case_n be_v a_o twofold_a ignorance_n 1._o a_o ignorance_n in_o gross_a that_o there_o be_v any_o such_o obligation_n 2._o on_o supposition_n that_o a_o soul_n be_v inform_v that_o she_o have_v such_o a_o obligation_n a_o ignorance_n of_o the_o mean_n and_o way_n proper_a and_o necessary_a for_o the_o acquire_v of_o this_o perfection_n the_o which_o in_o the_o present_a case_n be_v mortification_n and_o principal_o internal_a prayer_n 6._o first_o therefore_o for_o the_o former_a sort_n of_o ignorance_n it_o be_v so_o gross_a and_o even_o wilful_a that_o there_o can_v scarce_o be_v imagine_v any_o excuse_n or_o qualification_n for_o it_o for_o what_o other_o thought_n can_v a_o soul_n have_v quit_v the_o world_n and_o all_o the_o pleasure_n and_o commodity_n therein_o to_o embrace_v poverty_n obedience_n solitude_n &c_n &c_n but_o thereby_o to_o consecrate_v herself_o entire_o to_o god_n show_v by_o the_o solemn_a circumstance_n of_o her_o admission_n and_o profession_n the_o question_n propose_v to_o she_o and_o her_o answer_n her_o habit_n tonsure_v representation_n of_o a_o death_n and_o burial_n solemn_a benediction_n of_o her_o habit_n and_o prayer_n of_o the_o community_n &_o c_o all_o that_o be_v witness_n and_o spectator_n of_o such_o a_o action_n do_v no_o otherwise_o
understand_v it_o and_o indeed_o except_o it_o be_v so_o what_o difference_n be_v there_o between_o a_o secular_a and_o religious_a state_n 7._o but_o in_o the_o next_o place_n touch_v the_o second_o sort_n of_o ignorance_n to_o wit_n of_o the_o way_n most_o proper_a and_o efficacious_a to_o bring_v a_o religious_a soul_n to_o perfection_n it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v that_o such_o a_o ignorance_n will_v be_v but_o a_o small_a excuse_n and_o that_o but_o to_o very_a few_o for_o since_o both_o faith_n and_o experience_n teach_v we_o with_o what_o great_a defect_n what_o inordinate_a affection_n etc._n etc._n we_o enter_v into_o religion_n with_o a_o intention_n there_o to_o abate_v and_o mortify_v they_o and_o since_o even_o natural_a reason_n &_o daily_a experience_n likewise_o show_v we_o that_o perfection_n of_o the_o soul_n can_v consist_v in_o externall_n observance_n which_o do_v not_o penetrate_v into_o the_o interiour_n yea_o without_o prayer_n and_o purity_n of_o intention_n to_o be_v have_v only_o by_o prayer_n they_o do_v rather_o nourish_v selfelove_n and_o self_n esteem_v since_o three_o the_o same_o experience_n convince_v we_o that_o such_o vocal_a prayer_n as_o we_o use_v and_o join_v to_o our_o other_o observance_n do_v not_o produce_v in_o we_o a_o sufficient_a purification_n of_o soul_n no_o nor_o that_o any_o other_o painful_a method_n of_o meditation_n unknow_v to_o the_o ancient_a contemplative_n do_v afford_v we_o sufficient_a light_n and_o grace_n for_o such_o a_o purpose_n because_o they_o pierce_v not_o deep_a enough_o into_o the_o spirit_n what_o reasonable_a soul_n but_o will_n hence_o conclude_v that_o there_o must_v needs_o be_v some_o other_o efficacious_a mean_n for_o the_o acquire_v of_o the_o end_n which_o we_o propose_v to_o ourselves_o and_o since_o god_n will_v infallible_o give_v light_n and_o grace_n to_o all_o those_o that_o have_v recourse_n unto_o he_o in_o spirit_n and_o truth_n it_o must_v necessary_o follow_v that_o the_o only_a culpable_a ground_n of_o such_o ignorance_n must_v needs_o be_v a_o neglect_n of_o such_o prayer_n and_o the_o root_n of_o such_o neglect_n a_o sensual_a tepid_a disposition_n of_o the_o will_n hate_v to_o raise_v itself_o too_o god_n and_o let_v any_o one_o judge_n whether_o a_o ignorance_n so_o ground_v can_v excuse_v we_o especial_o consider_v that_o our_o holy_a father_n require_v the_o practice_n of_o such_o prayer_n in_o all_o our_o small_a undertake_n and_o teach_v we_o that_o his_o rule_n be_v only_o a_o preparation_n to_o perfection_n he_o refer_v we_o further_o to_o the_o example_n of_o the_o ancient_a hermit_n who_o manner_n of_o prayer_n if_o we_o will_v imitate_v we_o shall_v make_v some_o approach_n at_o least_o to_o that_o perfection_n to_o the_o almost_o inconceivable_a sublimity_n and_o purity_n whereof_o they_o attain_v 8._o now_o if_o ignorance_n will_v not_o be_v a_o sufficient_a excuse_n to_o any_o religious_a person_n for_o either_o not_o endeavour_v after_o interiour_n purity_n of_o soul_n by_o prayer_n in_o spirit_n or_o endeavour_v after_o a_o wrong_n improper_a manner_n &_o way_n how_o much_o less_o excusable_a nay_o how_o deep_o culpable_a before_o god_n will_v those_o be_v who_o be_v sufficient_o instruct_v in_o the_o only_a true_a internal_a way_n lead_v to_o contemplation_n &_o withal_o be_v furnish_v with_o all_o help_n leisure_n &_o advantage_n for_o that_o purpose_n &_o yet_o out_o of_o a_o settle_a slothfullnes_n &_o fix_a love_n to_o sensual_a object_n have_v not_o the_o courage_n or_o will_n to_o walk_v in_o they_o yea_o perhaps_o have_v once_o comfortable_o walk_v in_o they_o do_v most_o ingrateful_o &_o perfidious_o forsake_v &_o turn_v out_o of_o they_o reap_v no_o other_o benefit_n by_o their_o knowledge_n but_o perhaps_o a_o ability_n to_o talk_v of_o they_o to_o the_o help_n of_o other_o it_o may_v be_v but_o to_o the_o increase_n of_o their_o own_o pride_n &_o self-love_n so_o that_o their_o knowledge_n of_o their_o obligation_n &_o end_n of_o their_o profession_n help_v to_o lead_v they_o further_o from_o it_o 9_o but_o above_o all_o most_o miserable_a will_v their_o condition_n be_v who_o live_v in_o contemplative_a order_n &_o not_o have_v either_o sufficient_a knowledge_n or_o grace_n to_o practice_v themselves_o the_o exercise_n of_o true_a internal_a prayer_n &_o abstraction_n of_o life_n shall_v deter_v other_o therefrom_o &_o discountenance_v or_o perhaps_o persecute_v those_o who_o god_n have_v inspire_v to_o renew_v the_o only_a proper_a exercise_n of_o contemplation_n the_o decay_n of_o which_o have_v be_v the_o decay_n of_o the_o true_a spirit_n of_o monastical_a religion_n 10._o true_a it_o be_v that_o to_o justify_v such_o undue_a proceed_n &_o to_o gain_v a_o esteem_n to_o their_o own_o inferior_a exercise_n partiality_n have_v suggest_v to_o they_o certain_a seem_a reason_n &_o pretence_n against_o the_o practice_n of_o contemplative_a prayer_n &_o if_o it_o be_v dangerous_a &_o do_v expose_v the_o exerciser_n of_o it_o to_o illusion_n or_o as_o if_o it_o be_v prejudicial_a to_o regular_a observance_n &_o obedience_n or_o that_o perhaps_o it_o may_v diminish_v the_o credit_n which_o some_o religious_a order_n have_v gain_v in_o the_o world_n by_o their_o long_a solemn_a office_n laborious_o celebrate_v but_o as_o i_o shall_v in_o due_a place_n in_o the_o last_o treatise_n demonstrate_v all_o these_o accusation_n make_v against_o contemplative_a prayer_n be_v most_o unjust_a and_o groundless_a on_o the_o contrary_a those_o that_o practise_v such_o prayer_n as_o they_o ought_v be_v most_o careful_a of_o conformity_n to_o religious_a duty_n &_o especial_o the_o divine_a office_n appoint_v by_o the_o church_n and_o this_o out_o of_o conscience_n &_o with_o great_a purity_n of_o intention_n 11._o indeed_o true_a internal_a liver_n be_v not_o very_o solicitous_a for_o gain_v credit_n &_o esteem_v with_o the_o world_n &_o much_o less_o will_v they_o make_v that_o a_o end_n of_o their_o religious_a observance_n on_o the_o contrary_a their_o cordial_a desire_n be_v to_o live_v unknow_v &_o exclude_v from_o the_o world_n approve_v their_o soul_n to_o god_n only_o neither_o be_v they_o forward_o to_o usurp_v office_n abroad_o not_o belong_v to_o they_o as_o of_o preach_v hear_v confession_n of_o secular_o &c_n &c_n by_o which_o the_o most_o necessary_a solitude_n &_o recollectednes_n which_o by_o their_o profession_n ought_v to_o be_v prise_v above_o all_o thing_n be_v interrupt_v &_o oft_o utter_o destroy_v and_o the_o more_o confident_o do_v they_o express_v a_o zeal_n for_o these_o essential_a thing_n as_o be_v assure_v that_o god_n will_v not_o be_v want_v to_o supply_v they_o sufficient_o with_o all_o thing_n necessary_a to_o their_o corporal_a sustenance_n as_o long_o as_o they_o prefer_v the_o care_n of_o purify_n their_o soul_n &_o comply_v with_o the_o obligation_n of_o their_o profession_n before_o such_o inferior_a thing_n s._n anthony_n be_v so_o careful_a of_o preserve_v this_o spirit_n of_o solitude_n &_o disingagement_n from_o all_o treat_v with_o the_o world_n that_o he_o forbid_v his_o monk_n to_o enter_v into_o church_n frequent_v by_o multitude_n and_o much_o less_o will_v he_o suffer_v they_o to_o invite_v &_o call_v secular_o into_o their_o own_o church_n and_o s._n stephen_n of_o grammont_n upon_o experience_n of_o what_o extreme_a prejudice_n the_o spirit_n of_o religion_n have_v receive_v by_o neglect_v a_o solitary_a abstract_a life_n forbid_v his_o disciple_n in_o his_o rule_n to_o have_v public_a church_n or_o to_o admit_v into_o their_o oratory_n the_o presence_n of_o secular_o or_o so_o much_o as_o to_o let_v they_o take_v holywater_n home_o with_o they_o or_o to_o quit_v their_o desert_n to_o preach_v to_o other_o he_o command_v they_o to_o avoid_v confraternity_n &c_n &c_n and_o to_o prevent_v complaint_n &_o fear_n least_o by_o so_o rigorous_a a_o sequestration_n from_o the_o world_n they_o shall_v be_v in_o danger_n of_o penury_n he_o most_o assure_o protest_v unto_o they_o that_o it_o be_v impossible_a that_o god_n shall_v neglect_v to_o provide_v for_o they_o that_o for_o his_o sake_n quit_v all_o pretension_n to_o the_o world_n 12._o but_o the_o true_a cause_n of_o bitterness_n show_v by_o some_o against_o internal_a prayer_n restore_v by_o several_a most_o illuminate_v &_o glorious_a saint_n in_o these_o latter_a time_n may_v be_v fear_v to_o proceed_v partly_o from_o some_o kind_n of_o pride_n &_o a_o unwillingness_n to_o acknowledge_v any_o religious_a exercise_n to_o be_v more_o perfect_a than_o those_o practise_v so_o long_o by_o themselves_o or_o to_o see_v that_o power_n which_o they_o have_v gain_v in_o the_o manage_n of_o the_o conscience_n of_o religious_a person_n &c_n &c_n to_o be_v in_o danger_n of_o cease_v 13._o to_o conclude_v this_o point_n those_o that_o place_n perfection_n of_o a_o religious_a profession_n in_o any_o thing_n but_o in_o the_o
purity_n &_o simplicity_n of_o spirit_n such_o may_v call_v themselves_o monk_n &_o contemplative_n be_v yet_o able_a to_o show_v no_o sign_n of_o such_o a_o profession_n but_o the_o habit_n &_o a_o certain_a outward_a formal_a solemn_a &_o severe_a comportment_n under_o which_o may_v be_v hide_v a_o secret_n most_o profound_a self_n love_n &_o pride_n and_o they_o may_v do_v well_o to_o meditate_v serious_o on_o that_o memorable_a say_n of_o hesychius_n a_o holy_a illuminate_v monk_n he_o that_o have_v renounce_v the_o world_n say_v he_o that_o be_v marriage_n possession_n &_o the_o like_a such_o a_o one_o indeed_o have_v make_v the_o exterior_a man_n a_o monk_n but_o not_o as_o yet_o the_o interiour_n but_o he_o that_o have_v renounce_v his_o own_o thought_n &_o affection_n such_o a_o one_o have_v make_v true_o the_o interiour_n man_n aÌ_o monk_n also_o and_o very_o any_o one_o that_o have_v never_o so_o small_a desire_n thereunto_o may_v easy_o make_v the_o outward_a man_n a_o monk_n but_o it_o be_v a_o task_n of_o no_o small_a labour_n to_o make_v the_o interiour_n man_n so_o too_o now_o a_o sign_n of_o a_o interiour_n monk_n say_v he_o be_v the_o have_v attain_v to_o the_o dignity_n of_o pure_a spiritual_a prayer_n chap._n vi_o §_o 1._o that_o internal_a prayer_n be_v the_o practice_n of_o ancient_a hermit_n what_o kind_n of_o prayer_n that_o be_v §_o 2._o 3._o 4._o 5._o 6._o how_o it_o to_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o vocal_a prayer_n become_v to_o they_o internal_a &_o bring_v many_o soul_n ancient_o to_o perfection_n and_o why_o it_o will_v not_o now_o do_v so_o ordinary_o §_o 7._o 8._o 9_o 10._o the_o great_a help_n that_o the_o ancient_n find_v by_o external_a labour_n to_o bring_v they_o to_o recollection_n §_o 11._o 12._o 13._o how_o manual_a labour_n come_v to_o give_v place_n to_o study_n that_o which_o be_v defend_v §_o 14._o the_o late_a practice_n of_o internal_a prayer_n recompense_v other_o defect_n 1._o that_o internal_a spiritual_a prayer_n be_v serious_o &_o almost_o continual_o practise_v by_o the_o ancient_n be_v apparent_a both_o out_o of_o the_o live_v &_o conference_n of_o the_o ancient_a father_n but_o indeed_o there_o be_v but_o few_o proof_n extant_a that_o appoint_a time_n be_v set_v for_o the_o exercise_v it_o conuentual_o except_o in_o the_o foremencioned_n story_n of_o the_o monk_n tempt_v by_o the_o devil_n to_o retire_v himself_o from_o his_o brethren_n when_o they_o be_v in_o such_o prayer_n i_o suppose_v therefore_o that_o superior_n &_o directour_n of_o soul_n tend_v to_o contemplation_n be_v in_o these_o latter_a day_n oblige_v to_o enjoin_v daily_a recollection_n by_o reason_n that_o the_o daily_a private_a &_o continual_a employment_n of_o religious_a person_n be_v not_o so_o helpful_a &_o advantageous_a to_o the_o procure_n of_o that_o most_o necessary_a simplicity_n &_o purity_n of_o soul_n as_o ancient_o they_o be_v and_o therefore_o they_o be_v force_v to_o make_v some_o supply_n for_o this_o defect_n by_o such_o conuentuall_a recollection_n the_o which_o they_o institute_v to_o be_v perform_v in_o public_a because_o they_o perceive_v or_o fear_v that_o religious_a soul_n if_o they_o be_v leave_v to_o themselves_o will_v out_o of_o tepidity_n neglect_v a_o duty_n so_o necessary_a &_o so_o efficacious_a 2._o now_o to_o the_o end_n that_o by_o compare_v the_o manner_n of_o live_v observe_v ancient_o by_o religious_a person_n with_o the_o modern_a in_o these_o day_n it_o may_v appear_v what_o great_a advantage_n they_o enjoy_v towards_o the_o attain_n of_o perfection_n of_o prayer_n beyond_o we_o we_o may_v consider_v 1._o their_o set_a devotion_n what_o they_o be_v and_o 2._o their_o daily_a employment_n during_o the_o remainder_n of_o the_o day_n 3._o as_o concern_v the_o first_o their_o appoint_a devotion_n either_o in_o public_a or_o private_a be_v only_o recite_v âhe_n psalter_n to_o which_o they_o sometime_o adjoin_v a_o little_a read_n of_o other_o part_n of_o scripture_n for_o as_o for_o the_o foremencionâd_a conventuall_a mental_a exercise_n of_o prayer_n it_o be_v very_o short_a be_v only_o such_o short_a aspiration_n as_o god_n spirit_n do_v suggest_v unto_o they_o in_o particular_a as_o it_o be_v the_o flower_n of_o their_o public_a vocal_a prayer_n yea_o &_o in_o private_a when_o they_o do_v purposely_o apply_v themselves_o to_o prayer_n they_o seldom_o vary_v from_o the_o manner_n of_o their_o public_a devotion_n for_o than_o they_o also_o use_v the_o psalter_n 4._o now_o how_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o vocal_a prayer_n alone_o be_v in_o ancient_a time_n available_a to_o bring_v soul_n to_o perfect_a contemplation_n which_o in_o these_o day_n it_o neither_o do_v nor_o ordinary_o speak_v candoe_v i_o shall_v declare_v more_o full_o when_o i_o come_v hereafter_o to_o treat_v of_o prayer_n and_o in_o this_o place_n i_o will_v content_v myself_o to_o point_v only_o at_o the_o reason_n &_o ground_n of_o difference_n viz_o 1._o one_o reason_n be_v their_o incomparable_o more_o abstraction_n of_o life_n more_o rigorous_a solitude_n &_o almost_o perpetual_a silence_n of_o the_o practice_n of_o which_o in_o these_o day_n it_o be_v believe_v we_o be_v not_o capable_a 2._o a_o second_o be_v their_o fast_n abstinence_n &_o other_o austerity_n beyond_o the_o strength_n of_o our_o infirm_a corporal_a complexion_n 3._o a_o three_o be_v their_o externall_n employment_n out_o of_o the_o set_a time_n of_o prayer_n the_o which_o do_v far_o better_a dispose_n soul_n to_o recollection_n to_o attendance_n on_o the_o divine_a inspiration_n &c_n &c_n then_o those_o ordinary_o practise_v in_o these_o day_n 5._o no_o wonder_n then_o if_o vocal_a prayer_n exercise_v by_o such_o pure_a resign_v humble_a mortify_v &_o undistract_a soul_n have_v the_o efficacy_n to_o produce_v in_o they_o a_o habitual_a state_n of_o recollect_v introversion_n which_o doubtless_o in_o many_o of_o they_o be_v more_o profound_a not_o only_o while_o they_o be_v busy_v in_o their_o vocal_a exercise_n but_o also_o during_o their_o externall_n business_n than_o it_o be_v ordinary_o with_o we_o in_o the_o height_n of_o our_o best_a recollection_n 6._o but_o a_o more_o large_a handle_n of_o this_o matter_n i_o refer_v to_o the_o last_o treatise_n where_o we_o speak_v purposely_o of_o prayer_n and_o for_o the_o present_a i_o will_v only_o take_v into_o consideration_n the_o three_o forename_a advantage_n of_o corporal_a labour_n which_o to_o the_o ancient_n prove_v a_o help_n to_o contemplation_n far_o more_o efficacious_a than_o the_o general_a employment_n of_o religious_a in_o these_o day_n 7._o for_o the_o demonstrate_v whereof_o it_o be_v to_o be_v observe_v that_o ancient_o soul_n embrace_v a_o religious_a life_n be_v move_v thereto_o mere_o out_o of_o the_o spirit_n of_o penance_n without_o any_o regard_n at_o all_o to_o make_v use_n of_o their_o solitude_n for_o the_o get_n of_o learning_n or_o for_o the_o dispose_n themselves_o to_o holy_a order_n be_v likewise_o poor_a unprovided_a of_o annual_a rent_n or_o foundation_n the_o which_o they_o be_v so_o far_o from_o seek_v or_o desire_v that_o in_o our_o holy_a father_n expression_n cap._n 48._o they_o do_v then_o only_o account_v themselves_o to_o be_v verè_fw-la monachi_fw-la si_fw-la de_fw-fr labour_v manuum_fw-la suarum_fw-la viverent_fw-la true_a monk_n whilst_o they_o live_v by_o the_o labour_n of_o their_o hand_n they_o be_v both_o by_o necessity_n &_o choice_n oblige_v to_o corporal_a labour_n 8._o but_o their_o principal_a care_n above_o all_o other_o thing_n be_v to_o attend_v unto_o god_n &_o to_o aspire_v unto_o perfect_a union_n in_o spirit_n with_o he_o they_o ordinary_o make_v choice_n of_o such_o labour_n as_o be_v not_o distractive_a &_o such_o as_o may_v be_v perform_v in_o solitude_n &_o silence_n so_o that_o during_o the_o say_a labour_n they_o keep_v their_o mind_n continual_o fix_v on_o god_n such_o labour_n be_v the_o make_n of_o basket_n or_o some_o other_o work_n of_o the_o like_a nature_n that_o require_v no_o solicitude_n &_o very_o small_a exactness_n or_o attention_n and_o as_o ecclesiastical_a history_n inform_v we_o such_o be_v the_o charity_n of_o bishop_n &_o other_o good_a person_n their_o neighbour_n that_o to_o ease_v they_o of_o all_o care_n about_o the_o dispose_n or_o sell_v of_o their_o work_n as_o likewise_o to_o hinder_v they_o from_o have_v recourse_n to_o market_n for_o the_o sale_n thereof_o order_n be_v take_v that_o such_o work_n shall_v be_v take_v out_o of_o their_o hand_n &_o a_o competent_a price_n allow_v they_o for_o they_o 9_o by_o this_o mean_v it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o their_o externall_n labour_v be_v exercise_v in_o order_n to_o the_o advancement_n of_o their_o spirit_n prove_v a_o wonderful_a help_n thereto_o dispose_v they_o to_o prayer_n &_o almost_o continual_a conversation_n with_o god_n and_o indeed_o it_o
to_o many_o externall_n observance_n yet_o a_o view_v of_o the_o patience_n quietness_n and_o resignation_n show_v by_o they_o be_v more_o edify_v to_o soul_n under_o their_o care_n than_o all_o the_o most_o exact_a external_a regularity_n and_o severity_n of_o active_a spirit_n 6._o yea_o even_o in_o regard_n of_o temporal_a benefit_n to_o community_n contemplative_a spirit_n be_v more_o advantageous_a than_o active_a because_o they_o not_o put_v any_o confidence_n in_o their_o own_o industry_n prudence_n and_o activity_n but_o only_o in_o the_o divine_a providence_n which_o be_v never_o want_v to_o those_o that_o for_o temporal_a regard_n will_v not_o do_v any_o thing_n unseemly_a or_o misbecome_a their_o abstract_a state_n do_v enjoy_v the_o effect_n and_o blessing_n of_o god_n far_o more_o plentiful_o while_o they_o prefer_v his_o love_n and_o service_n before_o any_o humane_a distract_n sollicitude_n for_o outward_a thing_n memorable_a example_n of_o great_a blessing_n attend_v such_o a_o confidence_n in_o god_n we_o find_v abundant_o in_o the_o life_n of_o our_o holy_a father_n and_o of_o the_o ancient_a monk_n and_o more_o late_o in_o the_o life_n of_o suso_n joannes_n the_o cruse_n etc._n etc._n now_o the_o want_n of_o such_o confidence_n in_o active_a spirit_n proceed_v mere_o from_o defect_n in_o divine_a love_n and_o that_o from_o the_o want_n of_o internal_a prayer_n and_o hence_o proceed_v hurtful_a &_o unseemly_a compliance_n with_o the_o world_n a_o regard_n rather_o to_o wealth_n then_o good_a will_n to_o serve_v god_n in_o the_o soul_n that_o enter_v into_o religion_n etc._n etc._n 10._o a_o fearful_a example_n of_o the_o mischief_n follow_a the_o neglect_n of_o internal_a prayer_n in_o a_o superior_a we_o find_v in_o bernardinus_fw-la ochinus_n a_o superior_a in_o a_o most_o strict_a order_n who_o be_v a_o famous_a zealous_a preacher_n and_o as_o may_v be_v judge_v by_o outward_a appearance_n of_o more_o than_o ordinary_a sanctity_n yet_o withal_o to_o comply_v with_o those_o outward_a employment_n a_o great_a neglecter_n of_o internal_a conuentuall_a recollection_n and_o when_o he_o be_v sometime_o charitable_o admonish_v of_o such_o his_o tepidity_n his_o ordinary_a answer_n be_v do_v you_o not_o know_v that_o he_o who_o be_v always_o in_o a_o good_a action_n be_v always_o in_o prayer_n which_o say_v of_o his_o have_v be_v true_a if_o such_o good_a action_n have_v be_v perform_v in_o virtue_n of_o prayer_n and_o by_o grace_n obtain_v thereby_o for_o than_o they_o have_v be_v virtual_o prayer_n whereas_o action_n though_o in_o themselves_o never_o so_o good_a if_o they_o want_n that_o purity_n of_o intention_n which_o be_v only_o to_o be_v have_v by_o pure_a prayer_n be_v in_o god_n esteem_n of_o little_a or_o no_o value_v the_o principal_a motive_n of_o they_o be_v no_o other_o than_o such_o as_o corrupt_v nature_n be_v likely_a to_o suggest_v ochinus_n therefore_o continue_v in_o the_o same_o neglect_n be_v by_o one_o of_o his_o brethren_n prophetical_o warn_v that_o he_o must_v expect_v some_o terrible_a issue_n thereof_o in_o these_o word_n cave_n ne_fw-la te_fw-la ordo_fw-la euâmat_fw-la that_o be_v take_v heed_n that_o our_o order_n be_v not_o hereafter_o constreive_v to_o vomit_v thou_o out_o of_o it_o the_o which_o unhappy_o fall_v out_o for_o notwithstanding_o all_o his_o other_o specious_a quality_n and_o endowment_n he_o first_o forsake_v god_n be_v afterward_o forsake_v by_o he_o and_o become_v a_o wretched_a antitrinitarian_n apostate_n and_o it_o be_v very_o probable_a that_o the_o great_a part_n of_o the_o apostate_n of_o these_o time_n such_o i_o mean_v as_o have_v former_o live_v in_o religious_a order_n do_v own_o their_o apostasy_n and_o perdition_n to_o no_o other_o cause_n so_o much_o as_o to_o such_o neglect_n and_o apostasy_n first_o from_o prayer_n the_o which_o holy_a exercise_n if_o they_o have_v continue_v they_o will_v never_o have_v be_v weary_a of_o their_o habit_n first_o and_o afterward_o of_o their_o faith_n chap._n viii_o §_o 1._o superior_n ought_v careful_o to_o examine_v the_o disposition_n of_o those_o that_o they_o admit_v to_o religion_n §_o 2._o 3._o great_a danger_n to_o community_n from_o loose_a spirit_n §_o 4._o 5._o other_o ill_a quality_n to_o be_v avoid_v §_o 6._o 7._o 8._o 9_o of_o a_o good_a nature_n what_o be_v and_o how_o to_o be_v prise_v §_o 10._o 11._o inconvenience_n by_o admit_v active_a spirit_n into_o contemplative_a religion_n §_o 12._o 13._o 14._o 15._o sufficient_a time_n for_o recollection_n be_v to_o be_v allow_v to_o all_o religious_a §_o 16._o superior_n will_v be_v accountable_a for_o disorder_n in_o their_o flock_n 1._o now_o one_o of_o the_o principal_a point_n of_o a_o superior_n care_v for_o the_o welfare_n of_o his_o community_n consist_v in_o provide_v or_o admit_v into_o it_o only_o such_o spirit_n and_o disposition_n as_o be_v likely_a to_o promote_v the_o good_a of_o it_o by_o live_v according_a to_o the_o spirit_n of_o it_o and_o in_o this_o all_o such_o officer_n and_o counselor_n be_v concern_v to_o who_o the_o law_n have_v refer_v the_o examination_n and_o trial_n of_o such_o as_o offer_v themselves_o to_o a_o regular_a life_n and_o be_v afterward_o upon_o their_o approbation_n to_o be_v profess_v and_o a_o great_a consideration_n of_o this_o point_n be_v more_o necessary_a in_o these_o day_n then_o ancient_o it_o be_v for_o it_o be_v not_o now_o as_o in_o our_o holy_a father_n time_n when_o incorrigible_a person_n may_v be_v expel_v the_o congregation_n 2._o it_o be_v not_o i_o suppose_v needful_a to_o advise_v such_o as_o be_v in_o those_o office_n to_o take_v care_n how_o they_o admit_v loose_a spirit_n into_o religion_n among_o they_o who_o will_v not_o so_o much_o as_o intend_v god_n or_o his_o service_n all_o who_o action_n have_v no_o other_o motive_n but_o either_o fear_n of_o penance_n or_o hope_n of_o gain_v reputation_n preferment_n &c_n &c_n who_o body_n be_v prisoner_n in_o religion_n but_o their_o mind_n and_o desire_n wander_v in_o the_o world_n who_o must_v enjoy_v all_o privilege_n and_o corporal_a help_n equal_o with_o the_o best_a yea_o and_o general_o use_v they_o most_o wasteful_o without_o consideration_n of_o other_o who_o find_v no_o taste_n or_o contentment_n in_o spiritual_a matter_n be_v even_o force_v to_o seek_v satisfaction_n in_o sensual_a pleasure_n and_o for_o the_o pass_n of_o the_o time_n to_o frame_v design_n to_o raise_v and_o maintain_v faction_n and_o this_o especial_o against_o those_o that_o they_o see_v do_v most_o intend_v god_n on_o who_o they_o will_v cast_v from_o of_o themselves_o all_o the_o burden_n of_o a_o regular_a life_n who_o will_v think_v themselves_o excuse_v from_o all_o duty_n for_o the_o least_o corporal_a incommodity_n who_o will_v desire_v and_o endeavour_v to_o make_v other_o like_o themselves_o that_o their_o party_n and_o power_n may_v be_v great_a last_o who_o reap_v so_o little_a good_a to_o their_o own_o soul_n and_o be_v likely_a to_o do_v so_o much_o prejudice_n to_o other_o that_o probable_o it_o have_v be_v much_o better_a for_o they_o to_o have_v continue_v in_o the_o world_n the_o state_n of_o religion_n only_o serve_v to_o increase_v their_o guilt_n and_o misery_n 3._o such_o loose_a spirit_n be_v worse_o in_o a_o community_n where_o the_o knowledge_n of_o true_a spirituality_n be_v common_a then_o in_o other_o place_n because_o there_o they_o be_v wilful_o naught_o and_o do_v resist_v amendment_n if_o by_o the_o severity_n of_o law_n and_o constitution_n they_o may_v come_v to_o be_v keep_v in_o some_o tolerable_a order_n yet_o this_o reach_n only_o to_o the_o exterior_a &_o last_v no_o long_o than_o the_o superior_n eye_n be_v upon_o they_o and_o indeed_o the_o superior_n themselves_n will_v in_o all_o probability_n feel_v the_o great_a smart_n from_o such_o undue_a admission_n be_v likely_a to_o find_v daily_o great_a bitterness_n from_o their_o obstinacy_n such_o loose_a spirit_n be_v the_o cause_n of_o such_o a_o burdensome_a multiplicity_n of_o law_n all_o which_o notwithstanding_o be_v little_a avayleable_a for_o their_o amendment_n and_o yet_o do_v abridge_v the_o due_a liberty_n of_o spirit_n necessary_a to_o devout_a wellminded_a soul_n nourish_v scrupulosity_n etc._n etc._n in_o they_o 4._o let_v the_o best_a care_n that_o be_v possible_a be_v use_v notwithstanding_o some_o unfit_a person_n will_v through_o easiness_n partial_a affection_n or_o other_o respect_n in_o the_o examiner_n slip_v in_o if_o therefore_o those_o who_o be_v apparent_o bid_v be_v receive_v what_o a_o community_n will_v there_o be_v provide_v many_o that_o seem_v good_a will_v prove_v bad_a but_o seldom_o or_o never_o will_v those_o that_o appear_v bad_a become_v good_a god_n indeed_o can_v change_v the_o worst_a but_o yet_o a_o uncertain_a hope_n in_o extraordinary_a grace_n be_v not_o to_o be_v rely_v upon_o especial_o where_o
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
any_o alteration_n at_o all_o in_o their_o essential_a design_n most_o secure_a and_o profitable_a to_o their_o own_o soul_n which_o be_v the_o lead_v a_o solitary_n devout_a and_o abstract_a life_n and_o therein_o aspire_v to_o contemplation_n this_o only_o must_v they_o aim_v at_o and_o to_o this_o must_v they_o order_v all_o their_o thought_n and_o action_n as_o if_o they_o be_v all_o their_o life_n long_o to_o be_v imprison_v in_o their_o cloister_n therefore_o neither_o enter_v nor_o afterward_o must_v they_o entertain_v any_o thought_n or_o design_n about_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v out_o of_o the_o limit_n of_o their_o conuent_v in_o which_o for_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v themselves_o their_o desire_n and_o intention_n must_v be_v to_o live_v and_o die_v particular_o they_o ought_v to_o banish_v out_o of_o their_o mind_n all_o meditation_n and_o inclination_n to_o go_v in_o mission_n into_o england_n yea_o if_o they_o will_v indeed_o comply_v with_o their_o essential_a profession_n they_o must_v resolve_v as_o much_o as_o lie_v in_o they_o and_o without_o offence_n to_o god_n or_o disobedience_n to_o their_o superior_n to_o prevent_v such_o a_o employment_n of_o which_o they_o can_v without_o pride_n think_v themselves_o worthy_a or_o able_a to_o encounter_v all_o the_o tentation_n and_o danger_n accompany_v it_o simple_o and_o sincere_o confine_v all_o their_o thought_n and_o affection_n to_o that_o life_n of_o solitude_n abstraction_n and_o prayer_n which_o they_o have_v vow_v and_o in_o which_o their_o soul_n will_v find_v true_a comfort_n and_o security_n 4._o consequent_o neither_o must_v they_o with_o a_o intention_n to_o approve_v unto_o their_o superior_n their_o fitness_n for_o that_o charge_n thereby_o as_o it_o be_v invite_v they_o to_o make_v use_n of_o they_o for_o it_o apply_v themselves_o after_o such_o a_o manner_n to_o the_o study_n proper_a for_o such_o a_o employment_n as_o in_o any_o measure_n thereby_o to_o hinder_v or_o interrupt_v the_o read_n of_o such_o book_n as_o be_v most_o beneficial_a to_o their_o soul_n and_o much_o less_o to_o hinder_v their_o daily_a serious_a recollection_n in_o case_n their_o superior_n who_o be_v only_o concern_v in_o that_o business_n shall_v require_v of_o they_o to_o apply_v themselves_o diligent_o to_o such_o study_n as_o may_v fit_v they_o for_o the_o mission_n they_o be_v oblige_v therein_o to_o submit_v themselves_o to_o obedience_n yet_o even_o in_o that_o case_n if_o they_o find_v that_o much_o time_n can_v be_v spend_v in_o they_o without_o hurt_n to_o their_o spirit_n and_o a_o neglect_n or_o prejudice_n to_o their_o appoint_a recollection_n they_o ought_v to_o acquaint_v their_o superior_n with_o their_o case_n who_o no_o doubt_n will_v prefer_v the_o good_a and_o advancement_n of_o their_o soul_n by_o solitude_n purity_n of_o spirit_n and_o internal_a prayer_n before_o any_o other_o consideration_n whatsoever_o yea_o they_o will_v judge_v prayer_n to_o be_v a_o better_a disposition_n and_o to_o procure_v a_o great_a enablement_n even_o for_o such_o a_o call_v then_o study_v and_o will_v take_v heed_n how_o they_o send_v any_o abroad_o that_o for_o their_o study_n neglect_v their_o prayer_n for_o what_o blessing_n from_o god_n can_v such_o hope_n upon_o any_o endeavour_n of_o they_o be_v it_o not_o more_o likely_a that_o themselves_o will_v be_v pervert_v than_o other_o by_o they_o convert_v 5._o it_o can_v easy_o be_v imagine_v how_o mischievous_a to_o many_o soul_n the_o neglect_n of_o such_o advice_n may_v be_v some_o will_v perhaps_o have_v a_o mind_n to_o take_v the_o habit_n for_o that_o end_n &_o intent_n principal_o of_o go_v afterward_o into_o england_n what_o miserable_a distraction_n will_v such_o a_o resolution_n cause_n during_o all_o the_o time_n of_o their_o abode_n in_o their_o convent_n for_o all_o their_o thought_n almost_o all_o their_o affection_n hope_n and_o design_n will_v be_v carry_v abroad_o into_o another_o country_n so_o that_o the_o place_n of_o their_o profession_n will_v be_v esteem_v a_o place_n of_o exile_n to_o they_o and_o so_o far_o will_v they_o be_v from_o procure_v a_o divine_a light_n and_o grace_n to_o enable_v they_o for_o so_o terrible_a a_o employment_n by_o the_o mean_n of_o prayer_n that_o prayer_n and_o solitude_n will_v be_v distasteful_a to_o they_o regular_a observance_n will_v be_v a_o burden_n and_o any_o thing_n that_o may_v delay_v their_o intention_n which_o they_o say_v be_v of_o convert_v soul_n but_o alas_o perhaps_o with_o the_o loss_n or_o at_o least_o imminent_a danger_n of_o their_o own_o 6._o nay_o some_o that_o at_o the_o beginning_n have_v simple_o and_o with_o a_o good_a intention_n take_v the_o habit_n yield_v afterward_o to_o the_o spirit_n of_o tepidity_n the_o which_o turn_v their_o happy_a solitude_n into_o a_o prison_n will_v look_v upon_o the_o mission_n as_o a_o mean_n to_o free_v themselves_o from_o their_o profession_n and_o therefore_o will_v not_o fear_v to_o use_v all_o mean_n by_o friend_n and_o solicitation_n of_o their_o superior_n that_o they_o may_v be_v suffer_v to_o quit_v it_o and_o to_o go_v in_o mission_n god_n only_o know_v into_o what_o danger_n and_o tentation_n they_o wilful_o thrust_v themselves_o be_v utter_o unprovided_a of_o light_n or_o grace_n to_o resist_v they_o and_o what_o other_o issue_n can_v be_v expect_v but_o that_o god_n shall_v give_v they_o up_o to_o suâh_a tentation_n unto_o which_o out_o of_o a_o sensual_a affection_n to_o the_o world_n pride_n and_o a_o weariness_n of_o prayer_n they_o have_v expose_v themselves_o without_o any_o call_n from_o he_o yea_o contrary_a to_o his_o will_n 7._o now_o it_o be_v not_o only_o particular_a religious_a but_o much_o more_o superior_n that_o ought_v to_o think_v themselves_o concern_v most_o deep_o in_o these_o matter_n for_o in_o case_n such_o unwary_a rash_a soul_n shall_v come_v thus_o to_o destroy_v themselves_o they_o annot_v but_o know_v that_o those_o soul_n shall_v be_v require_v at_o their_o hand_n they_o ought_v therefore_o to_o root_v out_o of_o the_o hearâs_n of_o their_o subject_n all_o such_o pernicious_a design_n by_o show_v that_o they_o esteem_v they_o least_o worthy_a that_o be_v most_o forward_o to_o offer_v themselves_o and_o great_a care_n and_o wariness_n ought_v they_o to_o use_v how_o they_o send_v or_o permit_v any_o to_o go_v abroad_o before_o they_o be_v sufficient_o furnish_v not_o so_o much_o with_o learning_n as_o with_o the_o spirit_n of_o mortification_n and_o prayer_n and_o with_o zeal_n proceed_v from_o a_o establish_a charity_n that_o so_o they_o may_v not_o by_o undertake_v and_o execute_v active_a employment_n prejudice_n and_o perhaps_o ruin_v their_o contemplative_a state_n 8._o our_o example_n ought_v to_o be_v our_o first_o hoây_a converter_n of_o england_n who_o do_v not_o undertake_v such_o a_o charge_n till_o they_o be_v grow_v old_a in_o the_o exercice_n of_o solitude_n and_o contemplation_n and_o not_o then_o till_o a_o absolute_a command_n be_v impose_v on_o they_o by_o the_o supreme_a pastâur_n and_o in_o the_o execution_n of_o their_o charge_n they_o never_o suffer_v their_o labour_n and_o sollicitude_n to_o dispense_v with_o they_o for_o the_o continue_n of_o their_o accustom_a austerity_n and_o the_o exercise_n of_o prayer_n but_o borrow_v from_o their_o employment_n as_o much_o time_n as_o can_v possible_o be_v allow_v to_o spend_v in_o abstraction_n solitude_n and_o contemplation_n yea_o though_o they_o converse_v only_o with_o pagan_n and_o barbarous_a soul_n yet_o so_o zealous_a be_v they_o of_o their_o monastical_a life_n and_o profession_n that_o they_o will_v not_o so_o much_o as_o quit_v the_o habit_n and_o when_o they_o be_v consecrate_v and_o exalt_v to_o the_o episcopal_a function_n yet_o still_o they_o retain_v both_o the_o exercise_n and_o fashion_n of_o monastical_a contemplative_a person_n as_o s._n bede_n declare_v 9_o moreover_o in_o latter_a time_n experience_n have_v witness_v that_o some_o humble_a and_o devout_a though_o not_o so_o learned_a missioner_n have_v prosper_v better_o in_o convert_v soul_n than_o the_o most_o acute_a and_o cunning_a controvertist_n and_o have_v by_o their_o humility_n modesty_n and_o edify_a conversation_n but_o especial_o by_o the_o practice_n and_o teach_n of_o internal_a prayer_n gain_v to_o catholic_a unity_n those_o soul_n that_o many_o other_o most_o skilful_a in_o dispute_n and_o withal_o enable_v with_o experience_n have_v for_o long_a time_n in_o vain_a attempt_v 10._o notwithstanding_o all_o this_o i_o do_v not_o deny_v but_o that_o to_o a_o religious_a foul_a a_o impulse_n and_o interior_a invitation_n may_v come_v from_o god_n to_o go_v into_o the_o mission_n this_o be_v possible_a but_o most_o certain_a it_o be_v that_o such_o a_o invitation_n will_v very_o rare_o if_o ever_o come_v but_o to_o soul_n establish_v in_o a_o spiritual_a life_n and_o in_o this_o case_n it_o will_v be_v
the_o degree_n of_o such_o use_n or_o enjoy_n between_o perfect_a good_a christian_n &_o imperfect_a yea_o moreover_o between_o those_o that_o be_v perfect_a in_o a_o active_a &_o those_o in_o a_o contemplative_a state_n for_o wicked_a man_n give_v way_n deliberate_o to_o a_o habitual_a enjoy_n of_o creature_n without_o regard_n to_o their_o soul_n or_o god_n yea_o contrary_a to_o his_o command_n and_o imperfect_a good_a christian_n have_v no_o care_n to_o root_v out_o of_o their_o soul_n a_o habitual_a love_n to_o creature_n except_o it_o be_v such_o a_o love_n as_o endanger_v the_o soul_n by_o expelling_a charity_n and_o last_o those_o that_o be_v perfect_a in_o a_o active_a life_n for_o want_n of_o a_o constant_a state_n of_o recollection_n do_v not_o enjoy_v a_o sufficient_a light_n to_o discover_v how_o in_o many_o thing_n of_o less_o importance_n they_o give_v way_n to_o sense_n prevent_v reason_n &_o enjoy_v outward_a contentment_n without_o that_o purity_n of_o intention_n which_o contemplative_n be_v far_o less_o distract_v do_v much_o more_o frequent_o &_o perfect_o exercise_v 10._o now_o have_v mention_v this_o diversity_n of_o venial_a sin_n &_o imperfection_n before_o i_o come_v to_o speak_v further_o of_o the_o mortification_n here_o intend_v i_o will_v add_v some_o few_o consideration_n touch_v venial_a sin_n with_o relation_n to_o a_o contemplative_a state_n 11._o if_o it_o be_v require_v to_o perfection_n in_o a_o contemplative_a life_n that_o a_o soul_n shall_v be_v entire_o free_a from_o venial_a defect_n it_o will_v be_v impossible_a to_o attain_v unto_o it_o consider_v the_o incurable_a frailty_n of_o our_o nature_n the_o frequency_n of_o tentation_n &_o the_o incapacity_n which_o be_v in_o a_o soul_n to_o be_v in_o a_o continual_a actual_a guard_n over_o herself_o true_a it_o be_v that_o by_o perseverance_n in_o spiritual_a prayer_n accompany_v with_o mortification_n such_o defect_n become_v for_o number_n more_o rare_a &_o for_o quality_n less_o considerable_a but_o though_o prayer_n &_o mortification_n shall_v continue_v never_o so_o long_o a_o soul_n will_v find_v occasion_n &_o a_o necessity_n to_o be_v in_o continual_a resistance_n against_o her_o perverse_a inclination_n &_o in_o such_o combat_n will_v sometime_o come_v off_o with_o loss_n 12._o venial_a sin_n therefore_o be_v not_o inconsistent_a with_o perfection_n although_o they_o shall_v be_v commit_v never_o so_o oft_o out_o of_o frailty_n subreption_n or_o ignorance_n but_o if_o they_o be_v commit_v deliberate_o advise_o customary_o &_o with_o affection_n they_o render_v the_o soul_n in_o a_o incapacity_n of_o attain_v to_o perfection_n in_o prayer_n &c_n &c_n this_o be_v a_o point_n of_o great_a moment_n &_o consideration_n &_o therefore_o that_o we_o may_v distinguish_v aright_o between_o sin_v out_o of_o frailty_n surprise_n or_o infirmity_n &_o the_o sin_v out_o of_o affection_n to_o the_o object_n of_o venial_a sin_n we_o must_v know_v 13._o first_o that_o those_o be_v say_v to_o fall_v into_o venial_a sin_n out_o of_o frailty_n which_o commit_v they_o only_o when_o a_o occasion_n or_o tentation_n unwilling_o present_v itself_o &_o then_o be_v surprise_v with_o a_o sudden_a passion_n or_o deprive_v of_o sufficient_a vigilancy_n &_o reflection_n but_o upon_o a_o observation_n of_o their_o fault_n they_o present_o return_v to_o themselves_o &_o find_v a_o remorse_n &_o selfe-condemnation_n for_o it_o &_o a_o aversion_n at_o least_o in_o their_o superior_a will_n from_o such_o thing_n as_o hinder_v their_o approach_n unto_o god_n or_o if_o this_o be_v not_o do_v present_o however_o in_o their_o next_o recollection_n such_o offence_n if_o they_o be_v of_o any_o moment_n will_v be_v bring_v into_o their_o mind_n &_o will_v procure_v a_o sorrow_n &_o consequent_o a_o pardon_n for_o they_o but_o when_o they_o be_v out_o of_o such_o occasion_n or_o tentation_n they_o do_v not_o give_v way_n to_o a_o pleasure_n conceive_v in_o the_o object_n of_o they_o &_o much_o less_o do_v they_o voluntary_o seek_v or_o intend_v such_o occasion_n 14._o those_o in_o the_o second_o place_n be_v say_v to_o sin_n venial_o out_o of_o affection_n who_o both_o before_o &_o after_o such_o fault_n do_v deliberate_o neglect_v they_o yea_o &_o be_v so_o far_o from_o avoid_v the_o occasion_n of_o they_o that_o they_o do_v oft_o procure_v they_o and_o this_o out_o of_o affection_n not_o to_o the_o salt_n but_o to_o the_o thing_n which_o they_o see_v do_v often_o occasion_v the_o fault_n such_o be_v those_o that_o love_n curiosity_n in_o apparel_n delicacy_n of_o meat_n hear_v of_o vain_a discouse_n &_o that_o contrive_v meeting_n of_o jollity_n from_o whence_o they_o never_o escape_v without_o incur_v many_o defect_n now_o such_o soul_n may_v perhaps_o have_v remorse_n for_o the_o sin_n so_o commit_v &_o mention_v they_o with_o sorrow_n in_o confession_n but_o yet_o such_o remorse_n &_o confession_n be_v not_o from_o the_o whole_a heart_n not_o be_v sufficient_a to_o make_v they_o avoid_v the_o occasion_n when_o this_o may_v be_v do_v without_o much_o inconvenience_n or_o trouble_n yea_o they_o do_v not_o sufficient_o consider_v that_o the_o very_a love_n unto_o those_o vanity_n which_o occasion_n great_a defect_n if_o it_o be_v a_o deliberate_a love_n be_v in_o itself_o a_o sin_n though_o no_o other_o defect_n be_v occasion_v by_o it_o such_o can_v make_v no_o progress_n in_o spiritual_a prayer_n yea_o on_o the_o contrary_a as_o long_o as_o such_o know_v voluntary_a affection_n either_o to_o the_o sin_n or_o occasion_n be_v not_o mortify_v they_o do_v every_o day_n decline_v &_o grow_v more_o &_o more_o indispose_v to_o prayer_n the_o which_o thereby_o be_v so_o distract_a &_o so_o full_a of_o disquiet_v remorse_n that_o it_o be_v almost_o impossible_a to_o persevere_v constant_o in_o a_o exercise_n so_o very_o painful_a 15._o a_o hundred_o imperfection_n therefore_o though_o of_o some_o more_o than_o ordinary_a moment_n be_v not_o so_o contrary_a to_o perfection_n while_o thy_o be_v incur_v by_o surprisal_n or_o infirmity_n as_o be_v a_o affection_n retain_v to_o the_o least_o imperfection_n though_o it_o be_v but_o a_o unproffitable_a thought_n a_o wellminded_n &_o courageous_a soul_n therefore_o at_o her_o first_o entrance_n into_o the_o internal_a way_n of_o the_o spirit_n must_v &_o do_v in_o a_o instant_n cut_v of_o this_o deliberate_a affection_n to_o all_o venial_a sin_n &_o their_o occasion_n with_o discretion_n seek_v to_o avoid_v they_o although_o it_o may_v happen_v without_o any_o great_a prejudice_n to_o her_o progress_n that_o she_o may_v find_v herself_o very_o oft_o surprise_v &_o overcome_v by_o many_o &_o great_a fault_n 16._o neither_o ought_v any_o soul_n vain_o to_o flatter_v herself_o with_o a_o hope_n of_o reserve_v this_o affection_n without_o preiudice_v her_o pretension_n to_o perfection_n because_o one_o or_o two_o example_n almost_o miraculous_a be_v find_v of_o some_o soul_n that_o notwithstanding_o such_o affection_n have_v be_v visit_v by_o god_n with_o supernatural_a favour_n &_o exalt_v to_o a_o very_a sublime_a prayer_n as_o a_o late_a eminent_a saint_n write_v of_o her_o own_o self_n for_o beside_o that_o there_o be_v perhaps_o some_o excusable_a ignorance_n in_o she_o of_o the_o unlawfullnes_n of_o such_o affection_n we_o may_v say_v that_o god_n be_v please_v to_o confer_v on_o she_o such_o extraordinary_a favour_n not_o so_o much_o for_o she_o own_o sake_n but_o rather_o for_o the_o good_a of_o other_o in_o as_o much_o as_o she_o be_v destine_v by_o he_o to_o be_v the_o mistress_n &_o teacher_n of_o true_a contemplative_a prayer_n than_o almost_o unknow_v to_o the_o world_n 17._o but_o most_o certain_a it_o be_v that_o according_a to_o the_o ordinary_a establish_a course_n of_o divine_a providence_n perfection_n in_o prayer_n be_v accompany_v with_o a_o proportionable_a perfection_n in_o mortification_n and_o therefore_o such_o soul_n as_o during_o a_o voluntary_a habitual_a affection_n to_o venial_a sin_n as_o to_o the_o obie&s_n obie&s_n obie&s_n &_o occasion_n of_o they_o do_v seem_v to_o have_v great_a light_n and_o profound_a recollection_n in_o prayer_n if_o the_o say_a light_n and_o recollection_n do_v not_o urge_v and_o incite_v they_o to_o quit_v such_o harmful_a affection_n such_o aught_o to_o suspect_v that_o all_o go_v not_o right_a with_o they_o but_o may_v just_o fear_v that_o the_o devil_n have_v some_o influence_n into_o such_o devotion_n so_o utter_o destitute_a of_o true_a mortification_n chap._n iii_o §_o 1._o natural_o we_o love_v ourselves_o only_o §_o 2._o even_o the_o best_a &_o most_o compose_a temper_n be_v deep_o guilty_a of_o self-love_n §_o 3._o the_o benefit_n of_o such_o good_a disposition_n §_o 4._o self-love_n &_o propriety_n must_v unjuersal_o be_v avoid_v §_o 5._o 6._o a_o state_n of_o affliction_n &_o cross_n be_v only_o secure_a §_o 7._o what_o use_n be_v to_o
