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
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 striâ—t_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 discouragemenâ—s_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
notion_n the_o which_o be_v creature_n of_o our_o own_o frame_n notwithstanding_o we_o be_v to_o consider_v that_o there_o be_v a_o great_a difference_n between_o the_o acknowledge_v of_o this_o truth_n in_o the_o speculative_a judgement_n and_o the_o operate_n according_o to_o such_o a_o truth_n by_o the_o will_n for_o imperfect_a soul_n notwithstanding_o the_o foresay_a judgement_n when_o they_o be_v to_o apply_v themselves_o to_o prayer_n be_v force_v in_o practice_n to_o contradict_v such_o their_o speculative_a judgement_n and_o to_o represent_v god_n to_o their_o mind_n not_o only_o by_o particular_a and_o distinct_a but_o even_o grosser_n sensible_a image_n because_o they_o find_v that_o the_o say_v true_a and_o perfect_a notion_n of_o god_n by_o a_o general_a negative_a obscure_a conception_n of_o faith_n will_v have_v little_a or_o no_o efficacy_n on_o their_o will_n the_o which_o will_v remain_v aride_n and_o void_a of_o all_o good_a affection_n except_o they_o exchange_v the_o say_a notion_n for_o other_o more_o particular_a and_o express_a whereas_o on_o the_o contrary_a perfect_a soul_n have_v by_o long_a practice_n purify_v their_o internal_a operation_n in_o time_n do_v come_v to_o such_o a_o state_n that_o they_o can_v if_o they_o will_v receive_v benefit_n or_o warm_v their_o affection_n by_o sensible_a or_o particular_a image_n except_o they_o do_v silence_n not_o only_o the_o imagination_n but_o understanding_n also_o the_o will_n remain_v without_o motion_n or_o vigour_n yea_o in_o the_o particular_a case_n of_o the_o great_a desolation_n the_o elevation_n of_o the_o will_v also_o become_v so_o wonderful_o pure_a delicate_a and_o even_o unperceptible_a that_o the_o soul_n itself_o can_v scarce_o perceive_v or_o so_o much_o as_o believe_v that_o she_o operate_v towards_o god_n insomuch_o as_o on_o the_o contrary_n she_o be_v oft_o perplex_v with_o great_a fear_n and_o doubt_n that_o in_o truth_n she_o do_v not_o love_n god_n 18._o now_o the_o foresay_a division_n of_o the_o three_o state_n of_o prayer_n together_o with_o the_o successive_a purification_n and_o spiritualize_a of_o image_n be_v so_o ground_v on_o reason_n and_o even_a nature_n that_o every_o one_o that_o experience_n prayer_n will_v perceive_v it_o and_o other_o can_v except_v against_o it_o for_o as_o we_o see_v in_o all_o art_n and_o science_n as_o for_o example_n music_n or_o poetry_n a_o person_n that_o set_v himself_o to_o learn_v they_o be_v at_o the_o first_o oblige_v to_o make_v use_n of_o a_o world_n of_o gross_a distinct_a image_n the_o which_o he_o apply_v particular_o and_o leisurely_o to_o every_o string_n every_o stop_n and_o every_o finger_n move_v the_o instrument_n as_o likewise_o to_o every_o word_n and_o syllable_n in_o a_o verse_n but_o by_o exercise_n have_v attain_v to_o a_o moderate_a skill_n a_o far_o less_o number_n of_o image_n will_v serve_v to_o direct_v he_o and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o the_o image_n by_o practice_n become_v more_o pure_a and_o spiritual_a be_v by_o consequence_n more_o universal_a so_o that_o one_o will_v come_v to_o have_v the_o virtue_n of_o a_o great_a number_n which_o former_o be_v requisite_a and_o at_o last_o the_o person_n become_v perfect_a in_o those_o art_n will_v be_v able_a to_o make_v a_o verse_n exact_a according_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o poetry_n without_o any_o perceptible_a reflection_n upon_o any_o particular_a rule_n and_o to_o play_v on_o a_o instrument_n not_o only_o in_o the_o dark_a but_o even_o whilst_o he_o be_v converse_v with_o another_o by_o reason_n that_o the_o image_n be_v become_v so_o pure_a and_o universal_a that_o the_o person_n use_v they_o perceive_v they_o not_o neither_o know_v by_o what_o he_o be_v direct_v 19_o now_o if_o the_o operation_n of_o a_o soul_n in_o natural_a sensible_a thing_n may_v come_v to_o be_v so_o pure_a and_o