be_v make_v of_o prosperity_n §_o 8._o 9_o the_o great_a benefit_n of_o mortification_n §_o 10._o a_o great_a courage_n be_v necessary_a to_o the_o due_a practice_n of_o mortification_n §_o 11._o 12._o 13._o 14._o the_o advice_n of_o some_o writer_n to_o raise_v passion_n to_o the_o end_n afterward_o to_o repress_v they_o be_v dangerous_a 1._o natural_o we_o love_v &_o seek_v nothing_o but_o ourselves_o in_o all_o thing_n whatsoever_o we_o love_v &_o seek_v we_o be_v our_o own_o last_o end_n refer_v all_o thing_n even_o supernatural_a yea_o god_n himself_o to_o our_o own_o interest_n &_o commodity_n we_o seek_v thing_n please_v only_o to_o our_o sense_n outward_a or_o inward_a as_o if_o the_o felicity_n of_o our_o soul_n &_o person_n consist_v in_o sensual_a pleasure_n opinion_n of_o honour_n profit_n or_o curiosity_n of_o knowledge_n &c_n &c_n therefore_o there_o can_v be_v no_o merit_n in_o nature_n or_o action_n proceed_v from_o nature_n 2._o yea_o they_o who_o natural_o have_v much_o interior_a composednes_n &_o stillnes_n of_o passion_n &_o seem_v not_o much_o to_o be_v trouble_v with_o rebellion_n in_o sensuality_n &_o that_o moreover_o have_v in_o they_o a_o kind_n of_o natural_a devotion_n yet_o even_o these_o whatsoever_o they_o appear_v outward_o in_o show_v be_v full_a of_o self_n love_n which_o be_v the_o principle_n of_o all_o their_o action_n if_o they_o love_v quietness_n it_o be_v because_o nature_n take_v a_o contentment_n in_o it_o and_o their_o self-love_n be_v more_o abstruse_a &_o more_o deep_o seat_v in_o the_o root_n of_o the_o spirit_n itself_o and_o therefore_o ofttimes_o it_o be_v hard_o to_o be_v cure_v because_o not_o so_o easy_o discover_v neither_o indeed_o be_v there_o any_o hope_n of_o remedy_n till_o by_o prayer_n they_o get_v a_o light_n to_o discover_v the_o say_a secret_a self_n love_n and_o grace_n by_o mortification_n to_o subdue_v it_o 3._o it_o be_v true_a such_o good_a natural_a disposition_n may_v be_v beneficial_a to_o soul_n in_o two_o respect_n especial_o first_o in_o that_o by_o mean_n thereof_o they_o fall_v into_o fewer_n sin_n then_o more_o passionate_a impetuous_a nature_n do_v &_o consequent_o do_v not_o put_v so_o many_o impediment_n to_o grace_n but_o yet_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v unless_o they_o practise_v prayer_n &_o mortification_n they_o will_v increase_v in_o spiritual_a pride_n for_o certain_a it_o be_v that_o nature_n not_o restrain_v will_v one_o way_n or_o other_o grow_v more_o &_o more_o inordinate_a 2._o a_o second_o benefit_n be_v that_o such_o disposition_n be_v better_o fit_v for_o internal_a prayer_n yea_o to_o the_o perfect_a kind_n of_o it_o which_o be_v prayer_n of_o aspiration_n so_o that_o they_o may_v with_o less_o labour_n get_v out_o of_o nature_n elevate_n themselves_o to_o god_n 4._o a_o absolute_a necessity_n therefore_o there_o be_v for_o all_o soul_n to_o mortify_v nature_n &_o especial_o to_o rectify_v this_o general_a depravednes_n of_o propriety_n by_o which_o we_o be_v to_o ourselves_o our_o last_a end_n the_o which_o be_v do_v by_o the_o infusion_n of_o divine_a charity_n by_o which_o ourselves_o be_v direct_v to_o god_n as_o our_o last_o end_n and_o a_o necessary_a disposition_n thereto_o be_v the_o mortification_n of_o self_n love_n and_o thus_o far_o all_o christian_n be_v oblige_v to_o mortify_v themselves_o namely_o to_o cure_v the_o mortal_o sinful_a disorder_n of_o their_o soul_n a_o necessity_n likewise_o there_o be_v upon_o supposition_n of_o aspire_v to_o perfection_n to_o mortify_v all_o deliberate_a affection_n to_o any_o the_o least_o venial_a defect_n and_o deordination_n of_o our_o soul_n the_o which_o duty_n of_o mortification_n require_v of_o we_o that_o deliberate_o and_o customary_o we_o neither_o admit_v into_o our_o mind_n internal_o vain_a thought_n nor_o outward_o speak_v or_o exercise_v act_n of_o vain_a love_n vain_a hope_n vain_a fear_n or_o vain_a sorrow_o &_o all_o be_v vain_a that_o be_v not_o refer_v to_o god_n or_o be_v not_o do_v for_o he_o 5._o mortification_n tend_v to_o subject_v the_o body_n to_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o spirit_n to_o god_n and_o this_o it_o do_v by_o cross_v the_o inclination_n of_o sense_n which_o be_v quite_o contrary_a to_o those_o of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n which_o ought_v to_o be_v our_o chief_a &_o only_a principle_n for_o by_o such_o cross_n &_o afflict_v of_o the_o body_n self-love_n &_o selfewill_n the_o poison_n of_o our_o spirit_n be_v abate_v &_o in_o time_n in_o a_o sort_n destroy_v &_o instead_o of_o they_o there_o enter_v into_o the_o soul_n the_o divine_a love_n &_o divine_a will_n &_o take_v possession_n thereof_o and_o therein_o consist_v our_o perfection_n &_o happiness_n 6._o for_o this_o reason_n the_o soul_n be_v in_o a_o far_o more_o secure_a state_n when_o cross_n &_o affliction_n do_v exceed_v world_o contentment_n &_o sensual_a ease_n for_o wonderful_a seldom_o it_o happen_v that_o a_o soul_n make_v any_o progress_n in_o a_o spiritual_a course_n by_o mean_n of_o outward_a prosperity_n some_o perfect_a soul_n may_v perhaps_o keep_v the_o station_n in_o which_o they_o be_v not_o withstand_v a_o casefull_a content_v &_o abound_a condition_n in_o the_o world_n but_o it_o be_v almost_o miraculous_a if_o they_o thereby_o advance_v themselves_o in_o spirit_n so_o natural_o &_o almost_o necessary_o do_v case_n of_o nature_n nourish_v self-love_n pride_n security_n a_o spiritual_a sloth_n &_o a_o distaste_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n 7._o indeed_o the_o only_a possible_a way_n for_o a_o soul_n to_o make_v prosperity_n a_o occasion_n of_o improvement_n to_o she_o be_v by_o a_o voluntary_a cross_n &_o diminish_v of_o it_o that_o be_v by_o take_v advantage_n even_o from_o thence_o to_o mortify_v nature_n as_o for_o example_n in_o case_n of_o riches_n &_o honour_n by_o carry_v ourselves_o both_o exterior_o &_o interior_o to_o god_n &_o man_n with_o more_o humility_n &_o modesty_n as_o if_o we_o be_v not_o at_o all_o in_o such_o plenty_n &_o eminency_n also_o by_o suppress_v vain_a joy_n &_o complacency_n in_o such_o thing_n by_o acknowledge_v that_o we_o be_v not_o lord_n &_o proprietaire_n but_o only_a steward_n &_o dispenser_n of_o such_o thing_n from_o who_o a_o severe_a account_n shall_v be_v require_v for_o the_o talent_n entrust_v to_o we_o for_o other_o sake_n &_o not_o our_o own_o so_o that_o it_o be_v most_o true_a that_o all_o the_o security_n solidity_n &_o fullnes_n of_o our_o soul_n good_a consist_v in_o a_o right_a use_n of_o those_o thing_n which_o be_v contrary_a &_o afflict_v to_o our_o nature_n 8._o in_o general_n mortification_n include_v the_o exercise_n of_o all_o virtue_n for_o in_o every_o act_n of_o virtue_n we_o mortify_v some_o inordinate_a passion_n &_o inclination_n of_o nature_n or_o other_o so_o that_o to_o attain_v to_o perfect_a mortification_n be_v to_o be_v possess_v of_o all_o virtue_n 9_o the_o benefit_n &_o blessing_n that_o come_v to_o our_o soul_n by_o exercise_v of_o mortification_n be_v many_o &_o most_o precious_a as_o 1._o there_o be_v thereby_o avoid_v that_o sin_n which_o otherwise_o will_v have_v be_v commit_v 2._o it_o cause_v a_o degree_n of_o purity_n to_o the_o soul_n 3._o it_o procure_v great_a grace_n &_o spiritual_a strength_n 4._o one_o act_n of_o mortification_n enable_v to_o another_o as_o on_o the_o contrary_a by_o yield_v any_o time_n to_o our_o corrupt_a nature_n we_o be_v enfeeble_v &_o less_o able_a to_o resist_v another_o time_n 5._o it_o diminish_v our_o suffer_v in_o purgatory_n because_o so_o much_o of_o suffer_v be_v past_a &_o a_o little_a pain_n for_o the_o present_n will_v countervail_v &_o prevent_v sharp_a &_o long_a pain_n for_o the_o future_a 6._o it_o procure_v internal_a light_n by_o dispel_v &_o calm_v the_o unrulines_n of_o passion_n 7._o it_o produce_v great_a peace_n to_o the_o soul_n the_o which_o be_v disturb_v only_o by_o unquiet_a passion_n 8._o it_o help_v the_o soul_n much_o in_o her_o advancement_n in_o spiritual_a prayer_n &_o contemplation_n the_o end_n of_o all_o our_o religious_a &_o spiritual_a exercise_n 9_o it_o be_v of_o great_a edification_n to_o our_o brethren_n &_o neighbour_n 10._o it_o increase_v all_o these_o way_n our_o future_a happiness_n &_o glory_n 10._o the_o duty_n of_o mortification_n be_v so_o absolute_o necessary_a &_o so_o infinite_o beneficial_a &_o moreover_o so_o large_o extend_v as_o that_o it_o reach_v to_o all_o manner_n of_o natural_a inclination_n in_o so_o much_o as_o nothing_o do_v a_o imperfect_a soul_n any_o good_a further_o than_o it_o be_v cross_v &_o mortify_v to_o some_o inordination_n in_o her_o natural_a inclination_n it_o follow_v from_o hence_o that_o a_o soul_n that_o intend_v to_o walk_v in_o these_o way_n of_o contemplation_n have_v need_n have_v a_o great_a courage_n since_o her_o design_n must_v be_v to_o combat_v
as_o follow_v in_o virtue_n of_o a_o precedent_n actual_a intention_n make_v in_o prayer_n etc._n etc._n in_o so_o do_v she_o shall_v perform_v after_o the_o best_a &_o secure_a way_n the_o exercise_n of_o the_o continual_a presence_n of_o god_n so_o much_o commend_v by_o spiritual_a author_n &_o particular_o by_o our_o holy_a father_n in_o the_o first_o degree_n of_o humility_n by_o the_o which_o exercise_n sure_o it_o can_v be_v intend_v that_o a_o soul_n shall_v be_v oblige_v to_o have_v continual_o a_o actual_a remembrance_n of_o god_n for_o this_o be_v the_o same_o with_o actual_a internal_a prayer_n will_v so_o much_o endammage_n the_o head_n of_o imperfect_a soul_n especial_o that_o they_o will_v quick_o be_v disable_v from_o make_v any_o progress_n in_o spirit_n 3._o the_o same_o practice_n likewise_o do_v after_o the_o secure_a manner_n supply_v that_o other_o exercise_n oft_o recommend_v of_o a_o continual_a think_v on_o our_o own_o nothing_o for_o by_o conformity_n to_o the_o foresay_a direction_n propriety_n &_o self-will_a by_o the_o which_o alone_o we_o will_v fain_o seem_v to_o be_v something_o more_o than_o we_o be_v or_o aught_o to_o be_v be_v not_o only_o in_o thought_n imagination_n or_o desire_n of_o mind_n but_o real_o &_o effectual_o abandon_v &_o the_o inordinate_a affection_n of_o the_o soul_n mortify_v &_o annihilate_v and_o it_o be_v only_o for_o this_o end_n that_o the_o say_a exercise_n be_v so_o much_o magnify_v in_o a_o word_n by_o such_o practice_n join_v with_o a_o intention_n to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n &_o his_o divine_a love_n a_o soul_n will_v be_v very_o well_o dispose_v to_o the_o most_o perfect_a prayer_n of_o contemplation_n 4._o such_o a_o world_n there_o be_v of_o condition_n and_o circumstance_n require_v to_o the_o perfection_n of_o every_o action_n both_o touch_v the_o substance_n manner_n motive_n principle_n &_o end_n thereof_o &_o corrupt_a nature_n be_v so_o subtle_a to_o insinuate_v she_o own_o interest_n seek_v they_o in_o every_o thing_n we_o do_v &_o persuade_v we_o that_o we_o renounce_v propriety_n even_o when_o we_o most_o earnest_o intend_v it_o that_o without_o a_o extraordinary_a light_n from_o god_n to_o be_v obtain_v only_o by_o spiritual_a prayer_n we_o can_v discover_v the_o inclination_n of_o our_o own_o heart_n and_o the_o reason_n why_o this_o light_n can_v be_v have_v only_o by_o prayer_n be_v because_o then_o alone_a every_o the_o least_o defect_n &_o most_o secret_a suggestion_n hinder_v our_o view_n &_o contemplation_n of_o god_n and_o our_o tendance_n to_o he_o &_o by_o consequence_n be_v easy_o discernible_a as_o be_v set_v between_o our_o eye_n &_o the_o sun_n whereas_o in_o our_o ordinary_a vocal_a prayer_n &_o external_a good_a action_n only_o great_a tentation_n be_v able_a perceptible_o to_o distract_v us._n 5._o those_o therefore_o that_o do_v not_o pursue_v internal_a prayer_n can_v only_o so_o far_o mortify_v their_o passion_n that_o they_o break_v not_o forth_o into_o outward_a expression_n or_o action_n but_o the_o evil_a root_n remain_v still_o alive_a cause_v inward_a disorder_n very_o displease_v to_o god_n 6._o as_o for_o cross_n and_o adversity_n which_o a_o soul_n undergo_v out_o of_o the_o strength_n of_o reason_n and_o not_o in_o virtue_n of_o divine_a grace_n and_o prayer_n the_o chief_a effect_n of_o they_o be_v only_o to_o vex_v and_o trouble_v nature_n or_o at_o most_o they_o serve_v to_o mortify_v the_o superabundant_a activity_n and_o vigour_n of_o the_o internal_a sense_n and_o natural_a affection_n by_o which_o mean_v the_o person_n may_v become_v more_o judicious_a prudent_a and_o temperate_a but_o they_o pierce_v not_o to_o the_o spirit_n itself_o to_o cause_v any_o purity_n therein_o or_o real_o to_o diminish_v self-love_n moreover_o the_o like_a cross_n undergo_v by_o virtue_n of_o such_o a_o common_a grace_n as_o ordinary_a good_a extrovert_v christian_n do_v enjoy_v though_o they_o may_v be_v helpful_a to_o prevent_v the_o mortal_o poysonnous_a effect_n of_o self-love_n which_o be_v in_o we_o yet_o be_v far_o from_o expel_v that_o secret_a self-love_n which_o lurk_v in_o the_o inmost_a centre_n of_o our_o soul_n so_o that_o they_o may_v remain_v greivous_o full_a of_o stain_n and_o infirmity_n and_o the_o divine_a love_n feeble_a and_o easy_a to_o be_v extinguish_v notwithstanding_o the_o effect_n of_o such_o cross_n 7._o whereas_o difficulty_n undergo_v in_o virtue_n of_o grace_n obtain_v by_o internal_a prayer_n do_v as_o it_o be_v scour_n &_o purity_n the_o spirit_n itself_o from_o the_o rust_n of_o inordinate_a affection_n &_o so_o do_v spiritualise_v all_o the_o faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n cause_v it_o to_o become_v a_o pure_a spirit_n exalt_v and_o separate_v from_o sensible_a object_n &_o all_o adhesion_n to_o they_o from_o which_o all_o vicious_a impurity_n proceed_v this_o be_v that_o division_n of_o the_o soul_n &_o spirit_n mention_v by_o s._n paul_n by_o which_o the_o pure_a spirit_n work_n as_o a_o spirit_n not_o obscure_v nor_o infect_v with_o sensual_a end_n and_o interest_n 8._o the_o way_n of_o mortification_n therefore_o practise_v by_o internal_a contemplative_a liver_n be_v different_a from_o that_o of_o actives_a though_o live_v in_o a_o religious_a state_n &_o well_o advance_v in_o active_a exercise_n for_o these_o endeavour_n to_o mortify_v their_o inordinate_a affection_n by_o combat_v they_o purposely_o &_o direct_o to_o wit_n by_o meditate_v discoursive_o on_o the_o motive_n afford_v by_o christian_a doctrine_n to_o oppose_v they_o as_o a_o consideration_n of_o their_o deformity_n danger_n etc._n etc._n and_o also_o by_o exercise_v a_o act_n of_o virtue_n contrary_a thereto_o so_o repress_v the_o inordinate_a passion_n whereas_o contemplative_a soul_n do_v indirect_o yet_o far_o more_o efficacious_o mortify_v their_o passion_n by_o transcend_v they_o that_o be_v by_o elevate_n &_o unite_n their_o spirit_n to_o god_n with_o the_o help_n of_o pure_a intellectual_a actuation_n by_o this_o mean_n forget_v &_o drown_a both_o their_o sensual_a desire_n yea_o all_o create_a thing_n &_o chief_o themselves_o in_o god_n so_o that_o in_o a_o tentation_n they_o do_v not_o turn_v themselves_o towards_o the_o object_n to_o the_o end_n to_o resist_v &_o contradict_v it_o but_o by_o a_o vigorous_a act_n of_o resignation_n &_o love_n they_o convert_v their_o spirit_n unto_o god_n scorn_v even_o to_o cast_v a_o regard_n or_o glance_n upon_o creature_n that_o will_v allure_v their_o affection_n from_o god_n &_o which_o can_v be_v consider_v except_o in_o god_n without_o leave_v some_o tincture_n &_o imperfection_n in_o the_o soul_n 9_o it_o be_v not_o therefore_o the_o external_a practice_n of_o virtue_n nor_o much_o less_o customary_a frequent_a confession_n communion_n obedience_n austerity_n &c_n &c_n but_o pure_a spiritual_a prayer_n &_o the_o sublime_a degree_n of_o it_o to_o wit_n aspiration_n pure_a elevation_n of_o the_o will_n &_o other_o such_o divine_a operation_n that_o must_v be_v the_o principal_a instrument_n to_o bring_v a_o soul_n to_o a_o state_n of_o perfect_a freedom_n from_o exterior_a &_o interiour_n immortification_n for_o by_o such_o operation_n only_o she_o be_v enable_v to_o transcend_v inferior_a nature_n &_o to_o live_v in_o the_o quiet_a secure_a &_o illuminate_v region_n of_o the_o spirit_n 10._o but_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n till_o a_o devout_a soul_n do_v attain_v to_o such_o perfection_n of_o prayer_n she_o must_v be_v content_a to_o work_v according_a to_o her_o present_a light_n &_o enablement_n so_o endeavour_v to_o correct_v her_o defect_n by_o less_o perfect_a exercise_n &_o such_o as_o partake_v of_o the_o active_a way_n and_o she_o must_v with_o patience_n &_o quietness_n of_o spirit_n bear_v with_o she_o own_o imperfection_n as_o she_o will_v with_o other_o expect_v god_n good_a time_n &_o endeavour_v to_o hasten_v the_o approach_n of_o that_o time_n by_o assiduous_a prayer_n by_o mean_n of_o which_o alone_o she_o may_v come_v to_o expel_v those_o defect_n which_o do_v now_o so_o much_o exercise_v &_o trouble_v she_o &_o also_o to_o discover_v &_o correct_v many_o other_o which_o as_o yet_o her_o eye_n be_v too_o infirm_a &_o dim_a to_o see_v 11._o indeed_o the_o provident_a care_n that_o god_n general_o have_v over_o his_o child_n both_o perfect_a &_o imperfect_a be_v wonderful_a be_v careful_o suit_v to_o their_o present_a state_n for_o he_o do_v not_o usual_o send_v to_o imperfect_a soul_n any_o mortification_n but_o such_o as_o be_v ordinary_a &_o proportionable_a to_o their_o infirmity_n namely_o such_o as_o do_v gall_n &_o afflict_v their_o sensitive_a nature_n but_o do_v not_o pierce_v into_o the_o quick_a &_o centre_n of_o the_o spirit_n that_o remain_v free_a to_o support_v the_o other_o but_o as_o for_o soul_n arrive_v to_o the_o state_n of_o perfection_n or_o near_o it_o god_n do_v usual_o provide_v for_o they_o strange_a
unexpressible_a mortification_n most_o subtle_a tentation_n privation_n &_o desolation_n the_o which_o be_v worthy_o undergo_v do_v wonderful_o purify_v the_o spirit_n the_o former_a mortification_n s._n paul_n express_v thus_o there_o have_v no_o tentation_n take_v you_o but_o such_o as_o be_v according_a to_o ordinary_a humane_a nature_n &c_n &c_n but_o the_o latter_a thus_o our_o wrestle_n be_v not_o against_o flesh_n &_o blood_n the_o usual_a tentation_n of_o god_n imperfect_a child_n but_o against_o principality_n &_o power_n against_o the_o governor_n of_o the_o darkness_n of_o this_o world_n against_o spiritual_a wickedness_n in_o high_a place_n or_o thing_n 12._o every_o act_n of_o mortification_n perform_v by_o virtue_n of_o internal_a prayer_n do_v increase_v in_o we_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n &_o dispose_v we_o to_o a_o more_o perfect_a future_a prayer_n as_o on_o the_o contrary_a every_o act_n of_o immortification_n do_v increase_v in_o we_o self-love_n &_o do_v make_v we_o more_o indispose_v for_o future_a internal_a prayer_n again_o prayer_n enable_v we_o for_o future_a mortification_n teach_v we_o how_o to_o undertake_v &_o support_v they_o so_o that_o these_o duty_n must_v never_o be_v separate_v these_o contain_v all_o that_o a_o internal_a liver_n be_v oblige_v to_o 13._o i_o will_v conclude_v this_o discourse_n concern_v mortification_n in_o gross_a with_o one_o observation_n which_o may_v serve_v for_o a_o caution_n to_o a_o wellminded_n soul_n that_o live_v a_o internal_a life_n to_o prevent_v a_o inconvenience_n which_o otherwise_o may_v perhaps_o surprise_v she_o it_o be_v this_o that_o it_o may_v happen_v that_o religious_a or_o spiritual_a person_n will_v find_v a_o great_a difficulty_n in_o mortify_v &_o renounce_v some_o sensual_a contentment_n after_o they_o have_v enter_v into_o a_o spiritual_a course_n than_o they_o former_o find_v while_o they_o lead_v a_o extrovert_v secular_a life_n in_o the_o world_n now_o this_o happen_v to_o they_o may_v perhaps_o suggest_v either_o scrupulous_a or_o at_o least_o disquiet_v thought_n as_o if_o the_o change_n that_o they_o have_v make_v be_v not_o for_o the_o better_a or_o as_o if_o some_o thing_n they_o well_o know_v not_o what_o be_v amiss_o with_o they_o but_o if_o they_o will_v well_o consider_v of_o the_o matter_n they_o will_v find_v that_o this_o be_v no_o strange_a thing_n nor_o deserve_v that_o they_o shall_v much_o trouble_v themselves_o about_o it_o 14._o for_o the_o reason_n hereof_o be_v 1._o because_o if_o such_o a_o one_o have_v not_o pursue_v a_o internal_a life_n he_o will_v have_v perhaps_o enable_v himself_o to_o quit_v one_o pleasure_n by_o divert_v himself_o from_o thence_o to_o some_o other_o which_o will_v have_v recompense_v &_o satisfy_v for_o that_o loss_n take_v away_o the_o present_a difficulty_n whereas_o in_o a_o spiritual_a life_n a_o soul_n have_v in_o resolution_n abandon_v all_o sensual_a pleasure_n as_o such_o that_o can_v be_v abandon_v she_o can_v recompense_v the_o bitterness_n find_v in_o mortify_v one_o by_o a_o deliberate_a yield_n to_o another_o the_o pleasure_n feel_v in_o enjoy_v whereof_o might_n make_v she_o less_o sensible_a of_o the_o loss_n of_o the_o other_o 2._o again_o a_o imperfect_a soul_n will_v judge_v it_o necessary_a for_o the_o sustain_n of_o corporal_a infirmity_n &_o to_o prevent_v a_o unchearfull_a discontent_a habit_n of_o mind_n to_o allow_v unto_o herself_o some_o contentment_n recreative_a to_o sense_n and_o therefore_o when_o such_o be_v deny_v she_o she_o will_v be_v apt_a to_o be_v impatient_a or_o if_o she_o endeavour_v to_o contradict_v &_o resist_v such_o impatience_n of_o nature_n she_o will_v do_v it_o more_o feeble_o &_o faint_o 3._o because_o it_o be_v impossible_a that_o a_o soul_n can_v live_v &_o not_o take_v pleasure_n in_o something_o or_o other_o that_o assord_n contentment_n either_o to_o the_o sense_n or_o the_o spirit_n now_o a_o spiritual_a person_n be_v yet_o in_o a_o imperfect_a state_n have_v but_o little_a present_a sensible_a pleasure_n in_o the_o exercise_n proper_a to_o his_o way_n except_o god_n now_o &_o then_o visit_v he_o with_o sensible_a devotion_n for_o the_o chief_a pleasure_n that_o spirituality_n afford_v be_v in_o hope_n only_o &_o that_o without_o any_o regard_n to_o the_o body_n it_o regard_v the_o spirit_n alone_o now_o hope_n be_v not_o so_o attractive_a as_o present_v sensual_a contentment_n be_v 4._o beside_o all_o this_o such_o a_o soul_n not_o have_v yet_o chase_v out_o of_o the_o superior_a faculty_n all_o affection_n to_o sensual_a pleasure_n &_o find_v for_o the_o present_a little_a or_o nothing_o but_o pain_n in_o all_o her_o exercise_n both_o of_o mortification_n &_o prayer_n no_o marvel_v if_o when_o pleasure_n sometime_o come_v in_o her_o way_n that_o she_o find_v difficulty_n in_o reject_v it_o indeed_o the_o great_a pain_n come_v not_o from_o the_o particular_a object_n of_o mortification_n but_o rather_o from_o tediousness_n &_o irkesomenes_n in_o be_v continual_o in_o a_o condition_n of_o suffer_v which_o she_o judge_n must_v last_v to_o her_o life_n end_n this_o be_v very_o painful_a to_o a_o imperfect_a soul_n but_o yet_o by_o a_o constant_a practice_n of_o mortification_n &_o prayer_n she_o will_v find_v daily_o a_o abatement_n of_o this_o tediousness_n &_o in_o the_o end_n the_o renounce_n of_o all_o contentment_n of_o sense_n &_o nature_n for_o themselves_o will_v become_v easy_a &_o pleasurable_a to_o she_o 5._o âastly_a such_o a_o soul_n be_v to_o consider_v that_o it_o be_v a_o proof_n of_o god_n goodness_n to_o she_o to_o suffer_v she_o to_o feel_v so_o much_o difficulty_n now_o not_o experience_v before_o to_o the_o end_n to_o humble_v she_o &_o to_o teach_v she_o not_o at_o all_o to_o rely_v upon_o herself_o nor_o to_o promise_v herself_o the_o least_o good_a from_o her_o own_o force_n chap._n v._n §_o 1._o 2._o 3._o 4._o 5._o mortification_n divide_v into_o 1._o necessary_a 2._o and_o voluntary_a and_o what_o each_o of_o these_o be_v §_o 6._o 7._o 8._o 9_o extraordinary_a or_o supernumerary_a mortification_n be_v not_o to_o be_v assume_v without_o great_a advice_n they_o be_v seldom_o allow_v in_o the_o rule_n of_o s._n benedict_n §_o 10._o 11._o the_o advice_n of_o some_o that_o we_o shall_v always_o in_o every_o thing_n be_v cross_v our_o natural_a inclination_n dangerous_a §_o 12._o 13._o the_o inconvenience_n of_o extraordinary_a mortification_n unaduised_o assume_v §_o 14._o 15._o what_o extraordinary_a one_o be_v least_o dangerous_a §_o 16._o sign_n by_o which_o to_o discern_v when_o such_o be_v proper_a &_o beneficial_a §_o 17._o general_o speak_v there_o be_v little_a need_n that_o extraordinary_a mortification_n shall_v be_v assume_v 1._o have_v speak_v in_o general_a of_o mortification_n come_v we_o now_o to_o the_o division_n &_o kind_n of_o it_o and_o the_o most_o general_a division_n of_o mortification_n be_v into_o those_o which_o be_v 1._o necessary_a 2._o voluntary_a this_o be_v a_o division_n of_o which_o we_o shall_v have_v great_a use_n through_o this_o whole_a treatise_n &_o therefore_o it_o deserve_v to_o be_v explain_v more_o distinct_o &_o accurate_o 2._o first_o therefore_o within_o the_o notion_n of_o necessary_a mortification_n be_v comprehend_v 1._o not_o only_o such_o cross_n &_o affliction_n to_o nature_n as_o we_o can_v though_o we_o will_v avoid_v whether_o they_o be_v external_a or_o internal_a as_o sickness_n want_n disgrace_n loss_n of_o friend_n tentation_n desolation_n etc._n etc._n the_o which_o indeed_o be_v the_o most_o proper_a &_o beneficial_a mortification_n of_o all_o other_o as_o be_v send_v or_o suffer_v to_o come_v upon_o we_o by_o the_o most_o wise_a &_o good_a providence_n of_o god_n for_o our_o good_a 2._o but_o those_o also_o that_o we_o do_v or_o suffer_v by_o virtue_n of_o our_o assume_v state_n of_o life_n either_o by_o occasion_n of_o any_o law_n or_o humane_a constitution_n or_o by_o obedience_n &_o subjection_n to_o our_o superior_n conversation_n with_o our_o equal_n inferior_n etc._n etc._n 3._o those_o also_o that_o we_o undertake_v by_o the_o direction_n of_o our_o confessarius_fw-la or_o spiritual_a guide_n to_o who_o notwithstanding_o our_o obedience_n be_v but_o voluntary_a be_v to_o last_v only_o as_o long_o as_o we_o think_v good_a 4._o those_o work_v that_o true_a discretion_n require_v of_o we_o &_o which_o to_o leave_v undo_v or_o to_o do_v contrary_a will_v be_v against_o prudence_n 5._o likewise_o whatsoever_o it_o befall_v we_o to_o suffer_v from_o any_o creature_n whatsoever_o not_o except_v the_o devil_n himself_o yea_o though_o it_o be_v by_o our_o own_o fault_n that_o such_o thing_n happen_v to_o we_o or_o be_v bring_v upon_o us._n 6._o last_o those_o thing_n that_o we_o accept_v willing_o of_o by_o virtue_n of_o a_o interiour_n divine_a impulse_n with_o the_o approbation_n of_o our_o spiritual_a father_n 3._o second_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
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 reasân_n but_o we_o be_v always_o enable_v by_o the_o ordinary_a grace_n of_o god_n to_o keep_v in_o repose_v our_o superior_a soul_n that_o be_v to_o hinder_v it_o from_o attend_v to_o the_o suggestion_n of_o the_o imagination_n which_o we_o may_v reject_v or_o to_o deny_v consent_n or_o approbation_n to_o the_o motion_n of_o sensuality_n and_o this_o aâ_n lest_o it_o must_v be_v our_o great_a care_n to_o do_v 4._o neither_o ought_v a_o wellminded_n soul_n to_o be_v discourage_v or_o deject_a at_o the_o contradiction_n that_o she_o find_v in_o sensuality_n but_o resist_v it_o the_o best_a she_o can_v she_o must_v be_v resign_v and_o patient_a with_o herself_o as_o she_o will_v be_v at_o the_o refractory_a humour_n of_o another_o till_o that_o by_o god_n blessing_n a_o long_a exercise_n of_o prayer_n and_o mortification_n do_v produce_v a_o great_a subjection_n of_o sensual_a nature_n to_o reason_n and_o grace_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n she_o may_v comfort_v herself_o with_o this_o assurance_n that_o all_o merit_n and_o demerit_n lie_v in_o the_o superior_a will_n and_o not_o at_o all_o in_o sensuality_n consider_v in_o itself_o and_o as_o divide_v from_o the_o will._n 5._o during_o the_o conflict_n between_o reason_n and_o sense_n or_o appetite_n there_o may_v be_v a_o real_a tranquillity_n in_o the_o superior_a region_n of_o the_o soul_n although_o the_o person_n be_v not_o able_a to_o discern_v that_o there_o be_v any_o such_o quietness_n yea_o on_o the_o contrary_a to_o fearful_a nature_n it_o will_v seem_v that_o whensoever_o the_o sensitive_a part_n be_v disturb_v the_o spiritual_a portion_n do_v also_o partake_v of_o its_o disorder_n and_o this_o uncertainty_n mistake_v and_o fear_n that_o a_o fault_n have_v be_v commit_v be_v the_o ground_n of_o much_o scrupulosity_n and_o by_o mean_n thereof_o of_o great_a unquietnes_n indeed_o even_o in_o the_o superior_a soul_n to_o person_n that_o be_v not_o well_o instruct_v in_o the_o nature_n and_o subordination_n of_o the_o faculty_n and_o operation_n of_o the_o soul_n 6._o however_o a_o wellminded_n soul_n may_v conclude_v that_o there_o be_v a_o calmness_n in_o the_o reason_n and_o in_o the_o will_v a_o refusal_n to_o consent_v to_o the_o suggestion_n of_o sensuality_n even_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o great_a disorder_n thereof_o while_o that_o the_o combat_n do_v not_o cease_v and_o as_o long_o as_o the_o outward_a member_n direct_v by_o reason_n and_o move_v by_o the_o superior_a will_n do_v behave_v themselves_o otherwise_o then_o the_o unruly_a appetite_n will_v move_v they_o for_o example_n when_o a_o person_n be_v move_v to_o anger_n though_o he_o find_v a_o unquiet_a representation_n in_o the_o imrgination_n and_o a_o violent_a heat_n and_o motion_n about_o the_o heart_n as_o likewise_o a_o aversion_n in_o sensitive_a nature_n against_o the_o person_n that_o have_v give_v the_o provocation_n yet_o if_o notwithstanding_o he_o refrain_v himself_o from_o break_v forth_o into_o word_n of_o impatience_n to_o which_o his_o passion_n will_v urge_v he_o &_o withal_o contradict_v design_n of_o revenge_n suggest_v by_o passion_n such_o a_o one_o practise_v internal_a prayer_n and_o mortification_n be_v to_o esteem_v himself_o not_o to_o have_v consent_v to_o the_o motion_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n although_o beside_o the_o inward_a motion_n of_o the_o appetite_n he_o can_v not_o hinder_v mark_n of_o his_o passion_n from_o appear_v in_o his_o eye_n and_o the_o colour_n of_o his_o countenance_n 7._o when_o we_o seek_v to_o retaaine_v such_o quietness_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o unquietnes_n we_o do_v it_o by_o exercise_v a_o act_n of_o mortification_n proper_a to_o the_o occasion_n every_o act_n whereof_o do_v in_o some_o degree_n abate_v impetuous_a nature_n dispose_v we_o for_o better_a and_o more_o quiet_a recollection_n which_o will_v procure_v we_o a_o clear_a light_n and_o more_o efficacious_a grace_n to_o resist_v sensuality_n afterward_o as_o on_o the_o contrary_a each_o act_n of_o immortification_n do_v increase_v in_o we_o self-love_n the_o cause_n and_o root_n of_o all_o unquietnes_n and_o cause_v a_o great_a obscurity_n in_o the_o soul_n indispose_v it_o likewise_o to_o prayer_n 8._o to_o the_o end_n to_o procure_v a_o habitual_a peacefullnes_n of_o mind_n we_o must_v be_v careful_a not_o to_o do_v any_o of_o our_o action_n i_o mean_v even_o our_o action_n of_o duty_n with_o impetuousnes_n and_o a_o inward_a hastiness_n but_o with_o a_o compose_a calmness_n for_o all_o act_n of_o impetuosity_n and_o violence_n be_v so_o far_o but_o effect_n of_o self-love_n and_o proceed_v not_o from_o the_o divine_a spirit_n which_o be_v
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 oneây_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
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 sâith_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
scrupulosity_n touch_v confession_n §_o 2._o 3._o indiscreet_a rigour_n of_o confessor_n in_o this_o point_n very_o harmful_a to_o tender_a soul_n §_o 4._o several_a instruction_n and_o advice_n concern_v this_o matter_n §_o 5._o 6._o 7._o absolute_a and_o exact_a obedience_n to_o spiritual_a directour_n with_o prayer_n be_v the_o only_a remedy_n §_o 8._o 9_o 10._o 11._o the_o strange_a obstinatenesse_n and_o subtle_a perverseness_n in_o some_o good_a soul_n in_o find_v and_o justify_v escape_n from_o obedience_n §_o 12._o 13._o the_o great_a harm_n proceed_v from_o scrupulous_a examination_n and_o confession_n §_o 14._o 15._o a_o form_n of_o examination_n of_o conscience_n proper_a for_o many_o scrupulous_a soul_n §_o 16._o 17._o the_o conscience_n of_o tender_a scrupulous_a person_n be_v not_o proper_o a_o doubt_a conscience_n but_o only_o fearful_a §_o 18._o 19_o 20._o constancy_n in_o prayer_n most_o efficacious_a against_o scrupulosity_n §_o 21._o 22._o confession_n of_o venial_a sin_n be_v profitable_a but_o yet_o not_o universal_o to_o all_o soul_n §_o 23._o 24._o 25._o the_o chief_a trial_n of_o obedience_n be_v at_o the_o time_n of_o communicate_v advice_n thereabout_o §_o 26._o 27._o 28._o security_n in_o follow_v such_o instruction_n as_o these_o §_o 29._o 30._o the_o root_n of_o scrupulosity_n be_v tepidity_n and_o oft_o also_o a_o corporal_a distemper_n 1._o whatsoever_o the_o matter_n or_o occasion_n be_v that_o cause_n scrupulosity_n in_o tender_a soul_n the_o bitterness_n thereof_o be_v feel_v especial_o in_o confess_v of_o they_o or_o prepare_v themselves_o to_o such_o confession_n for_o than_o it_o be_v that_o all_o former_a unsatisfaction_n recurre_v to_o their_o memory_n &_o new_a examination_n be_v make_v and_o not_o only_o all_o the_o suppose_a fault_n but_o also_o the_o former_a examination_n and_o confession_n be_v again_o examine_v and_o confess_v for_o to_o such_o soul_n partly_o out_o of_o ignorance_n in_o the_o nature_n degree_n and_o circumstance_n of_o sin_n and_o partly_o have_v their_o mind_n darken_v by_o fear_n all_o sin_n appear_v to_o they_o to_o be_v mortal_a or_o for_o aught_o they_o know_v they_o may_v be_v mortal_a &_o that_o suspicion_n or_o even_o possibility_n be_v sufficient_a to_o pierce_v they_o through_o with_o greise_z and_o fear_v 2._o the_o misery_n of_o such_o self_n afflict_v soul_n be_v much_o increase_v and_o render_v almost_o irremediable_a by_o indiscreet_a confessor_n unwary_a writer_n of_o spiritual_a matter_n and_o such_o as_o be_v unexperienced_a in_o internal_a way_n who_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o penance_n and_o confession_n use_v the_o same_o rule_n and_o measure_n towards_o all_o soul_n indifferent_o give_v advice_n in_o general_a term_n which_o yet_o be_v proper_a only_o for_o the_o common_a sort_n of_o soul_n live_v in_o the_o world_n who_o commend_v the_o repetition_n of_o general_n confession_n prescribe_v nice_a rule_n for_o examination_n who_o enjoin_v all_o their_o penitent_n in_o a_o case_n of_o uncertainty_n or_o doubt_n whether_o a_o sin_n be_v mortal_a or_o no_o to_o choose_v that_o which_o appear_v to_o their_o prepossessed_a judgment_n the_o safe_a side_n and_o therefore_o to_o be_v sure_a not_o to_o omit_v it_o in_o confession_n who_o recommend_v daily_o and_o almost_o hourly_o examination_n of_o conscience_n who_o extol_v the_o virtue_n and_o efficacy_n of_o sacrament_n without_o sufficient_a regard_n to_o the_o disposition_n and_o therefore_o indifferent_o encourage_v soul_n to_o frequent_a confession_n yea_o even_o when_o they_o can_v find_v no_o present_a matter_n in_o such_o a_o case_n advise_v they_o to_o repeat_v the_o mention_v of_o any_o one_o or_o more_o sin_n former_o confess_v mere_o to_o continue_v a_o custom_n of_o confess_v and_o to_o gain_v a_o new_a access_n of_o grace_n by_o virtue_n of_o the_o key_n etc._n etc._n now_o such_o advice_n and_o instruction_n as_o these_o may_v possible_o be_v good_a for_o some_o negligent_a soul_n live_v extrovert_v live_v if_o that_o a_o proportionable_a care_n be_v also_o take_v that_o penitent_n shall_v bring_v due_a disposition_n to_o the_o sacrament_n without_o which_o the_o effect_n wrought_v by_o they_o will_v be_v far_o from_o their_o expectation_n but_o that_o which_o be_v a_o cure_n for_o ordinary_a soul_n may_v and_o frequent_o do_v prove_v poison_n to_o such_o tender_a scrupulous_a person_n as_o wvee_a now_o treat_v of_o 3._o therefore_o sure_o a_o confessor_n or_o director_n that_o have_v any_o taste_n of_o internal_a way_n and_o any_o spiritual_a prudence_n and_o charity_n when_o he_o be_v to_o treat_v with_o soul_n that_o he_o see_v have_v true_o a_o fear_n of_o god_n and_o a_o sensible_a horror_n of_o offend_v he_o even_o in_o a_o proportion_n beyond_o what_o charity_n and_o due_a confidence_n do_v require_v and_o that_o be_v it_o not_o that_o they_o be_v deject_a by_o too_o great_a a_o apprehension_n of_o their_o guilt_n will_v make_v great_a progress_n in_o the_o divine_a love_n perceive_v likewise_o after_o some_o experience_n &_o insight_n into_o their_o life_n exercise_n and_o manner_n of_o their_o confession_n that_o such_o soul_n accuse_v &_o judge_v themselves_o &_o their_o action_n not_o by_o any_o light_n of_o reason_n or_o knowledge_n in_o the_o true_a nature_n &_o degree_n of_o sin_n but_o only_o by_o their_o ouwne_a passion_n of_o fear_n which_o corrupt_v their_o judgement_n &c_n &c_n such_o confessor_n i_o say_v in_o these_o &_o the_o like_a circumstance_n will_v not_o sure_o think_v it_o fit_a to_o deal_v with_o these_o as_o with_o the_o ordinary_a sort_n of_o tepid_a or_o negligent_a soul_n in_o the_o world_n that_o have_v need_v to_o be_v terrify_v to_o have_v their_o conscience_n narrow_o search_v into_o to_o be_v frequent_o bring_v before_o the_o spiritual_a tribunal_n the_o like_a prudence_n be_v to_o be_v exercise_v also_o to_o such_o tender_a soul_n lead_v internal_a life_n who_o though_o they_o be_v not_o actual_o scrupulous_a either_o have_v be_v former_o or_o may_v easy_o be_v cast_v into_o it_o by_o rough_a or_o indiscreet_a usage_n 4._o therefore_o sure_o these_o timorous_a &_o tender_a soul_n be_v to_o be_v tell_v first_o that_o the_o end_n of_o their_o come_n into_o religion_n or_o of_o consecrate_v themselves_o to_o god_n in_o a_o life_n of_o contemplation_n be_v not_o to_o eniây_v the_o sacrament_n which_o they_o may_v have_v have_v free_a use_n of_o in_o the_o world_n but_o in_o the_o quietness_n of_o silence_n and_o solitude_n to_o seek_v god_n and_o daily_o to_o tend_v to_o he_o by_o internal_a exercise_n of_o love_n resignation_n etc._n etc._n as_o also_o by_o a_o calm_v of_o all_o manner_n of_o passion_n and_o that_o all_o externall_n duty_n be_v only_o so_o far_o to_o be_v make_v use_n of_o as_o they_o contribute_v to_o the_o increase_n of_o this_o love_n quietness_n of_o mind_n and_o confidence_n in_o god_n 2._o that_o the_o sacrament_n of_o penance_n and_o confession_n be_v a_o holy_a ordinance_n indeed_o institute_v by_o our_o lord_n not_o for_o the_o torment_n but_o ease_n of_o conscience_n &_o to_o the_o end_n to_o bring_v soul_n to_o have_v a_o confidence_n in_o he_o and_o not_o a_o horror_n of_o approach_v to_o he_o 3._o that_o the_o administration_n of_o this_o sacrament_n be_v leave_v to_o our_o lord_n priest_n who_o alone_o be_v to_o be_v judge_n what_o sin_n be_v to_o be_v confess_v and_o in_o what_o manner_n 4._o that_o since_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o confession_n be_v their_o chief_a torment_n cause_v effect_n in_o they_o so_o contrary_a to_o what_o our_o lord_n intend_v that_o therefore_o they_o shall_v either_o abstain_v whole_o from_o so_o frequent_a a_o custom_n of_o confess_v or_o to_o make_v their_o confession_n only_o in_o the_o form_n that_o shall_v be_v prescribe_v they_o 5._o that_o such_o examination_n of_o sin_n will_v abundant_o serve_v their_o turn_n as_o they_o will_v think_v fit_a to_o be_v use_v in_o any_o ordinary_a matter_n of_o importance_n and_o as_o may_v be_v make_v in_o a_o very_a short_a space_n 6._o that_o oft_o it_o be_v far_o more_o profitable_a for_o they_o to_o exercise_v rather_o virtual_a act_n of_o contrition_n and_o sorrow_v for_o sin_n by_o convert_n themselves_o direct_o to_o god_n with_o act_n of_o love_n then_o by_o reflect_v with_o passion_n upon_o their_o sin_n 7._o that_o those_o common_a maxim_n viz._n that_o it_o be_v the_o sign_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n there_o to_o fear_v a_o fault_n where_o none_o be_v and_o that_o nothing_o be_v to_o be_v do_v against_o conscience_n likewise_o that_o in_o doubtful_a case_n the_o secure_a side_n be_v to_o be_v choose_v etc._n etc._n these_o maxim_n i_o say_v though_o in_o gross_a true_a yet_o if_o they_o shall_v be_v strict_o apply_v to_o scrupulous_a person_n will_v utter_o ruin_v the_o peace_n of_o their_o mind_n for_o they_o be_v altogether_o incapable_a of_o judge_v what_o be_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 theâ_n say_v he_o they_o from_o this_o descent_n do_v by_o little_a &_o little_a through_o their_o internal_a exercise_n ascend_v high_a therâ_n they_o be_v ever_o before_o and_o such_o ascent_n &_o descent_n interchangeable_o continue_v all_o their_o life_n thus_o say_v barbanzon_n perhaps_o out_o of_o experience_n of_o what_o pass_v in_o his_o own_o soul_n but_o whether_o from_o thence_o he_o have_v sufficient_a warrant_n to_o apply_v this_o observation_n so_o general_o i_o leave_v to_o the_o determination_n of_o the_o perfect_a who_o only_o can_v judge_v of_o such_o matter_n 29._o but_o alas_o these_o contemplation_n &_o consequent_o the_o say_v bless_v fruit_n of_o they_o be_v very_o rare_a &_o not_o at_o all_o in_o our_o own_o power_n to_o come_v to_o at_o pleasure_n in_o as_o much_o as_o a_o soul_n do_v not_o arrive_v to_o the_o perfection_n of_o prayer_n till_o after_o a_o passive_a union_n or_o contemplation_n whereto_o well_o may_v we_o dispose_v ourselves_o according_a to_o our_o power_n but_o it_o be_v in_o the_o free_a will_n &_o pleasure_n of_o god_n to_o confer_v it_o on_o who_o when_o &_o in_o what_o manner_n it_o please_v he_o 30._o but_o however_o let_v not_o beginner_n nor_o proficient_n in_o spirituality_n be_v discourage_v for_o that_o as_o yet_o they_o can_v find_v in_o themselves_o or_o at_o least_o very_o imperfect_o a_o perception_n of_o their_o not-being_a not_o have_v as_o yet_o a_o supernatural_a intellectual_a species_n evident_o &_o even_o palpable_o represent_v to_o their_o mind_n god_n totality_n &_o their_o own_o nothing_o the_o which_o species_n it_o be_v not_o the_o nature_n of_o active_a exercise_n to_o produce_v it_o be_v a_o great_a blessing_n of_o god_n to_o they_o that_o he_o have_v give_v they_o the_o courage_n to_o aspire_v thereunto_o and_o persevere_v in_o the_o way_n lead_v thither_o they_o will_v certain_o arrive_v to_o the_o partake_n of_o the_o substance_n of_o this_o sublime_a humility_n in_o virtue_n of_o which_o alone_o all_o other_o virtue_n will_v be_v perfect_o exercise_v by_o they_o in_o as_o much_o as_o by_o it_o they_o will_v come_v to_o know_v both_o god_n &_o themselves_o aright_o &_o be_v in_o a_o immediate_a disposition_n as_o our_o holy_a father_n say_v to_o that_o perfect_a charity_n which_o expel_v all_o fear_n for_o which_o reason_n he_o only_o treat_v particular_o &_o large_o of_o this_o virtue_n &_o of_o obedience_n which_o be_v a_o branch_n of_o it_o 31._o we_o ought_v therefore_o never_o to_o cease_v pray_v that_o god_n will_v reveyle_v unto_o we_o our_o own_o nothing_o &_o his_o all-being_a for_o prayer_n be_v the_o only_a effectual_a mean_n to_o attain_v unto_o it_o as_o for_o exterior_a act_n &_o expression_n of_o humility_n if_o they_o flow_v from_o prayer_n they_o may_v be_v profitable_a &_o acceptable_a to_o god_n
trial_n of_o these_o virtue_n require_v of_o he_o to_o prepare_v some_o water_n for_o the_o wash_n of_o his_o foot_n the_o good_a priest_n with_o a_o modest_a chearfullnes_n obey_v &_o have_v quick_o bring_v the_o water_n s._n basile_n sit_v down_o command_v he_o to_o wash_v his_o foot_n who_o ready_o &_o diligent_o perform_v that_o command_n that_o be_v do_v the_o saint_n command_v the_o priest_n to_o sit_v down_o that_o so_o he_o in_o exchange_n may_v also_o wash_v his_o foot_n the_o humble_a &_o virtuous_o simple_a man_n without_o any_o excuse_n or_o contestation_n quiet_o &_o calm_o as_o it_o become_v one_o perfect_a in_o obedience_n suffer_v his_o foot_n to_o be_v wash_v by_o he_o that_o be_v then_o the_o most_o eminent_a &_o most_o reverence_a prelate_n in_o the_o eastern_a church_n upon_o this_o proof_n s._n basile_n be_v satisfy_v that_o he_o have_v find_v a_o attendant_n fit_a for_o the_o employment_n to_o which_o he_o destine_v he_o &_o with_o many_o thanks_o to_o the_o neighbour_n bishop_n take_v the_o priest_n with_o he_o for_o his_o inseparable_a comparison_n 25._o there_o be_v mention_v in_o our_o holy_a rule_n another_o sort_n of_o obedience_n of_o great_a efficacy_n to_o bring_v soul_n to_o perfection_n to_o wit_n a_o obedience_n not_o out_o of_o obligation_n &_o duty_n to_o superior_n but_o only_o from_o respect_n to_o brethren_n special_o ancient_n in_o religion_n and_o this_o out_o of_o charity_n &_o in_o conformity_n to_o s._n paul_n advice_n which_o be_v very_o general_a that_o we_o shall_v in_o honour_n prefer_v every_o one_o before_o ourselves_o this_o kind_n of_o obedience_n as_o receive_v proper_a command_n from_o such_o be_v now_o out_o of_o practice_n and_o whether_o this_o disuse_n have_v proceed_v from_o want_n of_o simplicity_n &_o humility_n in_o the_o young_a sort_n or_o from_o imperfection_n &_o want_n of_o discretion_n &_o gravity_n in_o the_o more_o ancient_a or_o perhaps_o from_o jealousy_n &_o a_o love_n of_o be_v absolute_a in_o superior_n it_o be_v hard_o to_o say_v but_o sure_o it_o be_v a_o great_a loss_n there_o be_v likewise_o obligation_n impose_v upon_o all_o juniour_n after_o any_o the_o least_o offence_n take_v by_o their_o ancient_n to_o make_v present_a satisfaction_n by_o prostration_n the_o which_o be_v to_o continue_v till_o that_o pardon_n &_o a_o benediction_n be_v give_v indeed_o in_o those_o time_n in_o which_o so_o much_o abstraction_n of_o life_n &_o so_o seldom_o mutual_a conversation_n be_v use_v offence_n be_v so_o rare_a that_o it_o will_v be_v no_o hard_a matter_n for_o such_o simple_a humble_a soul_n as_o most_o religious_a person_n than_o be_v to_o comply_v with_o these_o obligation_n so_o that_o the_o only_a way_n to_o restore_v they_o be_v to_o restore_v that_o most_o profitable_a abstraction_n solitude_n and_o silence_n again_o 26._o it_o be_v in_o vain_a for_o any_o one_o to_o seek_v the_o attain_n to_o the_o perfection_n of_o obedience_n which_o beside_o the_o outward_a work_n require_v a_o submission_n of_o the_o spirit_n itself_o to_o god_n alone_o in_o the_o superior_a &_o a_o renounce_n of_o one_o own_o judgement_n upon_o the_o dictate_v of_o the_o most_o ignorant_a or_o indiscreet_a superior_a but_o by_o the_o serious_a &_o constant_a practice_n of_o internal_a prayer_n which_o alone_o purify_v the_o soul_n &_o make_v all_o other_o thing_n but_o god_n invisible_a to_o she_o so_o that_o without_o such_o prayer_n all_o other_o exterior_a practice_n of_o a_o officious_a humiliation_n will_v be_v of_o little_a or_o no_o virtue_n or_o efficacy_n thereto_o chap._n xv._o §_o 1._o we_o do_v not_o here_o treat_v of_o all_o kind_n of_o mortification_n or_o virtue_n but_o principal_o such_o as_o be_v most_o proper_a &_o most_o necessary_a to_o be_v know_v &_o practise_v in_o order_n to_o a_o internal_a life_n §_o 2._o 3._o 4._o etc._n etc._n several_a advice_n and_o observation_n touch_v virtue_n in_o general_n 1._o hitherto_o we_o have_v treat_v of_o the_o first_o instrument_n and_o mean_a of_o perfection_n to_o wit_n mortification_n at_o least_o so_o far_o as_o we_o conceive_v proper_a to_o the_o design_n of_o this_o book_n that_o be_v in_o order_n to_o internal_a prayer_n of_o contemplation_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v that_o we_o have_v not_o enlarge_v the_o discourse_n to_o comprehend_v universal_o all_o moral_a virtue_n the_o which_o be_v mortification_n to_o all_o our_o distemper_a affection_n but_o only_o such_o as_o be_v more_o peculiar_a to_o religious_a or_o internal_a liver_n for_o the_o rest_n the_o reader_n be_v refer_v to_o other_o book_n of_o christian_a morality_n which_o abundant_o treat_v of_o that_o subject_n the_o doctrine_n of_o which_o may_v be_v apply_v to_o the_o present_a purpose_n if_o reflection_n be_v make_v on_o the_o advice_n which_o have_v already_o be_v give_v concern_v the_o special_a virtue_n hitherto_o treat_v of_o to_o the_o which_o i_o will_v for_o conclusion_n of_o this_o treatise_n add_v a_o few_o more_o touch_v virtue_n in_o general_n 2._o the_o first_o advice_n be_v this_o that_o before_o a_o soul_n can_v attain_v to_o perfect_a contemplation_n it_o be_v necessary_a that_o she_o be_v adorn_v with_o all_o sort_n of_o christian_a virtue_n not_o one_o except_v according_a to_o the_o say_n of_o the_o psalmist_n ibunt_fw-la de_fw-la virtute_fw-la in_o virtutem_fw-la videbit_fw-la ur_fw-la deus_fw-la deorum_fw-la in_o zion_n that_o be_v they_o shall_v go_v from_o one_o virtue_n to_o another_o and_o then_o &_o not_o till_o then_o the_o god_n of_o god_n shall_v be_v contemplate_v in_o zion_n so_o that_o if_o a_o soul_n make_v a_o stop_n at_o any_o virtue_n of_o willing_o favour_v herself_o in_o any_o inordinate_a affection_n it_o will_v not_o be_v possible_a for_o she_o to_o ascend_v to_o the_o top_n of_o the_o mountain_n where_o god_n be_v see_v 3._o the_o second_o regard_v the_o manner_n of_o attain_v to_o virtue_n for_o we_o be_v not_o so_o to_o understand_v these_o word_n of_o the_o psalmist_n as_o if_o a_o soul_n progress_n to_o perfection_n be_v by_o a_o successive_a gain_n of_o one_o virtue_n after_o another_o for_o example_n first_o possess_v herself_o of_o the_o virtue_n of_o temperance_n &_o have_v get_v that_o then_o proceed_v to_o patience_n humility_n chastity_n etc._n etc._n but_o they_o be_v all_o in_o the_o root_n get_v together_o &_o we_o make_v no_o progress_n in_o one_o virtue_n but_o withal_o we_o make_v a_o proportionable_a progress_n in_o all_o the_o rest_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o charity_n be_v the_o root_n of_o all_o christian_a virtue_n they_o be_v only_o such_o duty_n as_o charity_n which_o alone_o direct_v we_o to_o god_n our_o last_o end_n will_v &_o do_v dictate_v to_o be_v practise_v on_o several_a &_o different_a occasion_n 4._o true_a it_o be_v that_o either_o by_o our_o natural_a temper_n or_o by_o have_v more_o frequent_a trial_n &_o occasion_n of_o exercise_v some_o virtue_n certain_a passion_n opposite_a to_o they_o may_v be_v according_a to_o the_o material_a disposition_n in_o corporal_a nature_n more_o subdue_v &_o regulate_v then_o other_o yet_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o disposition_n of_o the_o spiritual_a soul_n that_o be_v the_o judgement_n of_o the_o mind_n &_o resolution_n of_o the_o will_n the_o soul_n according_a to_o the_o merit_n of_o the_o object_n be_v equal_o by_o a_o equality_n of_o proportion_n incline_v to_o all_o good_a and_o equal_o avert_v from_o all_o ill_a because_o divine_a love_n be_v equal_o inconsistent_a with_o all_o mortal_a sin_n and_o do_v combat_n &_o subdue_v self-love_n in_o all_o its_o branch_n our_o progress_n therefore_o express_v in_o the_o phrase_n de_fw-fr virtute_fw-la in_o virtutem_fw-la be_v to_o be_v understand_v to_o be_v from_o a_o low_a &_o more_o imperfect_a degree_n of_o charity_n and_o all_o its_o virtue_n to_o a_o high_a till_o we_o come_v to_o the_o mount_n of_o perfection_n 5._o the_o three_o advice_n be_v that_o this_o progress_n &_o increase_n in_o virtue_n be_v neither_o equal_a at_o all_o time_n for_o the_o soul_n by_o resist_v strong_a temptation_n &_o in_o virtue_n of_o more_o efficacious_a prayer_n do_v make_v great_a stride_n and_o pace_n neither_o be_v it_o always_o observable_a either_o by_o the_o traveller_n himself_o or_o other_o yea_o it_o be_v neither_o necessary_a nor_o perhaps_o convenient_a that_o we_o shall_v much_o heed_n the_o rule_n that_o be_v give_v by_o some_o for_o examination_n of_o our_o proficiency_n such_o enquiry_n seem_v not_o very_o suitable_a to_o humility_n &_o probable_o will_v not_o produce_v any_o good_a effect_n in_o we_o it_o may_v suffice_v we_o that_o we_o go_v on_o and_o that_o god_n know_v perfect_o our_o growth_n in_o piety_n &_o love_n &_o will_v most_o assure_o reward_n we_o proportional_o though_o we_o shall_v be_v never_o so_o ignorant_a to_o what_o degree_n of_o
perfection_n we_o be_v arrive_v 6._o four_o all_o increase_n of_o sanctify_a grace_n by_o whatsoever_o instrument_n it_o be_v produce_v as_o by_o regular_a austerity_n temperance_n exercise_n of_o mortification_n be_v perform_v according_a to_o the_o good_a internal_a disposition_n and_o actuation_n of_o soul_n accompany_v the_o use_n of_o they_o yea_o the_o same_o may_v also_o in_o a_o certain_a proportion_n be_v affirm_v even_o of_o the_o sacrament_n themselves_o in_o adultis_fw-la the_o which_o although_o by_o their_o own_o intrinsical_a virtue_n and_o as_o the_o council_n of_o trent_n sess_v 7._o can_n 8._o express_v it_o ex_fw-la opere_fw-la operato_fw-la they_o do_v conserre_v a_o peculiar_a grace_n and_o aid_v and_o this_o quantum_fw-la est_fw-la parte_fw-la dei_fw-la at_o all_o time_n and_o on_o all_o person_n that_o due_o receive_v they_o see_v sess_v 7._o cap._n 6._o &_o 7._o yet_o withal_o the_o quantity_n and_o measure_n of_o the_o say_a grace_n be_v in_o the_o same_o council_n sess_v 6._o cap._n 7._o say_v to_o be_v secundam_fw-la propriam_fw-la cuiusque_fw-la dispositionem_fw-la &_o cooperationem_fw-la according_a to_o the_o peculiar_a disposition_n and_o cooperation_n of_o each_o person_n respective_o that_o be_v those_o that_o come_v with_o more_o or_o less_o perfect_a intense_a continued_z and_o multiply_v internal_a act_n of_o faith_n hope_n charity_n devotion_n &c_n &c_n do_v according_o receive_v a_o more_o or_o less_o plentiful_a measure_n of_o sacramental_a grace_n now_o what_o be_v all_o these_o disposition_n and_o preparation_n but_o the_o exercise_v of_o internal_a prayer_n whence_o appear_v how_o wonderful_a a_o influence_n internal_a prayer_n both_o by_o way_n of_o merit_n or_o impetration_n and_o likewise_o by_o a_o direct_a efficiency_n have_v in_o the_o produce_v and_o increase_n of_o divine_a virtue_n in_o the_o soul_n 7._o five_o if_o a_o soul_n out_o of_o the_o time_n of_o prayer_n shall_v in_o occasion_n for_o example_n of_o contradiction_n persecution_n &c_n &c_n neglect_v to_o exercise_v patience_n she_o must_v necessary_o exercise_v impatience_n &_o by_o consequence_n will_v make_v little_a or_o no_o progress_n by_o her_o prayer_n yet_o if_o then_o she_o shall_v use_v any_o reasonable_a care_n diligence_n or_o watchfullnes_n over_o herself_o though_o not_o for_o the_o get_n of_o much_o yet_o not_o to_o loose_v much_o out_o of_o prayer_n god_n will_v by_o mean_n of_o her_o prayer_n serious_o prosecute_v infuse_v such_o a_o measure_n of_o grace_n as_o will_v cause_v a_o progress_n notwithstanding_o frequent_a fail_n through_o frailty_n or_o inaduertence_n etc._n etc._n but_o it_o will_v be_v late_o ere_o the_o effect_n of_o such_o infusion_n will_v appear_v 8._o six_o increase_v in_o virtue_n do_v pure_o depend_v on_o the_o free_a grace_n &_o good_a pleasure_n of_o god_n confer_v the_o say_a grace_n in_o prayer_n etc._n etc._n in_o a_o measure_n as_o himself_o please_v &_o also_o by_o his_o holy_a providence_n administer_a occasion_n several_o of_o exercise_v several_a virtue_n the_o which_o occasion_n ordinary_o be_v not_o at_o all_o in_o our_o own_o power_n or_o disposal_n 9_o seaventh_o according_a to_o our_o progress_n in_o virtue_n so_o be_v our_o progress_n in_o prayer_n &_o till_o the_o soul_n be_v in_o a_o very_a high_a degree_n purify_v from_o self-love_n she_o be_v incapable_a of_o that_o perfect_a degree_n of_o prayer_n which_o be_v call_v contemplation_n according_a to_o that_o save_n of_o our_o saviour_n math._n 5._o beati_fw-la mundo_fw-la cord_n quoniam_fw-la ipsi_fw-la deum_fw-la videbunt_fw-la that_o be_v bless_a be_v the_o pure_a in_o heart_n for_o they_o shall_v see_v god_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v evident_a because_o until_o the_o internal_a eye_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v cleanse_v from_o the_o mist_n of_o passion_n &_o inordinate_a affection_n it_o neither_o will_v nor_o can_v fix_v itself_o upon_o so_o pure_a &_o divine_a a_o object_n true_a it_o be_v that_o in_o every_o the_o most_o imperfect_a degree_n of_o prayer_n by_o which_o the_o soul_n be_v proportional_o purify_v god_n be_v in_o some_o qualify_a sense_n contemplate_v but_o we_o do_v not_o apply_v the_o term_n of_o contemplation_n except_o only_o to_o the_o most_o sublime_a degree_n of_o prayer_n the_o which_o yet_o be_v never_o so_o perfect_o absolute_a in_o this_o life_n but_o that_o it_o may_v without_o limitation_n increase_v because_o the_o soul_n be_v never_o so_o perfect_o free_v from_o the_o bitter_a fruit_n of_o original_a sin_n ignorance_n &_o concupiscence_n but_o there_o will_v over_o remain_v matter_n &_o exercise_v for_o further_a mortification_n or_o purification_n 10._o eight_o virtue_n be_v in_o no_o other_o state_n of_o life_n so_o perfect_o establish_v in_o the_o depth_n &_o centre_n of_o the_o spirit_n as_o in_o a_o contemplative_a state_n because_o all_o the_o exercise_n thereof_o do_v principal_o &_o direct_o regard_v the_o exaltation_n spiritualise_v &_o purification_n of_o the_o spirit_n by_o a_o continual_a application_n adhesion_n &_o union_n of_o it_o to_o god_n the_o fountain_n of_o light_n &_o purity_n 11._o lastây_o by_o the_o mean_n of_o contemplative_a prayer_n in_o a_o internal_a life_n virtue_n be_v most_o easy_o obtain_v most_o secure_o possess_v and_o most_o perfect_o practise_v in_o a_o active_a life_n a_o person_n that_o aspire_v to_o perfection_n therein_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o many_o thing_n to_o enable_v he_o for_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o duty_n dispose_v thereto_o for_o the_o exercise_n of_o externall_n work_v of_o charity_n there_o be_v needful_a riches_n or_o friend_n &c_n &c_n and_o for_o spiritual_a almes-giving_a there_o be_v require_v learning_n study_n disputation_n etc._n etc._n and_o if_o by_o the_o help_n of_o these_o there_o be_v acquire_v a_o established_a habit_n of_o solid_a charity_n it_o be_v not_o very_o secure_o possess_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o so_o many_o distraction_n follicitude_n and_o tentation_n but_o a_o contemplative_a life_n as_o s._n thomas_n 22._o q._n 182._o a._n 1._o c._n observe_v even_o from_o aristotle_n himself_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o very_a few_o thing_n be_v to_o itself_o sufficient_a such_o a_o person_n alone_o without_o need_v either_o assistance_n or_o favour_n from_o abroad_o can_v both_o purchase_v and_o exercise_v all_o virtue_n yea_o and_o liberal_o dispense_v all_o kind_n of_o charity_n to_o other_o also_o for_o by_o prayer_n alone_o exercise_v in_o solitude_n he_o can_v employ_v and_o engage_v god_n omnipotence_n wisdom_n and_o all_o the_o treasure_n of_o his_o riches_n for_o the_o supply_v all_o the_o necessity_n externall_n and_o internal_a of_o his_o church_n the_o light_n that_o be_v get_v by_o prayer_n will_v be_v more_o than_o equivalent_a to_o long_a and_o laborious_a study_n not_o sanctify_v with_o prayer_n for_o the_o enable_v he_o to_o discharge_v efficacious_o a_o pastoral_a charge_n over_o soul_n when_o they_o shall_v be_v commit_v to_o he_o though_o no_o doubt_n prayer_n will_v also_o incite_v to_o sufficient_a study_n and_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n though_o he_o be_v deprive_v of_o all_o conversation_n and_o book_n yea_o fetter_a and_o bury_v in_o the_o obscurity_n of_o a_o dungeon_n prayer_n alone_o will_v be_v a_o sufficient_a entertainment_n to_o he_o there_o he_o will_v find_v god_n and_o his_o holy_a spirit_n as_o present_v and_o as_o bountiful_a to_o he_o as_o ever_o yea_o the_o great_a solitude_n there_o be_v at_o the_o more_o freedom_n be_v the_o soul_n to_o run_v speedy_o and_o light_o in_o the_o course_n of_o virtue_n for_o nothing_o do_v indeed_o fetter_v she_o but_o selfelove_n &_o propriety_n and_o last_o virtue_n once_o get_v be_v evident_o most_o secure_o possess_v in_o solitude_n from_o whence_o all_o distraction_n and_o almost_o all_o tentation_n be_v exclude_v the_o end_n of_o the_o second_o treatise_n of_o mortification_n sancta_fw-la sophia_n or_o direction_n for_o the_o prayer_n of_o contemplation_n etc._n etc._n extract_v out_o of_o more_o than_o xl._n treatise_n write_v by_o the_o late_a ven._n father_n f._n augustin_n baker_n a_o monk_n of_o the_o english_a congregation_n of_o the_o holy_a order_n of_o s._n benedict_n and_o methodical_o digest_v by_o the_o r._n f._n serenus_n cressy_n of_o the_o same_o order_n and_o congregation_n and_o print_v at_o the_o charge_n of_o his_o convent_n of_o s._n gregory_n in_o douai_n vol._n ii_o at_o douai_n by_o john_n patte_n '_o and_o thomas_n fievet_n anno_fw-la d._n m.dc.lvii_o to_o the_o venerable_a and_o r._n lady_z d._n catherine_n gascoigne_n the_o lady_n abbess_n of_o the_o religious_a dame_n of_o the_o holy_a order_n of_o s._n benedict_n in_o cambray_n and_o to_o all_o the_o rr._n dame_n etc._n etc._n of_o the_o same_o convent_n madam_n if_o i_o have_v not_o any_o press_a obligation_n as_o i_o have_v many_o to_o take_v all_o occasion_n to_o acknowledge_v both_o my_o worthy_a esteem_n and_o resentment_n also_o for_o your_o many_o favour_n yet_o without_o injustice_n
actuation_n of_o a_o intellectual_a soul_n by_o which_o word_n be_v signify_v 1._o that_o it_o be_v not_o prayer_n which_o be_v perform_v by_o the_o lip_n only_o without_o a_o inward_a attention_n &_o affection_n of_o the_o soul_n that_o be_v that_o prayer_n which_o be_v not_o mental_a be_v not_o indeed_o proper_o prayer_n 2._o that_o whatsoever_o employment_n the_o mind_n or_o understanding_n exercise_n in_o prayer_n by_o discourse_v invent_v motive_n &c_n &c_n these_o be_v only_a preparation_n to_o prayer_n &_o not_o prayer_n itself_o which_o be_v only_o &_o immediate_o exercise_v by_o the_o will_n or_o affection_n adhere_v to_o god_n as_o shall_v be_v show_v hereafter_o 9_o hence_o it_o follow_v that_o the_o ordinary_a division_n of_o prayer_n into_o vocal_a and_o mental_a be_v improper_a because_o the_o part_n of_o the_o division_n be_v coincident_a for_o vocal_a prayer_n as_o distinguish_v from_o &_o much_o more_o as_o oppose_v to_o mental_a be_v indeed_o no_o prayer_n at_o all_o and_o what_o ever_o it_o be_v what_o esteem_v god_n make_v of_o it_o he_o show_v by_o his_o prophet_n say_v this_o people_n honour_v i_o with_o their_o lip_n but_o their_o heart_n be_v far_o from_o i_o in_o vain_a do_v they_o honour_v i_o etc._n etc._n 10._o yet_o both_o a_o good_a sense_n &_o a_o good_a use_n may_v be_v make_v of_o that_o division_n be_v explicate_v after_o this_o manner_n viz._n that_o though_o all_o true_a prayer_n be_v mental_a yet_o 1._o some_o prayer_n be_v mere_o mental_a without_o any_o sound_n of_o word_n yea_o there_o may_v be_v such_o pure_a blind_a elevation_n of_o the_o will_n to_o god_n that_o there_o be_v not_o so_o much_o as_o any_o express_a internal_a word_n or_o any_o explicable_a thought_n of_o the_o soul_n itself_o 2._o other_o prayer_n may_v be_v withal_o vocal_o express_v in_o outward_a word_n the_o soul_n attend_v to_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o word_n pronounce_v or_o at_o least_o intend_v to_o do_v so_o and_o this_o be_v proper_o vocal_a prayer_n chap._n ii_o §_o 1._o of_o vocal_a prayer_n §_o 2._o 3._o &c_n &c_n by_o vocal_a prayer_n the_o ancient_n attain_v to_o perfect_a contemplation_n and_o why_o this_o can_v so_o well_o be_v do_v in_o these_o time_n §_o 10._o how_o voluntary_a vocal_a prayer_n may_v be_v make_v instrument_n all_o to_o contemplation_n §_o 11._o that_o vocal_a prayer_n of_o obligation_n be_v upon_o no_o pretence_n to_o be_v neglect_v §_o 12._o 13._o 14._o 15._o 16._o of_o attention_n require_v to_o vocal_a prayer_n &_o of_o the_o degree_n of_o it_o 1._o the_o design_n of_o this_o treatise_n be_v to_o deliver_v instruction_n concern_v internal_a contemplative_a prayer_n therefore_o little_a shall_v be_v say_v of_o vocal_a prayer_n &_o that_o little_a also_o shall_v be_v of_o it_o consider_v as_o it_o may_v among_o other_o be_v a_o instrument_n or_o mean_v to_o bring_v a_o soul_n to_o contemplation_n 2._o it_o can_v be_v deny_v but_o that_o in_o ancient_a time_n many_o holy_a soul_n do_v attain_v to_o perfect_a contemplation_n by_o the_o mere_a use_n of_o vocal_a prayer_n the_o which_o likewise_o will_v have_v the_o same_o effect_n upon_o we_o if_o we_o will_v or_o can_v imitate_v they_o both_o in_o such_o wonderful_a solitude_n or_o abstraction_n rigorous_a abstinence_n &_o incredible_a assiduity_n in_o pray_v but_o for_o a_o supply_n of_o such_o want_v &_o inability_n to_o support_v such_o undistract_a long_a attention_n to_o god_n we_o be_v drive_v to_o help_v ourselves_o by_o daily_o set_v exercise_n of_o internal_a prayer_n to_o procure_v a_o habitual_a constant_a state_n of_o recollectednes_n by_o such_o exercise_n repair_v &_o make_v amends_o for_o the_o distraction_n that_o we_o live_v in_o all_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o day_n 3._o notwithstanding_o god_n hand_n be_v not_o shorten_v but_o that_o if_o he_o please_v he_o may_v now_o also_o call_v soul_n to_o contemplation_n by_o the_o way_n of_o vocal_a prayer_n so_o as_o that_o they_o be_v their_o general_n &_o ordinary_a exercise_n the_o which_o if_o he_o do_v it_o will_v be_v necessary_a that_o such_o soul_n shall_v in_o their_o course_n observe_v these_o follow_a condition_n 4._o the_o first_o be_v that_o thây_o must_v use_v a_o great_a measure_n of_o abstraction_n &_o mortification_n then_o be_v necessary_a for_o those_o that_o exercise_v mental_a prayer_n the_o reason_n be_v because_o internal_a prayer_n be_v far_o more_o profound_a and_o inward_a afford_v a_o far_o great_a light_n &_o grace_n to_o discover_v &_o cure_v the_o inordinate_a affection_n it_o bring_v the_o soul_n likewise_o to_o a_o great_a simplicity_n and_o facility_n to_o recollect_v itself_o etc._n etc._n and_o therefore_o vocal_a prayer_n to_o make_v amends_o have_v need_n be_v accompany_v with_o great_a abstraction_n etc._n etc._n 5._o the_o second_o condition_n be_v that_o those_o who_o use_v vocal_a prayer_n must_v oblige_v themselves_o to_o spend_v a_o great_a time_n at_o their_o daily_a exercise_n then_o be_v necessary_a for_o the_o other_o to_o the_o end_n thereby_o to_o supply_v for_o the_o less_o efficacy_n that_o be_v in_o vocal_a prayer_n the_o three_o be_v that_o in_o case_n they_o do_v find_v themselves_o at_o any_o time_n invite_v by_o god_n internal_o to_o a_o pure_a inâernall_a prayer_n which_o be_v likely_a to_o be_v of_o the_o nature_n of_o aspiration_n they_o then_o must_v yield_v to_o such_o a_o invitation_n and_o for_o the_o time_n interrupt_v or_o cease_v their_o voluntary_a vocal_a exercise_n for_o as_o long_a time_n as_o they_o find_v themselves_o enable_v to_o exercise_v internal_o these_o condition_n be_v to_o be_v observe_v of_o all_o those_o who_o either_o in_o religion_n or_o in_o the_o world_n desire_v to_o lead_v spiritual_a life_n and_o can_v without_o extreme_a difficulty_n be_v bring_v to_o begin_v a_o spiritual_a course_n with_o any_o kind_n of_o mere_a mental_a prayer_n 7._o and_o indeed_o if_o any_o such_o soul_n there_o be_v to_o who_o vocal_a prayer_n join_v with_o the_o exercise_n of_o virtue_n be_v sufficient_a to_o promote_v they_o to_o contemplation_n certain_a it_o be_v that_o there_o be_v no_o way_n more_o secure_a than_o it_o none_o less_o subject_a to_o indiscretion_n or_o illusion_n &_o none_o less_o perilous_a to_o the_o head_n or_o health_n and_o in_o time_n but_o it_o will_v be_v long_o first_o their_o vocal_a prayer_n will_v prove_v aspirative_a spiritual_a &_o contemplative_a by_o their_o light_n &_o virtue_n illustrate_v &_o pierce_v to_o the_o very_a depth_n of_o the_o spirit_n 8._o but_o in_o these_o day_n this_o case_n be_v very_o extraordinary_a &_o indeed_o unknown_a and_o therefore_o contemplative_a religious_a person_n ought_v not_o upon_o any_o pretence_n to_o dispense_v with_o themselves_o for_o the_o exercise_n of_o mental_a prayer_n what_o ever_o pretension_n or_o tentation_n they_o may_v have_v thereto_o they_o may_v perhaps_o find_v their_o vocal_a prayer_n to_o be_v more_o clear_a &_o undistract_a &_o on_o the_o contrary_a their_o recollection_n to_o be_v painful_a &_o disturb_v but_o yeâ_n in_o time_n and_o by_o constancy_n in_o pursue_v internal_a exercise_n they_o will_v find_v the_o contrary_a &_o perceive_v that_o thâ_n ground_n of_o the_o difference_n be_v either_o some_o preseââ_n corporal_a indisposition_n or_o perhaps_o a_o tentation_n of_o tââ_n devil_n to_o move_v they_o to_o a_o neglect_n of_o exercise_v in_o spârit_n since_o certain_a it_o be_v that_o little_o less_o than_o a_o miracle_n will_v cause_v vocal_a prayer_n to_o imperfect_a soul_n to_o become_v contemplative_a or_o sufficient_a to_o produce_v profound_a recollection_n the_o which_o effect_n even_o those_o that_o have_v long_o practise_v internal_a exercise_n do_v not_o find_v in_o the_o recite_v of_o the_o office_n such_o seem_a extraordinary_a contemplation_n therefore_o as_o seem_v to_o come_v to_o soul_n none_o know_v from_o whence_o without_o any_o great_a merit_n or_o due_a disposition_n on_o their_o part_n be_v not_o much_o to_o be_v esteem_v but_o rather_o to_o be_v suspect_v and_o however_o they_o deserve_v not_o that_o therefore_o the_o solid_a exercise_n of_o internal_a prayer_n shall_v be_v neglect_v 9_o to_o the_o like_a purpose_n we_o read_v that_o s._n ignatius_n find_v extraordinary_a illustration_n in_o soul_n be_v at_o his_o study_n of_o humane_a learning_n whereas_o at_o his_o ordinary_a mental_a prayer_n he_o can_v find_v no_o such_o effect_n but_o on_o the_o contrary_a much_o difficulty_n &_o obscurity_n but_o this_o in_o time_n he_o discover_v to_o be_v the_o work_v of_o the_o devil_n 10._o the_o use_n of_o voluntary_a vocal_a prayer_n in_o order_n to_o contemplation_n may_v in_o the_o begin_n of_o a_o spiritual_a course_n be_v proper_a 1._o for_o such_o simple_a &_o unlearned_a person_n especial_o woman_n as_o be_v not_o at_o all_o fit_a for_o discursive_a prayer_n 2._o yea_o even_o for_o the_o more_o learned_a if_o
it_o be_v use_v as_o a_o mean_n to_o raise_v &_o better_v their_o attention_n to_o god_n yet_o so_o that_o it_o must_v always_o give_v place_n to_o internal_a prayer_n when_o they_o find_v themselves_o dispose_v for_o it_o 11._o but_o as_o for_o that_o vocal_a prayer_n either_o in_o public_a or_o private_a which_o be_v by_o the_o law_n of_o the_o church_n of_o obligation_n no_o manner_n of_o pretence_n of_o find_v more_o profit_n by_o internal_a exercise_n ought_v to_o be_v esteem_v a_o sufficient_a ground_n for_o any_o to_o neglect_v or_o disparage_v it_o for_o though_o some_o soul_n of_o the_o best_a disposition_n may_v perhaps_o more_o advance_v themselves_o towards_o perfection_n by_o internal_a exercise_n alone_o yet_o since_o general_o even_o in_o religion_n soul_n be_v so_o tepid_v &_o negligent_a that_o if_o they_o be_v leave_v to_o their_o own_o voluntary_a devotion_n they_o will_v scarce_o ever_o exercise_v either_o vocal_a or_o mental_a prayer_n therefore_o in_o as_o much_o as_o a_o manifest_a distinction_n can_v be_v make_v between_o the_o particular_a disposition_n of_o person_n it_o be_v requisite_a &_o necessary_a that_o all_o shall_v be_v oblige_v to_o a_o public_a external_a performance_n of_o divine_a service_n praise_v god_n with_o the_o tongue_n also_o which_o be_v for_o that_o end_n give_v we_o that_o so_o a_o order_n &_o decorum_n may_v be_v observe_v in_o god_n church_n to_o the_o end_n it_o may_v imitate_v the_o employment_n of_o angel_n &_o glorify_a saint_n in_o a_o solemn_a unite_v join_v of_o heart_n &_o tongue_n to_o glorify_v god_n this_o be_v necessary_a also_o for_o the_o edification_n &_o invitation_n of_o those_o who_o be_v not_o oblige_v to_o the_o office_n who_o perhaps_o will_v never_o think_v of_o god_n be_v they_o not_o encourage_v thereto_o by_o see_v good_a soul_n spend_v the_o great_a part_n of_o their_o time_n in_o such_o solemn_a &_o almost_o hourly_o pray_v to_o &_o praise_v god_n 12._o now_o whereas_o to_o all_o manner_n of_o prayer_n as_o have_v be_v say_v there_o be_v necessary_o require_v a_o attention_n of_o the_o mind_n without_o which_o it_o be_v not_o prayer_n we_o must_v know_v that_o there_o be_v several_a kind_n &_o degree_n of_o attention_n all_o of_o they_o good_a but_o yet_o one_o more_o perfect_a &_o profitable_a than_o another_o for._n 1._o there_o be_v a_o attention_n or_o express_v reflection_n on_o the_o word_n &_o sense_n of_o the_o sentence_n pronounce_v by_o the_o tongue_n or_o revolue_v in_o the_o mind_n now_o this_o attention_n be_v in_o vocal_a prayer_n necessary_o to_o vary_v &_o change_v according_a as_o sentence_n in_o the_o psalm_n &c_n &c_n do_v succeed_v one_o another_o can_v so_o powerful_o &_o efficacious_o fix_v the_o mind_n or_o affection_n on_o god_n because_o they_o be_v present_o to_o be_v recall_v to_o new_a consideration_n or_o succeed_v affection_n this_o be_v the_o low_a &_o most_o imperfect_a degree_n of_o attention_n of_o which_o all_o soul_n be_v in_o some_o measure_n capable_a &_o the_o more_o imperfect_a they_o be_v the_o less_o difficulty_n there_o be_v in_o yield_v it_o for_o soul_n that_o have_v good_a &_o establish_a affection_n to_o god_n can_v hardly_o quit_v a_o good_a affection_n by_o which_o they_o be_v unite_v to_o god_n &_o which_o they_o find_v gustfull_a &_o profitable_a for_o they_o to_o exchange_v it_o for_o a_o new_a one_o succeed_v in_o the_o office_n and_o if_o they_o shall_v it_o will_v be_v to_o their_o preiudiâe_n 13._o the_o second_o degree_n be_v that_o of_o soul_n indifferent_o well_o practise_v in_o internal_a prayer_n who_o come_v to_o the_o recite_v of_o the_o office_n &_o either_o bring_n with_o they_o or_o by_o occasion_n of_o such_o recite_v raise_v in_o themselves_o a_o efficacious_a affection_n to_o god_n do_v desire_n without_o variation_n to_o continue_v it_o with_o as_o profound_a a_o recollectednes_n as_o they_o may_v not_o at_o all_o hee_a whether_o it_o be_v suitable_a to_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o present_a passage_n which_o they_o pronounce_v this_o be_v a_o attention_n to_o god_n though_o not_o to_o the_o word_n and_o be_v far_o more_o beneficial_a than_o the_o former_a and_o therefore_o to_o oblige_v any_o soul_n to_o quit_v such_o a_o attention_n for_o the_o former_a will_v be_v both_o prejudicial_a &_o unreasonable_a for_o since_o all_o vocal_a prayer_n in_o scripture_n or_o otherwise_o be_v ordain_v only_o to_o this_o end_n to_o supplâ_n &_o furnish_v the_o soul_n that_o needs_o with_o good_a matter_n of_o affection_n by_o which_o it_o may_v be_v unite_v to_o god_n a_o soul_n that_o have_v already_o attain_v to_o that_o end_n which_o be_v union_n as_o long_o as_o it_o last_v ought_v not_o to_o be_v separate_v therefrom_o &_o be_v oblige_v to_o seek_v a_o new_a mean_n till_o the_o virtue_n of_o the_o former_a be_v spend_v 14._o a_o three_o &_o most_o sublime_a degree_n of_o attention_n to_o the_o divine_a office_n be_v that_o whereby_o vocal_a prayer_n do_v become_v mental_a that_o be_v whereby_o soul_n most_o profound_o &_o with_o a_o perfect_a simplicity_n unite_v to_o god_n can_v yet_o without_o any_o prejudice_n to_o such_o union_n attend_v also_o to_o the_o sense_n &_o spirit_n of_o each_o passage_n that_o they_o pronounce_v yea_o thereby_o find_v their_o affection_n adhesion_n &_o union_n increase_v &_o more_o simplify_v this_o attention_n come_v not_o till_o a_o soul_n be_v arrive_v to_o perfect_a contemplation_n by_o mean_n of_o which_o the_o spirit_n be_v so_o habitual_o unite_v to_o god_n &_o beside_o the_o imagination_n so_o subdue_v to_o the_o spirit_n that_o it_o can_v rest_v upon_o any_o thing_n that_o will_v distract_v it_o 15._o happy_a be_v those_o soul_n of_o which_o god_n know_v the_o number_n be_v very_o small_a that_o have_v attain_v to_o this_o three_o degree_n the_o which_o must_v be_v ascend_v to_o by_o a_o careful_a practice_n of_o the_o two_o former_a in_o their_o order_n especirl_o of_o the_o second_o degree_n and_o therefore_o in_o recite_v of_o the_o office_n even_o the_o more_o imperfect_a soul_n may_v do_v well_o whensoever_o they_o find_v themselves_o in_o a_o good_a measure_n recollect_v to_o continue_v so_o as_o long_o as_o they_o well_o can_v preserve_v as_o much_o stability_n in_o their_o imagination_n as_o may_v be_v 16._o and_o the_o best_a mean_n to_o beget_v &_o increase_v such_o a_o recollect_v way_n of_o say_v the_o divine_a office_n be_v the_o practice_n of_o internal_a prayer_n either_o in_o meditation_n or_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n the_o only_a aim_n and_o end_v whereof_o be_v the_o procure_v a_o immovable_a attention_n &_o adhesion_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o god_n and_o this_o as_o to_o our_o present_a purpose_n may_v suffice_v concern_v vocal_a prayer_n chap._n iii_o §_o 1._o of_o internal_a prayer_n in_o general_a and_o principal_o of_o internal_a affective_a prayer_n §_o 2._o 3._o 4._o 5._o the_o excellency_n &_o necessity_n of_o affective_a prayer_n and_o that_o it_o be_v practise_v by_o the_o ancient_n &_o not_o discursive_a prayer_n or_o meditation_n §_o 6._o the_o great_a necessity_n of_o it_o in_o these_o day_n §_o 7._o 8._o the_o testimony_n of_o cardinal_n bellarmine_n to_o show_v that_o vocal_a prayer_n etc._n etc._n suffice_v not_o §_o 9_o 10._o 11._o etc._n etc._n five_o admirable_a virtue_n of_o internal_a affective_a prayer_n §_o 16._o 17._o a_o exhortation_n to_o constancy_n &_o courage_n in_o pursue_v the_o exercise_n of_o it_o 1._o internal_a or_o mental_a prayer_n which_o be_v simple_o and_o mere_o such_o and_z which_o we_o make_v the_o second_o member_n in_o the_o division_n of_o prayer_n in_o general_a if_o indeed_o it_o be_v a_o distinct_a kind_n and_o of_o which_o only_o we_o shall_v treat_v hereafter_o be_v either_o 1._o imperfect_a and_o acquire_v 2._o or_o perfect_a &_o that_o which_o be_v call_v proper_o infuse_v prayer_n the_o former_a be_v only_o a_o preparation_n &_o inferior_a disposition_n by_o which_o the_o soul_n be_v fit_v &_o make_v capable_a of_o the_o infusion_n of_o the_o other_o to_o wit_n the_o prayer_n of_o contemplation_n which_o be_v the_o end_n of_o all_o our_o spiritual_a &_o religious_a exercise_n i_o shall_v therefore_o in_o order_n treat_v of_o they_o both_o &_o of_o their_o several_a special_a degreeâ_n begin_v with_o the_o low_a &_o thence_o ascend_v orderly_o till_o we_o come_v to_o the_o high_a the_o which_o will_v bring_v a_o soul_n to_o the_o state_n of_o perfection_n 2._o but_o before_o i_o come_v to_o deliver_v the_o special_a instruction_n pertinent_a to_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o several_a degree_n of_o internal_a prayer_n it_o will_v be_v very_o requisite_a by_o way_n of_o preparation_n &_o encouragement_n to_o set_v down_o the_o necessity_n &_o excellency_n of_o internal_a prayer_n in_o general_a i_o mean_v especial_o of_o
that_o which_o be_v affective_a for_o as_o for_o discursive_a prayer_n or_o meditation_n the_o world_n be_v but_o even_o burden_a with_o book_n which_o with_o more_o than_o sufficient_a niceness_n prescribe_v rule_n &_o method_n for_o the_o practice_n of_o it_o and_o with_o too_o partial_a a_o affection_n magnify_v it_o the_o author_n of_o such_o book_n neglect_v in_o the_o mean_a time_n or_o perhaps_o scarce_o know_v what_o true_a internal_a affective_a prayer_n be_v the_o which_o notwithstanding_o be_v the_o only_a efficacious_a instrument_n that_o immediate_o bring_v soul_n to_o contemplation_n &_o perfect_a union_n in_o spirit_n with_o god_n 3._o some_o there_o be_v that_o because_o they_o do_v not_o find_v in_o the_o write_n of_o the_o ancient_a father_n &_o mystical_a doctor_n such_o exact_a instruction_n touch_v the_o practice_n of_o internal_a prayer_n as_o be_v now_o common_a &_o abound_v in_o the_o church_n do_v therefore_o undervalue_v &_o despise_v it_o as_o a_o mere_a humane_a invention_n not_o at_o all_o necessary_a but_o rather_o on_o the_o contrary_a subject_a to_o great_a inconvenience_n expose_v soul_n to_o illusion_n error_n &c_n &c_n and_o therefore_o they_o in_o opposition_n to_o it_o do_v only_o recommend_v &_o exact_v vocal_a prayer_n &_o a_o solemn_a protract_a performance_n of_o it_o 4._o notwithstanding_o to_o any_o one_o that_o shall_v heedful_o read_v the_o writing_n not_o only_o of_o the_o ancient_a solitary_n but_o likewise_o of_o s._n augustin_n s._n basile_n s._n gregory_n nazianzene_n &_o other_o it_o will_v evident_o appear_v that_o they_o both_o know_v and_o practise_v most_o profound_a &_o recollect_v devotion_n internal_o yea_o &_o exhort_v soul_n to_o a_o continual_a attendance_n to_o god_n &_o his_o divine_a presence_n in_o the_o spirit_n sufficient_a proof_n whereof_o shall_v occasional_o hereafter_o be_v insert_v 5._o true_o indeed_o it_o be_v that_o they_o have_v not_o deliur_v any_o exact_a method_n for_o the_o practice_n of_o such_o prayer_n the_o which_o in_o those_o time_n be_v not_o at_o all_o necessary_a or_o at_o least_o not_o at_o all_o needful_a to_o be_v communicate_v to_o the_o world_n for_o to_o soul_n that_o live_v as_o ancient_o they_o do_v entire_o sequester_v from_o all_o world_o business_n or_o conversation_n in_o continual_a laborious_a &_o penitential_a exercise_n have_v no_o image_n of_o creature_n to_o distract_v their_o mind_n and_o much_o less_o any_o inordinate_a affection_n to_o creature_n to_o depress_v they_o from_o mount_v to_o spiritual_a union_n with_o god_n it_o be_v more_o than_o sufficient_a for_o such_o to_o know_v that_o their_o duty_n &_o the_o end_n of_o their_o solitude_n be_v to_o live_v in_o a_o continual_a conversation_n with_o god_n suffer_v themselves_o to_o be_v conduct_v and_o manage_v by_o his_o holy_a spirit_n to_o such_o all_o other_o more_o nice_a or_o particular_a instruction_n will_v have_v prove_v but_o distractive_a &_o intangle_a and_o therefore_o we_o see_v that_o our_o holy_a father_n though_o he_o ordain_v daily_o conuentuall_a short_a recollection_n for_o the_o exercise_n of_o that_o which_o he_o call_v pure_a prayer_n yet_o he_o neither_o interpret_v what_o he_o mean_v by_o such_o prayer_n for_o all_o his_o disciple_n understand_v that_o sufficient_o &_o much_o less_o do_v he_o deliver_v any_o instruction_n how_o to_o exercise_v it_o 6._o but_o in_o these_o day_n in_o which_o religious_a person_n and_o other_o that_o aspire_v to_o spiritual_a contemplation_n do_v either_o want_n the_o mean_n to_o enjoy_v or_o have_v not_o the_o courage_n and_o strength_n to_o support_v such_o solitude_n and_o austerity_n lest_o the_o spirit_n of_o contemplation_n shall_v fail_v in_o the_o world_n god_n raise_v up_o first_o in_o germany_n master_n of_o contemplative_a prayer_n as_o suso_n harphius_n eschius_fw-la thaulerus_n etc._n etc._n in_o former_a time_n and_o more_o late_o in_o spain_n s._n teresa_n b._n john_n de_fw-fr cruse_n etc._n etc._n who_o no_o question_n by_o the_o direction_n of_o god_n spirit_n as_o the_o grace_n of_o miracle_n confer_v on_o they_o may_v witness_v have_v judge_v it_o necessary_a to_o supply_v the_o want_n of_o the_o foresay_a advantage_n by_o add_v a_o certain_a obligation_n to_o the_o daily_a practice_n of_o internal_a recollect_v prayer_n prescribe_v order_n &_o time_n for_o the_o performance_n of_o it_o they_o have_v likewise_o more_o exact_o discover_v the_o degree_n and_o progress_n of_o prayer_n and_o in_o a_o word_n most_o earnest_o do_v they_o exhort_v soul_n to_o a_o diligent_a pursuance_n of_o it_o profess_v that_o without_o it_o it_o be_v impossible_a to_o comply_v with_o the_o essential_a design_n of_o a_o spiritual_a or_o religious_a life_n 7._o i_o will_v content_v myself_o in_o this_o place_n to_o express_v the_o ground_n &_o sum_n of_o the_o exhortation_n of_o those_o &_o other_o illuminate_v person_n the_o glorious_a instrument_n of_o god_n for_o the_o reviue_n of_o decay_a spirituality_n in_o the_o world_n by_o produce_v a_o passage_n of_o cardinal_n bellarmine_n which_o may_v be_v apply_v to_o this_o purpose_n take_v out_o of_o one_o of_o his_o sermon_n in_o for_o 2._o rogat_fw-la which_o be_v this_o ego_fw-la illud_fw-la mihi_fw-la videor_fw-la verissime_fw-la posse_fw-la affirmare_fw-la &c_n &c_n that_o be_v this_o i_o believe_v i_o may_v most_o true_o &_o confident_o affirm_v say_v he_o that_o without_o a_o diligent_a pursuit_n of_o internal_a prayer_n none_o will_v ever_o become_v true_o spiritual_a nor_o attain_v to_o any_o degree_n of_o perfection_n we_o see_v many_o which_o often_o time_n in_o the_o year_n do_v approach_n to_o the_o sacrament_n of_o penance_n &_o as_o far_o as_o humane_a frailty_n &_o infirmity_n will_v permit_v do_v with_o sufficient_a diligence_n endeavour_v to_o purge_v away_o all_o the_o stain_n &_o uncleanenes_n of_o sin_n and_o yet_o they_o make_v no_o progress_n but_o be_v still_o the_o very_a same_o that_o they_o be_v and_o have_v be_v at_o confession_n if_o a_o week_n after_o they_o come_v to_o the_o same_o tribunal_n again_o they_o bring_v neither_o few_o nor_o lesser_a fault_n than_o such_o as_o be_v former_o confess_v yea_o without_o offend_v against_o truth_n i_o may_v add_v some_o what_o more_o strange_a than_o all_o this_o to_o wit_n that_o we_o see_v sometime_o religious_a person_n &_o not_o a_o few_o priest_n which_o by_o their_o vocation_n &_o habit_n profess_v sanctity_n &_o moreover_o do_v assiduous_o read_v divine_a scripture_n &_o book_n of_o piety_n they_o do_v often_o if_o not_o daily_o celebrate_v the_o most_o holy_a sacrifice_n they_o have_v neither_o wife_n nor_o child_n but_o be_v free_a from_o all_o care_n &_o sollicitude_n which_o may_v distract_v they_o from_o a_o continual_a attendance_n to_o divine_a thing_n and_o yet_o after_o all_o this_o they_o be_v so_o veyd_v of_o all_o devotion_n &_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n so_o cold_a in_o divine_a love_n &_o so_o earnest_a in_o the_o love_n of_o secular_a vanity_n so_o replenish_v with_o impatience_n envy_n &_o all_o inordinate_a desire_n that_o they_o seem_v not_o one_o iott_n to_o differ_v from_o secular_a person_n whole_o engage_v in_o the_o world_n now_o the_o only_a cause_n of_o all_o these_o disorder_n be_v that_o they_o do_v not_o serious_o enter_v into_o their_o own_o heart_n by_o exercise_n of_o introversion_n but_o only_o esteem_v &_o regard_v the_o exterior_a &c_n &c_n thus_o far_o be_v the_o word_n &_o too_o just_a complaint_n of_o the_o learned_a &_o pious_a cardinal_n 8._o the_o which_o with_o very_o great_a reason_n may_v be_v further_o extend_v even_o to_o those_o religious_a who_o by_o their_o profession_n ought_v to_o aspire_v to_o contemplation_n &_o be_v mistake_v in_o the_o true_a way_n thereto_o erroneous_o believe_v that_o by_o a_o exact_a performance_n of_o outward_a observance_n &_o the_o solemn_a say_n of_o the_o office_n adjoin_v the_o exercise_n of_o such_o internal_a discursive_a prayer_n do_v yet_o find_v but_o little_a fruit_n as_o to_o any_o interior_a reformation_n or_o simplification_n of_o their_o soul_n by_o reason_n that_o they_o rest_v in_o such_o active_a exercise_n which_o in_o a_o short_a time_n to_o solitary_a liver_n lose_v all_o their_o virtue_n &_o do_v not_o from_o they_o proceed_v to_o the_o true_o enlighten_v exercise_n of_o internal_a affective_a prayer_n which_o be_v a_o prayer_n of_o the_o heart_n or_o will_v by_o good_a affection_n quiet_o &_o calm_o produce_v &_o not_o with_o the_o understanding_n a_o prayer_n make_v without_o those_o distract_n method_n or_o that_o busy_v of_o the_o imagination_n &_o weary_v of_o the_o soul_n by_o laborious_a discourse_n which_o be_v only_o inferior_a &_o imperfect_a preparation_n to_o true_a prayer_n 9_o now_o to_o a_o consideration_n of_o the_o necessity_n of_o internal_a affective_a prayer_n we_o will_v add_v certain_a virtue_n benefit_n &_o preeminence_n thereof_o compare_v with_o all_o other_o sort_n of_o
practice_n we_o can_v so_o rectify_v our_o desire_n as_o to_o place_v they_o upon_o their_o only_a true_a &_o proper_a object_n which_o be_v god_n it_o will_v necessary_o follow_v that_o the_o soul_n shall_v be_v in_o continual_a prayer_n si_fw-mi semper_fw-la desideras_fw-la semper_fw-la oras_fw-la say_v s._n augustine_n if_o thou_o do_v continual_o desire_v god_n thou_o do_v continual_o pray_v such_o desire_n by_o custom_n will_v become_v easy_a &_o as_o it_o be_v natural_a to_o the_o soul_n and_o consequent_o without_o any_o force_n use_v on_o the_o imagination_n or_o understanding_n they_o may_v be_v continue_v without_o interruption_n for_o they_o will_v flow_v as_o free_o as_o breath_n from_o the_o lung_n and_o where_o such_o desire_n do_v abound_v flow_a from_o a_o holy_a inward_a temper_n of_o soul_n there_o no_o employment_n will_v be_v undertake_v that_o shall_v cross_v or_o prejudice_n such_o desire_n on_o the_o contrary_a they_o will_v give_v a_o tincture_n to_o all_o action_n direct_v they_o to_o the_o object_n of_o those_o desire_n &_o thereby_o add_v to_o the_o fervency_n of_o they_o 13._o now_o a_o question_n may_v be_v make_v whether_o in_o contemplative_a order_n where_o likewise_o there_o be_v use_v much_o abstraction_n solitude_n &_o other_o austerity_n soul_n may_v attain_v to_o this_o uninterrupt_a prayer_n by_o the_o way_n of_o meditation_n or_o else_o of_o long_o continue_v vocal_a prayer_n alone_o without_o appoint_a recollection_n of_o internal_a affective_a prayer_n constant_o exercise_v 14_o hereto_o it_o may_v be_v answer_v first_o that_o as_o for_o meditation_n it_o be_v a_o exercise_n so_o disproportionable_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o such_o a_o state_n except_o as_o a_o preparation_n for_o awhile_o in_o the_o beginning_n that_o it_o be_v not_o possible_a to_o be_v the_o constant_a &_o continue_a exercise_n of_o such_o person_n for_o as_o shall_v be_v show_v the_o imagination_n &_o understanding_n by_o much_o exercise_n thereof_o in_o a_o undistract_a life_n will_v become_v so_o barren_a &_o it_o will_v ptoduce_v so_o small_a or_o no_o effect_n in_o good_a affection_n in_o the_o will_n that_o it_o will_v be_v disgustful_a &_o insupportable_a so_o that_o all_o use_n of_o meditation_n must_v be_v for_o a_o long_a space_n pass_v &_o relinquish_v before_o the_o soul_n will_v be_v bring_v to_o this_o good_a state_n of_o have_v a_o continual_a flux_n of_o holy_a desire_n 15._o but_o in_o the_o second_o place_n touch_v long_o continue_v vocal_a prayer_n and_o office_n without_o any_o set_a exercise_n of_o internal_a recollection_n no_o doubt_n it_o be_v but_o by_o they_o such_o religious_a person_n may_v be_v bring_v to_o this_o habit_n of_o continual_a prayer_n so_o that_o 1._o they_o hold_v their_o mind_n to_o as_o much_o attention_n as_o reasonable_o they_o can_v 2._o so_o that_o out_o of_o choir_n they_o keep_v their_o mind_n from_o distractive_a affection_n or_o sollicitude_n either_o about_o study_n or_o any_o other_o employment_n voluntary_a or_o impose_v 3._o so_o they_o be_v watchful_a over_o themselves_o not_o to_o give_v scope_n to_o thought_n which_o may_v be_v harmful_a to_o they_o thus_o the_o ancient_a hermit_n arrive_v to_o this_o perfection_n 4._o a_o four_o condition_n may_v be_v that_o such_o person_n content_v themselves_o with_o the_o public_a office_n &_o not_o over-burden_n themselves_o with_o a_o surcharge_n of_o voluntary_a vocal_a prayer_n for_o turrecremata_fw-la say_v well_o on_o the_o decr._n d._n 92._o that_o the_o voice_n &_o other_o external_a do_n be_v in_o prayer_n to_o be_v use_v only_o so_o far_o as_o by_o they_o to_o raise_v internal_a devotion_n so_o that_o if_o by_o the_o excess_n of_o they_o it_o shall_v be_v hinder_v or_o the_o mind_n distract_v they_o ought_v to_o be_v abstain_v from_o and_o s._n augustin_n no_o doubt_n from_o experience_n as_o well_o as_o judgement_n say_v qu_n vitum_fw-la proficis_fw-la ad_fw-la videndam_fw-la sapientiam_fw-la tantò_fw-la minus_fw-la est_fw-la vox_fw-la necessaria_fw-la that_o be_v the_o great_a progress_n thou_o make_v in_o contemplative_a wisdom_n so_o much_o less_o necesary_a will_n vocal_a pray_v be_v such_o person_n therefore_o if_o in_o their_o solitude_n they_o do_v not_o appoint_v to_o themselves_o any_o set_v recollection_n yet_o ought_v they_o to_o keep_v their_o mind_n in_o a_o state_n of_o as_o much_o recollectednes_n as_o may_v be_v by_o interrupt_a good_a desire_n at_o least_o beget_v in_o their_o mind_n a_o affection_n to_o prayer_n &_o a_o appetite_n to_o the_o succeed_a office_n 16._o notwithstanding_o certain_a it_o be_v that_o vocal_a prayer_n though_o never_o so_o much_o prolong_v &_o in_o never_o so_o great_a solitude_n yet_o will_v never_o produce_v this_o effect_n where_o the_o true_a spirit_n of_o contemplative_a prayer_n be_v not_o know_v &_o such_o ignorance_n have_v be_v even_o in_o order_n of_o the_o great_a abstraction_n &_o austerity_n thus_o we_o see_v that_o germanus_n &_o cassianus_n though_o practise_v many_o year_n in_o a_o striât_o coenobiticall_a life_n yet_o be_v astonish_v when_o they_o hear_v the_o holy_a hermit_n discourse_n of_o pure_a spiritual_a prayer_n free_a from_o image_n &c_n &c_n 17._o it_o remain_v therefore_o that_o ordinary_o speak_v the_o only_a efficacious_a &_o immediate_a disposition_n to_o the_o habit_n of_o uninterrupt_a prayer_n be_v a_o constant_a exercise_n of_o internal_a prayer_n of_o the_o will_n by_o which_o the_o soul_n be_v daily_o force_v to_o a_o serious_a attendance_n &_o tendance_n to_o god_n in_o spirit_n by_o little_a &_o little_o become_v more_o &_o better_o affect_v to_o a_o frequent_a conversation_n with_o he_o &_o in_o time_n lose_v all_o relish_n or_o taste_v of_o pleasure_n in_o creature_n 18._o this_o i_o say_v will_v be_v the_o effect_n of_o such_o constant_a &_o fervent_a exercise_n of_o recollection_n for_o as_o for_o those_o which_o be_v common_o call_v elaculatory_a prayer_n that_o be_v good_a affection_n now_o and_o then_o by_o fit_n &_o with_o frequent_a interruption_n exercise_v though_o they_o be_v very_o good_a &_o profitable_a &_o withal_o very_o fit_a to_o be_v use_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o read_v especial_o or_o any_o other_o external_a employment_n yet_o they_o alone_o will_v though_o join_v to_o the_o ordinary_a use_n of_o the_o divine_a office_n be_v insufficient_a to_o produce_v such_o a_o habit_n of_o soul_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o be_v so_o short_a &_o with_o such_o interruption_n exercise_v the_o virtue_n of_o they_o be_v present_o spend_v &_o will_v have_v little_a or_o no_o effect_n upon_o subsequent_a action_n but_o as_o for_o the_o eiaculatory_a prayer_n mention_v &_o worthy_o commend_v by_o the_o holy_a hermit_n in_o cassian_n the_o nature_n of_o they_o be_v quite_o different_a from_o those_o foremention_v for_o they_o be_v indeed_o not_o different_a from_o infuse_a aspiration_n be_v the_o effect_n flow_a from_o the_o habit_n of_o continual_a prayer_n already_o acquire_v &_o not_o imperfect_a preparation_n thereto_o 19_o to_o conclude_v none_o can_v account_v themselves_o to_o have_v satisfy_v in_o that_o perfection_n that_o they_o ought_v the_o obligation_n impose_v on_o they_o by_o this_o necessary_a precept_n of_o our_o lord_n oportet_fw-la semper_fw-la orare_fw-la &_o non_fw-la deficere_fw-la but_o 1._o such_o as_o do_v actual_o exercise_v as_o much_o prayer_n as_o may_v consist_v with_o their_o ability_n &_o as_o be_v necessary_a to_o produce_v contemplation_n if_o such_o be_v their_o state_n of_o life_n and_o moreover_o such_o actual_a prayer_n as_o be_v suitable_a thereto_o yet_o not_o indiscreet_o strein_v themselves_o beyond_o their_o power_n to_o perform_v it_o perfect_o at_o first_o lest_o it_o happen_v unto_o they_o according_a to_o the_o say_v of_o the_o prophet_n jerem._n 28._o c._n quia_fw-la plus_fw-la fecit_fw-la quam_fw-la potuit_fw-la idcirco_fw-la perijt_fw-la that_o be_v because_o he_o do_v more_o than_o he_o be_v able_a therefore_o he_o perish_v 2._o such_o as_o when_o discretion_n or_o other_o necessary_a employment_n do_v withdraw_v they_o from_o actual_a prayer_n yet_o do_v preserve_v in_o their_o mind_n a_o love_n &_o desire_v of_o it_o &_o a_o firm_a resolution_n courageous_o to_o break_v through_o all_o discouragemenâs_n &_o hindrance_n to_o it_o 3._o such_o as_o do_v endeavour_v to_o do_v all_o their_o action_n in_o virtue_n of_o prayer_n that_o be_v with_o the_o same_o holy_a &_o pure_a intention_n as_o god_n give_v they_o in_o their_o precedent_a prayer_n 4._o such_o as_o do_v abstain_v from_o all_o voluntary_a employment_n as_o do_v indispose_v their_o mind_n for_o prayer_n keep_v their_o soul_n in_o such_o a_o disposition_n as_o to_o be_v able_a present_o to_o correspond_v to_o a_o interiour_n divine_a invitation_n to_o prayer_n if_o god_n shall_v send_v it_o &_o to_o be_v in_o a_o capacity_n of_o receive_v &_o perceive_v such_o invitation_n now_o this_o be_v do_v by_o keep_v a_o continual_a guard_n
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
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 exerciseâ_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
between_o the_o distraction_n of_o perfect_a &_o imperfect_a soul_n §_o 11._o 12._o 13._o a_o three_o condition_n necessary_a to_o true_a internal_a affective_a prayer_n viz._n that_o it_o must_v proceed_v from_o divine_a inspiration_n §_o 14._o a_o exhortation_n to_o constancy_n in_o prayer_n 1._o the_o second_o discourage_a tentation_n opposite_a to_o the_o second_o quality_n requisite_a in_o prayer_n to_o wit_n perseverance_n by_o which_o well_o mind_v soul_n be_v oft_o much_o afflict_v in_o their_o recollection_n &_o also_o expose_v to_o grievous_a scrupulosity_n be_v distraction_n in_o prayer_n cause_v by_o image_n which_o oft_o against_o their_o will_n press_v into_o their_o imagination_n the_o which_o draw_v the_o mind_n from_o contemplate_v god_n &_o consequent_o the_o affection_n from_o embrace_v he_o by_o love_n at_o such_o time_n when_o the_o soul_n desire_v &_o intend_v to_o contemplate_v &_o love_v he_o 2._o i_o do_v not_o therefore_o here_o under_o the_o term_n of_o distraction_n comprehend_v all_o manner_n of_o interruption_n from_o a_o direct_a actual_a tendance_n to_o god_n for_o such_o sometime_o consider_v the_o infirmity_n of_o our_o nature_n may_v be_v necessary_a to_o the_o end_n that_o by_o a_o discreet_a relaxation_n the_o head_n be_v refresh_v we_o may_v be_v enable_v afterward_o to_o produce_v more_o efficacious_a affection_n and_o therefore_o those_o author_n be_v too_o indiscreet_o rigorous_a who_o oblige_v soul_n not_o yet_o perfect_a to_o a_o continual_a recollect_v attention_n to_o the_o divine_a presence_n not_o consider_v the_o corporal_a infirmity_n &_o incapacity_n of_o their_o disciple_n spirit_n especial_o in_o these_o day_n the_o distraction_n therefore_o here_o intend_v to_o be_v treat_v of_o be_v such_o as_o be_v involuntary_a &_o which_o happen_v at_o time_n when_o soul_n do_v apply_v themselves_o either_o to_o vocal_a or_o mental_a prayer_n 3._o now_o it_o be_v a_o effect_n of_o original_a sin_n much_o increase_v also_o by_o actual_a that_o soul_n be_v general_o some_o more_o some_o less_o subject_a to_o this_o deordination_n because_o by_o sin_n that_o due_a subordination_n of_o the_o sensitive_a faculty_n the_o imagination_n memory_n &_o appetite_n to_o the_o superior_a soul_n be_v impair_v so_o that_o the_o reason_n have_v not_o that_o absolute_a dominion_n over_o they_o that_o it_o have_v in_o innocence_n but_o they_o often_o wander_v towards_o object_n not_o prescribe_v by_o reason_n yea_o &_o sometime_o seduce_v &_o even_o compel_v reason_n itself_o to_o comply_v with_o their_o disorder_n add_v hereunto_o that_o the_o body_n be_v gross_a &_o lumpish_a can_v long_o endure_v that_o the_o soul_n its_o companion_n shall_v remain_v in_o its_o proper_a exercise_n by_o which_o it_o become_v as_o it_o be_v a_o stranger_n to_o the_o body_n contradict_v its_o motion_n &_o desire_n and_o therefore_o till_o the_o soul_n by_o practice_n of_o spiritual_a operation_n be_v enable_v at_o pleasure_n to_o command_v the_o inferior_a faculty_n or_o to_o abstract_n itself_o from_o the_o image_n suggest_v by_o they_o the_o say_a faculty_n do_v strive_v to_o depress_v the_o spirit_n and_o to_o call_v it_o down_o to_o attend_v to_o the_o necessity_n &_o desire_n of_o sensitive_a nature_n yea_o even_o in_o the_o most_o perfect_a the_o soul_n will_v not_o be_v able_a to_o continue_v long_o in_o the_o height_n of_o its_o elevation_n 4._o as_o for_o these_o distraction_n which_o general_o speak_v be_v hurtful_a &_o to_o be_v avoid_v among_o which_o notwithstanding_o i_o need_v not_o reckon_v in_o this_o place_n such_o as_o be_v simple_o sinful_a be_v about_o unlawful_a object_n the_o most_o harmful_a to_o our_o spiritual_a progress_n be_v those_o which_o be_v about_o object_n to_o which_o we_o cleave_v with_o affection_n because_o by_o such_o distract_n think_v not_o only_o the_o mind_n be_v divert_v from_o god_n but_o the_o heart_n also_o inordinate_o carry_v to_o creature_n 5._o for_o as_o for_o thought_n mere_o about_o vain_a object_n to_o which_o we_o have_v little_a or_o no_o affection_n &_o which_o proceed_v whole_o from_o the_o instability_n of_o the_o imagination_n imperfect_a soul_n ought_v not_o to_o be_v discourage_v with_o they_o although_o they_o shall_v be_v never_o so_o importunate_a during_o their_o recollection_n since_o the_o most_o abstract_a liver_n must_v be_v content_a now_o &_o then_o to_o suffer_v they_o 6._o and_o the_o most_o powerful_a remedy_n to_o prevent_v they_o be_v with_o as_o much_o prudence_n &_o dexterity_n as_o one_o can_v to_o cut_v of_o the_o occasion_n of_o entertain_v such_o image_n as_o do_v most_o frequent_o &_o pertinacious_o recurre_v to_o the_o mind_n in_o prayer_n and_o more_o particular_o for_o those_o image_n to_o who_o object_n the_o soul_n cleave_v by_o inordinate_a affection_n the_o practice_n of_o abstraction_n and_o voluntary_a disengagement_n from_o unnecessary_a business_n be_v requisite_a &_o a_o restrain_v of_o our_o affection_n from_o wander_v abroad_o and_o fix_v themselves_o upon_o any_o external_a object_n for_o certain_a it_o be_v that_o if_o by_o the_o exercise_n of_o mortification_n and_o prayer_n we_o can_v restrain_v our_o affection_n from_o creature_n &_o fix_v they_o on_o god_n only_o we_o shall_v scarce_o ever_o have_v cause_n to_o complain_v of_o distraction_n for_o we_o see_v that_o we_o can_v easy_o and_o constant_o fix_v our_o thought_n on_o such_o object_n as_o we_o love_v so_o that_o perseverance_n in_o prayer_n and_o mortification_n be_v the_o most_o assure_a instrument_n to_o increase_v divine_a love_n and_o diminish_v inordinate_a love_n to_o ourselves_o &_o creature_n consequent_o they_o be_v the_o most_o sure_a remedy_n against_o distraction_n 7._o but_o if_o after_o all_o due_a care_n have_v they_o do_v still_o persist_v the_o most_o effectual_a expedient_n to_o hinder_v any_o considerable_a inconueââiences_n from_o such_o distraction_n be_v 1._o sometime_o so_o use_v a_o discreet_a &_o reasonable_a industry_n in_o contradict_v and_o expel_v they_o yet_o forbear_v a_o over-violent_a anxious_a resistance_n of_o they_o out_o of_o a_o opinion_n that_o by_o such_o violence_n they_o may_v be_v extinguish_v whereas_o on_o the_o contrary_a such_o a_o eagerne_v of_o contend_v with_o they_o by_o the_o imflame_a of_o the_o spirit_n make_v those_o image_n more_o active_a &_o full_a of_o motion_n &_o rather_o multiply_v than_o diminish_v they_o and_o however_o it_o imprint_n they_o deep_o in_o the_o imagination_n let_v a_o well_o mind_a soul_n rather_o endeavour_v according_a to_o the_o expression_n of_o the_o author_n of_o the_o cloud_n to_o look_v over_o their_o shoulder_n as_o if_o she_o look_v after_o some_o other_o object_n that_o stand_v beyond_o they_o &_o above_o they_o which_o be_v god_n 2._o let_v she_o as_o have_v be_v say_v fix_v in_o her_o mind_n &_o superior_a will_v a_o strong_a resolution_n notwithstanding_o the_o say_a distraction_n yea_o in_o the_o midst_n &_o press_v of_o they_o not_o to_o relinquish_v prayer_n but_o to_o persevere_v in_o it_o to_o the_o best_a of_o her_o power_n &_o skill_n 3._o let_v the_o well_o mind_a soul_n execute_v this_o resolution_n with_o all_o possible_a quietness_n stillnes_n &_o patience_n not_o trouble_v herself_o with_o any_o fear_n or_o scrupulosity_n as_o if_o they_o come_v from_o she_o own_o fault_n whereas_o ordinary_o they_o be_v increase_v at_o least_o by_o the_o distemper_n of_o the_o body_n or_o the_o natural_a instability_n of_o the_o imagination_n 4._o sometime_o it_o may_v be_v requisite_a for_o she_o not_o be_v able_a to_o her_o own_o satisfaction_n to_o pursue_v her_o appoint_a exercise_n to_o change_v it_o into_o act_n of_o patience_n &_o quiet_a resignation_n to_o suffer_v without_o murmur_v such_o a_o affliction_n &_o visitation_n from_o god_n hand_n and_o so_o do_v she_o will_v perhaps_o more_o advance_v herself_o in_o pure_a spiritual_a prayer_n then_o if_o she_o have_v no_o such_o distraction_n at_o all_o for_o beside_o that_o such_o prayer_n be_v make_v with_o a_o actual_a contradiction_n to_o the_o inclination_n of_o nature_n have_v in_o it_o the_o virtue_n of_o a_o most_o purify_n mortification_n also_o a_o perseverance_n in_o this_o practice_n will_v bring_v she_o to_o that_o pure_a prayer_n of_o the_o will_n without_o any_o perceivable_a help_n or_o concurrence_n of_o the_o understanding_n in_o which_o the_o will_n be_v firm_o unite_v to_o god_n while_o the_o understanding_n be_v in_o no_o such_o union_n yea_o when_o both_o it_o and_o the_o imagination_n be_v never_o so_o extravagant_a &_o wander_v 8._o and_o sure_o a_o matter_n of_o great_a comfort_n it_o be_v to_o a_o soul_n and_o aught_o so_o to_o be_v esteem_v that_o in_o her_o will_n which_o be_v her_o principal_a faculty_n &_o indeed_o all_o in_o all_o she_o may_v be_v unite_v to_o god_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o all_o distraction_n tentation_n &_o desolation_n &c_n &c_n and_o that_o be_v so_o unite_v she_o will_v
they_o accept_v as_o a_o certain_a proof_n that_o it_o come_v from_o god_n that_o it_o be_v beneficial_a to_o soul_n and_o therefore_o odious_a to_o the_o devil_n for_o so_o have_v all_o such_o thing_n be_v ever_o at_o the_o first_o entertain_v 2._o but_o among_o all_o the_o late_a master_n of_o pure_a spiritual_a contemplative_a prayer_n there_o be_v none_o deserve_v more_o out_o esteem_v nor_o be_v more_o proper_a to_o be_v produce_v in_o this_o place_n than_o the_o late_a r._n f._n baltazar_n aluarez_n of_o the_o society_n of_o jesus_n well_o know_v unto_o and_o most_o high_o esteem_v by_o s._n teresa_n who_o be_v much_o assist_v &_o comfort_v by_o he_o during_o her_o trouble_n &_o difficulty_n the_o special_a benefit_n that_o may_v be_v reap_v from_o his_o story_n be_v that_o by_o occasion_n of_o his_o trial_n and_o examination_n about_o his_o prayer_n all_o the_o suspicion_n and_o allegation_n against_o it_o be_v well_o clear_v and_o the_o whole_a substance_n of_o this_o treatise_n worthy_o confirm_v and_o assert_v 3._o this_o venerable_a person_n after_o he_o have_v with_o great_a diligence_n spend_v above_o fifteen_o year_n in_o meditation_n and_o the_o spiritual_a exercise_n peculiar_a to_o his_o order_n and_o yet_o receive_v but_o little_a profit_n to_o his_o spirit_n by_o they_o be_v on_o the_o contrary_n torment_v with_o extreme_a doubtfullnes_n &_o unsatisfaction_n be_v at_o the_o last_o guide_v powerful_o by_o god_n holy_a spirit_n to_o quit_v meditation_n and_o to_o betake_v himself_o to_o a_o serious_a practice_n of_o prayer_n immediate_o in_o the_o will_n to_o the_o which_o divine_a motion_n he_o correspond_v present_o receive_v abundance_n of_o light_n and_o a_o perfect_a remedy_n against_o all_o his_o anguish_n and_o perplexity_n 4._o but_o his_o internal_a trouble_n cease_v outward_a difficulty_n begin_v for_o other_o of_o his_o brethren_n &_o companion_n perceive_v that_o he_o walk_v in_o way_n unknow_v to_o they_o earnest_o require_v a_o examination_n of_o this_o new_a spirit_n insomuch_o as_o that_o out_o of_o spain_n these_o complaint_n come_v to_o the_o ear_n of_o their_o then_o general_n the_o most_o r._n f._n euerardus_fw-la mercurialis_n resident_a at_o rome_n by_o order_n from_o who_o his_o study_n be_v seal_v up_o &_o afterward_o search_v by_o learned_a father_n thereto_o appoint_v &_o all_o his_o paper_n examine_v though_o which_o afford_v no_o matter_n of_o just_a accusation_n at_o all_o but_o on_o the_o contrary_a of_o great_a edification_n a_o second_o command_n come_v from_o the_o general_n to_o he_o to_o give_v a_o full_a account_n of_o the_o order_n &_o manner_n of_o his_o prayer_n 5._o this_o command_n oblige_v he_o to_o make_v a_o free_a &_o ingenuous_a apology_n for_o himself_o the_o which_o because_o it_o be_v most_o pertinent_a &_o conformable_a to_o the_o spirit_n of_o these_o instruction_n &_o beside_o be_v not_o common_a in_o many_o man_n hand_n i_o will_v here_o set_v down_o the_o substance_n of_o it_o as_o it_o be_v relate_v with_o most_o commendable_a candour_n &_o ingenuity_n by_o f._n ludovicus_n de_fw-fr puente_n of_o the_o same_o society_n his_o scholar_n who_o write_v his_o life_n 6._o now_o in_o his_o say_a apology_n he_o free_o &_o humble_o declare_v that_o near_o sixteen_o year_n he_o have_v labour_v like_o one_o that_o till_v the_o ground_n without_o reap_v any_o fruit_n that_o his_o heart_n be_v much_o straighten_v with_o grief_n observe_v that_o he_o want_v the_o talent_n for_o which_o he_o see_v other_o esteem_v &_o particular_o that_o he_o be_v much_o trouble_v that_o be_v have_v not_o space_n enough_o allow_v he_o for_o prayer_n ãâã_d this_o tentation_n he_o overcome_v resolve_v to_o employ_v no_o more_o time_n in_o prayer_n then_o bây_v obedience_n permit_v &_o reject_v that_o foolish_a ambition_n of_o excel_v therein_o or_o of_o pretend_v to_o divine_a favour_n which_o other_o better_a deserve_v enjoy_v notwithstanding_o he_o still_o find_v his_o defect_n to_o multiply_v &_o rather_o to_o disquiet_v then_o humble_v he_o yea_o they_o make_v he_o in_o a_o incapacity_n to_o comply_v with_o the_o internal_a counsel_n &_o invitation_n of_o god_n moreover_o that_o by_o reason_n of_o this_o unquietnes_n the_o defect_n of_o other_o also_o under_o his_o government_n do_v much_o increase_v his_o distemper_n so_o that_o he_o judge_v it_o a_o point_n of_o right_a government_n to_o make_v his_o subject_n perform_v all_o thing_n like_o himself_o with_o a_o melancholic_a deiectednes_n of_o mind_n 7._o that_o at_o the_o end_n of_o fourteen_o year_n he_o find_v himself_o in_o a_o practice_n of_o prayer_n by_o which_o he_o place_v himself_o in_o god_n presence_n as_o a_o beggar_n say_v little_a but_o only_o expect_v a_o alm_n but_o by_o reason_n that_o he_o can_v not_o keep_v his_o mind_n fix_v on_o god_n but_o do_v overmuch_o reflect_v upon_o himself_o his_o trouble_n dejection_n &_o utter_a despair_n of_o approach_v to_o perfection_n increase_v since_o god_n have_v show_v hiw_v no_o mark_n of_o his_o favour_n which_o it_o seem_v he_o expect_v but_o as_o he_o confess_v very_o foolish_o since_o his_o come_n to_o god_n with_o such_o a_o expectation_n be_v a_o great_a fault_n than_o his_o former_a desert_v he_o yea_o hereby_o he_o be_v bring_v to_o that_o extreme_a confusion_n that_o for_o mere_a shame_n be_v dare_v not_o for_o a_o good_a space_n in_o prayer_n say_v any_o thing_n to_o god_n at_o all_o but_o only_o that_o he_o will_v punish_v forgive_v &_o assist_v he_o 8._o but_o when_o sixteen_o year_n be_v pass_v he_o find_v his_o hair_n on_o the_o sudden_a unexpected_o quite_o change_v &_o dilate_a all_o his_o disquietness_n vanish_v &_o his_o soul_n free_v from_o all_o create_a thing_n be_v fill_v with_o a_o astonish_n joy_n like_o that_o of_o those_o which_o say_v lord_z when_o we_o see_v thou_o we_o have_v see_v all_o good_a and_o be_v entire_o satiate_v here_o he_o find_v himself_o in_o a_o congregation_n of_o person_n destine_v to_o beatitude_n the_o way_n whereto_o seem_v plain_a &_o easy_a now_o he_o receive_v a_o spiritual_a discretion_n to_o sever_v between_o the_o precious_a &_o the_o vile_a new_a notion_n and_o intelligence_n of_o verity_n be_v give_v he_o which_o feed_v his_o soul_n which_o joy_n &_o peace_n yet_o such_o illumination_n at_o the_o first_o be_v somewhat_o rare_a but_o at_o the_o time_n of_o the_o write_n of_o this_o apology_n they_o be_v become_v much_o more_o frequent_a 9_o instead_o of_o that_o anxie_fw-la y_o that_o he_o have_v former_o because_o his_o ambitious_a desire_n of_o be_v eminent_a be_v not_o satisfy_v now_o he_o be_v content_a to_o live_v under_o the_o cross_n now_o he_o do_v so_o humble_a himself_o under_o all_o that_o he_o be_v in_o confusion_n to_o appear_v before_o any_o notwithstanding_o though_o he_o honour_v all_o man_n yet_o he_o find_v that_o they_o be_v not_o at_o all_o needful_a to_o he_o as_o former_o they_o seem_v to_o be_v but_o that_o it_o be_v both_o better_a and_o easy_a for_o he_o to_o converse_v with_o god_n only_o 10._o thence_o forward_o he_o perceive_v that_o god_n have_v give_v he_o a_o internal_a light_n for_o the_o order_n both_o of_o himself_o &_o other_o under_o he_o even_o in_o the_o small_a matter_n and_o whereas_o sollicitude_n in_o government_n &c_n &c_n do_v former_o disquiet_v &_o opprese_n his_o spirit_n now_o he_o find_v that_o business_n be_v far_o better_a discharge_v by_o cast_v his_o care_n on_o god_n &_o put_v they_o out_o of_o his_o thought_n till_o the_o time_n come_v that_o he_o be_v to_o execute_v his_o duty_n so_o that_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o a_o throng_n of_o care_n he_o live_v without_o care_n now_o he_o be_v not_o as_o formerly_z trouble_v for_o that_o he_o have_v not_o time_n sufficient_a for_o prayer_n because_o he_o find_v that_o god_n give_v more_o in_o one_o hour_n to_o mortify_a resign_v soul_n then_o to_o other_o in_o many_o day_n and_o he_o find_v more_o profit_n to_o his_o spirit_n by_o a_o faithful_a discharge_n of_o employment_n impose_v by_o god_n then_o in_o vacancy_n &_o read_v spiritual_a book_n of_o his_o own_o election_n 11._o a_o sight_n of_o his_o defect_n now_o do_v he_o good_a by_o humble_v he_o &_o make_v he_o distrustful_a of_o himself_o &_o confident_a in_o god_n know_v that_o no_o defect_n nor_o know_o &_o deliberate_o persist_v in_o do_v hinder_v god_n counsel_n and_o design_n for_o our_o perfection_n and_o as_o for_o the_o defect_n of_o those_o under_o his_o government_n he_o find_v it_o a_o great_a folly_n for_o he_o to_o disquiet_v himself_o about_o they_o and_o that_o his_o former_a desire_n of_o make_v they_o sad_a &_o melancholic_a be_v a_o effect_n of_o his_o own_o impatience_n 12._o his_o prayer_n now_o be_v to_o place_v himself_o in_o god_n presence_n both_o inward_o and_o
outward_o present_v to_o he_o &_o to_o rejoice_v with_o he_o permanent_o and_o habitual_o now_o he_o understand_v the_o difference_n between_o imperfect_a &_o perfect_a soul_n in_o the_o point_n of_o enjoy_v the_o divine_a presence_n express_v by_o s._n thomas_n 22._o q._n 24._o a._n 9_o ad_fw-la 3._o et_fw-la opusc_fw-la 63._o and_o he_o perceive_v that_o those_o be_v blind_a that_o seek_v god_n with_o anxiety_n of_o mind_n &_o call_v upon_o he_o as_o if_o he_o be_v absent_a whereas_o be_v already_o his_o temple_n in_o which_o his_o divine_a majesty_n rest_v thây_v aught_o to_o enjoy_v he_o actual_o and_o internal_o present_a in_o they_o sometime_o in_o his_o prayer_n he_o ponder_v while_n on_o some_o text_n of_o scripture_n according_a to_o the_o inspiration_n and_o light_n then_o give_v he_o sometime_o he_o remain_v in_o cessation_n and_o silence_n before_o god_n which_o manner_n of_o prayer_n he_o account_v a_o great_a treasure_n for_o than_o his_o heart_n his_o desire_n his_o secret_a intention_n his_o knowledge_n and_o all_o his_o power_n speak_v &_o god_n understand_v their_o mute_a language_n and_o with_o one_o aspect_n can_v expel_v his_o defect_n kindle_v his_o desire_n &_o give_v he_o wing_n to_o mount_v spiritual_o unto_o he_o now_o he_o take_v comfort_n in_o nothing_o but_o in_o suffer_v content_o the_o will_n of_o god_n to_o be_v perform_v in_o all_o thing_n which_o be_v as_o welcome_v to_o he_o in_o aridity_n as_o consolation_n be_v unwilling_a to_o know_v more_o than_o god_n free_o discover_v unto_o he_o or_o to_o make_v a_o more_o speedy_a progress_n or_o by_o any_o other_o way_n then_o such_o as_o god_n himself_o prescribe_v unto_o he_o if_o his_o heart_n out_o of_o its_o natural_a infirmity_n do_v any_o time_n groan_v under_o his_o present_a burden_n his_o answer_n thereto_o will_v be_v iâ_n not_o that_o good_a which_o god_n will_n to_o be_v &_o will_v it_o not_o a_o way_n incessant_o remain_v so_o or_o will_v god_n cease_v to_o perform_v his_o owâe_n will_v because_o thou_o do_v not_o judge_v it_o to_o be_v for_o thy_o good_a in_o conclusion_n his_o present_a establish_a comfort_n be_v to_o see_v himself_o in_o god_n presence_n to_o be_v a_o sufferer_n &_o to_o be_v treat_v according_a to_o his_o divine_a pleasure_n 13._o if_o sometime_o leave_v this_o quiet_a prayer_n to_o which_o god_n have_v bring_v he_o he_o offer_v to_o apply_v himself_o to_o his_o former_a exercise_n of_o meditation_n he_o find_v that_o god_n give_v he_o a_o internal_a reprehension_n &_o restraint_n for_o his_o great_a assurance_n therefore_o he_o search_v mystic_a author_n s._n dionysius_n areopagita_n the_o mist_n theol._n c._n 1._o s._n augustin_n epistol_n 119._o s._n gregory_n moritur_fw-la lib._n 30._o 26._o etc._n etc._n s._n bernard_n in_o cant._n serm_n 55._o etc._n etc._n out_o of_o which_o he_o satisfy_v himself_o that_o as_o rest_n be_v the_o end_n of_o motion_n &_o a_o quiet_a habitation_n the_o end_n of_o a_o laborious_a build_n so_o this_o peaceful_a prayer_n &_o quiet_a enjoy_n of_o god_n in_o spirit_n be_v the_o end_n of_o the_o imperfect_a busy_a prayer_n of_o meditation_n and_o therefore_o that_o all_o internal_a discourse_v with_o the_o understanding_n be_v to_o cease_v whensoever_o god_n enable_v soul_n to_o actuate_v pure_o by_o the_o will._n and_o that_o to_o do_v otherwise_o will_v be_v as_o if_o one_o shall_v be_v always_o prepare_v somewhat_o to_o eat_v &_o yet_o afterward_o refuse_v to_o taste_v that_o which_o be_v prepare_v by_o this_o divine_a prayer_n of_o the_o will_v the_o hoây_a spirit_n of_o wisdom_n with_o all_o the_o excellency_n of_o it_o describe_v in_o the_o book_n of_o wisdom_n cap._n viij_o be_v obtain_v &_o with_o it_o perfect_a liberty_n 14._o in_o consequence_n hereto_o he_o proceed_v by_o reason_n to_o demonstrate_v the_o supreminent_a excellency_n of_o this_o reposefull_a prayer_n of_o the_o will_n as_o 1._o that_o though_o in_o it_o there_o be_v no_o reason_n of_o the_o mind_n yet_o the_o soul_n silent_o present_v herself_o bâfore_o god_n with_o a_o firm_a faith_n that_o her_o desire_n be_v manifest_a to_o he_o do_v more_o than_o equivalent_o tell_v god_n her_o desire_n &_o withal_o exercise_v all_o virtue_n humble_v herself_o before_o he_o love_v he_o only_o and_o believe_v that_o leave_v she_o own_o way_n and_o constant_o hold_v to_o god_n all_o good_a will_v proceed_v from_o thence_o to_o she_o 2._o that_o in_o this_o prayer_n a_o soul_n have_v a_o far_o more_o sublime_a &_o worthy_a notion_n of_o god_n 3._o that_o this_o still_a &_o quiet_a prayer_n may_v be_v far_o more_o prolixely_a &_o perseverant_o practise_v then_o the_o tire_a prayer_n of_o meditation_n âea_o it_o mây_v come_v to_o be_v continual_a &_o without_o interruption_n 4._o that_o all_o the_o good_a effect_n of_o meditation_n as_o humility_n obedience_n &c_n &c_n be_v far_o more_o efficacious_o &_o perfect_o produce_v by_o this_o prayer_n then_o by_o that_o which_o be_v join_v wiâh_v inward_a reason_n 5._o true_o indeed_o it_o be_v that_o âhe_v exercise_n institute_v by_o s._n ignatius_n be_v more_o proper_a general_o for_o soul_n then_o this_o yet_o that_o this_o aught_o to_o be_v esteem_v proper_a for_o those_o who_o god_n have_v call_v &_o prepare_v to_o it_o and_o that_o this_o be_v s._n ignatius_n his_o own_o practice_n who_o though_o in_o his_o less_o perfect_a state_n he_o pursue_v the_o imperfect_a exercise_n institute_v by_o he_o yet_o afterward_o he_o be_v exalt_v to_o this_o sublime_a prayer_n by_o which_o he_o come_v to_o suffer_v divine_a thing_n that_o therefore_o as_o none_o ought_v to_o intrude_v into_o the_o exercise_n of_o this_o pure_a prayer_n till_o god_n have_v call_v and_o fit_v they_o for_o it_o so_o be_v call_v none_o ought_v to_o be_v forbid_v it_o as_o osanna_n in_o his_o alphabet_n teach_v and_o that_o whosoever_o forbid_v such_o shall_v give_v a_o strict_a account_n to_o god_n for_o so_o great_a a_o fault_n insomuch_o as_o a_o certain_a spiritual_a writer_n say_v that_o god_n will_v shorten_v the_o life_n of_o those_o superior_n who_o shall_v presume_v to_o discourage_v and_o affright_v any_o soul_n from_o these_o internal_a way_n except_o they_o desist_v from_o such_o a_o attempt_n 15._o this_o be_v the_o sum_n of_o the_o account_n which_o the_o most_o venerable_a f._n baltazar_n aluarez_n after_o a_o retirement_n of_o fifteen_o day_n with_o a_o most_o humble_a confession_n of_o his_o own_o defect_n &_o misery_n &_o a_o magnify_v of_o god_n liberal_a goodness_n extend_v towards_o he_o give_v unto_o his_o general_n 16._o now_o beside_o this_o account_n he_o write_v likewise_o a_o short_a discourse_n in_o which_o he_o do_v more_o full_o treat_v of_o the_o nature_n of_o this_o prayer_n of_o rest_n and_o silence_n &_o give_v a_o particular_a answer_n to_o several_a objection_n which_o certain_a of_o his_o brethren_n have_v make_v and_o disperse_v against_o the_o say_a prayer_n the_o sum_n of_o which_o objection_n with_o hiâ_n answer_v to_o they_o i_o will_v here_o adjoine_v 17._o the_o first_o objection_n be_v that_o one_o who_o exercise_v this_o prayer_n which_o admit_v neither_o of_o discoursââ_n meditation_n nor_o any_o such_o like_a use_n of_o the_o understanding_n seem_v to_o spend_v his_o time_n unproffitable_o in_o do_v nothing_o which_o may_v far_o better_o be_v bestow_v in_o external_a exercise_n of_o virtue_n 18._o the_o answer_n herto_o be_v that_o though_o the_o understanding_n be_v in_o a_o sort_n suspend_v from_o exercise_v its_o activity_n yet_o the_o soul_n be_v far_o from_o be_v idle_a on_o the_o contrary_n she_o perform_v that_o which_o s._n bernard_n call_v the_o business_n of_o all_o business_n for_o therein_o the_o stream_n of_o holy_a affection_n do_v free_o flow_v by_o love_v admire_a adore_a congratulate_v resign_v &_o offer_v the_o soul_n to_o god_n contemplate_v with_o the_o eye_n of_o faith_n &c_n &c_n and_o all_o this_o sometime_o in_o a_o few_o word_n sometime_o in_o silence_n in_o a_o word_n the_o soul_n behave_v herself_o according_a to_o the_o variety_n of_o affection_n that_o the_o unction_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n who_o be_v the_o principal_a master_n herein_o do_v teach_v &_o move_v she_o to_o according_a to_o that_o of_o s._n dionysius_n areopagita_n to_o timotheus_n convert_v te_fw-fr ad_fw-la radium_fw-la etc._n etc._n turn_v thyself_o to_o the_o beam_n of_o divine_a light_n fron_n hence_o that_o admirable_a union_n do_v proceed_v which_o the_o same_o saint_n call_v the_o union_n of_o the_o unknown_n with_o the_o unknown_n the_o which_o be_v the_o supreme_a height_n of_o mystical_a theology_n &_o which_o without_o experience_n of_o it_o can_v be_v conceive_v by_o any_o 19_o the_o second_o objection_n be_v that_o to_o leave_v meditation_n out_o of_o a_o expectation_n of_o divine_a inspiration_n or_o revelation_n seem_v to_o be_v a_o
tempt_a of_o god_n and_o a_o savour_v of_o the_o error_n of_o the_o heretic_n call_v illuminate_v 20._o the_o answer_n be_v that_o this_o prayer_n exercise_v mere_o by_o holy_a affection_n without_o mental_a discourse_n can_v be_v practise_v but_o by_o such_o as_o have_v a_o long_a time_n be_v exercise_v in_o the_o inferior_a degree_n of_o discursive_a prayer_n except_o it_o be_v when_o god_n prevent_v soul_n extraordinary_o by_o a_o special_a invitation_n and_o enablement_n and_o those_o likewise_o that_o from_o meditation_n do_v ascend_v to_o this_o quiet_a prayer_n do_v it_o by_o the_o guidance_n of_o a_o supernatural_a light_n and_o be_v in_o it_o they_o exercise_v themselves_o theâân_v not_o by_o desire_v or_o expect_v revelation_n but_o by_o acknowledge_v the_o divine_a presence_n in_o the_o soul_n and_o produce_v the_o foresay_a holy_a affection_n to_o he_o neither_o be_v here_o any_o affinity_n with_o the_o do_n of_o the_o illuminate_v who_o without_o any_o call_n from_o god_n without_o any_o preparation_n do_v arrogant_o presume_v to_o pray_v as_o they_o do_v remain_v in_o a_o distract_a idleness_n &_o mispend_v the_o time_n in_o expectation_n of_o extraordinary_a visit_n without_o any_o good_a effect_n at_o all_o towards_o the_o reformation_n of_o their_o inordinate_a affection_n whereas_o if_o a_o immortified_a soul_n shall_v presume_v to_o betake_v herself_o to_o this_o prayer_n she_o will_v be_v force_v to_o quit_v it_o for_o none_o can_v appear_v with_o a_o secure_a peacefullnes_n before_o god_n presence_n that_o do_v deliberate_o resist_v his_o spirit_n which_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o purity_n sanctity_n humiliation_n and_o conformity_n to_o the_o divine_a will_n 21._o in_o the_o three_o place_n it_o be_v object_v that_o there_o be_v no_o way_n to_o discern_v when_o one_o undertake_v this_o prayer_n by_o a_o divine_a inspiration_n and_o when_o this_o be_v do_v out_o of_o presumption_n and_o a_o desire_n to_o enjoy_v spiritual_a gust_n which_o nourish_v self-love_n 22._o it_o be_v answer_v that_o this_o will_v evident_o enough_o be_v know_v by_o the_o effect_n as_o a_o tree_n by_o its_o fruit_n now_o the_o effect_n of_o this_o prayer_n when_o it_o be_v practise_v upon_o a_o divine_a call_n be_v a_o softness_n and_o flexibility_n of_o the_o heart_n to_o the_o divine_a will_n a_o resign_v acceptation_n of_o all_o thing_n from_o his_o hand_n a_o confidence_n of_o obtain_v all_o good_a from_o he_o upon_o who_o the_o soul_n have_v entire_o bestow_v herself_o a_o imitation_n of_o the_o pattern_n of_o all_o perfection_n our_o lord_n jesus_n a_o renounce_n of_o self-will_a etc._n etc._n now_o sure_o that_o prayer_n which_o teach_v these_o thing_n be_v doubtless_o from_o god_n 23._o but_o fourthly_a it_o be_v reply_v that_o those_o which_o practise_v this_o kind_n of_o prayer_n be_v selfe-opinioned_n adhere_v to_o their_o own_o way_n &_o out_o of_o a_o presumptuous_a conceit_n of_o be_v spiritual_a despise_v other_o &_o refuse_v to_o submit_v themselves_o to_o the_o judgement_n of_o superior_n 24._o the_o answer_n be_v that_o such_o defect_n &_o miscarriage_n as_o these_o be_v not_o to_o be_v impute_v to_o the_o prayer_n itself_o which_o teach_v the_o quite_o contrary_a but_o to_o the_o imperfection_n &_o frailty_n of_o those_o that_o do_v not_o practice_v it_o as_o they_o ought_v and_o therefore_o this_o be_v not_o a_o ground_n sufficient_a to_o condemn_v the_o prayer_n itself_o no_o more_o than_o meditation_n ought_v to_o be_v condemn_v because_o the_o like_a or_o great_a fault_n be_v commit_v by_o some_o that_o practise_v it_o who_o be_v more_o obnoxious_a to_o a_o vain_a esteem_n of_o themselves_o upon_o occasion_n of_o some_o curious_a invention_n find_v out_o by_o their_o internal_a reason_n therein_o yea_o the_o sacrement_n we_o see_v be_v abuse_v but_o yet_o not_o therefore_o forbid_v as_o for_o superior_n none_o of_o they_o except_o it_o be_v sometime_o for_o a_o trial_n aught_o to_o prohibit_v their_o subject_n from_o pray_v according_a as_o god_n by_o his_o inspiration_n direct_v they_o and_o if_o they_o shall_v absolute_o prohibit_v this_o they_o must_v expect_v that_o god_n will_v require_v a_o account_n of_o they_o however_o in_o such_o a_o case_n it_o will_v be_v a_o fault_n in_o subject_n to_o disobey_v they_o but_o yet_o till_o such_o a_o prohibition_n do_v issue_n forth_o the_o subject_n sure_o may_v lawful_o yea_o ought_v to_o follow_v the_o internal_a direction_n of_o god_n neither_o be_v it_o presumption_n in_o they_o if_o by_o the_o advantage_n of_o experience_n they_o shall_v think_v themselves_o capable_a of_o judge_v of_o such_o matter_n better_a than_o those_o that_o have_v no_o experience_n at_o all_o in_o they_o nor_o be_v it_o pride_n to_o acknowledge_v the_o gift_n give_v we_o of_o god_n as_o the_o apostle_n say_v 25._o five_o it_o be_v object_v that_o some_o be_v so_o wholây_o give_v up_o to_o this_o fashion_n of_o prayer_n that_o they_o be_v always_o in_o a_o kind_n of_o ecstasy_n be_v so_o delight_v with_o the_o gust_n which_o they_o find_v in_o it_o that_o they_o quite_o forget_v their_o obligation_n of_o charity_n obedience_n &_o exercise_v of_o virtue_n from_o which_o they_o retire_v themselves_o to_o the_o end_n they_o may_v immerse_n themselves_o in_o a_o prayer_n that_o afford_v they_o no_o rrueth_n which_o may_v proffitable_o be_v communicate_v to_o their_o neighbour_n now_o all_o this_o be_v direct_o contrary_a to_o the_o institute_n of_o s._n ignatius_n moreover_o by_o this_o kind_n of_o prayer_n many_o of_o the_o practiser_n of_o it_o become_v subject_a to_o diverse_a corporal_a infirmity_n which_o render_v they_o incapable_a to_o comply_v with_o the_o obligation_n of_o their_o state_n of_o life_n 26._o the_o answer_n be_v that_o it_o be_v no_o wonder_n if_o some_o defect_n be_v sound_a in_o these_o person_n since_o none_o be_v entire_o free_a but_o however_o the_o say_a defect_n be_v not_o to_o be_v impute_v to_o the_o prayer_n but_o undue_a use_n of_o it_o for_o contemplation_n itself_o do_v even_o urge_v soul_n to_o the_o exercise_n of_o charity_n whensoever_o necessity_n and_o duty_n require_v it_o not_o otherwise_o hence_o be_v that_o say_n of_o s._n augustine_n lib._n 19_o de_fw-fr civit._n d._n c._n 19_o otium_fw-la sanctum_fw-la quaerit_fw-la charitas_fw-la veritatis_fw-la &c_n &c_n love_n of_o verity_n seek_v a_o holy_a vacancy_n necessity_n of_o charity_n undertake_v due_a employment_n the_o which_o charge_n if_o it_o be_v not_o impose_v one_o ought_v to_o remain_v in_o the_o fruition_n &_o contemplation_n of_o verity_n and_o agreeable_a herto_o be_v the_o doctrine_n of_o s._n gregor_n in_o cap._n 7._o job._n &_o s._n bernard_n ser_z 57_o in_o cant._n moreover_o a_o soul_n by_o meditation_n may_v perhaps_o find_v out_o fine_a conceit_n but_o the_o will_n be_v more_o enrich_v with_o virtue_n by_o this_o prayer_n now_o it_o be_v virtue_n alone_o that_o render_v a_o soul_n acceptable_a to_o god_n and_o as_o for_o corporal_a infirmity_n they_o proceed_v only_o from_o a_o indiscreet_a use_n of_o this_o prayer_n for_o otherwise_o it_o be_v a_o prayer_n of_o stillnes_n &_o repose_n be_v far_o less_o dangerous_a to_o the_o head_n &_o health_n than_o the_o laborious_a imaginative_a exercise_n of_o meditation_n and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o those_o holy_a person_n that_o practise_v it_o be_v enable_v much_o long_o to_o continue_v in_o it_o 27._o a_o six_o objection_n be_v that_o this_o manner_n of_o prayer_n do_v draw_v soul_n so_o whole_o to_o itself_o that_o all_o devotion_n to_o saint_n &_o all_o pray_v for_o common_a or_o particular_a necessity_n become_v too_o much_o neglect_v &_o forget_v 28._o it_o be_v answer_v that_o since_o such_o vocal_a prayer_n and_o voluntary_a exercise_n be_v only_a mean_n to_o bring_v soul_n to_o perfect_a prayer_n of_o quietness_n according_a to_o s._n thomas_n his_o doctrine_n 22._o q._n 83._o a._n 13._o they_o ought_v to_o cease_v when_o the_o soul_n find_v herself_o full_a of_o fervent_a affection_n neither_o be_v this_o any_o proof_n of_o disesteem_v of_o such_o mean_n but_o a_o right_a understanding_n and_o use_n of_o they_o it_o be_v say_v of_o s._n ignatius_n that_o by_o long_a practice_n of_o vocal_a prayer_n etc._n etc._n he_o be_v bring_v to_o such_o inward_a familiarity_n with_o god_n that_o he_o can_v not_o proceed_v in_o the_o say_n of_o his_o office_n by_o reason_n of_o the_o copious_a communication_n of_o ardent_a affection_n &_o grace_n that_o god_n bestow_v on_o he_o in_o so_o much_o as_o his_o companion_n be_v force_v to_o obtain_v for_o he_o a_o dispensation_n from_o that_o obligation_n because_o the_o performance_n of_o his_o office_n take_v up_o almost_o the_o whole_a day_n so_o abundant_a be_v the_o divine_a visitation_n in_o it_o towards_o he_o neither_o be_v we_o to_o think_v that_o a_o soul_n by_o follow_a the_o divine_a conduct_n in_o
pure_a prayer_n do_v thereby_o omit_v due_a petition_n for_o either_o common_a or_o particular_a necessity_n on_o the_o contrary_a since_o those_o necessity_n be_v know_v to_o god_n who_o see_v the_o heart_n of_o his_o servant_n that_o ardent_o desire_v a_o supply_n to_o they_o but_o yet_o do_v not_o busy_v themselves_o much_o in_o make_v express_a prayer_n for_o they_o because_o they_o will_v rather_o employ_v their_o affection_n in_o such_o prayer_n as_o they_o know_v be_v more_o acceptable_a to_o god_n by_o such_o a_o not-expresse-asking_a they_o do_v privy_o and_o most_o efficacious_o ask_v &_o obtain_v the_o say_v petition_n and_o as_o for_o devotion_n to_o saint_n they_o account_v it_o to_o be_v their_o chief_a honour_n that_o god_n shall_v be_v most_o honour_v 29._o the_o seven_o &_o last_o objection_n be_v the_o same_o that_o the_o author_n have_v before_o answer_v in_o his_o account_n to_o his_o general_n viz._n that_o this_o fashion_n of_o prayer_n call_v soul_n from_o the_o spiritual_a exercise_n institute_v by_o s._n ignatius_n the_o which_o answer_n need_v not_o be_v repeat_v but_o whereas_o it_o be_v add_v that_o diversity_n of_o prayer_n may_v cause_v faction_n in_o the_o society_n it_o be_v answer_v that_o the_o perfect_a may_v lawful_o practice_v way_n not_o common_a to_o the_o imperfect_a without_o any_o fear_n of_o division_n or_o any_o intention_n of_o contradict_v or_o despise_v of_o other_o 30._o this_o be_v the_o sum_n both_o of_o the_o account_v give_v by_o the_o v._o r._n father_n baltazar_n aluarez_n to_o his_o general_n touch_v his_o prayer_n as_o likewise_o of_o his_o answer_n to_o the_o objection_n make_v unto_o it_o and_o the_o success_n of_o the_o tempest_n raise_v against_o he_o be_v as_o to_o his_o own_o person_n very_o prosperous_a &_o happy_a for_o after_o a_o most_o strict_a examination_n his_o innocence_n &_o truth_n be_v assert_v by_o his_o write_n &_o his_o most_o humble_a patience_n manifest_v in_o his_o whole_a behaviour_n moreover_o the_o general_n conceive_v so_o great_a a_o esteem_n of_o he_o that_o he_o prefer_v he_o to_o two_o office_n successive_o of_o the_o great_a dignity_n &_o trust_n that_o the_o society_n than_o have_v in_o spain_n notwithstanding_o the_o same_o general_n not_o approve_v that_o such_o a_o perfect_a manner_n of_o prayer_n though_o acknowledged_a to_o proceed_v from_o a_o special_a grace_n of_o god_n shall_v be_v common_o disperse_v and_o indifferent_o teach_v through_o the_o order_n as_o suppose_v not_o to_o be_v agreeable_a to_o its_o activity_n yet_o none_o ever_o do_v execute_v the_o office_n impose_v with_o great_a perfection_n than_o the_o say_v r._n father_n baltazar_n therefore_o a_o decree_n be_v make_v to_o forbid_v the_o spread_a of_o it_o which_o for_o aught_o appear_v produce_v the_o desire_a effect_n the_o second_o section_n of_o the_o three_o treatise_n of_o the_o first_o degree_n of_o internal_a prayer_n viz._n meditation_n chap._n i._n §_o 1._o 2._o 3._o several_a degree_n and_o station_n in_o a_o internal_a life_n as_o the_o three_o way_n purgative_n illuminative_a and_o vnitive_a etc._n etc._n §_o 4._o 5._o they_o be_v best_a distinguish_v according_a to_o the_o three_o degree_n of_o internal_a prayer_n §_o 6._o 7._o the_o ground_n of_o the_o several_a degree_n of_o prayer_n §_o 16._o 17._o how_o god_n be_v represent_v in_o the_o say_a degree_n §_o 18._o 19_o how_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o soul_n grow_v more_o and_o more_o pure_a §_o 20._o 21._o the_o degree_n of_o prayer_n be_v not_o so_o diverse_a but_o that_o sometime_o they_o may_v be_v intermix_v §_o 22._o 23._o 24._o in_o what_o sense_n the_o exercise_n of_o a_o active_a life_n to_o wit_n meditation_n be_v divide_v into_o three_o way_n also_o purgative_n illuminative_a and_o vnitive_a 1._o it_o be_v general_o the_o custom_n of_o those_o that_o write_v treatise_n of_o spiritual_a doctrine_n to_o begin_v with_o a_o division_n of_o the_o several_a station_n or_o ascent_n observe_v in_o the_o duty_n and_o exercise_n thereof_o but_o such_o a_o division_n i_o have_v conceive_v most_o proper_a to_o be_v reserve_v to_o this_o place_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o though_o in_o a_o spiritual_a progress_n there_o be_v a_o ascent_n in_o the_o practice_n of_o all_o duty_n universal_o of_o a_o spiritual_a life_n as_o well_o of_o mortification_n as_o prayer_n notwithstanding_o the_o true_a judgement_n of_o a_o progress_n be_v to_o be_v make_v with_o reference_n principal_o to_o prayer_n according_a to_o the_o increase_n in_o the_o purity_n and_o spirituality_n whereof_o so_o be_v the_o person_n to_o be_v esteem_v to_o have_v make_v a_o proportionable_a progress_n in_o all_o other_o duty_n and_o virtue_n dispose_v to_o contemplation_n and_o perfection_n 2._o now_o several_a mystic_a author_n according_a to_o the_o several_a notion_n that_o they_o have_v both_o of_o the_o end_n of_o a_o spiritual_a life_n and_o mean_v conduce_v thereto_o have_v by_o several_a term_n make_v the_o division_n of_o its_o degree_n the_o most_o ancient_a division_n be_v into_o three_o state_n 1._o of_o beginner_n 2._o of_o proficient_n 3._o of_o such_o as_o be_v perfect_a yet_o withal_o they_o do_v not_o signify_v by_o what_o distinctive_a mark_v each_o of_o these_o state_n be_v separate_v from_o the_o other_o but_o general_o in_o latter_a time_n the_o whole_a course_n of_o a_o spiritual_a life_n be_v divide_v 1._o into_o the_o purgative_n way_n in_o which_o all_o sinful_a defect_n be_v purge_v out_o of_o the_o soul_n 2._o the_o illuminative_a way_n by_o which_o divine_a virtue_n and_o grace_n be_v introduce_v 3._o the_o vnitive_a way_n by_o which_o a_o soul_n attain_v unto_o the_o end_n of_o all_o other_o exercise_n to_o wit_n a_o union_n with_o god_n in_o spirit_n by_o perfect_a charity_n 3._o beside_o these_o many_o other_o division_n may_v be_v find_v as_o of_o f._n benet_n canfield_n who_o make_v the_o divine_a will_n that_o be_v god_n himself_o the_o sole_a object_n of_o all_o our_o exercise_n do_v by_o a_o division_n of_o the_o say_a will_n into_o 1._o externall_n 2._o internal_a 3._o essential_a or_o supereminent_a will_n virtual_o divide_v all_o spiritual_a exercise_n into_o such_o as_o be_v proper_a and_o conformable_a to_o these_o three_o notion_n of_o one_o and_o the_o same_o will._n again_o other_o divide_v all_o exercise_n into_o 1._o active_a 2._o contemplative_a etc._n etc._n and_o it_o be_v of_o no_o importance_n which_o of_o these_o division_n be_v make_v use_n of_o so_o they_o be_v right_o understand_v 4._o but_o since_o as_o have_v be_v say_v the_o degree_n of_o perfection_n general_o understand_v as_o relate_v to_o all_o the_o duty_n of_o a_o internal_a life_n be_v best_a conceive_v and_o measure_v by_o the_o degree_n of_o internal_a prayer_n the_o which_o indeed_o be_v of_o a_o different_a nature_n one_o from_o the_o other_o and_o therefore_o be_v not_o so_o proper_o call_v degree_n as_o several_a state_n of_o prayer_n which_o be_v not_o so_o in_o mortification_n or_o the_o exercise_n of_o virtue_n because_o the_o perfect_a do_v the_o same_o action_n though_o in_o a_o more_o perfect_a degree_n than_o the_o imperfect_a hence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o r._n f._n constantin_n barbanson_n the_o most_o learned_a and_o experience_a author_n of_o the_o book_n call_v secret_n sentier_n de_fw-fr l'amour_fw-fr divin_v divide_v the_o whole_a progress_n of_o a_o spiritual_a contemplative_a life_n according_a to_o the_o progress_n of_o prayer_n which_o say_v he_o have_v these_o degree_n 1._o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o understanding_n in_o meditation_n 2._o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o will_n and_o affection_n without_o meditation_n the_o which_o at_o the_o first_o be_v very_o imperfect_a 3._o afterward_o a_o soul_n come_v to_o a_o experimental_a perception_n of_o the_o divine_a presence_n in_o she_o 4._o then_o follow_v the_o great_a desolation_n 5._o the_o which_o be_v pass_v there_o succeed_v a_o sublime_a manifestation_n of_o god_n in_o the_o summity_n of_o the_o spirit_n 6._o from_o thence_o after_o many_o interchangeable_a rise_n and_o fall_n the_o which_o be_v find_v likewise_o in_o all_o the_o degree_n the_o soul_n enter_v into_o the_o divine_a yet_o most_o secret_a way_n of_o perfection_n 5._o now_o this_o order_n of_o he_o in_o gross_a as_o be_v most_o natural_a and_o suitable_a both_o to_o reason_n and_o experience_n my_o purpose_n be_v to_o follow_v yet_o so_o as_o to_o collect_v the_o four_o last_o degree_n into_o one_o so_o that_o i_o shall_v only_o distinguish_v three_o degree_n of_o prayer_n to_o wit_n 1._o discursive_a prayer_n or_o meditation_n 2._o the_o prayer_n of_o force_a immediate_a act_n or_o affection_n of_o the_o will_n without_o discourse_n preparatory_a thereto_o 3._o the_o prayer_n of_o pure_a active_a contemplation_n or_o aspiration_n as_o it_o be_v natural_o and_o without_o any_o force_n flow_a from_o the_o
§_o 3._o 4._o who_o be_v apt_a or_o unapt_a for_o meditation_n §_o 5._o 6._o general_o most_o soul_n be_v to_o begin_v with_o it_o and_o why_o §_o 7._o 8._o 9_o 10._o what_o those_o be_v to_o do_v that_o be_v unapt_a for_o meditation_n §_o 11._o the_o misery_n of_o soul_n that_o be_v tie_v to_o a_o prayer_n improper_a for_o they_o 1._o the_o first_o and_o most_o imperfect_a degree_n of_o internal_a prayer_n be_v as_o have_v be_v say_v meditation_n or_o discursive_a prayer_n of_o which_o we_o shall_v treat_v here_o not_o with_o that_o exact_a niceness_n as_o may_v be_v find_v in_o many_o book_n current_a in_o all_o hand_n yet_o sufficient_o in_o order_n to_o our_o present_a design_n which_o be_v to_o consider_v it_o only_o as_o a_o preparation_n to_o the_o perfect_a prayer_n of_o contemplation_n and_o therefore_o the_o instruction_n concern_v it_o shall_v be_v such_o as_o may_v be_v proper_a for_o those_o who_o god_n have_v call_v to_o that_o perfect_a state_n and_o withal_o move_v to_o comply_v with_o the_o say_v call_n and_o to_o such_o many_o instruction_n will_v not_o be_v proper_a 2._o meditation_n be_v such_o a_o internal_a prayer_n in_o which_o a_o devout_a soul_n do_v in_o the_o first_o place_n take_v in_o hand_n the_o consideration_n of_o some_o particular_a mystery_n of_o faith_n to_o the_o end_n that_o by_o a_o serious_a and_o exact_a search_n into_o the_o several_a point_n and_o circumstance_n in_o it_o with_o the_o understanding_n or_o imagination_n she_o may_v extract_v motive_n of_o good_a affection_n to_o god_n and_o consequent_o produce_v suitable_a affection_n in_o virtue_n of_o the_o say_a motive_n as_o long_o as_o such_o virtue_n will_v last_v 3._o this_o be_v a_o prayer_n to_o the_o exercise_n whereof_o all_o sort_n of_o person_n be_v neither_o dispose_v nor_o enable_v neither_o be_v it_o a_o token_n either_o of_o excellency_n of_o wit_n &_o judgement_n or_o of_o true_a devotion_n to_o be_v apt_a for_o the_o practice_n of_o it_o on_o the_o contrary_a the_o more_o that_o a_o soul_n do_v abound_v with_o devotion_n and_o good_a affection_n to_o god_n the_o less_o be_v she_o enable_v or_o dispose_v thereto_o yea_o incapable_a of_o continue_v long_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o it_o and_o again_o some_o superficial_a wit_n full_a of_o fancy_n but_o want_v solidity_n of_o judgement_n and_o which_o be_v not_o natural_o much_o dispose_v to_o devotion_n yet_o if_o they_o be_v put_v to_o the_o exercise_n of_o this_o discursive_a prayer_n they_o will_v perform_v it_o better_o and_o thrive_v more_o in_o it_o than_o other_o though_o of_o sharp_a wit_n solid_a judgement_n and_o great_a ability_n both_o in_o learning_n and_o invention_n and_o that_o withal_o have_v very_o good_a will_n to_o seek_v our_o lord_n 4._o woman_n be_v general_o speak_v less_o apt_a for_o meditation_n than_o man_n and_o by_o consequence_n more_o fit_a for_o the_o more_o perfect_a exercise_n of_o the_o will_n by_o reason_n that_o they_o be_v more_o disable_v in_o judgement_n and_o invention_n and_o more_o abound_v in_o will_n and_o affection_n so_o that_o in_o they_o the_o will_n draw_v the_o stream_n from_o the_o understanding_n therefore_o great_a care_n be_v to_o be_v take_v that_o they_o be_v not_o compel_v without_o necessity_n to_o tarry_v long_o in_o discursive_a exercise_n lest_o thereby_o they_o be_v much_o prejudice_v in_o the_o head_n and_o spirit_n with_o little_a or_o no_o profit_n any_o way_n but_o much_o harm_n in_o be_v detain_v from_o the_o more_o proper_a and_o beneficial_a exercise_n of_o the_o will_n in_o holy_a affection_n 5._o now_o there_o be_v so_o great_a and_o inexpressible_a variety_n in_o the_o internal_a disposition_n of_o person_n it_o be_v not_o possible_a to_o give_v certain_a &_o general_a rule_n to_o fit_v all_o except_o this_o that_o in_o the_o begin_n of_o a_o spiritual_a contemplative_a course_n all_o soul_n that_o be_v not_o natural_o incapable_a of_o raise_v affection_n by_o internal_a discourse_n aught_o to_o apply_v themselves_o thereto_o and_o to_o tarry_v therein_o till_o they_o find_v themselves_o ripe_a for_o a_o future_a exercise_n to_o the_o which_o they_o will_v attain_v soon_o or_o late_a either_o according_a to_o their_o diligence_n and_o constancy_n in_o practise_v meditation_n or_o the_o measure_n and_o grace_n of_o devotion_n which_o god_n shall_v give_v they_o or_o their_o natural_a aptness_n or_o unaptnes_n for_o exercise_n of_o the_o understanding_n 6._o this_o advice_n be_v of_o great_a concernment_n and_o therefore_o soul_n be_v not_o easy_o and_o light_o to_o be_v permit_v to_o apply_v themselves_o to_o exercise_n of_o the_o will_n till_o a_o convenient_a time_n spend_v in_o those_o of_o the_o understanding_n for_o though_o perhaps_o while_o the_o fervour_n novitius_n last_v in_o the_o begin_n of_o one_o conversion_n a_o soul_n be_v then_o full_a of_o affection_n may_v for_o a_o while_o have_v little_a need_n of_o motive_n to_o open_v the_o passage_n to_o the_o say_a affection_n which_o of_o themselves_o will_v be_v apt_a enough_o to_o flow_v yet_o that_o fervour_n cease_v they_o will_v be_v at_o a_o miserable_a loss_n full_a of_o nothing_o but_o aridity_n obscurity_n &_o desolation_n have_v no_o refuge_n at_o all_o except_o their_o understanding_n be_v store_v with_o good_a motive_n of_o holy_a affection_n cause_v by_o former_a consideration_n and_o meditation_n 7._o yet_o this_o be_v not_o so_o to_o be_v understand_v as_o if_o soul_n be_v to_o be_v oblige_v to_o those_o nice_a distract_n painful_a method_n of_o meditation_n which_o be_v describe_v in_o many_o book_n or_o to_o frame_v curious_a pageant_n &_o scene_n of_o the_o mystery_n to_o be_v meditate_a on_o etc._n etc._n for_o though_o such_o a_o employment_n of_o the_o imagination_n in_o prayer_n may_v be_v proper_a &_o profitable_a for_o those_o that_o by_o their_o profession_n live_v active_a distract_a life_n to_o the_o end_n by_o such_o working_n of_o the_o fancy_n to_o wipe_v out_o as_o it_o be_v the_o vain_a image_n contract_v abroad_o by_o superinduce_v or_o paint_v over_o they_o new_a and_o holy_a image_n yet_o for_o those_o who_o be_v more_o solitary_a &_o abstract_a such_o a_o way_n of_o meditate_v will_v be_v very_o painful_a &_o the_o profit_n so_o little_a as_o it_o will_v not_o countervail_v the_o pain_n to_o such_o therefore_o it_o will_v suffice_v with_o moderate_a attention_n to_o think_v on_o the_o substance_n of_o the_o mystery_n propose_v or_o on_o such_o circumstance_n of_o it_o as_o either_o be_v express_v in_o the_o text_n or_o do_v even_o natural_o attend_v it_o &_o from_o thence_o to_o draw_v as_o strong_a feruorous_a &_o frequent_a affection_n as_o may_v be_v 8._o as_o for_o those_o that_o be_v natural_o utter_o disable_v and_o incapable_a of_o meditate_v as_o many_o woman_n be_v it_o be_v very_o requisite_a in_o the_o beginning_n that_o they_o shall_v at_o least_o supply_v the_o benefit_n that_o come_v from_o meditation_n by_o prepare_v themselves_o to_o their_o recollection_n with_o much_o serious_a &_o attentive_a read_n of_o some_o pious_a book_n the_o which_o may_v in_o some_o good_a proportion_n recompense_n meditation_n 9_o but_o in_o case_n a_o soul_n incapable_a of_o meditation_n and_o unable_a likewise_o to_o read_v shall_v undertake_v a_o spiritual_a contemplative_a course_n as_o none_o be_v exclude_v such_o a_o one_o must_v resolve_v to_o take_v a_o very_a great_a courage_n to_o pursue_v her_o exercise_n of_o the_o will_n and_o affection_n which_o be_v but_o a_o dry_a exercise_n &_o want_v sensible_a devotion_n be_v very_o ingrateful_a to_o the_o palate_n of_o the_o soul_n she_o must_v be_v prepare_v not_o to_o be_v daunt_v with_o aridity_n and_o distraction_n the_o which_o distraction_n she_o have_v no_o other_o way_n to_o resist_v or_o expel_v but_o only_o by_o pure_a obstinacy_n of_o the_o will_v not_o to_o attend_v they_o or_o care_n for_o they_o and_o last_o she_o must_v use_v more_o abstraction_n of_o life_n and_o solitude_n to_o prevent_v the_o multiply_a of_o distract_n image_n 10._o those_o who_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o meditation_n be_v more_o serious_o affect_v to_o the_o discourse_v part_n of_o it_o then_o to_o the_o good_a desire_n and_o purpose_n which_o shall_v flow_v from_o such_o discourse_n be_v in_o danger_n of_o many_o peril_n as_o of_o pride_n curiosity_n extravagant_a opinion_n yea_o pernicious_a error_n the_o cause_n of_o which_o danger_n be_v the_o predominancy_n that_o their_o imagination_n have_v over_o their_o other_o faculty_n which_o incline_v they_o to_o please_v themselves_o with_o subtle_a aerial_a and_o curious_a discourse_n and_o with_o frame_v of_o place_n &_o time_n and_o other_o circumstance_n in_o the_o consideration_n of_o a_o mystery_n all_o which_o inconvenience_n be_v avoid_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o superior_a will_n which_o be_v a_o blind_a faculty_n be_v best_a
contemplative_n to_o who_o a_o due_a observance_n of_o the_o choir_n be_v both_o far_o more_o proper_a and_o efficacious_a to_o all_o end_v pretend_v to_o by_o such_o exercise_n than_o they_o be_v yea_o moreover_o great_a harm_n may_v come_v to_o soul_n profess_v contemplation_n by_o they_o for_o so_o great_a attention_n such_o a_o exact_a performance_n of_o nice_a observance_n and_o such_o a_o captivity_n of_o spirit_n be_v require_v that_o when_o all_o be_v pass_v soul_n thereby_o ofttimes_o become_v disable_v to_o continue_v the_o internal_a prayer_n proper_a for_o they_o or_o to_o comply_v with_o many_o regular_a duty_n to_o these_o we_o may_v add_v the_o great_a inconvenience_n which_o may_v come_v from_o strict_a examan_n of_o conscience_n repetition_n of_o general_n confession_n etc._n etc._n very_o prejudicial_a to_o tender_a soul_n 7._o therefore_o as_o touch_v contemplative_a person_n who_o live_v perhaps_o under_o the_o conduct_n of_o those_o that_o be_v whole_o devote_a to_o the_o active_a way_n shall_v be_v oblige_v to_o such_o retirement_n and_o therein_o to_o exercise_n very_o unsuitable_a to_o their_o state_n my_o advice_n to_o they_o be_v that_o they_o shall_v keep_v themselves_o in_o as_o much_o stillnes_n of_o mind_n as_o may_v be_v and_o have_v receive_v instruction_n for_o their_o prayer_n let_v they_o in_o practice_n give_v as_o much_o scope_n as_o they_o well_o can_v to_o their_o good_a affection_n not_o much_o trouble_v themselves_o whether_o the_o say_v affection_n be_v proper_a to_o the_o matter_n propose_v for_o meditation_n or_o no_o nor_o distract_n themselves_o with_o reflection_n upon_o their_o prayer_n to_o the_o end_n to_o give_v a_o account_n of_o it_o to_o other_o let_v they_o likewise_o endeavour_v to_o preserve_v all_o due_a liberty_n in_o spirit_n in_o their_o examination_n and_o confession_n therein_o proceed_v no_o further_a than_o may_v consist_v with_o their_o spiritual_a profit_n and_o by_o all_o mean_n avoid_v such_o particular_n as_o be_v likely_a to_o nourish_v fear_n and_o scrupulosity_n or_o to_o disturb_v the_o peace_n of_o their_o mind_n 8._o and_o as_o for_o secular_a liver_n to_o who_o indeed_o the_o say_a retraite_n according_a to_o custom_n undertake_v at_o set_a time_n may_v prove_v of_o admirable_a profit_n and_o benefit_n to_o the_o end_n the_o virtue_n of_o they_o may_v not_o quick_o expire_v they_o ought_v to_o be_v careful_a afterward_o to_o make_v good_a use_n of_o the_o light_n receive_v in_o they_o and_o to_o put_v in_o execution_n the_o good_a purpose_n make_v during_o such_o retirement_n for_o they_o must_v not_o expect_v by_o a_o few_o day_n solitude_n and_o prayer_n to_o get_v a_o habit_n of_o sanctity_n but_o only_o a_o transient_a good_a passion_n and_o disposition_n thereto_o which_o without_o future_a care_n to_o cherish_v and_o increase_v it_o will_v quick_o vanish_v and_o their_o fervour_n will_v be_v cool_v 9_o moreover_o perceive_v evident_o by_o this_o experience_n the_o good_a effect_n of_o mental_a prayer_n they_o ought_v to_o resolve_v the_o best_a they_o can_v to_o allow_v some_o reasonable_a time_n to_o the_o prosecution_n of_o it_o when_o they_o return_v to_o their_o secular_a vocation_n use_v likewise_o as_o much_o abstraction_n as_o their_o state_n of_o life_n will_v permit_v otherwise_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v they_o will_v not_o only_o return_v to_o all_o their_o former_a defectuousnes_n &_o sin_n but_o will_v moreover_o thereto_o add_v the_o guilt_n of_o ingratitude_n to_o god_n that_o so_o effectual_o call_v they_o from_o sin_n and_o their_o follow_a sin_n will_v be_v sin_n against_o clear_a light_n 10._o certain_a it_o be_v that_o if_o soul_n shall_v so_o rely_v upon_o the_o repeat_v such_o retirement_n and_o new_a take_n of_o the_o same_o practice_n of_o meditation_n etc._n etc._n as_o by_o they_o to_o make_v amends_o toties_fw-la quoties_fw-la for_o all_o fault_n past_a they_o will_v be_v in_o great_a danger_n to_o find_v themselves_o deceive_v for_o though_o in_o itself_o it_o be_v very_o good_a to_o seek_v all_o good_a mean_n to_o procure_v remorse_n and_o contrition_n for_o past_a sin_n yet_o if_o a_o soul_n upon_o a_o consideration_n that_o she_o have_v such_o a_o special_a remedy_n in_o a_o readiness_n shall_v neglect_v the_o care_n &_o watchfullnes_n over_o herself_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v &_o not_o without_o just_a ground_n that_o that_o which_o she_o take_v for_o contrition_n will_v prove_v to_o be_v no_o more_o than_o a_o natural_a remorse_n for_o it_o be_v not_o likely_a that_o god_n will_v shower_n down_o his_o grace_n upon_o a_o soul_n so_o corrupt_v in_o her_o intention_n chap._n v._n §_o 1._o a_o change_n from_o meditation_n to_o a_o prayer_n of_o the_o will_n be_v necessary_a in_o a_o internal_a life_n §_o 2._o it_o be_v otherwise_o in_o active_a liver_n §_o 3._o a_o soul_n of_o a_o contemplative_a profession_n when_o to_o leave_v operate_n with_o the_o understanding_n §_o 4._o exercise_n of_o the_o will_v more_o perfect_a than_o those_o of_o the_o understanding_n §_o 5._o whether_o meditation_n on_o the_o passion_n may_v be_v leave_v §_o 6._o 7._o 8._o etc._n etc._n reason_n to_o prove_v the_o affirmative_a §_o 12._o 13._o etc._n etc._n advice_n show_v when_o a_o change_n of_o prayer_n be_v seasonable_a §_o 18._o 19_o more_o particular_a sign_n show_v the_o proper_a time_n of_o a_o change_n §_o 20._o the_o wonderful_a variety_n of_o change_n in_o a_o internal_a life_n 1._o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o a_o soul_n that_o lead_v a_o abstract_a life_n and_o diligent_o pursue_v internal_a prayer_n to_o fix_v continual_o in_o meditation_n or_o to_o rest_v in_o any_o degree_n of_o affective_a prayer_n because_o the_o nature_n of_o such_o intellectual_a &_o spiritual_a operation_n be_v to_o become_v more_o and_o more_o pure_a abstract_a &_o universal_a and_o to_o carry_v the_o will_n and_o affection_n of_o the_o soul_n still_o high_o and_o further_o into_o god_n the_o activity_n of_o the_o imagination_n &_o understanding_n continual_o abate_v &_o the_o activity_n of_o the_o will_v continual_o increase_v and_o get_v ground_n upon_o the_o understanding_n till_o at_o last_o all_o its_o operation_n become_v so_o quiet_v and_o silence_v that_o they_o cease_v or_o at_o least_o become_v unperceptible_a 2._o a_o soul_n therefore_o be_v thus_o invite_v and_o dispose_v to_o approach_v continual_o near_a and_o near_o unto_o god_n if_o she_o be_v either_o by_o she_o own_o or_o other_o ignorance_n so_o fetter_v with_o custom_n or_o rule_n that_o she_o be_v deprive_v of_o due_a liberty_n of_o spirit_n to_o correspond_v to_o such_o a_o invitation_n and_o to_o quit_v inferior_a exercise_n she_o will_v find_v no_o profit_n at_o all_o by_o her_o prayer_n but_o on_o the_o contrary_a extreme_a pain_n which_o will_v endanger_v to_o force_v she_o to_o relinquish_v her_o recollection_n 3._o it_o be_v otherwise_o with_o those_o who_o profession_n be_v to_o live_v active_a distract_a life_n though_o they_o do_v serious_o aspire_v to_o the_o perfection_n answerable_a to_o that_o state_n for_o such_o may_v continue_v all_o their_o life_n in_o meditation_n and_o follow_v the_o method_n of_o it_o because_o what_o they_o lose_v by_o their_o distraction_n they_o may_v recover_v by_o their_o follow_a meditation_n the_o good_a image_n use_v therein_o expelling_a the_o vain_a image_n contract_v in_o their_o externall_n employment_n true_a it_o be_v that_o to_o such_o person_n meditation_n will_v grow_v more_o and_o more_o pure_a and_o more_o in_o spirit_n yet_o never_o so_o as_o to_o exclude_v a_o direct_a use_n of_o the_o imagination_n 4._o when_o a_o contemplative_a soul_n therefore_o have_v for_o some_o reasonable_a time_n practise_v meditation_n and_o come_v to_o perceive_v that_o a_o further_a exercise_n thereof_o be_v become_v dry_a and_o ungrateful_a to_o her_o spirit_n cause_v great_a disgust_n and_o little_a or_o no_o profit_n she_o ought_v then_o to_o forbear_v meditation_n and_o to_o betake_v herself_o to_o the_o exercise_n of_o immediate_a act_n which_o she_o will_v then_o doubtless_o perform_v with_o great_a gust_n and_o facility_n to_o her_o notable_a profit_n in_o spirit_n 5._o it_o be_v a_o great_a mistake_n in_o some_o writer_n who_o think_v the_o exercise_n of_o the_o will_v to_o be_v mean_a and_o base_a in_o comparison_n of_o inuentive_a meditation_n and_o curious_a speculation_n of_o divine_a mystery_n in_o as_o much_o as_o none_o but_o elevate_v spirit_n can_v perform_v this_o whereas_o the_o most_o ignorant_a and_o simple_a person_n can_v exercise_v act_n or_o affection_n of_o the_o will_n on_o the_o contrary_a it_o be_v most_o certain_a that_o no_o act_n of_o the_o understanding_n as_o speculation_n consideration_n deduction_n of_o conclusion_n &c._n &c._n in_o matter_n pertain_v to_o god_n be_v of_o themselves_o of_o any_o virtue_n to_o give_v true_a perfection_n to_o a_o soul_n further_o than_o as_o they_o do_v excite_v
as_o they_o can_v find_v relish_n in_o it_o and_o so_o do_v they_o shall_v be_v sure_a not_o to_o omit_v any_o thing_n that_o a_o soul_n can_v or_o aught_o to_o pray_v for_o and_o this_o advice_n be_v suitable_a to_o the_o teach_n of_o a_o ancient_a holy_a hermit_n who_o word_n record_v by_o cassianus_n 9_o conf._n c._n 25._o be_v these_o haec_fw-la oratio_fw-la licet_fw-la omnem_fw-la videatur_fw-la perfectionis_fw-la plenitudinem_fw-la continere_fw-la utpote_fw-la &c_n &c_n that_o be_v this_o prayer_n of_o our_o lord_n although_o it_o may_v seem_v to_o contain_v in_o it_o the_o fullnes_n of_o all_o perfection_n as_o be_v either_o begin_v or_o establish_v by_o our_o lord_n own_o authority_n yet_o it_o do_v promote_v those_o that_o be_v familiar_o exercise_v in_o it_o to_o that_o far_o more_o sublime_a state_n which_o we_o mention_v before_o conduct_v they_o to_o that_o inflame_a prayer_n that_o far_o more_o supereminent_a actuation_n of_o soul_n know_v or_o experience_v by_o very_a few_o yea_o to_o speak_v more_o proper_o altogether_o inexpressible_a the_o which_o transcend_v all_o humane_a sense_n or_o knowledge_n be_v not_o distinguish_v by_o any_o sound_n of_o speech_n or_o motion_n of_o the_o tongue_n nor_o any_o pronunciation_n of_o word_n but_o it_o be_v a_o degree_n of_o sublime_a braier_n which_o the_o spirit_n illustrate_v by_o a_o infusion_n of_o heavenly_a light_n do_v not_o design_n or_o express_v by_o humane_a language_n but_o have_v all_o the_o sense_n &_o faculty_n unite_v &_o conglobate_v it_o do_v plentiful_o gush_v it_o forth_o but_o of_o the_o heart_n as_o water_v out_o of_o a_o copious_a fountain_n &_o ineffable_o pour_v it_o out_o unto_o our_o lord_n in_o that_o one_o short_a moment_n of_o time_n send_v forth_o so_o many_o &_o so_o great_a desire_n as_o the_o soul_n herself_o make_v a_o reflection_n on_o her_o own_o operation_n be_v not_o able_a to_o declare_v nor_o even_o conceive_v 28._o but_o it_o be_v not_o ordinary_a to_o find_v soul_n so_o compose_v in_o their_o imagination_n &_o resolute_a in_o their_o will_n as_o to_o content_v themselves_o with_o one_o only_a exercise_n and_o for_o this_o reason_n i_o have_v make_v a_o collection_n of_o several_a kind_n with_o sufficient_a variety_n &_o mixture_n these_o i_o have_v gather_v out_o of_o several_a book_n use_v my_o own_o liberty_n and_o judgement_n in_o alter_v they_o so_o as_o to_o make_v they_o more_o proper_a for_o those_o that_o prosecute_v internal_a affective_a prayer_n &_o for_o that_o purpose_n ofttimes_o leave_v out_o many_o discourse_n &_o consideration_n intermingle_v with_o they_o in_o the_o book_n out_o of_o which_o they_o have_v be_v extract_v 29._o now_o i_o do_v not_o pretend_v nor_o desire_v that_o soul_n practise_v affective_a prayer_n shall_v oblige_v themselves_o to_o these_o particular_a exercise_n or_o to_o the_o order_n observe_v in_o they_o they_o may_v if_o they_o conceive_v it_o for_o their_o purpose_n frame_v other_o exercise_n for_o their_o own_o use_n either_o by_o select_v here_o &_o there_o out_o of_o these_o or_o out_o of_o any_o other_o book_n such_o act_n or_o affection_n as_o they_o shall_v find_v agree_v to_o their_o spirit_n but_o have_v frame_v such_o a_o collection_n i_o will_v serious_o advise_v they_o to_o practice_v according_a to_o the_o advice_n here_o set_v down_o especial_o in_o this_o chapter_n 30._o the_o read_n of_o some_o pious_a discourse_n before_o recollection_n usual_o practise_v in_o community_n be_v a_o good_a &_o profitable_a practice_n but_o especial_o proper_a for_o soul_n that_o be_v not_o advance_v beyond_o meditation_n who_o may_v do_v well_o to_o attend_v to_o the_o mystery_n read_v that_o after_o they_o may_v make_v it_o the_o matter_n of_o their_o prayer_n yet_o better_a it_o be_v they_o shall_v have_v the_o matter_n of_o their_o meditation_n prepare_v beforehand_o because_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v that_o by_o once_o read_v over_o the_o point_n of_o a_o mystery_n they_o will_v not_o be_v sufficient_o imprint_v in_o the_o memory_n so_o as_o to_o be_v make_v use_n of_o 31._o but_o as_o for_o soul_n that_o be_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n i_o shall_v not_o require_v of_o they_o the_o like_a attention_n but_o rather_o that_o they_o will_v employ_v that_o time_n in_o chase_v away_o distract_n image_n in_o place_v themselves_o in_o the_o divine_a presence_n in_o beg_v god_n assistance_n &_o direct_v their_o follow_a recollection_n to_o his_o glory_n and_o if_o in_o their_o private_a recollection_n they_o shall_v premise_v some_o competent_a read_n i_o conceive_v that_o s._n augustins_n confession_n soliloquy_n the_o imitation_n of_o christ_n &_o such_o other_o book_n affectuous_o write_v will_v be_v most_o commodious_a for_o they_o or_o above_o all_o certain_a passage_n of_o the_o holy_a gospel_n contain_v some_o word_n speak_v by_o our_o lord_n himself_o will_v likely_o be_v a_o most_o profitable_a &_o effectual_a preparation_n but_o no_o certain_a rule_n can_v be_v prescribe_v for_o these_o thing_n every_o one_o therefore_o be_v to_o choose_v that_o book_n &_o subject_n that_o he_o find_v most_o proper_a for_o he_o 32._o when_o the_o preparation_n by_o reading_n be_v pass_v let_v the_o person_n apply_v himself_o to_o his_o recollection_n look_v upon_o the_o matter_n of_o the_o act_n or_o affection_n that_o he_o intend_v to_o employ_v his_o prayer_n upon_o and_o after_o this_o withdrawing_a his_o eye_n from_o the_o book_n let_v he_o think_v awhile_o upon_o it_o frame_v a_o spiritual_a image_n or_o conception_n of_o it_o and_o when_o that_o be_v do_v let_v he_o forthwith_o produce_v a_o act_n or_o affection_n to_o god_n answerable_a to_o the_o matter_n rest_v thereon_o as_o long_o as_o the_o virtue_n thereof_o last_v and_o so_o proceed_v to_o the_o follow_a act_n in_o like_a manner_n 33._o some_o soul_n there_o be_v that_o through_o a_o secret_a natural_a quality_n in_o their_o internal_a sense_n can_v so_o work_v with_o the_o imagination_n as_o to_o produce_v a_o image_n that_o may_v become_v a_o matter_n of_o prayer_n to_o they_o such_o person_n consequent_o be_v not_o fit_a for_o the_o exercise_n of_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_v &_o much_o less_o for_o meditation_n they_o be_v therefore_o to_o apply_v themselves_o to_o the_o exercise_n of_o pious_a desire_n or_o amorous_a affection_n but_o general_o soul_n be_v so_o dispose_v as_o to_o be_v rather_o enable_v for_o act_n of_o the_o will_v then_o affection_n yet_o so_o that_o sometime_o also_o they_o will_v find_v affection_n more_o flow_a then_o act_n and_o therefore_o according_o they_o be_v to_o give_v way_n to_o they_o 34._o it_o may_v happen_v sometime_o to_o devout_a soul_n that_o they_o may_v find_v themselves_o disable_v to_o either_o of_o they_o in_o such_o case_n i_o will_v advise_v they_o to_o use_v a_o discreet_a violence_n on_o themselves_o to_o exercise_v some_o good_a act_n most_o relish_v to_o they_o for_o where_o force_n be_v to_o be_v use_v there_o act_v to_o be_v exercise_v by_o the_o superior_a will_n be_v rather_o to_o be_v choose_v than_o affection_n but_o if_o after_o trial_n they_o find_v that_o they_o be_v not_o able_a to_o continue_v in_o so_o constrain_v a_o exercise_n &_o so_o be_v at_o a_o stand_n &_o likely_a to_o spend_v the_o time_n appoint_v in_o a_o unproffitable_a idleness_n let_v they_o try_v if_o a_o more_o imperfect_a exercise_n will_v fit_v they_o either_o speak_v to_o god_n in_o the_o three_o person_n as_o if_o he_o be_v absent_a or_o will_v not_o hear_v they_o or_o address_v themselves_o to_o angel_n saint_n or_o to_o their_o own_o soul_n etc._n etc._n and_o if_o they_o can_v perform_v even_o this_o mental_o that_o be_v neither_o with_o attention_n nor_o gust_n let_v they_o do_v it_o at_o least_o vocal_o withal_o exercise_v as_o much_o patience_n stillnes_n &_o quietness_n as_o may_v be_v and_o do_v thus_o let_v they_o assure_v themselves_o that_o thereby_o they_o will_v afford_v unto_o their_o spirit_n a_o good_a wholesome_a &_o profitable_a though_o tastle_n repast_n 35._o but_o if_o after_o all_o this_o it_o shall_v happen_v which_o will_v be_v very_o strange_a that_o they_o shall_v find_v all_o these_o way_n insupportable_a to_o they_o so_o that_o they_o can_v do_v nothing_o at_o oll_n both_o the_o understanding_n &_o will_n fail_v they_o then_o since_o no_o active_a work_v externall_n or_o internal_a will_v help_v they_o they_o may_v conceive_v it_o to_o be_v the_o case_n of_o a_o extraordinary_a desolation_n &_o desertion_n so_o that_o their_o only_a recourse_n must_v be_v to_o pure_a suffer_v with_o patience_n &_o resignation_n exercise_v these_o the_o best_a they_o can_v in_o such_o circumstance_n the_o which_o if_o they_o will_v do_v then_o will_v this_o afflict_a desolation_n real_o prove_v more_o profitable_a than_o a_o state_n &_o prayer_n
least_o she_o must_v resolve_v diligent_o &_o faithful_o to_o pursue_v she_o daily_o appoint_a exercise_n since_o prayer_n be_v the_o principal_a instrument_n by_o which_o divine_a light_n &_o grace_n against_o all_o tentation_n be_v administer_v to_o us._n so_o that_o if_o prayer_n be_v due_o perform_v be_v it_o with_o distraction_n or_o without_o they_o it_o will_v both_o urge_v a_o soul_n to_o use_v fit_v mortification_n out_o of_o prayer_n and_o to_o make_v advantage_n towards_o the_o perfectionate_v and_o advance_v of_o her_o spirit_n even_o of_o the_o distraction_n &_o encumbrance_n of_o her_o office_n whereas_o if_o she_o be_v careless_a in_o prayer_n she_o will_v become_v careless_a also_o in_o mortification_n and_o by_o little_a and_o little_o will_v loose_v all_o that_o which_o with_o great_a pain_n &_o travail_n she_o have_v former_o get_v yea_o &_o be_v in_o very_o great_a peril_n never_o to_o find_v a_o way_n to_o return_v to_o her_o former_a state_n 14._o certain_o if_o any_o distraction_n or_o employment_n can_v justify_v a_o soul_n for_o the_o neglect_n of_o this_o duty_n of_o internal_a prayer_n those_o which_o attend_v the_o popedom_n the_o high_a weighty_a and_o most_o incessant_o encombr_v office_n that_o a_o soul_n be_v capable_a of_o may_v do_v it_o yet_o s._n bernard_n in_o those_o excellent_a book_n of_o consideration_n write_v to_o pope_n eugenius_n the_o three_o serious_o advise_v he_o not_o so_o whole_o to_o plunge_v himself_o in_o business_n but_o that_o every_o day_n he_o shall_v borrow_v or_o steal_v from_o the_o affair_n of_o the_o universal_a church_n some_o hour_n to_o employ_v in_o this_o holy_a exercise_n 15._o hereupon_o granatensis_n will_v allow_v of_o no_o excuse_n under_o pretence_n of_o business_n to_o cease_v from_o pursue_v daily_a recollection_n for_o say_v he_o no_o business_n can_v be_v so_o necessary_a &_o so_o continual_o urgent_a as_o to_o hinder_v our_o daily_a necessary_a refection_n now_o prayer_n which_o be_v the_o food_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v as_o necessary_a if_o not_o more_o then_o that_o of_o the_o body_n and_o if_o it_o so_o fall_v out_o that_o business_n be_v to_o be_v dispatch_v just_a at_o the_o hour_n appoint_v for_o daily_o spiritual_a refection_n the_o person_n foresee_v that_o aught_o to_o repair_v himself_o by_o take_v some_o other_o vacant_a time_n for_o his_o prayer_n and_o if_o that_o will_v not_o be_v allow_v he_o he_o may_v &_o aught_o according_a to_o the_o judgement_n of_o aquaviua_fw-la general_n of_o the_o jesuit_n to_o solicit_v his_o superior_n to_o give_v he_o some_o relaxation_n from_o such_o employment_n which_o the_o superior_a be_v oblige_v to_o grant_v otherwise_o god_n will_v require_v a_o severe_a account_n from_o he_o for_o the_o harm_n that_o must_v needs_o come_v to_o the_o subject_n soul_n by_o the_o want_n of_o that_o which_o be_v only_o able_a to_o support_v the_o spirit_n &_o to_o enable_v it_o with_o profit_n to_o discharge_v the_o most_o necessary_a duty_n of_o his_o call_n 16._o if_o either_o out_o of_o sloth_n distraction_n or_o remorse_n through_o some_o imperfection_n incur_v a_o soul_n find_v difficulty_n to_o apply_v herself_o any_o time_n to_o prayer_n though_o she_o promise_v better_o for_o the_o future_a yet_o if_o upon_o any_o motive_n of_o sensual_a nature_n she_o omit_v it_o at_o any_o time_n she_o will_v the_o day_n follow_a have_n less_o mind_n to_o go_v to_o it_o &_o so_o be_v in_o danger_n quite_o to_o abandon_v her_o recollection_n if_o she_o have_v not_o the_o very_a same_o excuse_n &_o pretence_n that_o she_o have_v former_o nature_n will_v be_v subtle_a enough_o to_o invent_v some_o other_o for_o the_o long_o she_o delay_n the_o more_o unapt_a will_v she_o be_v for_o it_o according_a to_o that_o wise_a say_n of_o the_o ancient_a rabbin_n qui_fw-la protrudit_fw-la horam_fw-la hora_fw-la protrudet_fw-la ipsum_fw-la that_o be_v he_o that_o thrust_v of_o the_o hour_n of_o do_v any_o good_a duty_n till_o another_o time_n that_o hour_n when_o it_o come_v will_v thrust_v of_o &_o delay_v he_o he_o will_v be_v less_o capable_a than_o of_o do_v his_o duty_n than_o he_o be_v former_o by_o mean_n of_o some_o new_a impediment_n whereas_o a_o soul_n by_o use_v some_o violence_n upon_o herself_o to_o break_v through_o discouragement_n to_o prayer_n will_v get_v such_o courage_n &_o grace_n from_o god_n that_o afterward_o her_o employment_n will_v afford_v she_o less_o hindrance_n unto_o this_o holy_a duty_n 17._o to_o this_o purpose_n johannes_n a_o jesu_n maria_n general_n of_o the_o discalced_a carmelites_n relate_v concern_v a_o devout_a gentleman_n a_o penitent_a of_o he_o who_o daily_o use_v at_o a_o certain_a time_n to_o recollect_v himself_o in_o prayer_n how_o that_o treat_v with_o another_o upon_o some_o affair_n of_o consequence_n &_o the_o clock_n happen_v to_o strike_v the_o hour_n appoint_v for_o his_o prayer_n he_o abrupt_o break_v of_o the_o conversation_n excuse_v himself_o that_o he_o have_v then_o a_o affair_n of_o such_o importance_n that_o it_o can_v not_o be_v delay_v &_o must_v not_o be_v omit_v and_o so_o dismiss_v his_o friend_n he_o retire_v to_o his_o recollection_n wherein_o god_n be_v please_v as_o in_o reward_n for_o his_o diligence_n &_o fidelity_n to_o he_o to_o visit_v he_o after_o a_o extraordinary_a manner_n with_o some_o kind_n of_o supernatural_a contemplation_n such_o as_o he_o have_v never_o have_v experience_n of_o before_o 18._o a_o wellminded_n soul_n therefore_o to_o the_o end_n she_o may_v be_v enable_v to_o attend_v to_o this_o business_n of_o business_n as_o s._n bernard_n call_v it_o ought_v to_o employ_v all_o her_o providence_n &_o subtlety_n so_o to_o order_v all_o her_o daily_a employment_n both_o for_o time_n &_o manner_n as_o that_o they_o may_v be_v no_o hindrance_n thereto_o let_v she_o if_o need_v be_v make_v note_n &_o remembrance_n of_o her_o several_a affair_n each_o day_n to_o the_o end_n her_o memory_n may_v not_o betray_v she_o &_o begin_v the_o morning_n with_o a_o serious_a recollection_n which_o will_v sanctify_v all_o the_o follow_a day_n work_n let_v she_o endeavour_v to_o dispatch_v her_o task_n with_o such_o care_n &_o diligence_n that_o towards_o evening_n she_o may_v be_v beforehand_o with_o her_o task_n of_o business_n that_o sollicitude_n about_o they_o may_v not_o disquiet_v her_o mind_n encumber_v her_o memory_n nor_o distract_v her_o prayer_n 19_o it_o be_v moral_o impossible_a that_o in_o a_o religious_a state_n there_o shall_v be_v any_o employment_n that_o shall_v so_o whole_o &_o this_o constant_o take_v up_o one_o thought_n as_o not_o to_o leave_v one_o hour_n each_o day_n to_o be_v give_v to_o god_n or_o if_o such_o a_o employment_n be_v it_o will_v be_v absolute_o unlawful_a as_o be_v destructive_a to_o the_o obligation_n of_o a_o christian_a and_o much_o more_o that_o of_o a_o spiritual_a or_o religious_a person_n no_o excuse_n therefore_o or_o pretence_n can_v justify_v a_o customary_a neglect_n of_o so_o essential_a a_o duty_n 20._o in_o case_n that_o sometime_o by_o reason_n of_o some_o press_a affair_n the_o devout_a soul_n can_v allow_v herself_o the_o whole_a time_n appoint_v for_o her_o recollection_n let_v she_o at_o least_o take_v as_o much_o of_o it_o as_o possible_o may_v be_v spare_v or_o let_v she_o in_o exchange_n take_v some_o other_o hour_n of_o the_o day_n or_o night_n however_o let_v she_o preserve_v a_o thirst_a desire_n and_o love_n to_o prayer_n and_o by_o fervent_a interrupt_a actuation_n as_o the_o present_a business_n will_v permit_v &_o by_o some_o more_o than_o ordinary_a mortification_n especial_o of_o the_o tongue_n repair_v the_o loss_n of_o a_o set_v recollection_n 21._o if_o a_o soul_n in_o employment_n can_v free_v her_o mind_n from_o distraction_n aridity_n and_o sollicitude_n in_o prayer_n let_v she_o however_o be_v courageous_a to_o pursue_v it_o after_o the_o best_a manner_n she_o can_v preserve_v as_o much_o resignation_n &_o tranquillity_n at_o least_o in_o the_o superior_a soul_n as_o may_v be_v and_o let_v the_o sight_n of_o such_o imperfection_n humble_a but_o not_o disquiet_v her_o spirit_n let_v she_o consider_v &_o believe_v that_o god_n be_v not_o only_o as_o present_v to_o she_o in_o her_o spirit_n during_o her_o great_a desolation_n as_o he_o be_v in_o her_o clear_a recollection_n but_o as_o love_v also_o and_o that_o this_o be_v the_o proper_a season_n for_o a_o soul_n to_o show_v her_o fidelity_n to_o god_n in_o adhere_v to_o he_o in_o the_o top_n of_o her_o spirit_n when_o as_o not_o only_o the_o interiour_n sense_n be_v divert_v by_o image_n of_o business_n but_o the_o affection_n also_o disorder_v by_o sollicitude_n 22._o to_o this_o purpose_n she_o may_v apply_v the_o point_n of_o election_n mention_v by_o fa_o benet_n canfeild_n who_o to_o the_o great_a comfort_n of_o wellmeaning_n soul_n
renounce_n of_o the_o world_n prayer_n &c_n &c_n the_o want_n of_o which_o be_v the_o principal_a cause_n it_o may_v be_v of_o his_o deordination_n upon_o which_o ground_n alone_o s._n bernard_n say_v that_o he_o will_v give_v absolution_n present_o to_o the_o great_a sinner_n in_o sickness_n if_o he_o will_v promise_v upon_o supposition_n of_o recovery_n to_o quit_v the_o world_n and_o embrace_v a_o penitential_a life_n in_o religion_n because_o it_o be_v not_o possible_a to_o promise_v or_o perform_v a_o great_a satisfaction_n but_o i_o doubt_v whether_o he_o will_v be_v so_o indulgent_a to_o a_o unconuerted_a religious_a person_n that_o can_v promise_v no_o high_a state_n than_o he_o be_v in_o already_o with_o so_o little_a good_a effect_n to_o his_o soul_n 6._o yet_o god_n forbid_v that_o from_o hence_o any_o shall_v advise_o give_v way_n to_o despair_n or_o deliberate_o refuse_v to_o humble_v themselves_o to_o mortify_v their_o inordinate_a affection_n or_o to_o pray_v the_o best_a they_o can_v good_a purpose_n &_o action_n perform_v mere_o out_o of_o fear_n will_v produce_v some_o good_a effect_n &_o god_n goodness_n which_o be_v incomprehensible_a may_v change_v fear_n into_o love_n how_o imperfect_a soever_o 7._o now_o though_o the_o case_n of_o tepid_a liver_n be_v not_o altogether_o so_o miserable_a yet_o it_o be_v infinite_o perilous_a &_o the_o issue_n extreme_o to_o be_v suspect_v for_o though_o they_o can_v be_v charge_v with_o many_o great_a sin_n of_o commission_n yet_o their_o whole_a life_n have_v be_v a_o continual_a omission_n of_o duty_n to_o which_o their_o profession_n do_v in_o a_o special_a manner_n oblige_v they_o and_o now_o what_o other_o new_a motive_n can_v they_o have_v to_o relinquish_v their_o negligence_n but_o only_o fear_v also_o or_o what_o prayer_n be_v they_o likely_a to_o make_v when_o their_o necessity_n be_v so_o great_a &_o the_o help_n to_o prayer_n so_o small_a 8._o the_o only_a secure_a way_n therefore_o to_o prevent_v the_o incur_v this_o hazardous_a state_n in_o sickness_n be_v during_o health_n to_o combat_v against_o tepidity_n and_o by_o diligent_a prayer_n to_o provide_v one_o self_n of_o internal_a strength_n &_o grace_n for_o such_o soul_n by_o a_o prosecution_n of_o their_o accustom_a duty_n of_o mortification_n &_o prayer_n make_v good_a use_n of_o their_o sickness_n &_o gain_v extreme_o by_o it_o they_o be_v not_o forward_o to_o promise_v great_a matter_n as_o tepid_v soul_n usual_o do_v though_o they_o perform_v but_o little_a they_o have_v forethink_v of_o sickness_n &_o the_o tentation_n accompany_v it_o &_o now_o call_v to_o mind_n &_o execute_v former_a resolution_n make_v to_o improove_v for_o their_o soul_n advancement_n all_o state_n &_o condition_n &_o by_o occasion_n of_o their_o present_a corporal_a infirmity_n or_o pain_n to_o fortify_v in_o their_o mind_n the_o virtue_n of_o patience_n resignation_n contempt_n of_o the_o world_n &_o adhesion_n to_o god_n thus_o sickness_n prove_v to_o they_o a_o great_a blessing_n than_o health_n and_o if_o they_o do_v recover_v they_o do_v yet_o more_o serious_o &_o feruorous_o perform_v their_o former_a exercise_n 9_o when_o sickness_n be_v actual_o come_v a_o soul_n be_v to_o accept_v &_o embrace_v it_o as_o a_o special_a gift_n of_o god_n yea_o though_o such_o sickness_n happen_v through_o the_o person_n own_o intemperance_n or_o other_o fault_n as_o a_o malefactor_n be_v oblige_v with_o resignation_n to_o accept_v of_o death_n deserve_v for_o some_o crime_n he_o ought_v indeed_o to_o be_v penitent_a &_o sorry_a for_o the_o fault_n which_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o such_o a_o harmful_a effect_n but_o the_o effect_n itself_o he_o ought_v to_o consider_v as_o proceed_v from_o the_o divine_a will_n and_o providence_n yea_o in_o such_o case_n a_o soul_n may_v even_o rejoice_v that_o god_n be_v so_o merciful_a as_o to_o bring_v on_o she_o the_o smart_n and_o punishment_n of_o her_o sin_n in_o this_o world_n give_v she_o withal_o a_o profitable_a occasion_n to_o exercise_v her_o resignation_n from_o whence_o she_o may_v infer_v a_o hope_n that_o he_o will_v therefore_o spare_v she_o after_o this_o life_n 10._o a_o soul_n must_v not_o forbear_v this_o willing_a acceptation_n of_o sickness_n &c._n &c._n because_o perhaps_o she_o find_v great_a resistance_n thereto_o in_o sensuality_n yea_o she_o ought_v therefore_o the_o rather_o to_o accept_v it_o as_o know_v that_o it_o be_v the_o superior_a will_n &_o not_o the_o will_n of_o sensuality_n that_o merit_v or_o demerit_v and_o so_o do_v the_o repugnance_n of_o sensuality_n will_v as_o well_o as_o the_o sickness_n turn_v to_o the_o merit_n &_o advancement_n of_o the_o soul_n 11._o now_o a_o soul_n must_v not_o content_v herself_o for_o once_o or_o twice_o to_o accept_v sickness_n but_o she_o must_v practice_v this_o almost_o continual_o and_o especial_o when_o any_o extraordinary_a pain_n or_o irkesomenes_n do_v afflict_v she_o and_o such_o acceptation_n must_v be_v not_o only_o for_o the_o present_a but_o with_o a_o mind_n willing_o to_o submit_v to_o the_o divine_a will_n if_o his_o pleasure_n be_v that_o such_o pain_n shall_v continue_v never_o so_o long_o 12._o she_o must_v particular_o take_v heed_n of_o one_o notable_a tentation_n which_o often_o befall_v good_a but_o imperfect_a soul_n by_o mean_n of_o which_o they_o yield_v too_o free_o to_o impatience_n in_o sickness_n which_o be_v this_o nature_n be_v soon_o weary_a of_o suffer_v will_v suggest_v unto_o the_o soul_n to_o justify_v impatience_n among_o other_o incommodity_n of_o sickness_n this_o one_o that_o thereby_o she_o be_v put_v in_o a_o incapacity_n to_o pray_v or_o otherwise_o to_o serve_v god_n or_o her_o neighbour_n upon_o which_o she_o will_v be_v apt_a to_o desire_v health_n with_o impatience_n false_o justify_v herself_o for_o such_o impatience_n as_o if_o she_o do_v not_o so_o for_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o nature_n but_o to_o the_o end_n she_o may_v perform_v spiritual_a duty_n more_o perfect_o but_o this_o be_v a_o mere_a delusion_n for_o that_o be_v the_o true_a &_o perfect_a way_n of_o serve_v god_n which_o be_v suitable_a to_o the_o present_a condition_n wherein_o god_n have_v place_v a_o soul_n &_o a_o imperfect_a interrupt_a prayer_n make_v with_o resignation_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o pain_n or_o trouble_v send_v by_o god_n be_v perhaps_o more_o efficacious_a to_o procure_v the_o good_a of_o the_o soul_n than_o the_o high_a elevation_n exercise_v otherwise_o 13._o it_o be_v no_o great_a matter_n though_o the_o soul_n herself_o do_v not_o distinct_o &_o clear_o see_v how_o her_o present_a suffering_n external_a or_o internal_a may_v be_v profitable_a to_o she_o she_o be_v to_o refer_v all_o thing_n to_o the_o infinite_a wisdom_n &_o goodness_n of_o god_n who_o can_v bring_v light_a out_o of_o darkness_n and_o therefore_o she_o must_v be_v content_v if_o such_o be_v his_o will_n to_o be_v blindfolded_a &_o humble_o to_o remain_v in_o her_o simplicity_n &_o in_o a_o reverential_a awe_n &_o admiration_n of_o the_o inscrutable_a way_n of_o the_o divine_a providence_n 14._o a_o sick_a person_n be_v to_o account_v himself_o after_o a_o especial_a manner_n in_o god_n hand_n as_o his_o prisoner_n chain_v as_o it_o be_v by_o his_o own_o weakness_n disable_v from_o the_o ordinary_a solace_n of_o conversation_n walk_v &c_n &c_n debar_v from_o eat_v what_o please_v the_o palate_n become_v profitable_a to_o none_o troublesome_a &_o chargeable_a to_o many_o expose_v ofttimes_o to_o bitter_a pain_n &_o sharp_a remedy_n of_o such_o pain_n &c_n &c_n a_o grievous_a indeed_o but_o yet_o a_o happy_a prison_n this_o be_v to_o a_o soul_n that_o will_v make_v a_o good_a use_n of_o it_o for_o unless_o the_o internal_a taste_n of_o the_o soul_n also_o be_v deprave_a she_o may_v by_o this_o occasion_n infinite_o increase_v in_o spiritual_a liberty_n health_n &_o strength_n by_o accept_v with_o indifference_n these_o incommodity_n &_o mortify_v her_o natural_a exorbitant_a desire_n of_o remedy_n not_o desire_v to_o escape_v but_o when_o &_o after_o what_o manner_n god_n shall_v ordain_v 15._o but_o to_o speak_v more_o particular_o touch_v the_o duty_n of_o a_o soul_n during_o sickness_n she_o be_v to_o assure_v herself_o of_o this_o one_o thing_n that_o if_o she_o think_v that_o her_o sickness_n may_v justify_v her_o neglect_n of_o her_o spiritual_a exercise_n of_o mortification_n &_o prayer_n the_o essential_a duty_n of_o a_o internal_a life_n if_o these_o be_v not_o continue_v as_o well_o in_o sickness_n as_o health_n the_o soul_n herself_o will_v become_v the_o more_o sick_a of_o the_o two_o &_o expose_v to_o great_a danger_n than_o the_o body_n for_o most_o certain_o if_o sickness_n do_v not_o produce_v good_a effect_n of_o patience_n &_o resignation_n &c_n &c_n in_o the_o soul_n it_o will_v produce_v the_o quite_o contrary_a and_o such_o effect_n
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 doâ_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
it_o be_v good_a even_o for_o those_o who_o be_v not_o yet_o full_o ripe_a for_o the_o exercise_n of_o act_n so_o as_o to_o make_v they_o their_o constant_a exercise_n yet_o to_o use_v they_o sometime_o in_o time_n of_o health_n to_o the_o end_n that_o if_o they_o be_v overtake_v with_o sickness_n they_o may_v not_o be_v to_o seek_v for_o their_o exercise_n 43._o among_o express_v voluntary_a act_n the_o exercise_n of_o total_a resignation_n be_v the_o most_o perfect_a &_o general_o the_o most_o profitable_a yet_o a_o soul_n in_o sickness_n if_o she_o find_v herself_o indispose_v for_o such_o act_n may_v content_v herself_o with_o act_n of_o a_o inferior_a nature_n yea_o with_o devotion_n to_o any_o particular_a saint_n to_o her_o angel_n guardian_n &_o special_o to_o our_o bless_a lady_n 44._o those_o that_o be_v only_o infirm_a &_o languish_a be_v for_o as_o muâh_v as_o concern_v the_o nature_n of_o their_o prayer_n in_o a_o case_n little_a different_a from_o that_o they_o be_v in_o during_o health_n those_o who_o suffering_n be_v from_o outward_a pain_n mere_o without_o sickness_n may_v happen_v to_o have_v their_o prayer_n alter_v to_o the_o better_a by_o mean_n of_o such_o pain_n the_o which_o themselves_o may_v prove_v a_o very_a profitable_a prayer_n if_o the_o patient_a with_o quietness_n &_o submission_n to_o the_o divine_a will_n do_v offer_v such_o pain_n continual_o to_o god_n 45._o but_o as_o for_o sickness_n more_o inward_a they_o do_v more_o indispose_v the_o patient_a to_o prayer_n beside_o the_o great_a distraction_n that_o come_v from_o physic_n blood-letting_n diet_n &c_n &c_n so_o that_o none_o can_v prescribe_v any_o certain_a advice_n the_o wellmeaning_n soul_n therefore_o must_v &_o with_o a_o moderate_a attention_n may_v herself_o observe_v all_o circumstance_n &_o according_o for_o the_o manner_n practice_v both_o mortification_n &_o prayer_n she_o will_v easy_o discern_v at_o what_o time_n how_o long_o &_o in_o what_o manner_n she_o ought_v to_o pray_v as_o likewise_o wherein_o she_o be_v to_o mortify_v herself_o &_o how_o far_o she_o may_v yield_v to_o the_o desire_n &_o necessity_n of_o nature_n the_o truth_n be_v the_o case_n not_o only_o of_o several_a person_n in_o several_a sickness_n but_o even_o of_o the_o same_o person_n in_o the_o same_o sickness_n be_v so_o wonderful_o various_a that_o it_o be_v impossible_a to_o fit_a advice_n for_o all_o all_o that_o a_o instructor_n can_v say_v to_o the_o purpose_n be_v that_o prayer_n &_o mortification_n be_v absolute_o necessary_a to_o a_o soul_n as_o well_o in_o sickness_n as_o health_n but_o for_o the_o special_a manner_n &_o matter_n her_o own_o judgement_n &_o discretion_n but_o especial_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n must_v teach_v she_o &_o doubtless_o will_v if_o she_o attend_v to_o his_o holy_a inspiration_n 46._o i_o say_v before_o that_o the_o universal_a remedy_n against_o all_o inward_a tentation_n be_v actual_a prayer_n &_o conversion_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o god_n the_o which_o remedy_n be_v good_a for_o all_o soul_n in_o what_o state_n soever_o but_o more_o proper_a for_o such_o as_o practice_v internal_a contemplative_a exercise_n who_o be_v not_o now_o in_o a_o disposition_n to_o invent_v motive_n &_o argument_n to_o contradict_v such_o tentation_n but_o most_o necessary_a for_o the_o fearful_a &_o scrupulous_a notwithstanding_o i_o will_v not_o oblige_v all_o imperfect_a soul_n upon_o every_o thought_n of_o a_o tentation_n to_o recurre_v alway_n to_o their_o prayer_n but_o only_o when_o necessity_n &_o a_o just_a fear_n of_o be_v overcome_v shall_v require_v it_o otherwise_o be_v in_o no_o such_o fear_n they_o may_v content_v themselves_o with_o some_o intermit_a elevation_n of_o their_o mind_n to_o god_n defer_v their_o prayer_n till_o their_o next_o appoint_v recollection_n for_o it_o will_v be_v too_o great_a a_o burden_n impose_v on_o such_o soul_n as_o without_o some_o difficulty_n can_v enter_v into_o serious_a introversion_n to_o bind_v they_o hereto_o upon_o every_o assault_n of_o a_o inward_a tentation_n when_o a_o moderate_a care_n not_o to_o yield_v to_o the_o tentation_n will_v suffice_v 47._o god_n seldom_o send_v great_a sickness_n to_o spiritual_a person_n in_o the_o begin_n of_o their_o course_n before_o they_o have_v get_v a_o reasonable_a habitude_n of_o prayer_n to_o make_v good_a use_n thereof_o lest_o thereby_o they_o shall_v become_v disable_v to_o pray_v but_o after_o such_o a_o habitude_n get_v if_o sickness_n come_v it_o will_v advance_v their_o prayer_n &_o as_o their_o bodily_a strength_n decay_v their_o prayer_n proportionable_o will_v grow_v more_o easy_a profound_a &_o spiritual_a but_o it_o be_v to_o be_v doubt_v that_o the_o prayer_n of_o meditation_n will_v be_v little_o better_v by_o sickness_n 48._o i_o will_v conclude_v this_o point_n of_o sickness_n with_o propose_v one_o special_a consideration_n which_o ought_v to_o induce_v soul_n to_o be_v careful_a that_o they_o do_v not_o deliberate_o turn_v sickness_n into_o a_o liberty_n of_o sense_n or_o spirit_n by_o omit_v or_o neglect_v prayer_n &_o mortification_n &_o it_o be_v this_o in_o all_o sickness_n there_o be_v at_o least_o some_o degree_n of_o peril_n of_o be_v take_v out_o of_o this_o life_n the_o which_o event_n if_o it_o shall_v happen_v to_o a_o soul_n whilst_o she_o continue_v in_o such_o a_o tepid_a negligent_a state_n god_n will_v assure_o judge_v she_o according_a to_o her_o present_a state_n in_o which_o death_n find_v she_o yea_o she_o will_v be_v in_o danger_n to_o loose_v the_o fruit_n that_o she_o may_v expect_v from_o all_o her_o former_a good_a purpose_n &_o resolution_n or_o at_o least_o to_o suspect_v that_o such_o purpose_n be_v not_o sincere_a &_o cordial_a since_o now_o the_o proper_a time_n of_o put_v they_o in_o execution_n be_v come_v they_o be_v ineffectual_o and_o above_o all_o other_o the_o case_n of_o scrupulous_a soul_n will_v be_v miserable_a if_o they_o shall_v neglect_v to_o combat_v their_o scrupulosity_n by_o a_o simple_a obedience_n &_o transcend_v of_o their_o fear_n on_o the_o contrary_a it_o be_v certain_a that_o a_o soul_n can_v possible_o hâue_v a_o firm_a ground_n of_o assurance_n of_o eternal_a happiness_n than_o a_o sanctify_a use_n of_o sickness_n chap._n vi_o §_o 1._o internal_a exercise_n weaken_v the_o body_n yet_o oft_o prolong_v life_n §_o 2._o 3._o 4._o the_o body_n ought_v to_o suffer_v for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o spirit_n &_o not_o the_o spirit_n for_o the_o body_n §_o 5._o yet_o with_o discretion_n that_o the_o body_n be_v not_o unnecessary_o prejudice_v §_o 6._o 7._o etc._n etc._n in_o the_o first_o place_n discretion_n be_v to_o be_v use_v about_o mortification_n both_o by_o superior_n &_o other_o §_o 13._o 14._o &c_n &c_n second_o discretion_n be_v to_o be_v use_v in_o sensible_a devotion_n §_o 17._o three_o in_o meditation_n §_o 18._o 19_o 20._o four_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o immediate_n acts._n §_o 21._o 22._o five_o even_o in_o aspiration_n §_o 23._o of_o languish_a love_n mention_v by_o harphius_n 1._o internal_a prayer_n serious_o prosecute_v as_o it_o deserve_v to_o be_v be_v contrary_a to_o our_o natural_a inclination_n can_v choose_v but_o cause_n some_o trouble_n &_o uneasines_n to_o nature_n &_o abate_v the_o vigorousnes_n of_o the_o body_n quench_v those_o spirit_n &_o drayn_v those_o humour_n which_o be_v superfluous_a &_o afford_v matter_n of_o tentation_n yet_o on_o the_o other_o side_n it_o make_v amends_o even_o to_o nature_n itself_o in_o contribute_v much_o to_o the_o prolong_n of_o life_n by_o mean_n of_o moderation_n of_o diet_n a_o composednes_n of_o passion_n &_o contentation_n of_o mind_n &c_n &c_n which_o it_o cause_v proof_n whereof_o we_o have_v in_o the_o ancient_a holy_a father_n of_o the_o desert_n &_o more_o late_o in_o s._n romualdus_n who_o live_v till_o he_o be_v a_o hundred_o &_o twenty_o year_n old_a &_o s._n david_n of_o wales_n till_o a_o hundred_o &_o forty_o &c_n &c_n 2._o however_o if_o it_o be_v otherwise_o the_o soul_n be_v not_o to_o serve_v the_o body_n but_o the_o body_n the_o soul_n so_o that_o if_o one_o of_o they_o must_v for_o the_o benefit_n of_o the_o other_o be_v a_o loose_a it_o be_v most_o just_a that_o the_o loss_n shall_v lie_v on_o the_o body_n side_n and_o sure_o since_o there_o be_v scarce_o any_o study_n or_o exercise_v of_o mind_n which_o do_v not_o abridge_v life_n or_o debilitate_v the_o function_n of_o it_o without_o make_v any_o amends_o to_o the_o soul_n for_o the_o future_a life_n &_o yet_o for_o all_o that_o man_n neither_o be_v discourage_v nor_o do_v think_v it_o fit_a for_o such_o consideration_n to_o forbear_v such_o study_n much_o less_o certain_o ought_v spiritual_a &_o divine_a exercise_n be_v lay_v aside_o upon_o such_o pretence_n 3._o notwithstanding_o just_a it_o be_v that_o some_o
the_o intellectual_a soul_n without_o any_o sensible_a change_n or_o redundance_n to_o the_o body_n for_o the_o tree_n of_o love_n be_v in_o no_o sort_n to_o be_v pluck_v up_o by_o the_o root_n as_o long_o as_o there_o be_v any_o hope_n that_o it_o may_v be_v in_o a_o disposition_n or_o capacity_n to_o bring_v forth_o more_o fruit_n chap._n vii_o §_o 1._o 2._o touch_v a_o special_a sort_n of_o internal_a prayer_n prescribe_v by_o antonio_n roias_n a_o spanish_a priest_n with_o approbation_n give_v to_o it_o §_o 3._o 4._o the_o order_n for_o preparation_n to_o the_o say_a prayer_n of_o internal_a silence_n §_o 5._o 6._o etc._n etc._n how_o the_o say_a prayer_n itself_o be_v to_o be_v exercise_v §_o 11._o 12._o the_o great_a advantage_n and_o benefit_n of_o the_o prayer_n of_o internal_a silence_n §_o 13._o this_o prayer_n may_v become_v proper_a for_o most_o soul_n §_o 14._o a_o soul_n be_v not_o to_o be_v oblige_v to_o use_v the_o same_o preparation_n prescribe_v §_o 15._o it_o be_v commend_v by_o the_o author_n both_o to_o beginner_n &_o proficient_n yet_o with_o some_o caution_n §_o 16._o this_o prayer_n be_v inferior_a to_o s._n teresas_n prayer_n of_o quietness_n §_o 17._o of_o the_o phrase_n by_o which_o the_o soul_n be_v say_v herein_o to_o be_v aux_n escouttes_n §_o 18._o this_o prayer_n be_v far_o from_o the_o mere_a cessation_n or_o idleness_n of_o the_o illuminati_fw-la §_o 19_o 20._o a_o transition_n to_o the_o follow_a discourse_n of_o contemplation_n with_o a_o serious_a exhortation_n of_o s._n teresa_n to_o aspire_v courageous_o thereto_o 1._o before_o we_o proceed_v to_o the_o supreme_a degree_n of_o prayer_n which_o be_v pure_a contemplation_n it_o may_v be_v convenient_a as_o it_o be_v also_o pertinent_a enough_o to_o insert_v here_o as_o a_o appendix_n to_o these_o instruction_n concern_v the_o prayer_n of_o force_a act_n of_o the_o will_n a_o certain_a exercise_n of_o internal_a prayer_n pertain_v to_o this_o same_o degree_n though_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o soul_n behaviour_n much_o differ_v it_o be_v a_o prayer_n of_o internal_a silence_n quietness_n &_o repose_n in_o which_o there_o be_v no_o meditation_n at_o all_o nor_o no_o act_n of_o the_o will_v express_o &_o direct_o frame_v be_v rather_o a_o kind_n of_o virtual_a &_o habitual_a attention_n to_o god_n than_o a_o formal_a &_o direct_a tendance_n to_o he_o yet_o be_v this_o a_o far_o inferior_a degree_n of_o prayer_n then_o be_v that_o prayer_n of_o quietness_n which_o s._n teresa_n speak_v of_o &_o experience_v which_o be_v indeed_o supernatural_a contemplation_n 2._o the_o first_o that_o publish_v a_o treatise_n purposely_o of_o this_o kind_n of_o prayer_n be_v antonio_z de_fw-fr roias_n a_o devout_a spanish_a priest_n &_o doctor_n in_o a_o book_n call_v the_o life_n of_o the_o spirit_n approve_a which_o large_a eulogy_n by_o no_o less_o than_o nime_fw-mi eminent_a doctor_n bishop_n or_o inquisitour_n so_o that_o there_o can_v be_v no_o reasonable_a ground_n to_o doubt_v of_o the_o lawfullnes_n convenience_n &_o security_n of_o it_o it_o have_v moreover_o be_v translate_v &_o publish_v in_o french_a &_o recommend_v by_o several_a other_o doctor_n 3._o now_o the_o order_n that_o the_o author_n advise_v a_o devout_a soul_n to_o observe_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o this_o prayer_n of_o internal_a silence_n both_o in_o regard_n of_o preparation_n thereto_o &_o actual_a exercise_n of_o it_o be_v as_o follow_v 4._o in_o the_o first_o place_n for_o preparation_n 1._o the_o soul_n be_v to_o examine_v &_o purify_v her_o conscience_n with_o a_o prudent_a diligent_a search_n 2._o she_o be_v to_o endeavour_v serious_o &_o cordial_o to_o make_v a_o act_n of_o contrition_n for_o her_o sin_n from_o a_o consideration_n of_o god_n goodness_n love_n &_o mercy_n etc._n etc._n 3._o she_o be_v to_o frame_v a_o act_n of_o pure_a &_o entire_a resignation_n of_o herself_o into_o god_n hand_n with_o reference_n to_o the_o present_a exercise_n of_o a_o silent_a recollection_n determine_v to_o perform_v it_o pure_o for_o god_n glory_n renounce_v all_o inferior_a private_a interest_n &_o contentment_n &c_n &c_n 4._o she_o may_v if_o need_v be_v meditate_v a_o little_a upon_o one_o of_o the_o mystery_n concern_v the_o incarnation_n &_o passion_n etc._n etc._n of_o our_o lord_n also_o mix_v certain_a eiaculatory_a prayer_n 5._o she_o be_v to_o make_v a_o firm_a act_n of_o faith_n &_o acknowledgement_n of_o god_n presence_n in_o the_o centre_n of_o the_o soul_n before_o who_o she_o intend_v to_o place_v herself_o with_o most_o profound_a reverence_n humility_n &_o love_n 5._o in_o consequence_n to_o these_o preparation_n in_o the_o which_o she_o be_v to_o continue_v till_o she_o find_v herself_o dispose_v to_o quit_v all_o such_o express_a &_o direct_a act_n or_o affection_n and_o have_v a_o implicit_a assurance_n by_o a_o bare_a &_o obscure_a faith_n that_o god_n who_o be_v incomprehensible_a universal_a goodness_n be_v indeed_o present_a to_o &_o in_o she_o all_o that_o remain_v for_o she_o then_o to_o do_v be_v with_o all_o humility_n &_o love_n to_o continue_v in_o his_o presence_n in_o the_o quality_n of_o a_o petitioner_n but_o such_o a_o one_o as_o make_v no_o special_a direct_a request_n but_o content_v herself_o to_o appear_v before_o he_o with_o all_o her_o want_v &_o necessity_n best_a &_o indeed_o only_o know_v to_o he_o who_o therefore_o need_v not_o her_o information_n so_o that_o she_o with_o a_o silent_a attention_n regard_v god_n only_o reject_v all_o manner_n of_o image_n of_o all_o object_n whatsoever_o &_o with_o the_o will_v she_o frame_v no_o particular_a request_n nor_o any_o express_a act_n towards_o god_n but_o remain_v in_o a_o entire_a silence_n both_o of_o tongue_n &_o thought_n the_o virtue_n of_o the_o precedent_n direct_a act_n remain_v in_o she_o with_o a_o sweere_a tacit_a consent_v of_o love_n in_o the_o will_n permit_v god_n to_o take_v a_o entire_a possession_n of_o the_o soul_n as_o of_o a_o temple_n whole_o belong_v and_o consecrate_v to_o he_o in_o the_o which_o he_o be_v already_o present_a 6._o in_o this_o state_n the_o soul_n behave_v herself_o much_o after_o the_o manner_n of_o a_o humble_a faithful_a &_o love_a subject_n that_o out_o of_o duty_n &_o with_o most_o entire_a affection_n &_o respect_n approach_n to_o the_o presence_n of_o his_o sovereign_n at_o his_o first_o access_n he_o use_v such_o profound_a reverence_n &_o protestation_n of_o duty_n &_o fidelity_n as_o be_v befit_v but_o that_o be_v do_v he_o remain_v silent_a and_o immovable_a in_o his_o presence_n yet_o with_o the_o same_o respect_n &_o reverence_n that_o he_o first_o enter_v and_o know_v that_o his_o prince_n only_o ought_v to_o dispose_v of_o his_o fortune_n &_o state_n &_o that_o he_o be_v both_o most_o wise_a to_o judge_v what_o favour_n may_v become_v the_o one_o to_o give_v &_o the_o other_o to_o receive_v &_o withal_o that_o he_o have_v a_o love_n &_o magnificence_n to_o advance_v he_o beyond_o his_o desert_n he_o make_v no_o particular_a request_n at_o all_o now_o the_o reverence_n that_o he_o show_v he_o be_v not_o by_o make_v any_o express_a reflection_n or_o inward_a say_n the_o king_n be_v here_o to_o who_o i_o owe_v all_o duty_n love_n &_o obedience_n for_o know_v he_o to_o be_v present_a there_o be_v no_o need_n of_o renew_v either_o speech_n or_o thought_n that_o he_o be_v so_o and_o real_o exhibit_v all_o manner_n of_o respect_n to_o he_o it_o will_v be_v to_o no_o purpose_n to_o make_v either_o internal_a or_o external_a profession_n of_o it_o he_o be_v in_o a_o readiness_n to_o hear_v &_o execute_v any_o command_n &_o till_o he_o be_v inform_v by_o the_o king_n how_o he_o ought_v to_o perform_v his_o will_n &_o service_n he_o be_v not_o forward_o to_o voluntary_a undertake_n so_o do_v the_o soul_n according_a to_o the_o instruction_n of_o roias_n behave_v herself_o in_o god_n presence_n not_o renew_v but_o only_o persevere_v in_o the_o virtue_n of_o those_o direct_a act_n of_o faith_n love_n duty_n &c_n &c_n which_o she_o frame_v in_o the_o beginning_n if_o be_v in_o this_o vacancy_n &_o internal_a silence_n god_n spirit_n shall_v suggest_v unto_o she_o any_o pure_a affection_n she_o be_v attentive_a &_o ready_a to_o entertain_v &_o quiet_o exercise_v they_o &_o present_o return_v to_o her_o silence_n 7._o if_o during_o this_o silence_n the_o soul_n find_v any_o aridity_n obscurity_n or_o insensiblenes_n in_o inferior_a nature_n &c_n &c_n those_o thing_n do_v not_o interrupt_v she_o persevere_v in_o her_o silence_n &_o virtual_a exercise_n of_o faith_n oblation_n &_o resignation_n join_v with_o a_o quiet_a attention_n to_o his_o will_n &_o inspiration_n yet_o if_o indeed_o she_o shall_v forget_v herself_o &_o that_o either_o wander_v thought_n or_o sensual_a affection_n shall_v press_v
upon_o she_o &_o divert_v her_o attention_n from_o god_n which_o can_v scarce_o be_v while_o she_o be_v vigilant_a to_o expel_v all_o image_n whatsoever_o that_o may_v cause_v she_o to_o break_v her_o internal_a silence_n she_o can_v easy_o recover_v the_o say_v silent_a attention_n by_o renew_v if_o need_v be_v a_o short_a express_a act_n of_o faith_n of_o the_o divine_a presence_n etc._n etc._n 8._o in_o this_o attention_n to_o god_n she_o be_v far_o from_o expect_v any_o extraordinary_a illumination_n favour_n or_o visit_n of_o which_o she_o account_v herself_o utter_o unworthy_a 9_o last_o she_o have_v no_o suspicion_n or_o fear_n lest_o such_o a_o respectful_a silence_n shall_v be_v mere_a idleness_n or_o cessation_n for_o she_o know_v it_o to_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o love_n and_o respect_n and_o since_o a_o intellectual_a soul_n be_v all_o activity_n so_o that_o it_o can_v continue_v a_o moment_n with_o hout_n some_o desire_n the_o soul_n then_o reject_v all_o desire_n towards_o create_a object_n she_o can_v choose_v but_o tend_v inward_o in_o her_o affection_n to_o god_n for_o which_o end_n only_o she_o put_v herself_o in_o such_o a_o posture_n of_o prayer_n her_o tendance_n then_o be_v much_o like_o that_o of_o the_o mount_a of_o a_o eagle_n after_o a_o precedent_n vigorous_a spring_a motion_n and_o extension_n of_o her_o wing_n the_o which_o cease_v in_o virtue_n thereof_o the_o flight_n be_v continue_v for_o a_o good_a space_n with_o a_o great_a swiftness_n but_o withal_o with_o great_a stillnes_n quietness_n &_o ease_n without_o any_o wave_n of_o the_o wing_n at_o all_o or_o the_o least_o force_n use_v in_o any_o member_n be_v in_o as_o much_o ease_n &_o stillnes_n as_o if_o she_o be_v repose_v in_o her_o nest_n 10._o this_o seem_v to_o i_o to_o be_v in_o sum_n the_o fashion_n of_o that_o internal_a prayer_n of_o silence_n recommend_v by_o roias_n the_o which_o without_o any_o variation_n he_o will_v have_v exercise_v daily_o morning_n &_o evening_n allow_v to_o each_o recollection_n about_o a_o hour_n 11._o now_o the_o advantage_n that_o he_o not_o without_o ground_n of_o reason_n attribute_n to_o it_o be_v 1._o that_o it_o cause_v far_o more_o profound_a recollection_n than_o any_o other_o kind_n of_o set_v internal_a prayer_n because_o a_o soul_n have_v either_o by_o a_o short_a discourse_n or_o exercise_v of_o faith_n oblation_n etc._n etc._n find_v he_o who_o be_v the_o centre_n of_o her_o repose_n she_o than_o leave_v all_o the_o room_n and_o appartement_n of_o sense_n both_o external_a and_o internal_a void_a &_o empty_a &_o pass_v forward_o to_o those_o of_o the_o spirit_n which_o be_v pure_a clear_a and_o secure_a 2._o it_o do_v extreme_o abate_v the_o activity_n both_o of_o the_o imagination_n &_o passion_n neither_o of_o which_o do_v it_o suffer_v to_o stir_v at_o all_o 3._o god_n be_v most_o perfect_o contemplate_v in_o it_o be_v apprehend_v simple_o and_o true_o by_o faith_n in_o the_o superior_a spirit_n for_o as_o long_o as_o there_o be_v discourse_n in_o the_o understanding_n image_n permit_v to_o rest_n in_o the_o fancy_n &_o sensible_a motion_n of_o tenderness_n in_o the_o heart_n there_o god_n be_v not_o perfect_o &_o entire_o the_o object_n of_o such_o operation_n in_o spiritu_fw-la non_fw-la in_o commotione_fw-la dominus_fw-la say_v the_o prophet_n elias_n god_n be_v not_o in_o the_o rush_a wind_n he_o be_v not_o in_o the_o stir_n of_o passion_n or_o of_o the_o imagination_n but_o in_o sibilo_fw-la aurae_fw-la tenuis_fw-la he_o be_v in_o the_o silent_a whisper_n of_o a_o soft_a air_n and_o say_v david_n factus_fw-la est_fw-la in_o pace_fw-la locus_fw-la eius_fw-la his_o place_n of_o abode_n be_v in_o the_o clear_a &_o peaceful_a region_n of_o the_o spirit_n 4._o moreover_o by_o this_o exercise_n we_o come_v to_o the_o most_o perfect_a operation_n of_o selfe-annihilation_a by_o which_o both_o ourselves_o and_o all_o creature_n be_v so_o transcend_v and_o forget_v as_o if_o they_o be_v not_o at_o all_o neither_o can_v the_o devil_n find_v where_o to_o fasten_v a_o tentation_n we_o present_v to_o god_n the_o temple_n of_o our_o soul_n empty_a to_o the_o end_n he_o alone_o may_v possess_v it_o which_o he_o will_v not_o fail_v to_o do_v and_o withal_o most_o rich_o adorn_v it_o make_v it_o fit_a for_o such_o a_o guest_n 12._o to_o these_o benefit_n may_v be_v add_v this_o which_o be_v a_o great_a one_o and_o fruitful_a in_o many_o blessing_n to_o wit_n that_o in_o this_o exercise_n all_o divine_a virtue_n be_v in_o a_o very_a sublime_a manner_n exercise_v viz._n 1._o i'faith_o by_o which_o the_o soul_n quit_v all_o discourse_n and_o doubt_v believe_v &_o even_o perceive_v the_o divine_a presence_n by_o which_o she_o conquer_v the_o world_n exalt_v herself_o so_o much_o above_o all_o create_a thing_n that_o they_o be_v out_o of_o her_o sight_n 2._o hope_v because_o the_o soul_n place_v herself_o before_o god_n in_o the_o posture_n of_o a_o beggar_n confident_o expect_v that_o he_o will_v impart_v to_o she_o both_o the_o knowledge_n of_o his_o will_n and_o ability_n to_o fulfil_v it_o 3._o love_n because_o the_o soul_n resolute_o affect_v nothing_o but_o correspondence_n to_o the_o divine_a love._n 4._o resignation_n since_o the_o soul_n forget_v all_o private_a interest_n have_v nothing_o at_o all_o to_o ask_v neither_o repose_n nor_o business_n but_o only_o whatsoever_o god_n will_v have_v she_o to_o enjoy_v do_v or_o suffer_v 5._o patience_n because_o herein_o the_o soul_n must_v expect_v to_o suffer_v many_o aridity_n desolation_n obscurity_n encumbrance_n of_o thought_n tentation_n and_o other_o internal_a affliction_n whence_o it_o be_v that_o thaulerus_n give_v unto_o a_o exercise_n much_o resemble_v this_o the_o name_n of_o the_o afflict_a exercise_n 6._o purity_n for_o the_o soul_n be_v hereby_o separate_v from_o all_o adhesion_n to_o creature_n be_v unite_v to_o god_n only_o 7._o mortification_n of_o which_o here_o be_v the_o very_a quintessence_n for_o when_o the_o soul_n act_v in_o spirit_n only_o they_o the_o flesh_n become_v insipid_a &_o without_o taste_n say_v s._n gregory_n the_o flesh_n with_o all_o its_o desire_n be_v here_o slay_v as_o it_o be_v and_o bury_v out_o of_o the_o way_n the_o eye_n see_v nothing_o please_v to_o sense_n the_o ear_n hear_v nothing_o the_o tongue_n be_v silent_a a_o curtain_n be_v draw_v before_o all_o image_n &_o representation_n in_o the_o memory_n the_o will_n be_v separate_v from_o all_o create_a thing_n neither_o willing_a nor_o nill_v any_o of_o they_o but_o permit_v god_n to_o will_n for_o she_o 8._o obedience_n for_o the_o understand_a contract_n and_o abase_v the_o wing_n of_o all_o discourse_n and_o dispute_v against_o any_o thing_n that_o god_n command_v 9_o humility_n in_o the_o most_o perfect_a degree_n because_o the_o soul_n therein_o and_o thereby_o be_v even_o reduce_v to_o nothing_o 10._o in_o a_o word_n here_o be_v adoration_n sacrifice_n devotion_n &_o all_o grace_n unite_v together_o where_o creature_n be_v exclude_v &_o god_n with_o all_o his_o perfection_n be_v alone_o expose_v to_o all_o the_o faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o be_v contemplate_v by_o the_o mind_n embrace_v by_o the_o will_n and_o to_o be_v the_o sole_a object_n of_o all_o her_o operation_n here_o be_v abstraction_n in_o perfection_n and_o as_o phaulerus_n say_v all_o virtue_n be_v learn_v in_o learning_n abstraction_n 13._o this_o be_v a_o exercise_n fit_a for_o all_o sort_n almost_o &_o all_o disposition_n of_o soul_n learn_v be_v but_o a_o small_a furtherance_n neither_o needs_o it_o be_v any_o hindrance_n to_o it_o it_o exclude_v no_o other_o kind_n of_o prayer_n exercise_n or_o devotion_n for_o any_o kind_n of_o prayer_n may_v be_v use_v as_o a_o preparation_n to_o find_v god_n in_o the_o spirit_n and_o that_o be_v once_o do_v the_o soul_n be_v to_o chase_v away_o all_o object_n that_o be_v not_o god_n that_o she_o may_v be_v unite_v to_o he_o alone_o know_v he_o most_o perfect_o by_o ignorance_n approach_v to_o he_o by_o rest_v and_o forbear_v all_o motion_n and_o converse_v with_o he_o most_o comfortable_o and_o proffitable_o by_o silence_n by_o this_o holy_a idleness_n in_o pure_a recollective_a prayer_n the_o soul_n attain_v to_o a_o clear_a and_o most_o comfortable_a experience_n of_o that_o which_o be_v obscure_o apprehend_v by_o faith_n &_o can_v be_v know_v by_o discourse_n this_o be_v that_o mors_fw-la angelorum_fw-la death_n of_o angel_n that_o s._n bernard_n desire_v by_o virtue_n of_o which_o they_o regard_v not_o neither_o live_v in_o themselves_o as_o the_o apostate_n angel_n do_v but_o in_o god_n only_o &_o god_n in_o they_o there_o be_v no_o other_o act_n of_o the_o understanding_n exercise_v in_o this_o but_o that_o only_a which_o be_v the_o most_o perfect_a to_o wit_n simple_a intelligence_n which_o be_v
incapable_a of_o error_n and_o the_o will_n seek_v nothing_o desire_v nothing_o but_o emoyes_n all_o 14._o now_o as_o touch_v the_o forementioned_a preparation_n soul_n ought_v not_o to_o think_v themselves_o oblige_v to_o make_v use_n always_o of_o these_o but_o to_o use_v their_o own_o liberty_n that_o be_v a_o excellent_a preparation_n which_o the_o good_a simple_a devout_a old-woman_n be_v say_v to_o use_v who_o when_o she_o set_v herself_o to_o her_o devotion_n in_o the_o church_n say_v only_o o_o my_o god_n let_v that_o come_v to_o thou_o which_o i_o wish_v &_o let_v that_o befall_v i_o which_o thou_o desire_v and_o have_v say_v this_o present_o with_o a_o belief_n of_o god_n presence_n she_o abandon_v herself_o into_o god_n hand_n remain_v in_o this_o silent_a busy_a idleness_n &_o negative_a knowledge_n more_o full_a of_o fervour_n &_o light_n then_o all_o the_o speculation_n of_o the_o school_n or_o studious_a meditation_n of_o cloister_n 15._o now_o whereas_o the_o author_n commend_v this_o exercise_n both_o to_o the_o perfect_a &_o imperfect_a confident_o affirm_v that_o any_o one_o may_v secure_o begin_v with_o it_o even_o at_o the_o first_o entrance_n into_o a_o spiritual_a course_n as_o many_o have_v do_v with_o great_a &_o speedy_a profit_n i_o conceive_v that_o in_o such_o a_o case_n there_o will_v be_v need_n of_o more_o than_o ordinary_a courage_n in_o beginner_n to_o prosecute_v it_o for_o their_o understanding_n &_o inward_a sense_n not_o yet_o be_v store_v with_o good_a image_n to_o chase_v away_o vain_a distraction_n nor_o their_o will_n sufficient_o inflame_v with_o holy_a desire_n it_o be_v not_o possible_a but_o they_o must_v often_o be_v assault_v terrible_o with_o most_o tedious_a aridity_n passion_n &c_n &c_n they_o will_v be_v oft_o suspicious_a that_o they_o spend_v most_o of_o their_o recollection_n in_o a_o mere_a fruitless_a idleness_n &_o so_o will_v be_v apt_a to_o fall_v into_o doubt_n &_o to_o betake_v themselves_o to_o unquiet_a consultation_n with_o other_o but_o if_o they_o can_v avoid_v this_o &_o resolute_o go_v on_o notwithstanding_o these_o discouragement_n no_o doubt_n they_o will_v reap_v inestimable_a benefit_n by_o it_o but_o consider_v these_o great_a tentation_n &_o danger_n i_o shall_v judge_v that_o the_o most_o secure_a way_n be_v not_o to_o adventure_v upon_o this_o exercise_n at_o the_o beginning_n till_o one_o be_v arrive_v to_o the_o practice_n of_o immediate_a acts._n and_o also_o in_o the_o prosecution_n of_o it_o it_o will_v be_v necessary_a to_o use_v great_a abstraction_n of_o life_n &_o to_o practice_v likewise_o out_o of_o time_n of_o prayer_n the_o same_o internal_a silence_n calm_v both_o the_o busy_a work_v of_o the_o imagination_n &_o still_v the_o motion_n of_o even_o good_a desire_n both_o in_o study_n work_v say_v the_o office_n etc._n etc._n 16._o though_o the_o exercise_n be_v the_o same_o in_o substance_n at_o all_o time_n yet_o by_o long_o practice_v it_o grow_n more_o &_o more_o pure_a &_o abstract_a the_o silence_n &_o introversion_n grow_n more_o profound_a &_o the_o operation_n more_o imperceptible_a and_o it_o will_v in_o time_n secure_o bring_v a_o soul_n to_o that_o which_o s._n teresa_n call_v the_o prayer_n of_o quietness_n which_o be_v indeed_o perfect_a contemplation_n to_o which_o this_o be_v but_o a_o imperfect_a degree_n &_o of_o which_o this_o be_v but_o a_o sleight_n imitation_n 17._o some_o spiritual_a writer_n do_v express_v the_o state_n &_o behaviour_n of_o a_o soul_n in_o such_o a_o kind_n of_o prayer_n as_o this_o by_o his_o phrase_n that_o the_o soul_n be_v then_o aux_n escoutte_v that_o be_v she_o be_v watch_v &_o attend_v what_o god_n will_v speak_v to_o she_o or_o work_v in_o she_o the_o which_o phrase_n be_v to_o some_o very_a suspicious_a &_o offensive_a as_o if_o it_o imply_v that_o the_o practiser_n of_o such_o prayer_n do_v pretend_v to_o extraordinary_a visitation_n &_o favour_n from_o which_o notwithstanding_o they_o be_v whole_o averse_a and_o they_o mean_v no_o more_o by_o the_o phrase_n but_o only_o to_o signify_v that_o the_o most_o perfect_a disposition_n that_o the_o soul_n can_v put_v herself_o in_o to_o receive_v divine_a light_n &_o to_o be_v enable_v to_o tend_v pure_o &_o spiritual_o to_o god_n be_v by_o silence_v all_o noise_n of_o creature_n &_o their_o image_n by_o quiet_v all_o motion_n of_o passion_n by_o admit_v no_o other_o operation_n of_o the_o understanding_n but_o simple_a intelligence_n of_o object_n apprehend_v by_o faith_n &_o last_o by_o a_o real_a embrace_v with_o the_o will_n no_o other_o object_n but_o god_n himself_o without_o reflect_v or_o profess_v that_o the_o will_n adhere_v to_o he_o it_o be_v sure_o a_o far_a more_o perfect_a expression_n of_o resignation_n to_o the_o divine_a will_n in_o any_o difficulty_n &_o affliction_n real_o &_o quiet_o to_o embrace_v it_o with_o perfect_a silence_n then_o to_o busy_a one_o self_n with_o profession_n that_o one_o do_v embrace_v it_o as_o also_o actual_o &_o indeed_o to_o love_n then_o to_o say_v one_o love_n etc._n etc._n 18._o now_o though_o no_o distinct_a reflect_v or_o otherwise_o express_v act_n either_o of_o the_o understanding_n or_o will_n be_v admit_v into_o this_o exercise_n yet_o the_o soul_n be_v far_o from_o that_o mere_a cessation_n or_o non-actuation_a profess_v by_o the_o frantic_a illuminate_v for_o here_o the_o soul_n be_v in_o a_o case_n like_o to_o a_o tender_a mother_n with_o unspeakable_a satisfaction_n regard_v her_o most_o amiable_a child_n she_o all_o the_o while_n say_v nothing_o neither_o think_v any_o express_a distinct_a thought_n of_o which_o she_o can_v give_v any_o account_n yet_o both_o her_o mind_n &_o will_v also_o be_v busy_a yea_o the_o mind_n in_o one_o simple_a regard_n have_v the_o virtue_n of_o many_o long_a discourse_n &_o the_o will_n in_o one_o quiet_a continue_a application_n have_v the_o quintessence_n of_o a_o thousand_o distinct_a affection_n in_o like_a manner_n a_o soul_n do_v actual_o regard_n god_n &_o be_v in_o his_o presence_n she_o do_v real_o with_o adoration_n humility_n resignation_n &_o love_n behave_v herself_o towards_o he_o and_o what_o need_n be_v there_o that_o she_o shall_v tell_v he_o that_o she_o do_v acknowledge_v his_o presence_n or_o that_o she_o do_v adore_v love_n &_o resign_v herself_o to_o he_o she_o rather_o choose_v the_o psalmist_n way_n of_o praise_v &_o serve_v god_n who_o instead_o of_o the_o latin_a interpretation_n te_fw-la decet_fw-la hymnus_fw-la deus_fw-la in_o zion_n psalm_n 64._o in_o the_o hebrew_n expression_n follow_v by_o the_o septuagint_n say_v domine_fw-la tibi_fw-la silentium_fw-la laus_fw-la est_fw-la silence_n be_v praise_n to_o thou_o o_o lord_n &_o indeed_o the_o most_o effectual_a become_a praise_n of_o all_o other_o it_o be_v proceed_v out_o of_o a_o deep_a sense_n of_o his_o incomprehensible_a perfection_n &_o majesty_n who_o the_o seraphin_n contemplate_v by_o cover_v their_o face_n &_o glorify_v most_o perfect_o in_o that_o profound_a and_o awful_a halfe-houre_n silence_n mention_v in_o the_o apocalypse_n 19_o thus_o we_o conclude_v our_o instruction_n concern_v the_o two_o inferior_a degree_n of_o internal_a affective_a prayer_n the_o remainder_n of_o this_o book_n will_v be_v employ_v about_o the_o bless_a fruit_n of_o all_o our_o labour_n to_o wit_n perfect_a contemplation_n the_o advice_n about_o which_o be_v not_o mean_v for_o the_o inform_v of_o those_o that_o be_v arrive_v thereto_o for_o they_o have_v a_o divine_a light_n shine_v bright_o in_o their_o heart_n beyond_o all_o humane_a instruction_n but_o for_o the_o encouragement_n of_o those_o that_o tend_v towards_o so_o divine_a a_o state_n that_o will_v abundant_o recompense_v all_o the_o labour_n pain_n bitterness_n &_o contradiction_n that_o occur_v in_o the_o way_n yea_o though_o the_o wellminded_n soul_n shall_v never_o in_o this_o life_n attain_v thereto_o yet_o faithful_o tend_v towards_o it_o to_o her_o last_o hour_n she_o will_v not_o want_n even_o here_o a_o sufficient_a recompense_n of_o divine_a light_n &_o grace_n with_o a_o inestimable_a comfort_n of_o mind_n at_o her_o death_n and_o afterward_o she_o will_v not_o fail_v of_o the_o peculiar_a crown_n due_a to_o those_o that_o here_o do_v aspire_v to_o contemplation_n 20._o let_v no_o excuse_n therefore_o be_v admit_v no_o encumbrance_n hinder_v soul_n those_o especial_o who_o profession_n and_o state_n be_v contemplation_n to_o pursue_v the_o way_n of_o prayer_n proper_a thereto_o with_o all_o courage_n &_o perseverance_n for_o as_o s._n teresa_n say_v it_o be_v of_o great_a importance_n to_o have_v a_o resolute_a determination_n and_o fix_a purpose_n of_o mind_n never_o to_o desist_v from_o diligent_a endeavour_n until_o at_o length_n we_o come_v to_o drink_v of_o this_o water_n of_o life_n i_o mean_v supernatural_a prayer_n labour_v therefore_o for_o it_o come_v what_o will_v come_v
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 wây_o they_o be_v so_o call_v §_o 3._o example_n of_o aspiration_n §_o 4._o â_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
work_n read_v harken_v to_o a_o lesson_n recite_v say_v or_o hear_v mass_n communicate_v &c_n &c_n neither_o be_v there_o any_o negligence_n or_o irreverence_n commit_v by_o so_o do_v for_o by_o no_o operation_n so_o much_o as_o by_o aspiration_n do_v a_o soul_n enjoy_v a_o sublime_a and_o perfect_a union_n in_o spirit_n with_o god_n which_o be_v the_o end_n of_o all_o exercise_n and_o duty_n and_o this_o be_v the_o meaning_n of_o that_o say_n of_o mystic_n in_o god_n nothing_o be_v neglect_v yea_o some_o of_o they_o do_v affirm_v that_o there_o may_v be_v soul_n so_o perfect_a that_o even_o amid_o the_o noise_n and_o disorder_n of_o a_o camp_n they_o may_v without_o neglect_v their_o present_a duty_n there_o most_o efficacious_o exercise_v themselves_o in_o aspiration_n to_o god_n 17._o now_o the_o reason_n why_o aspiration_n be_v less_o hinder_v by_o external_a business_n then_o be_v meditation_n or_o immediate_a act_n be_v because_o in_o aspiration_n the_o understanding_n be_v scarce_o at_o all_o employ_v &_o therefore_o may_v well_o enough_o attend_v to_o other_o business_n and_o moreover_o the_o will_n abound_v &_o even_o overflow_a with_o divine_a love_n will_v not_o find_v herself_o interress_v in_o affection_n &_o consequent_o not_o distract_v by_o such_o employment_n 18._o there_o be_v great_a variety_n in_o the_o manner_n of_o produce_v aspiration_n for_o first_o some_o be_v pure_o mental_a be_v certain_a indeliberate_a quick_a elevation_n and_o springing_n up_o of_o the_o spirit_n to_o godward_a as_o sparkle_n of_o fire_n fly_v from_o a_o burn_a coal_n which_o be_v the_o expression_n of_o the_o author_n of_o the_o cloud_n of_o unknowing_a and_o of_o these_o some_o be_v more_o gross_a &_o imaginative_a especial_o in_o beginner_n &_o therefore_o not_o difficult_a to_o be_v express_v other_o in_o more_o perfect_a soul_n that_o be_v come_v to_o a_o high_a degree_n of_o spiritual_a abstraction_n grow_v more_o subtle_a &_o intellectual_a in_o so_o much_o as_o ofttimes_o the_o person_n himself_o can_v express_v what_o pass_v in_o his_o spirit_n which_o be_v indeed_o nothing_o but_o a_o blind_a &_o almost_o imperceptible_a elevation_n of_o the_o will_v exercise_v in_o the_o summity_n of_o the_o spirit_n as_o it_o happen_v ofttimes_o in_o the_o great_a desolation_n now_o this_o growth_n of_o immateriality_n in_o aspiration_n be_v not_o easy_o perceptible_a though_o it_o be_v real_a &_o certain_a as_o we_o know_v that_o corn_n grow_v though_o we_o can_v perceive_v its_o grow_a and_o indeed_o it_o be_v no_o great_a matter_n whether_o we_o observe_v such_o degree_n or_o no_o yea_o the_o examination_n thereof_o be_v better_o neglect_v 19_o again_o other_o aspiration_n be_v moreover_o external_o express_v by_o the_o tongue_n and_o in_o such_o expression_n sometime_o there_o be_v a_o proper_a sense_n and_o meaning_n as_o deus_fw-la meus_fw-la &_o omne_fw-la which_o be_v s._n francis_n his_o aspiration_n or_o noverim_fw-la te_fw-la &_o noverim_fw-la i_o which_o be_v s._n augustins_n and_o in_o these_o sometime_o a_o soul_n do_v abide_v a_o good_a space_n iterate_v again_o and_o again_o the_o same_o aspiration_n sometime_o she_o do_v vary_v always_o procede_v according_a to_o her_o interior_a impulse_n from_o god_n holy_a spirit_n other_o aspiration_n have_v no_o sense_n at_o all_o as_o be_v those_o practise_v by_o br._n massaeus_n a_o disciple_n of_o s._n francis_n who_o when_o he_o be_v full_a of_o interior_a affection_n can_v usual_o cry_v out_o nothing_o but_o v.u.u._n such_o unusual_a aspiration_n as_o these_o do_v show_v a_o great_a excess_n of_o interior_a fervour_n which_o burst_v out_o force_v the_o soul_n not_o able_a to_o contain_v itself_o nor_o yet_o to_o find_v out_o word_n by_o which_o to_o express_v her_o affection_n to_o power_n forth_o itself_o after_o such_o a_o unsignificant_a manner_n 20._o moreover_o aspiration_n &_o forcible_a elevation_n of_o the_o will_v there_o be_v which_o be_v signify_v not_o by_o the_o tongue_n but_o by_o some_o extraordinary_a action_n of_o the_o body_n as_o clap_v of_o hand_n leap_v &c_n &c_n to_o this_o purpose_n we_o have_v a_o example_n of_o another_o disciple_n of_o s._n francis_n call_v br._n bernard_n who_o out_o of_o a_o inward_a boil_a fervour_n be_v force_v to_o run_v over_o mountain_n &_o rocky_a place_n be_v agitate_a with_o a_o kind_n of_o holy_a frenzy_n in_o such_o case_n as_o these_o tear_n be_v very_o rare_a god_n holy_a spirit_n not_o usual_o move_v thereto_o because_o they_o will_v then_o flow_v unmeasurable_o to_o the_o great_a prejudice_n of_o corporal_a health_n 21._o now_o such_o action_n &_o motion_n though_o they_o may_v be_v yield_v to_o sometime_o when_o one_o be_v alone_o yet_o in_o company_n they_o be_v to_o be_v suppress_v to_o which_o purpose_n blosius_n give_v this_o good_a instruction_n out_o of_o thaulerus_n that_o albeit_o these_o thing_n be_v good_a as_o flow_a from_o a_o divine_a principle_n yet_o they_o be_v not_o the_o thing_n principal_o to_o be_v commend_v for_o these_o union_n of_o the_o spirit_n with_o god_n to_o which_o corporal_a nature_n concurre_v be_v not_o to_o be_v equal_v to_o that_o most_o perfect_a union_n which_o some_o soul_n do_v experience_n in_o pure_a spirit_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v observable_a that_o such_o violent_a agitation_n do_v chief_o befall_v such_o soul_n as_o have_v have_v their_o exercise_n much_o in_o sensible_a devotion_n as_o woman_n &_o devout_a ignorant_a man_n and_o on_o the_o same_o ground_n such_o be_v more_o dispose_v to_o rapt_n ecstasy_n etc._n etc._n 22._o last_o to_o these_o several_a expression_n of_o aspiration_n may_v be_v add_v that_o of_o say_v the_o divine_a office_n or_o other_o vocal_a prayer_n aspirative_o which_o be_v a_o far_o great_a proof_n of_o sublime_a contemplation_n than_o any_o of_o these_o unusual_a motion_n &c_n &c_n this_o be_v the_o contemplation_n of_o many_o of_o the_o ancient_a hermit_n &_o be_v no_o doubt_n of_o some_o in_o these_o day_n as_o a_o certain_a spiritual_a writer_n say_v of_o himself_o that_o be_v in_o the_o constant_a exercise_n of_o aspiration_n use_v daily_o two_o recollection_n consist_v of_o they_o on_o a_o time_n he_o find_v himself_o invite_v to_o produce_v they_o vocal_o and_o thereupon_o he_o take_v in_o hand_n the_o say_n of_o our_o lady_n office_n choose_v that_o because_o he_o can_v say_v it_o perfect_o without-booke_n he_o repeat_v it_o nine_o or_o ten_o time_n a_o day_n with_o a_o perfect_a attention_n of_o spirit_n the_o which_o mental_a attention_n or_o operation_n be_v in_o effect_n but_o aspiration_n take_v the_o word_n as_o here_o we_o do_v in_o a_o large_a sense_n and_o so_o for_o a_o few_o day_n as_o long_o as_o that_o invitation_n and_o enablement_n last_v he_o use_v no_o other_o internal_a exercise_n find_v great_a benefit_n by_o this_o but_o that_o invitation_n cease_v he_o find_v himself_o again_o oblige_v to_o return_v to_o mere_a mental_a aspiration_n 23._o i_o will_v conclude_v this_o point_n with_o set_v down_o some_o of_o the_o great_a and_o inestimable_a benefit_n that_o accrue_v to_o soul_n by_o this_o sublime_a exercise_n as_o first_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o interior_a sense_n and_o sensitive_a faculty_n the_o dominion_n that_o the_o superior_a soul_n have_v over_o they_o be_v now_o become_v very_o great_a for_o in_o as_o much_o as_o it_o be_v god_n that_o help_v move_v and_o direct_v soul_n in_o their_o operation_n during_o this_o exercise_n of_o aspiration_n the_o heart_n also_o be_v estrange_v from_o the_o love_n of_o creature_n and_o replenish_v with_o divine_a love_n distractive_a thought_n &_o image_n of_o creature_n either_o do_v not_o press_v into_o the_o mind_n or_o if_o they_o do_v yet_o they_o pass_v no_o far_o then_o into_o the_o imagination_n or_o if_o the_o understanding_n do_v sometime_o busy_v itself_o with_o they_o yet_o they_o do_v scarce_o or_o not_o at_o all_o touch_n or_o affect_v the_o will_n the_o which_o be_v not_o by_o such_o extravagant_a thought_n interrupt_v or_o divert_v in_o her_o pursuit_n of_o aspiration_n and_o blind_a elevation_n whereas_o in_o immediate_a force_a act_n great_a force_n be_v to_o be_v use_v against_o such_o distraction_n which_o do_v not_o only_o busy_v the_o understanding_n but_o likewise_o more_o or_o less_o withdraw_v the_o will_n from_o god_n 24._o second_o in_o regard_n of_o sensible_a devotion_n though_o the_o devil_n may_v have_v great_a influence_n upon_o it_o in_o meditation_n or_o even_o sometime_o in_o immediate_a affection_n and_o act_n seek_v thereby_o to_o seduce_v soul_n to_o extravagance_n and_o a_o spiritual_a gluttony_n it_o be_v otherwise_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o aspiration_n which_o be_v so_o much_o elevate_v above_o the_o imagination_n and_o sensitive_a nature_n that_o here_o he_o have_v no_o advantage_n give_v he_o for_o such_o deceit_n and_o if_o during_o that_o sensible_a devotion_n
doctrine_n fit_a and_o agreeable_a to_o the_o vocation_n of_o our_o rule_n 7._o sept._n 1629._o f._n leander_n de_fw-fr s._n martino_n prior_n of_o s._n gregory_n and_o ordinary_a of_o the_o monastery_n of_o our_o lady_n of_o comfort_n in_o cambray_n again_o this_o treatise_n of_o doubt_n and_o call_v be_v a_o very_a good_a one_o 1630._o b._n rosendo_n barlow_n precedent_n of_o the_o english_a congregation_n of_o the_o order_n of_o s._n ben._n to_o the_o book_n of_o confession_n the_o original_a whereof_o be_v lose_v but_o a_o perfect_a transcript_n remain_v be_v this_o approbation_n i_o have_v read_v this_o book_n and_o have_v find_v nothing_o in_o it_o against_o faith_n or_o good_a manner_n for_o although_o the_o author_n dispute_v much_o against_o the_o urge_n of_o confession_n of_o venial_a sin_n as_o unnecessary_a to_o spiritual_a profit_n yet_o he_o do_v not_o in_o any_o sort_n condemn_v the_o discreet_a use_n of_o frequent_a confession_n of_o venial_a sin_n but_o only_o the_o needless_a renumeration_n of_o they_o and_o of_o daily_a defect_n which_o can_v be_v use_v without_o great_a loss_n of_o time_n and_o anxiety_n of_o mind_n in_o testimony_n of_o this_o i_o subscribe_v my_o name_n at_o cambray_n 17._o sept._n 1629._o br._n rudisind_v barlow_n precedent_n of_o the_o english_a congregation_n of_o the_o order_n of_o s._n bennet_n beside_o these_o many_o more_o approbation_n may_v be_v add_v annex_v by_o the_o same_o vv._n rr._n ff_n to_o other_o book_n as_o to_o that_o of_o discretion_n of_o sickness_n direction_n for_o the_o idiot_n devotion_n contain_v in_o 16._o several_a book_n remedy_n the_o stay_v of_o the_o soul_n in_o tentation_n in_o two_o volume_n a_o book_n call_v the_o five_o treatise_n the_o alphabet_n and_o abstract_n etc._n etc._n but_o i_o make_v choice_n only_o of_o the_o forementioned_a because_o they_o treat_v of_o subject_n more_o likely_a to_o meet_v with_o contradiction_n suppose_v therefore_o that_o these_o will_v suffice_v which_o be_v take_v from_o the_o original_n extant_a at_o cambray_n in_o the_o approver_n own_o hand-writing_n i_o will_v here_o adjoine_v the_o forementioned_a memorial_n contain_v both_o a_o approbation_n and_o explication_n of_o the_o general_a doctrine_n of_o our_o v._o venerable_a author_n a_o memorial_n write_v by_o the_o late_a v._o r._n f._n leander_n â_o s._n marcino_n and_o place_v in_o the_o book_n of_o collection_n i_o have_v read_v over_o careful_o the_o book_n a._n b._n c._n and_o the_o alphabet_n &_o abstract_n as_o also_o the_o 3._o part_n of_o doubt_n &_o call_v beside_o diverse_a other_o treatise_n of_o the_o same_o author_n in_o all_o which_o be_v to_o be_v see_v my_o approbation_n &_o allowance_n in_o the_o begin_n of_o they_o they_o do_v all_o contain_v very_o sound_a &_o wholesome_a doctrine_n for_o the_o direction_n of_o devout_a soul_n &_o fit_a &_o agreeable_a to_o our_o call_v &_o rule_n and_o especial_o for_o the_o use_n of_o our_o dame_n the_o spirit_n of_o our_o holy_a rule_n consist_v principal_o in_o a_o spiritual_a union_n of_o our_o soul_n with_o god_n in_o affective_a prayer_n &_o exercise_v of_o the_o will_v immediate_o upon_o god_n rather_o then_o intellectual_a &_o discursive_a prayer_n busy_v the_o understanding_n as_o appear_v plain_o by_o our_o rule_n and_o the_o daily_a use_n of_o our_o choir_n office_n which_o for_o the_o most_o part_n consist_v of_o aspiration_n and_o affect_n and_o have_v very_o few_o discourse_n yet_o because_o the_o author_n refer_v the_o dame_n his_o scholar_n to_o his_o large_a explication_n by_o word_n of_o mouth_n in_o many_o place_n and_o to_o his_o practice_n in_o which_o he_o settle_v they_o both_o which_o can_v not_o be_v know_v but_o by_o those_o who_o know_v the_o author_n and_o this_o mystic_a way_n though_o most_o plain_a most_o secure_a and_o most_o compendious_a to_o perfection_n contain_v many_o hard_a &_o delicate_a point_n which_o will_v seem_v strange_a to_o such_o as_o have_v be_v only_o accustom_v to_o intellectual_a meditation_n and_o little_a to_o affective_a prayer_n by_o reason_n of_o the_o great_a abstraction_n which_o it_o require_v from_o all_o thing_n that_o be_v not_o god_n lest_o the_o ensue_a confessor_n and_o directour_n shall_v mistake_v the_o meaning_n of_o the_o author_n and_o thereupon_o alter_v the_o course_n of_o prayer_n begin_v and_o settle_v in_o the_o house_n as_o we_o hope_v to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n &_o spiritual_a profit_n of_o soul_n in_o perfection_n proper_a to_o our_o call_v i_o have_v think_v convenient_a to_o note_v these_o few_o point_n follow_a first_o of_o all_o that_o the_o reader_n of_o these_o book_n &_o collection_n have_v always_o before_o his_o eye_n that_o they_o be_v write_v precise_o &_o only_o for_o such_o soul_n as_o by_o god_n holy_a grace_n do_v effectual_o &_o constant_o dedicate_v themselves_o to_o as_o pure_a a_o abstraction_n from_o creature_n as_o may_v with_o discretion_n be_v practise_v in_o the_o community_n and_o consequent_o for_o such_o as_o abstain_v from_o all_o manner_n of_o levity_n loss_n of_o time_n notable_a and_o know_v defect_n vain_a talk_n needless_a familiarity_n &_o in_o a_o word_n do_v take_v as_o much_o care_n as_o they_o can_v to_o avoid_v all_o venial_a sin_n &_o occasion_n of_o they_o and_o all_o thing_n which_o they_o shâll_v perceive_v or_o be_v warn_v of_o to_o be_v impediment_n to_o the_o divine_a union_n of_o their_o soul_n with_o god_n second_o let_v he_o consider_v that_o it_o be_v suppose_v as_o a_o ground_n in_o all_o those_o collection_n &_o observation_n that_o the_o office_n of_o choir_n &_o action_n of_o obedience_n &_o conuentuall_a act_n and_o all_o other_o thing_n prescribe_v by_o rule_n &_o statute_n be_v most_o exact_o to_o be_v keep_v &_o observe_v yea_o prefer_v before_o all_o other_o private_a exercise_n whatsoever_o so_o that_o all_o these_o instruction_n be_v to_o be_v understand_v always_o with_o reservation_n of_o the_o conuentuall_a discipline_n &_o public_a observance_n prescribe_v by_o obedience_n particular_o let_v the_o reader_n observe_v a_o note_n which_o be_v give_v in_o one_o of_o these_o book_n &_o find_v but_o in_o few_o spiritual_a writer_n yet_o necessary_a for_o those_o religious_a that_o be_v addict_v to_o the_o choir_n viz_o that_o although_o the_o author_n commend_v so_o high_o mental_a prayer_n yet_o that_o prayer_n which_o be_v perfect_o mental_a &_o vocal_a too_o be_v far_o more_o excellent_a then_o that_o which_o be_v mental_a only_o as_o will_v be_v the_o exercise_n of_o the_o saint_n in_o heaven_n after_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n when_o in_o body_n &_o soul_n they_o âhall_v praise_v &_o contemplate_v almighty_a god_n whereupon_o it_o follow_v that_o although_o in_o this_o life_n our_o frail_a &_o weak_a body_n hinder_v our_o soul_n that_o our_o prayer_n can_v be_v so_o perfect_o mental_a &_o vocal_a as_o it_o shall_v be_v in_o heaven_n yet_o must_v our_o mental_a prayer_n be_v so_o practise_v that_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n &_o joy_v all_o perseverance_n in_o union_n with_o he_o our_o vocal_a prayer_n inquire_v may_v be_v convert_v into_o mental_a that_o be_v that_o our_o vocal_a say_n &_o sing_v may_v be_v so_o lively_o animate_v as_o it_o be_v &_o inform_v with_o affect_v of_o the_o soul_n as_o if_o it_o be_v altogether_o spiritual_a prayer_n and_o so_o shall_v we_o fulfil_v the_o word_n of_o our_o rule_n nihil_fw-la praeponatur_fw-la operi_fw-la dei_fw-la nothing_n prefer_v before_o the_o office_n of_o the_o choir_n whereas_o in_o diverse_a place_n the_o author_n say_v that_o all_o bodily_a exercise_n even_o frequent_v the_o sacrament_n without_o mental_a prayer_n &_o abstraction_n &_o mortification_n do_v not_o advance_v a_o soul_n one_o âot_n in_o spirit_n although_o it_o be_v plain_a enough_o to_o they_o that_o know_v the_o necessity_n of_o these_o 3._o instrument_n of_o spiritual_a perfection_n yet_o lest_o any_o shall_v mistake_v his_o meaning_n as_o if_o these_o former_a exercise_n do_v not_o profit_n a_o soul_n at_o all_o without_o these_o instrument_n practise_v by_o few_o out_o of_o the_o former_a advice_n the_o reader_n must_v understand_v that_o by_o advancement_n in_o spirit_n be_v mean_v here_o not_o the_o bare_a avoid_n of_o grosser_n sin_n &_o some_o perfection_n too_o in_o active_a life_n which_o be_v get_v by_o these_o bodily_a exercise_n but_o a_o clear_a &_o experimental_a knowledge_n of_o the_o will_n of_o god_n &_o a_o spiritualize_a of_o the_o soul_n by_o adhere_v to_o god_n &_o transcend_v all_o creature_n whatsoever_o for_o this_o do_v the_o mystic_a doctor_n call_v advancement_n in_o spirit_n &_o this_o can_v be_v attain_v unto_o but_o by_o the_o three_o above_o name_v instrument_n continual_o practise_v &_o employ_v by_o god_n grace_n which_o notwithstanding_o the_o author_n deni_v not_o but_o that_o a_o soul_n without_o the_o foresay_a exercise_n
may_v so_o profit_n in_o spirit_n as_o active_a soul_n do_v that_o live_v in_o world_o manner_n that_o they_o may_v careful_o avoid_v sin_n &_o keep_v god_n commandment_n &_o be_v true_o unite_v to_o god_n in_o follow_a his_o will_n by_o the_o use_n of_o bodily_a exercise_n &_o frequency_n of_o sacrament_n although_o they_o use_v not_o much_o mental_a prayer_n abstraction_n &_o mortification_n for_o if_o they_o use_v none_o at_o all_o as_o no_o good_a christian_n but_o use_v they_o in_o some_o degree_n undoubted_o they_o will_v not_o profit_n at_o all_o in_o spirit_n neither_o active_o nor_o contemplative_o nor_o avoid_v sin_n nor_o be_v in_o any_o sort_n unite_v to_o god_n about_o the_o doctrine_n of_o confession_n whereas_o the_o author_n dispute_v much_o against_o the_o use_n of_o confession_n of_o venial_a sin_n as_o necessary_a to_o spiritual_a profit_n it_o be_v to_o be_v understand_v that_o he_o do_v not_o in_o any_o wise_a condemn_v the_o discreet_a use_n of_o frequent_a confession_n but_o only_o the_o needless_a numeration_n of_o venial_a sin_n &_o daily_a defect_n which_o some_o soul_n do_v make_v in_o their_o confession_n with_o great_a anxiety_n of_o mind_n &_o some_o confessor_n do_v oblige_v their_o penitent_n unto_o with_o great_a prejudice_n of_o that_o cheerful_a liberty_n of_o spirit_n which_o a_o soul_n shall_v have_v to_o converse_v in_o prayer_n with_o god_n &_o be_v common_o a_o cause_n of_o scrupule_n one_o of_o the_o great_a banns_n of_o spiritual_a perfection_n so_o that_o for_o soul_n that_o be_v by_o nature_n prone_a to_o fear_v &_o scrupulosity_n the_o director_n of_o necessity_n must_v moderate_v they_o both_o in_o the_o frequency_n of_o confession_n &_o matter_n to_o be_v confess_v yea_o he_o may_v advise_v they_o to_o confess_v few_o time_n than_o other_o free_a soul_n do_v otherwise_o for_o soul_n that_o be_v cheerful_a &_o valiant_a &_o courageous_a in_o the_o way_n of_o the_o spirit_n the_o author_n oblige_v they_o in_o his_o practice_n to_o keep_v the_o ordinary_a time_n of_o confession_n much_o more_o those_o that_o be_v not_o altogether_o so_o careful_a in_o avoid_v occasion_n of_o ordinary_a defect_n i_o say_v he_o oblige_v they_o in_o such_o sort_n as_o the_o constitution_n oblige_v which_o be_v not_o under_o any_o sin_n as_o if_o they_o shall_v sin_v as_o often_o as_o they_o omit_v the_o ordinary_a time_n of_o confession_n but_o as_o a_o laudable_a counsel_n &_o profitable_a observance_n which_o under_o a_o penalty_n &_o regular_a correction_n be_v to_o be_v keep_v &_o not_o omit_v but_o by_o advice_n of_o the_o spiritual_a father_n or_o leave_n of_o the_o superior_a note_v also_o that_o he_o do_v worthy_o advertise_v a_o defect_n of_o many_o who_o come_v to_o confession_n make_v the_o principal_a intention_n of_o it_o only_o the_o absolution_n from_o sin_n i_o say_v this_o be_v a_o defect_n because_o the_o principal_a part_n of_o the_o intention_n must_v be_v the_o increase_n of_o grace_n and_o love_n of_o god_n by_o which_o formal_o infuse_v or_o pour_v into_o ourselves_o god_n almighty_n do_v blot_n out_o sin_n &_o wipe_v they_o away_o now_o although_o absolution_n from_o sin_n be_v never_o give_v without_o infusion_n of_o grace_n yet_o ought_v the_o intention_n of_o the_o penitent_a to_o be_v principal_o the_o obtain_n of_o grace_n for_o if_o he_o principal_o intend_v the_o absolution_n of_o sin_n it_o be_v a_o reflection_n of_o the_o soul_n upon_o its_o own_o profit_n by_o self-love_n desire_v to_o avoid_v the_o wrath_n of_o god_n &_o punishment_n due_a to_o sin_n &_o to_o be_v free_v from_o the_o deformity_n of_o guiltiness_n which_o though_o it_o be_v a_o good_a desire_n yet_o it_o be_v but_o a_o property_n of_o beginner_n in_o love_n &_o nothing_o comparable_a to_o the_o intention_n of_o grace_n which_o be_v the_o perfect_a love_n of_o god_n &_o be_v a_o elevation_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o transcend_v itself_o &_o all_o creature_n to_o live_v only_o in_o god_n about_o the_o doctrine_n of_o set_v examan_n of_o conscience_n the_o author_n do_v not_o condemn_v it_o especial_o for_o soul_n who_o be_v not_o great_o advance_v in_o perfection_n but_o for_o soul_n which_o daily_a profit_n &_o grow_v in_o grace_n he_o prefer_v the_o exercise_n of_o love_n &_o not_o without_o cause_n for_o his_o meaning_n be_v that_o in_o our_o recollection_n it_o be_v a_o easy_a &_o speedy_a way_n to_o amend_v ourselves_o by_o wrap_v all_o our_o defect_n in_o a_o generality_n &_o so_o endeavour_v to_o consume_v they_o as_o it_o be_v cast_v they_o into_o the_o fire_n of_o love_n then_o by_o particularise_v they_o &_o discuss_v they_o in_o singular_a because_o in_o so_o do_v they_o distract_v the_o mind_n that_o may_v be_v better_o employ_v yet_o this_o doctrine_n hinder_v not_o but_o if_o any_o notable_a defect_n have_v be_v commit_v it_o shall_v be_v by_o a_o particular_a reflection_n amend_v yet_o rather_o by_o a_o amorous_a conversion_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o god_n by_o humility_n then_o by_o turn_v itself_o to_o look_v upon_o the_o defect_n in_o particular_a and_o doubtless_o a_o soul_n that_o according_a to_o the_o author_n doctrine_n do_v so_o careful_o avoid_v all_o defect_n that_o it_o present_o upon_o sight_n of_o any_o default_n exact_v a_o amendment_n of_o itself_o such_o a_o soul_n need_v not_o set_v examen_fw-la but_o supli_v the_o use_n thereof_o by_o a_o more_o noble_a exercise_n which_o be_v as_o i_o term_v it_o a_o humble_a consume_n of_o all_o her_o defect_n in_o one_o bundle_n in_o the_o heavenly_a fire_n of_o charity_n or_o love_n of_o god_n nevertheless_o a_o set_n examen_fw-la be_v profitable_a for_o such_o as_o be_v not_o yet_o come_v to_o such_o a_o height_n of_o vnitive_a love_n &_o be_v counsel_v by_o our_o father_n blosius_n in_o diverse_a place_n &_o by_o s._n bernard_n in_o his_o book_n to_o the_o carthusian_n in_o these_o word_n nemo_fw-la te_fw-la plus_fw-la diligit_fw-la nemo_fw-la te_fw-la fidelius_fw-la iudicab_n mane_fw-la praeteritae_fw-la noctis_fw-la fac_fw-la a_o temetipso_fw-la exactionem_fw-la &_o futurae_fw-la diei_fw-la tu_fw-la tibi_fw-la indicito_fw-la cautionem_fw-la vespere_fw-la diei_fw-la praeteritae_fw-la rationem_fw-la exige_fw-la &_o superuenientis_fw-la noctis_fw-la fac_fw-la indictionem_fw-la ââc_fw-la districte_a nequaquam_fw-la tibi_fw-la aliquando_fw-la lascivire_fw-la vacabit_fw-la that_o be_v none_o love_v thou_o more_o none_o will_v judge_v thou_o more_o faithful_o than_o thou_o own_o self_n in_o the_o morning_n then_o exact_a a_o account_n of_o the_o night_n pass_v &_o appoint_v thyself_o a_o caveat_n for_o the_o day_n ensue_v at_o evening_n take_v account_n of_o the_o day_n pass_v &_o order_v the_o course_n of_o the_o night_n follow_v thus_o district_o examine_v thyself_o thou_o will_v find_v no_o leisure_n to_o play_v the_o wanton_a and_o long_o before_o s._n bernard_n the_o holy_a abbot_n s._n dorotheus_n commend_v the_o same_o exercise_n serm_n 11._o as_o usual_a among_o all_o monk_n quo_fw-la pacto_fw-la per_fw-la singulos_fw-la dies_fw-la nosipsos_fw-la purgare_fw-la &_o propemodum_fw-la expiare_fw-la debeamus_fw-la exactissime_fw-la docuerunt_fw-la maiores_fw-la &_o patres_fw-la nostri_fw-la nempe_fw-la ut_fw-la vespere_fw-la sedulo_fw-la quisquam_fw-la perquirat_fw-la &_o investiget_fw-la quomodo_fw-la pertransierit_fw-la drem_fw-la illum_fw-la rursus_fw-la mane_n examinet_fw-la quomodo_fw-la exegerit_fw-la noctem_fw-la illam_fw-la et_fw-la paenitentiam_fw-la agate_n ac_fw-la resipiscat_fw-la coram_fw-la deo_fw-la si_fw-la quo_fw-la pacto_fw-la ut_fw-la fieri_fw-la potest_fw-la peccatum_fw-la aliquod_fw-la admiserit_fw-la and_o long_o before_o he_o holy_a s._n ephrem_n that_o live_v but_o 250._o year_n after_o christ_n our_o lord_n passion_n have_v the_o commendation_n of_o a_o set_n examen_fw-la in_o these_o golden_a word_n diebus_fw-la singulis_fw-la vesperi_fw-la &_o mane_n diligenter_n considera_fw-la quo_fw-la pacto_fw-la se_fw-la habeant_fw-la negotia_fw-la tua_fw-la &_o mercimonij_fw-la ratio_fw-la et_fw-la vespere_fw-la quidem_fw-la ingressus_fw-la in_o cubiculum_fw-la cordis_fw-la tui_fw-la examina_fw-la teipsum_fw-la at_o dicito_fw-la putasne_fw-la hodie_fw-la in_o aliquo_fw-la deum_fw-la exacerbavi_fw-la nuquid_fw-la verba_fw-la otiosa_fw-la protuli_fw-la num_fw-la per_fw-la contemptum_fw-la negligentiam_fw-la ne_fw-la peccavi_fw-la num_fw-la in_o re_fw-la aliqua_fw-la fratrem_fw-la irritavi_fw-la num_fw-la alicuius_fw-la famam_fw-la detractionibus_fw-la laceravi_fw-la &c_n &c_n et_fw-la facto_fw-la iam_fw-la dilucalo_fw-la rursus_fw-la eadem_fw-la tecum_fw-la meditare_fw-la &_o dicito_fw-la quomodo_fw-la putas_fw-la ista_fw-la mihi_fw-la nox_fw-la praeterijt_fw-la lucratus_fw-la sum_n in_o ea_fw-la mercimonium_fw-la meum_fw-la numquid_fw-la improbae_fw-la ac_fw-la sordidae_fw-la cogitationes_fw-la invaserunt_fw-la i_o atque_fw-la illis_fw-la libenter_fw-la immoratus_fw-la sum_fw-la &c_n &c_n neither_o do_v our_o author_n discommend_v this_o set_v examen_fw-la but_o the_o defective_a use_n of_o it_o which_o be_v 1._o to_o make_v it_o in_o order_n to_o confession_n which_o doubtless_o in_o a_o soul_n well_o advance_v breed_v needless_a image_n since_o such_o a_o soul_n will_v
call_v to_o mind_n what_o suffice_v for_o her_o ordinary_a confession_n without_o this_o examen_fw-la 2._o too_o much_o particularise_v of_o our_o defect_n which_o be_v likewise_o distractive_a it_o be_v sufficient_a to_o examine_v the_o performance_n of_o our_o duty_n &_o obligatory_a action_n or_o if_o any_o notable_a defect_n have_v careless_o creep_v upon_o we_o all_o other_o defect_n be_v more_o proffitable_o wrap_v up_o in_o a_o generality_n &_o so_o cast_v into_o our_o saviour_n passion_n then_o particular_o stir_v up_o which_o will_v in_o a_o manner_n but_o raise_v a_o new_a dust_n in_o the_o soul_n 3._o the_o anxious_a look_v upon_o the_o defect_n in_o themselves_o &_o in_o their_o peculiar_a matter_n or_o object_n whereas_o it_o be_v better_a &_o safe_o to_o turn_v the_o eye_n of_o our_o soul_n from_o the_o matter_n in_o particular_a unto_o god_n almighty_a humble_v ourselves_o before_o he_o &_o with_o love_a reverence_n or_o ave_v pardon_n of_o he_o a_o 4_o defect_n be_v to_o imagine_v that_o it_o it_o be_v a_o sin_n in_o careful_a soul_n to_o omit_v this_o examen_fw-la whereas_o indeed_o it_o be_v none_o at_o all_o though_o in_o soul_n that_o be_v careless_a of_o their_o action_n it_o be_v ordinary_o a_o defective_a negligence_n worthy_a to_o be_v reprehend_v in_o a_o word_n a_o set_n examen_fw-la may_v be_v use_v proffitable_o by_o all_o soul_n with_o those_o caveat_n above_o mention_v &_o be_v to_o be_v counsel_v to_o all_o beginner_n in_o the_o way_n of_o perfection_n &_o to_o all_o that_o be_v not_o so_o wary_a in_o their_o action_n but_o if_o the_o director_n perceive_v a_o soul_n to_o be_v so_o wary_a that_o she_o be_v perpetual_o careful_a of_o progress_n in_o spirit_n &_o never_o defer_v correction_n &_o amendment_n of_o her_o defect_n but_o out_o of_o hand_n redress_v what_o she_o discover_v to_o be_v amiss_o to_o such_o a_o soul_n may_v the_o director_n permit_v instead_o of_o a_o set_n examen_fw-la to_o use_v her_o ordinary_a elevation_n of_o heart_n to_o god_n &_o by_o virtual_a contrition_n or_o actual_a as_o god_n move_v she_o include_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o love_n deface_v all_o the_o defect_n of_o her_o life_n let_v none_o likewise_o be_v scandalize_v at_o that_o which_o be_v say_v that_o there_o be_v high_a exercise_n than_o meditation_n of_o the_o passion_n &_o that_o it_o be_v not_o always_o the_o proffitabl_a way_n to_o busy_v our_o soul_n in_o that_o object_n for_o since_o our_o religious_a hair_n ordinary_o 2._o mass_n or_o at_o least_o one_o daily_a in_o that_o they_o do_v actual_o celebrate_v the_o memory_n of_o our_o saviour_n passion_n &_o at_o diverse_a other_o time_n they_o have_v leisure_n to_o think_v love_o thereupon_o that_o they_o need_v not_o in_o all_o their_o recollection_n take_v that_o only_a object_n especial_o since_o their_o manner_n of_o prayer_n be_v more_o by_o act_n of_o will_n then_o by_o consideration_n of_o the_o understanding_n &_o as_o be_v very_o well_o declare_v in_o one_o place_n all_o their_o recollection_n &_o action_n that_o have_v any_o other_o special_a object_n be_v virtual_o intend_v in_o honour_n of_o our_o saviour_n passion_n what_o be_v say_v about_o passive_a contemplation_n that_o it_o be_v rather_o receive_v into_o the_o soul_n then_o produce_v or_o wrought_v by_o our_o own_o action_n or_o endeavour_n be_v most_o true_a suppose_v always_o that_o this_o reception_n of_o it_o in_o our_o soul_n be_v a_o vital_a operation_n which_o whether_o it_o be_v call_v a_o action_n of_o the_o soul_n or_o a_o mere_a passion_n be_v a_o school_n question_n &_o nothing_o to_o our_o purpose_n certain_a it_o be_v that_o by_o all_o our_o own_o power_n we_o can_v not_o produce_v it_o &_o therefore_o it_o be_v call_v the_o inaction_n of_o god_n in_o our_o soul_n by_o many_o mystic_n to_o which_o we_o only_o concur_v by_o vital_a receive_n it_o &_o by_o a_o willing_a consent_n to_o let_v god_n work_v his_o will_n in_o us._n what_o be_v say_v about_o the_o immediate_a operation_n of_o god_n in_o the_o very_a essence_n &_o substance_n of_o our_o soul_n &_o not_o in_o the_o power_n thereof_o nor_o by_o mediation_n of_o the_o power_n although_o it_o be_v against_o the_o general_a doctrine_n of_o the_o philosopher_n &_o school_n man_n yet_o be_v it_o a_o probable_a opinion_n &_o ground_v upon_o experience_n of_o devout_a man_n that_o be_v also_o great_a scholar_n &_o therefore_o may_v secure_o be_v follow_v as_o also_o that_o which_o be_v there_o say_v that_o god_n can_v move_v the_o will_n to_o love_v without_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o understanding_n though_o many_o deny_v it_o yet_o be_v it_o most_o probable_a &_o befit_v the_o almighty_a power_n of_o god_n &_o hold_v by_o gerson_n &_o s._n bonaventure_n which_o be_v no_o small_a school_n divine_n last_o the_o vehement_a urge_v that_o great_a heed_n be_v take_v in_o the_o choice_n of_o a_o confessor_n &_o director_n in_o these_o mystic_a way_n of_o god_n be_v necessary_a &_o not_o intend_v to_o the_o dispraise_n of_o any_o nor_o to_o the_o disable_n of_o such_o as_o perhaps_o have_v not_o all_o the_o quality_n require_v but_o it_o seem_v especial_o for_o two_o end_n the_o one_o for_o a_o advertisement_n to_o the_o directour_n &_o confessor_n that_o they_o presume_v not_o to_o judge_v or_o proccede_v rash_o in_o direction_n of_o our_o religious_a but_o according_a to_o these_o caveat_n &_o instruction_n especial_o if_o they_o themselves_o have_v not_o be_v accustom_v to_o this_o affective_a prayer_n of_o the_o will_n and_o we_o do_v conââre_v they_o in_o behalf_n of_o our_o saviour_n christ_n to_o cherish_v this_o way_n &_o to_o set_v it_o forward_o as_o the_o peculiar_a exercise_n belong_v to_o our_o spirit_n &_o call_n yet_o so_o as_o intellectual_a prayer_n be_v not_o altogether_o neglect_v in_o the_o occasion_n which_o in_o these_o book_n be_v sufficient_o assign_v the_o other_o end_n be_v to_o cut_v of_o a_o dangerous_a curiosity_n that_o woman_n use_v to_o have_v of_o desire_v to_o confer_v their_o interiour_n with_o every_o learned_a or_o devout_a man_n they_o hear_v of_o which_o be_v a_o very_a great_a defect_n &_o by_o those_o vehement_a persuasion_n of_o our_o author_n very_o deserve_o &_o wary_o prevent_v and_o although_o s._n teresa_n do_v give_v way_n to_o this_o universal_a communication_n of_o interior_a to_o diverse_a learned_a man_n &_o commend_v it_o to_o her_o daughter_n yet_o we_o be_v credible_o inform_v that_o in_o her_o late_a day_n with_o tear_n she_o have_v say_v that_o by_o it_o occasion_n be_v give_v to_o discontent_a mind_n to_o vent_v forth_o their_o disgust_n with_o harm_n to_o themselves_o &_o community_n therefore_o out_o of_o this_o point_n let_v the_o religious_a resolve_n to_o communicate_v their_o interiour_o only_o to_o their_o lawful_a superior_n &_o directour_n by_o they_o appoint_v who_o will_v have_v care_n that_o the_o spirit_n of_o prayer_n be_v not_o extinguish_v or_o hinder_v in_o they_o by_o any_o unskillful_a or_o heedless_a guide_n thus_o much_o we_o think_v convenient_a to_o note_v under_o our_o hand_n in_o commendation_n of_o âhese_n holy_a instruction_n &_o for_o a_o caveat_n &_o warning_n to_o the_o future_a confessor_n &_o spiritual_a directour_n f._n leander_n de_fw-fr s._n martino_n prior_n of_o s._n gregory_n in_o douai_n &_o ordinary_a of_o the_o cloister_n of_o the_o dame_n of_o our_o lady_n of_o comfort_n in_o cambray_n of_o the_o holy_a order_n of_o s._n benedict_n in_o the_o last_o place_n i_o will_v adjoine_v a_o scheme_n clear_o and_o at_o once_o represent_v the_o sum_n of_o the_o ven._n author_n doctrine_n of_o divine_a call_n compose_v by_o the_o same_o v._o r._n f._n leander_n de_fw-fr s._n martino_n whatsoever_o action_n or_o omission_n occur_v unto_o we_o in_o all_o our_o life_n what_o occasion_n soever_o of_o do_v forbear_v suffer_v or_o receive_v from_o god_n or_o any_o creature_n be_v of_o that_o condition_n that_o either_o 1._o it_o have_v some_o exterior_a rule_n command_v it_o or_o forbid_v it_o which_o be_v to_o be_v esteem_v undoubted_o as_o the_o call_v of_o god_n and_o in_o all_o such_o occurrence_n 1._o the_o exterior_a rule_n be_v to_o be_v faithful_o keep_v and_o practise_v in_o the_o perform_n or_o omit_v the_o action_n occur_v 2._o the_o interior_a call_n be_v likewise_o as_o careful_o to_o be_v keep_v and_o practise_v in_o the_o manner_n of_o omittance_n or_o performance_n that_o it_o may_v be_v do_v or_o omit_v with_o the_o true_a spirit_n and_o life_n of_o grace_n by_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o will._n 2._o it_o have_v no_o exterior_a rule_n allot_v the_o occurrence_n at_o that_o time_n and_o be_v otherwise_o against_o no_o exterior_a rule_n of_o lawful_a authority_n as_o certain_o a_o infinity_n of_o such_o thing_n happen_v and_o occur_v in_o time_n of_o silence_n and_o rest_n in_o our_o cell_n be_v alone_o in_o our_o labour_n recreation_n refection_n etc._n etc._n and_o in_o such_o case_n 1._o if_o it_o be_v extraordinary_a in_o matter_n as_o long_o fast_v much_o watch_v etc._n etc._n or_o in_o manner_n as_o if_o it_o be_v extaticall_a or_o in_o some_o strange_a manner_n of_o illumination_n or_o inspiration_n unaccustomed_a or_o unwonted_a to_o the_o soul_n it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v practise_v till_o it_o be_v examine_v and_o allow_v by_o the_o ordinary_a exterior_a rule_n yet_o in_o no_o sort_n to_o be_v neglect_v but_o remember_v and_o note_v for_o use_n and_o direction_n when_o occasion_n occur_v in_o ourselves_o or_o other_o 2._o if_o it_o be_v ordinary_a in_o matter_n and_o manner_n neither_o imply_v any_o inconvenience_n nor_o notable_a singularity_n then_o be_v the_o inward_a call_n in_o a_o spiritual_a and_o true_a mind_a soul_n a_o sufficient_a and_o secure_a guide_n and_o aught_o to_o be_v careful_o observe_v and_o obey_v lest_o otherwise_o the_o soul_n ungrateful_o take_v god_n grace_n in_o vain_a and_o so_o be_v worthy_o deprive_v of_o they_o f._n leander_n de_fw-fr s._n martino_n president_n 18._o martij_fw-la 1634._o after_o the_o above_o write_v paper_n there_o follow_v this_o in_o father_n baker_n own_o hand_n the_o doctrine_n of_o divine_a call_v here_o above_o express_v by_o our_o reverend_a father_n father_n leander_n de_fw-fr s._n martino_n be_v at_o the_o present_a our_o worthy_a precedent_n i_o do_v profess_v to_o be_v the_o selfsame_o in_o substance_n and_o by_o my_o intention_n which_o more_o large_o but_o less_o sufficient_o i_o have_v express_v and_o deliver_v in_o diverse_a book_n and_o treatise_n that_o be_v of_o my_o pen_v concern_v that_o subject_n b._n augustin_n baker_n the_o 20._o of_o march_n 1634._o stilo_fw-it romano_n finis_fw-la
divine_a light_n if_o charity_n be_v but_o warm_a and_o imperfect_a our_o light_n in_o particular_n be_v obscure_a and_o can_v show_v we_o only_o such_o thing_n as_o be_v necessary_o to_o be_v practise_v under_o the_o penalty_n of_o be_v separate_v from_o god_n the_o object_n of_o charity_n but_o if_o charity_n be_v inflame_v how_o great_a be_v the_o light_n which_o that_o heavenly_a fire_n cast_v not_o a_o step_n we_o set_v forward_o but_o we_o see_v the_o way_n perfect_o before_o we_o and_o can_v avoid_v all_o the_o uneven_n rough_a miry_a or_o crooked_a step_n in_o it_o and_o so_o run_v apace_o without_o stumble_v delay_a or_o decline_v so_o approach_v daily_o near_a and_o near_o to_o the_o end_n of_o our_o heavenly_a race_n 9_o moreover_o this_o divine_a light_n be_v either_o a_o habitual_a permanent_a light_n or_o actual_a and_o transitory_a the_o permanent_a light_n be_v the_o virtue_n of_o spiritual_a discretion_n without_o which_o the_o action_n that_o to_o the_o world_n give_v the_o great_a lustre_n be_v of_o little_a or_o no_o profit_n such_o as_o be_v great_a voluntary_a austerity_n perform_v of_o solemn_a office_n almes-giving_a etc._n etc._n all_o which_o unless_o they_o come_v from_o the_o principle_n of_o true_a charity_n and_o be_v design_v for_o the_o increase_n and_o deep_a root_n thereof_o in_o the_o spirit_n be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v of_o any_o worth_a that_o they_o do_v rather_o prejudice_n and_o diminish_v that_o virtue_n both_o these_o condition_n be_v requisite_a to_o make_v a_o action_n perfect_a and_o acceptable_a to_o god_n it_o must_v both_o proceed_v from_o he_o and_o also_o be_v direct_v to_o he_o he_o must_v not_o only_o be_v the_o end_n but_o the_o principle_n also_o it_o be_v not_o therefore_o sufficient_a to_o a_o soul_n especial_o if_o she_o serious_o tend_v to_o perfection_n in_o contemplation_n that_o the_o action_n which_o she_o do_v now_o be_v in_o itself_o good_a and_o direct_v to_o a_o good_a end_n unless_o her_o divine_a light_n inform_v she_o that_o in_o the_o present_a circumstance_n it_o be_v god_n will_n that_o she_o shall_v perform_v that_o determinate_a action_n rather_o than_o another_o perhaps_o in_o itself_o and_o in_o other_o circumstance_n better_o than_o it_o for_o as_o thaulerus_n say_v god_n will_v reward_v no_o action_n but_o his_o own_o that_o be_v such_o as_o he_o give_v order_n and_o commission_n for_o 10._o this_o be_v a_o most_o certain_a truth_n what_o a_o world_n of_o action_n in_o themselves_o of_o no_o ill_a aspect_n be_v there_o do_v by_o imperfect_a extroverted_a soul_n which_o have_v no_o other_o fountain_n principle_n or_o light_n from_o which_o they_o be_v at_o first_o derive_v but_o the_o light_n of_o humane_a reason_n they_o will_v find_v at_o god_n hand_n no_o acceptance_n at_o all_o such_o soul_n lose_v all_o benefitt_a by_o all_o their_o do_n but_o those_o which_o be_v of_o absolute_a necessity_n and_o by_o many_o of_o those_o likewise_o nay_o how_o many_o be_v there_o which_o be_v drive_v to_o some_o action_n by_o a_o violent_a unlawful_a passion_n for_o or_o against_o some_o person_n yet_o because_o before_o the_o action_n be_v end_v they_o can_v cozen_v themselves_o with_o propose_v some_o good_a end_n do_v therefore_o think_v themselves_o excuse_v whereas_o such_o a_o propose_v of_o a_o good_a end_n to_o a_o action_n begin_v only_o from_o corrupt_a nature_n rather_o aggravate_v the_o fault_n by_o add_v hypocrisy_n to_o it_o the_o which_o themselves_o may_v easy_o discover_v if_o they_o will_v at_o the_o same_o time_n consider_v that_o such_o action_n will_v have_v be_v forbear_v &_o the_o contrary_n do_v if_o the_o object_n and_o person_n have_v be_v change_v how_o small_a a_o proportion_n of_o this_o spiritual_a light_n have_v such_o soul_n 11._o this_o permanent_a light_n of_o supernatural_a discretion_n inform_v the_o soul_n general_o in_o all_o thing_n efficacious_a to_o her_o advancement_n towards_o contemplation_n it_o teach_v she_o in_o religious_a observance_n culpable_o to_o neglect_v none_o and_o to_o perform_v they_o with_o a_o pure_a intention_n for_o her_o spiritual_a good_a in_o mortification_n to_o support_v the_o necessary_a one_o willing_o and_o proffitable_o and_o assume_v only_o such_o voluntary_a one_o as_o god_n direct_v she_o to_o therein_o consider_v the_o infirmity_n of_o the_o body_n as_o well_o as_o the_o fervour_n of_o the_o will_n least_o by_o overburden_v nature_n unnecessary_o she_o be_v render_v unable_a to_o bear_v even_o those_o which_o be_v of_o obligation_n in_o prayer_n it_o teach_v the_o soul_n what_o degreâ_n be_v proper_a for_o she_o and_o how_o long_o she_o be_v to_o continue_v in_o it_o without_o change_n till_o god_n invite_v she_o to_o a_o high_a and_o then_o ready_o to_o accept_v of_o his_o invitation_n likewise_o what_o proportion_n of_o time_n be_v requisite_a to_o be_v spend_v in_o prayer_n so_o as_o to_o make_v a_o discreet_a and_o sufficient_a progress_n therein_o it_o teach_v she_o to_o suspect_v sensible_a devotion_n and_o not_o to_o glut_v herself_o with_o the_o honey_n of_o it_o nor_o to_o follow_v it_o too_o fast_o to_o design_n of_o seem_a perfection_n &_o extraordinary_a task_n which_o when_o such_o devotion_n end_n will_v be_v burdensome_a and_o harmful_a in_o a_o word_n it_o teach_v the_o soul_n that_o duââ_n moderation_n in_o all_o thing_n which_o make_v they_o laudable_a and_o meritorious_a 12._o now_o whereas_o i_o have_v call_v this_o a_o permanent_a and_o habitual_a light_n it_o be_v to_o be_v observe_v that_o as_o it_o be_v habitual_a only_o it_o do_v not_o direct_v because_o unless_o it_o be_v in_o action_n it_o be_v as_o it_o be_v veil_v over_o until_o that_o god_n by_o some_o occasion_n administer_v do_v move_v the_o soul_n to_o reflect_v and_o consult_v he_o and_o herupon_o the_o light_n be_v unveil_v and_o shine_v forth_o give_v direction_n in_o the_o present_a action_n or_o necessity_n so_o that_o it_o be_v god_n or_o the_o gift_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n very_o predominant_a in_o such_o soul_n that_o be_v their_o actual_a director_n 13._o there_o be_v none_o that_o have_v a_o good_a will_n and_o seek_v god_n in_o sincerity_n of_o heart_n but_o be_v capable_a of_o such_o a_o guidance_n by_o the_o light_n communicate_v to_o soul_n by_o the_o holy_a spirit_n so_o that_o the_o duty_n of_o attend_v to_o and_o obey_v it_o have_v place_n not_o only_o in_o a_o contemplative_a but_o also_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o a_o devout_a active_a life_n for_o doubtless_o such_o likewise_o have_v a_o supernatural_a light_n answerable_a to_o their_o state_n by_o which_o they_o be_v enable_v to_o perform_v their_o action_n with_o much_o purity_n of_o intention_n 14._o notwithstanding_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o degree_n of_o purity_n of_o intention_n the_o do_n of_o contemplative_a soul_n do_v much_o excel_v those_o of_o active_a liver_n by_o reason_n of_o the_o deep_a entry_n that_o they_o make_v into_o their_o interior_a in_o their_o more_o profound_a pure_a and_o imageles_a recollection_n by_o which_o they_o discover_v the_o depth_n of_o their_o most_o secret_a intention_n and_o according_o purify_v they_o from_o whatsoever_o be_v amiss_o in_o they_o beside_o they_o according_a to_o their_o state_n deal_v in_o fewer_n exterior_a distractive_a employment_n do_v both_o keep_v themselves_o in_o a_o better_a disposition_n to_o attend_v to_o the_o voice_n of_o their_o internal_a teacher_n &_o also_o contract_v fewer_n blemish_n and_o those_o that_o they_o do_v contract_n they_o do_v more_o easy_o discern_v and_o rectify_v last_o be_v exercise_v for_o the_o most_o part_n in_o internal_a operation_n their_o continual_a task_n be_v to_o cleanse_v the_o very_a fountain_n which_o be_v the_o spirit_n itself_o the_o seat_n of_o divine_a light_n and_o grace_n 15._o in_o a_o contemplative_a life_n likewise_o according_a to_o the_o degree_n of_o proficiency_n so_o be_v the_o attendance_n unto_o and_o the_o performance_n of_o the_o divine_a inspiration_n for_o to_o perfect_a soul_n the_o divine_a voice_n and_o light_n be_v in_o a_o manner_n a_o continual_a guide_n and_o they_o have_v a_o continual_a correspondence_n with_o it_o even_o in_o their_o most_o ordinary_a small_a action_n whereas_o the_o imperfect_a receive_v it_o seldom_o for_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v the_o purify_n and_o supernaturalize_v their_o ordinary_a action_n except_o in_o their_o recollection_n yea_o perhaps_o only_o when_o they_o be_v in_o the_o height_n of_o their_o exercise_n and_o the_o like_a may_v be_v say_v of_o devout_a soul_n in_o a_o active_a life_n and_o they_o do_v at_o other_o time_n put_v in_o execution_n the_o direction_n receive_v in_o prayer_n by_o virtue_n of_o the_o light_n remain_v in_o their_o mind_n but_o as_o for_o other_o action_n for_o which_o they_o have_v receive_v no_o light_n at_o all_o in_o prayer_n those_o they_o perform_v with_o
the_o help_n of_o their_o natural_a reason_n or_o at_o best_o by_o the_o general_a habitual_a light_n of_o grace_n only_o by_o virtue_n of_o which_o they_o avoid_v grosser_n sinful_a defect_n but_o yet_o their_o action_n be_v stein_v with_o great_a impurity_n of_o intention_n and_o a_o mixture_n of_o natural_a and_o sensual_a interest_n the_o reason_n be_v because_o imagination_n and_o passion_n be_v yet_o very_o predominant_a in_o they_o do_v push_v they_o hasty_o to_o perform_v their_o action_n without_o sufficient_a reflection_n and_o consult_v their_o internal_a teacher_n and_o if_o they_o do_v endeavour_v to_o adjoine_v a_o good_a intention_n it_o come_v late_a after_o the_o action_n be_v either_o begin_v or_o resolve_v upon_o for_o other_o motive_n so_o that_o the_o divine_a love_n be_v but_o a_o accessary_a and_o attendant_n and_o not_o the_o prime_a mover_n or_o principle_n of_o the_o action_n 16._o the_o best_a mean_n therefore_o that_o imperfect_a soul_n have_v to_o cleanse_v their_o ordinary_a action_n from_o the_o impurity_n of_o natural_a interest_n be_v in_o a_o general_a manner_n to_o forethink_v daily_o of_o their_o employment_n of_o obligation_n and_o to_o foreordain_a the_o future_a employment_n of_o the_o day_n i_o mean_v such_o as_o be_v leave_v to_o their_o own_o voluntary_a choice_n and_o judgement_n and_o that_o be_v likely_a to_o take_v up_o any_o considerable_a part_n of_o their_o time_n and_o thought_n as_o certain_a determinate_a study_n &c._n &c._n and_o thereupon_o at_o their_o morning_n recollection_n beg_v the_o assistance_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n let_v they_o make_v good_a purpose_n to_o perform_v they_o out_o of_o the_o motive_n of_o divine_a love_n and_o for_o god_n glory_n and_o let_v they_o take_v heed_n not_o to_o change_v the_o order_n resolve_v indiscreet_o yet_o withal_o on_o the_o other_o side_n let_v they_o avoid_v the_o intangle_a themselves_o with_o any_o such_o resolution_n so_o as_o that_o the_o transgress_a of_o they_o shall_v cause_v disturbance_n or_o remorse_n in_o they_o thus_o do_v and_o sometime_o during_o the_o day_n quiet_o reflect_v upon_o the_o promise_n make_v in_o the_o morning_n recollection_n the_o divine_a light_n will_v grow_v more_o and_o more_o familiar_a to_o they_o extinguish_v by_o degree_n the_o false_a light_n by_o which_o they_o be_v former_o for_o the_o most_o part_n mislead_v cap._n vii_o §_o 1._o 2._o 3._o 4._o 5._o 6._o 7._o how_o a_o soul_n be_v to_o behave_v herself_o to_o abreine_a light_n in_o doubtful_a case_n of_o moment_n §_o 8_o she_o must_v not_o pretend_v to_o extraordinary_a matter_n §_o 9_o god_n signify_v his_o will_n two_o way_n first_o by_o clear_v the_o understanding_n §_o 10._o 11._o why_o and_o how_o prayer_n dispose_v thereto_o §_o 12._o 13._o the_o 2._o way_n be_v by_o a_o blind_a reasonles_a move_n of_o the_o will_n §_o 14_o 15._o the_o same_o confirm_v out_o of_o s._n thomas_n and_o aristotle_n §_o 16._o a_o confidence_n that_o these_o operation_n be_v of_o god_n §_o 17._o in_o what_o faculty_n the_o say_v operation_n be_v wrought_v §_o 18._o 19_o what_o a_o soul_n not_o perceive_v either_o of_o these_o operation_n in_o she_o be_v to_o do_v §_o 20._o 21._o 22._o constancy_n in_o a_o resolution_n once_o make_v requisite_a but_o yet_o in_o some_o case_n it_o may_v be_v alter_v §_o 23._o 24._o purpose_v not_o to_o be_v make_v in_o the_o very_a time_n of_o prayer_n except_o of_o resignation_n §_o 25._o a_o soul_n must_v not_o be_v trouble_v if_o the_o issue_n be_v not_o as_o she_o expect_v §_o 26._o evident_a certainty_n not_o to_o expect_v §_o 27._o in_o know_a case_n the_o declaration_n of_o god_n will_v be_v not_o to_o be_v expect_v 1._o but_o now_o because_o as_o i_o say_v those_o that_o be_v imperfect_a have_v but_o a_o dim_a light_n insufficient_a to_o direct_v they_o in_o many_o occurrent_a action_n and_o those_o that_o have_v attein_v to_o a_o habitual_a supernatural_a light_n of_o discretion_n do_v find_v that_o there_o be_v many_o case_n to_o which_o their_o light_n do_v not_o extend_v yea_o in_o the_o most_o perfect_a it_o will_v fail_v they_o in_o some_o therefore_o in_o such_o a_o case_n of_o uncertainty_n wherein_o a_o wellminded_n soul_n have_v a_o considerable_a doubt_n about_o some_o matter_n of_o moment_n either_o in_o the_o course_n of_o her_o prayer_n or_o in_o any_o other_o thing_n that_o concern_v a_o internal_a life_n and_o that_o she_o can_v find_v a_o experience_a person_n to_o who_o she_o can_v confident_o propose_v her_o difficulty_n or_o perhaps_o have_v not_o a_o interior_a invitation_n to_o seek_v for_o resolution_n from_o any_o one_o i_o will_v endeavour_v by_o the_o best_a light_n that_o god_n have_v give_v i_o to_o instruct_v such_o a_o soul_n how_o she_o be_v to_o behave_v herself_o in_o such_o circumstance_n that_o she_o may_v obtain_v from_o god_n a_o actual_a illumination_n or_o direction_n and_o then_o i_o will_v declare_v in_o what_o manner_n such_o light_n be_v ordinary_o confer_v upon_o internal_a liver_n 2._o the_o matter_n of_o the_o doubt_n be_v suppose_v to_o be_v of_o some_o weight_n for_o as_o for_o ordinary_a inconsiderable_a difficulty_n she_o may_v in_o the_o name_n of_o god_n dispatch_v they_o the_o best_a she_o can_v with_o her_o natural_a judgement_n do_v with_o a_o good_a intention_n that_o which_o it_o shall_v dictate_v to_o be_v the_o best_a trouble_v herself_o no_o further_o about_o they_o because_o it_o will_v be_v more_o prejudice_n to_o a_o soul_n to_o loose_a time_n and_o disquiet_v herself_o with_o a_o curious_a and_o solicitous_a examination_n of_o every_o small_a difficulty_n then_o if_o by_o determine_v quick_o she_o shall_v chance_v to_o choose_v that_o which_o in_o itself_o be_v the_o less_o perfect_a it_o be_v suppose_v that_o sin_n lie_v on_o neither_o side_n of_o the_o doubt_n 3._o again_o some_o case_n there_o be_v of_o such_o a_o nature_n that_o they_o be_v to_o be_v resolve_v only_o by_o a_o external_a director_n or_o superior_a so_o that_o a_o soul_n ought_v not_o and_o will_v in_o vain_a expect_v a_o resolution_n from_o god_n who_o send_v she_o to_o his_o substitute_n such_o be_v the_o case_n which_o concern_v external_a observance_n as_o fast_v say_v the_o divine_a office_n interpret_n the_o rule_n law_n or_o constitution_n etc._n etc._n the_o office_n of_o the_o internal_a master_n be_v chief_o about_o internal_a matter_n or_o the_o not-doing_a of_o external_a which_o be_v not_o of_o obligation_n 4._o in_o such_o doubtful_a case_n of_o moment_n especial_o if_o they_o concern_v something_o to_o be_v do_v or_o omit_v or_o suffer_v in_o the_o future_a a_o devout_a soul_n be_v to_o avoid_v all_o sudden_a and_o unaduised_a resolution_n and_o this_o especial_o while_o she_o be_v in_o any_o kind_n of_o passion_n whether_o it_o be_v fear_v anger_n grief_n or_o else_o of_o tenderness_n compassion_n and_o kindness_n etc._n etc._n and_o chief_o when_o herself_n have_v a_o interest_n of_o nature_n or_o when_o person_n be_v concern_v to_o who_o she_o bear_v a_o sensible_a affection_n or_o from_o who_o she_o have_v a_o aversion_n in_o such_o case_n it_o be_v good_a to_o defer_v the_o resolution_n as_o long_o as_o well_o may_v be_v to_o the_o end_n that_o she_o may_v have_v the_o more_o space_n to_o consider_v of_o it_o with_o her_o natural_a reason_n and_o to_o free_v herself_o from_o passion_n and_o so_o with_o resignation_n to_o consult_v god_n in_o her_o recollection_n thereby_o to_o obtain_v light_n from_o he_o to_o discern_v his_o holy_a will_n and_o another_o reason_n and_o motive_n to_o defer_v the_o matter_n may_v be_v because_o it_o may_v happen_v that_o before_o a_o determinate_a resolution_n be_v needful_a some_o new_a circumstance_n may_v spring_v &_o intervene_v that_o will_n perhaps_o alter_v the_o state_n of_o the_o difficulty_n 5._o in_o case_n the_o soul_n in_o her_o nature_n be_v incline_v more_o to_o the_o one_o side_n of_o the_o doubt_n then_o the_o other_o she_o must_v enforce_v herself_o especial_o in_o prayer_n to_o a_o indifferency_n and_o resignation_n in_o the_o matter_n rather_o forthink_v and_o according_o prepare_v herself_n that_o god_n will_v declare_v his_o will_n for_o the_o contrary_a to_o that_o to_o which_o her_o nature_n be_v more_o incline_v 6._o in_o seek_v to_o know_v the_o divine_a will_n by_o prayer_n let_v not_o the_o person_n make_v the_o subject_n and_o business_n of_o his_o recollection_n to_o be_v the_o frame_v a_o direct_a prayer_n about_o the_o matter_n neither_o let_v he_o in_o his_o prayer_n entertain_v any_o discourse_n debate_v thought_n in_o his_o imagination_n or_o understanding_n about_o it_o as_o if_o he_o have_v a_o intention_n to_o account_v that_o to_o be_v god_n will_n which_o by_o such_o discourse_n seem_v most_o probable_a 1._o because_o by_o such_o proceed_n our_o prayer_n which_o
from_o your_o labour_n succeed_v what_o may_v succeed_v though_o it_o cost_v never_o so_o great_a a_o price_n &_o never_o so_o much_o travel_v let_v who_o will_v murmur_v at_o it_o whether_o we_o attain_v to_o it_o or_o die_v in_o the_o way_n although_o the_o heart_n faint_a and_o break_v asunder_o with_o the_o excessive_a pain_n undergo_v for_o it_o yea_o though_o all_o the_o world_n be_v in_o a_o uproar_n against_o it_o and_o will_v fright_v we_o with_o tell_v of_o the_o danger_n that_o be_v in_o the_o way_n the_o four_o section_n of_o the_o three_o treatise_n of_o contemplation_n chap._n i._n §_o 1._o 2._o of_o contemplation_n in_o general_a what_o it_o be_v §_o 3._o 4._o contemplation_n be_v twofold_a viz_o first_o philosophical_a of_o which_o there_o be_v several_a sort_n §_o 5._o 6._o &c_n &c_n second_o mystical_a what_o it_o be_v §_o 9_o mystic_a contemplation_n or_o union_n be_v 1._o active_a 2._o passive_a §_o 10._o 11._o etc._n etc._n of_o active_a mystic_a union_n the_o nature_n and_o manner_n of_o it_o whether_o the_o internal_a sense_n be_v use_v in_o it_o etc._n etc._n §_o 16._o a_o mistake_n of_o some_o concern_v this_o contemplation_n §_o 17._o 18._o the_o divine_a excellency_n of_o it_o §_o 19_o 20._o whether_o there_o be_v several_a state_n of_o it_o hitherto_o the_o exercise_n of_o a_o devout_a soul_n have_v be_v exceed_o laborious_a in_o which_o she_o have_v be_v oblige_v to_o use_v force_n and_o constraint_n more_o or_o less_o upon_o herself_o to_o elevate_v the_o will_n above_o all_o create_a thing_n and_o to_o apply_v it_o unto_o god_n she_o have_v struggle_v through_o terrible_a opposition_n of_o the_o devil_n and_o corrupt_a nature_n the_o instability_n of_o the_o imagination_n tumultuosnes_n of_o passion_n etc._n etc._n all_o which_o will_v hinder_v her_o perseverance_n in_o her_o recollection_n but_o notwithstanding_o all_o this_o pursue_v they_o still_o sometime_o in_o light_n and_o sometime_o in_o darkness_n sometime_o allure_v by_o sweetness_n and_o again_o sometime_o afflict_v but_o not_o discourage_v with_o desolation_n in_o the_o end_n god_n crown_n her_o courage_n and_o patience_n by_o exalt_v she_o to_o a_o new_a more_o perfect_a and_o divine_a exercise_n of_o the_o prayer_n of_o union_n or_o contemplation_n 2._o contemplation_n in_o the_o accept_v general_a notion_n of_o the_o word_n signify_v a_o clear_a ready_a mental_a see_v &_o quiet_a regard_n of_o a_o object_n be_v the_o result_n and_o effect_n of_o a_o precedent_n diligent_a and_o laborious_a enquiry_n &_o search_n after_o the_o nature_n quality_n dependence_n and_o other_o circumstantial_a condition_n of_o it_o 3._o now_o according_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o object_n contemplate_v and_o the_o disposition_n or_o end_n of_o the_o person_n contemplate_v there_o be_v several_a sort_n of_o contemplation_n at_o least_o so_o call_v for_o in_o the_o first_o place_n ancient_o there_o be_v a_o certain_a kind_n of_o false_a contemplation_n which_o we_o may_v call_v philosophical_a practise_v by_o some_o learned_a heathen_n of_o old_a and_o imitate_v by_o some_o in_o these_o day_n which_o have_v for_o its_o last_o and_o best_a end_n only_o the_o perfection_n of_o knowledge_n &_o a_o delightful_a complacency_n in_o it_o other_o there_o be_v &_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v be_v still_o that_o content_v themselves_o with_o a_o airy_a vain_a renown_n which_o they_o hope_v to_o gain_v by_o their_o knowledge_n so_o that_o whatsoever_o be_v the_o object_n of_o their_o contemplation_n whether_o thing_n natural_a moral_a yea_o or_o even_o divine_a as_o far_o as_o by_o wit_n and_o subtlety_n or_o tradition_n they_o can_v be_v know_v self-love_n &_o pride_n be_v the_o utmost_a end_n of_o all_o these_o contemplatour_n yea_o to_o this_o rank_n of_o philosophical_a contemplatour_n may_v be_v refer_v those_o scholastic_a wit_n which_o spend_v much_o time_n in_o the_o study_n and_o subtle_a examination_n of_o the_o mystery_n of_o faith_n and_o have_v not_o for_o their_o end_n the_o increase_n of_o divine_a love_n in_o their_o heart_n nay_o these_o be_v indeed_o more_o imperfect_a and_o culpable_a say_v albertus_n magnus_fw-la lib._n de_fw-fr adhaer_fw-mi deo_fw-la in_o as_o much_o as_o they_o offend_v against_o a_o great_a and_o supernatural_a light_n 4._o yea_o &_o those_o among_o they_o that_o do_v true_o intend_v as_o their_o last_o and_o principal_a end_n the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o seek_v his_o divine_a love_n which_o be_v the_o best_a sort_n of_o scholastic_a contemplative_n yet_o since_o their_o chief_a employment_n consist_v in_o much_o internal_a discourse_n and_o reason_v which_o can_v be_v practise_v without_o various_a &_o distinct_a sensible_a image_n by_o which_o to_o represent_v god_n etc._n etc._n the_o knowledge_n with_o they_o attain_v to_o be_v not_o proper_o contemplative_a &_o the_o high_a degree_n of_o prayer_n that_o they_o arrive_v unto_o be_v only_o a_o perfect_a kind_n of_o meditation_n 5._o in_o the_o second_o place_n there_o be_v a_o mystic_a contemplation_n which_o be_v indeed_o true_o and_o proper_o such_o by_o which_o a_o soul_n without_o discourse_n &_o curious_a speculation_n without_o any_o perceptible_a use_n of_o the_o internal_a sense_n or_o sensible_a image_n by_o a_o pure_a simple_a &_o reposefull_a operation_n of_o the_o mind_n in_o the_o obscurity_n of_o faith_n simple_o regard_v god_n as_o infinite_a &_o incomprehensible_a verity_n &_o with_o the_o whole_a bent_n of_o the_o will_n rest_v in_o he_o as_o her_z infinite_a universal_a &_o incomprehensible_a good_a this_o be_v true_a contemplation_n indeed_o and_o as_o rest_n be_v the_o end_n of_o motion_n so_o be_v this_o the_o end_n of_o all_o other_o both_o internal_a &_o externall_n exercise_n for_o therefore_o by_o long_a discourse_n &_o much_o practice_n of_o affection_n the_o soul_n inquire_v &_o tend_v to_o a_o worthy_a object_n that_o she_o may_v quiet_o contemplate_v it_o &_o if_o it_o deserve_v affection_n repose_v which_o contentment_n in_o it_o 6._o so_o it_o be_v in_o prayer_n the_o soul_n aspire_v to_o a_o perfect_a union_n with_o god_n as_o yet_o absent_a begin_v with_o enquiry_n by_o meditation_n for_o as_o s._n augustin_n say_v intellectus_fw-la cogitabundus_fw-la principium_fw-la omnis_fw-la boni_fw-la that_o be_v all_o good_a proceed_v from_o the_o understanding_n as_o its_o first_o principle_n by_o meditation_n the_o soul_n labour_v to_o represent_v this_o divine_a object_n with_o all_o the_o sensible_a advantage_n &_o motive_n of_o admiration_n and_o of_o love_n that_o it_o can_v invent_v to_o the_o end_n the_o will_n by_o pure_a love_n may_v rest_v in_o he_o but_o this_o be_v do_v the_o will_n be_v not_o yet_o at_o free_a liberty_n to_o dispose_v of_o itself_o be_v force_v with_o some_o violence_n to_o untwine_v &_o withdraw_v its_o adhesion_n from_o creature_n that_o it_o may_v elevate_v itself_o &_o be_v firm_o fix_v to_o this_o her_o only_a good_n and_o at_o last_o by_o long_a custom_n the_o force_n by_o little_a &_o little_a diminish_n the_o object_n begin_v to_o appear_v in_o its_o own_o perfect_a light_n and_o the_o affection_n flow_v free_o but_o yet_o with_o a_o wonderful_a stillnes_n to_o it_o and_o then_o such_o soul_n be_v say_v to_o be_v arrive_v to_o perfect_a mystical_a union_n or_o contemplation_n 7._o this_o be_v proper_o the_o exercise_n of_o angel_n for_o their_o knowledge_n be_v not_o by_o discourse_n but_o by_o one_o simple_a intuition_n all_o object_n be_v represent_v to_o their_o view_v at_o once_o with_o all_o their_o nature_n quality_n relation_n dependence_n &_o effect_n but_o man_n that_o receive_v all_o his_o knowledge_n first_o from_o his_o sense_n can_v only_o by_o effect_n &_o outward_a appearance_n with_o the_o labour_n of_o reason_v collect_v the_o nature_n of_o object_n &_o this_o but_o imperfect_o but_o his_o reason_v be_v end_v than_o he_o can_v at_o once_o contemplate_v all_o that_o be_v know_v unto_o he_o in_o the_o object_n 8._o now_o in_o holy_a scripture_n our_o chief_a happiness_n &_o perfection_n be_v say_v to_o consist_v in_o this_o that_o we_o shall_v be_v like_a unto_o angel_n both_o in_o our_o knowledge_n &_o love_n for_o we_o shall_v as_o they_o have_v a_o perfect_a view_v &_o contemplatton_n of_o god_n as_o he_o be_v not_o by_o any_o create_a form_n &_o representation_n and_o so_o beatifical_a shall_v that_o contemplation_n be_v that_o it_o will_v for_o ever_o ingulfe_a all_o our_o affection_n but_o in_o this_o life_n our_o perfection_n will_v consist_v in_o approach_v as_o near_o as_o may_v be_v to_o such_o a_o angelical_a contemplation_n of_o god_n without_o sensible_a form_n &_o as_o he_o be_v indeed_o propose_v by_o faith_n that_o be_v not_o proper_o represent_v but_o obscure_a notion_n imprint_v in_o our_o mind_n concern_v he_o by_o which_o we_o do_v perceive_v that_o he_o be_v not_o any_o thing_n that_o we_o can_v perceive_v or_o