subtle_a much_o more_o in_o spiritual_a and_o divine_a matter_n in_o exercise_v about_o which_o her_o endeavour_n ought_v to_o be_v to_o exclude_v all_o manner_n both_o of_o sensible_a and_o intellectual_a image_n or_o rather_o in_o exercise_v about_o which_o the_o will_v alone_o strive_v to_o be_v operative_a 20._o notwithstanding_o what_o have_v be_v say_v of_o the_o distinction_n of_o these_o three_o way_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n we_o be_v to_o observe_v that_o they_o be_v not_o so_o absolute_o distinguish_v but_o that_o sometime_o there_o may_v be_v a_o mixture_n of_o they_o for_o it_o may_v happen_v that_o a_o soul_n be_v as_o yet_o in_o the_o most_o imperfect_a purgative_n way_n may_v in_o some_o fit_n be_v so_o abundant_o supply_v with_o grace_n as_o that_o during_o the_o exercise_n of_o meditation_n she_o may_v oft_o be_v enable_v to_o produce_v immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n yea_o and_o perhaps_o aspiration_n too_o so_o join_v together_o exercise_n both_o purgative_n illuminative_a and_o vnitive_a in_o one_o recollection_n yea_o it_o may_v be_v possible_a for_o such_o a_o imperfect_a beginner_n to_o spend_v the_o whole_a time_n of_o a_o recollection_n in_o those_o noble_a exercise_n but_o yet_o when_o such_o grace_n and_o devotion_n which_o ordinary_o last_v not_o long_o do_v come_v to_o cease_v she_o will_v be_v force_v to_o return_v to_o her_o imperfect_a exercise_n of_o meditation_n or_o if_o out_o of_o a_o aversion_n from_o descend_v lower_n she_o will_v needs_o stick_v to_o those_o high_a exercise_n which_o to_o she_o be_v but_o temporary_a she_o will_v by_o mean_n of_o aridity_n and_o indevotion_n loose_v all_o the_o fruit_n of_o her_o recollection_n which_o will_v indeed_o become_v insupportable_a to_o she_o 21._o so_o on_o the_o other_o side_n it_o may_v well_o happen_v that_o a_o soul_n that_o be_v ascend_v to_o the_o exercise_n of_o immediate_a act_n may_v some_o time_n for_o some_o short_a space_n find_v it_o necessary_a for_o she_o to_o help_v herself_o now_o and_o then_o by_o use_v meditation_n and_o seek_v motive_n in_o the_o understanding_n to_o move_v her_o affection_n therefore_o these_o three_o state_n be_v to_o be_v distinguish_v and_o separate_v with_o relation_n to_o the_o proper_a and_o constant_a exercise_n of_o soul_n 22._o before_o we_o quit_v the_o present_a subject_n of_o the_o degree_n of_o prayer_n and_o a_o spiritual_a life_n it_o be_v for_o the_o prevent_n of_o mistake_v to_o be_v observe_v that_o those_o writer_n likewise_o which_o teach_v &_o know_v no_o more_o sublime_a exercise_n than_o meditation_n do_v notwithstanding_o divide_v the_o whole_a course_n of_o their_o spirituality_n also_o into_o these_o three_o exercise_n of_o the_o purgative_n illuminative_a &_o vnitive_a way_n although_o the_o perfection_n both_o of_o their_o doctrine_n and_o practice_n reach_v no_o further_a than_o the_o active_a life_n which_o they_o profess_v as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o the_o book_n of_o puente_n rodriguez_n &c_n &c_n to_o which_o we_o may_v add_v ludovicus_n granatensis_n also_o etc._n etc._n 23._o but_o these_o three_o way_n of_o active_a liver_n though_o agree_v in_o name_n with_o the_o forementioned_a mystic_a exercise_n yet_o be_v much_o different_a in_o their_o nature_n and_o quality_n for_o all_o the_o say_v three_o way_n be_v exercise_v by_o the_o help_n and_o with_o the_o use_n of_o discourse_n and_o do_v never_o arise_v to_o the_o exclusion_n of_o particular_a sensible_a image_n so_o that_o the_o perfection_n of_o their_o exercise_n be_v to_o discourse_n with_o more_o subtlety_n and_o from_o such_o discourse_n to_o derive_v &_o draw_v more_o fervent_a affection_n and_o good_a purpose_n of_o the_o will._n further_o than_o this_o active_a exerciser_n can_v go_v because_o their_o life_n do_v not_o afford_v the_o leisure_n freedom_n and_o vacancy_n from_o external_a business_n which_o be_v necessary_a for_o enable_v soul_n to_o contemplative_a exercise_n the_o which_o begin_v with_o those_o that_o i_o call_v proper_a aspiration_n arise_v upon_o the_o expiration_n of_o imaginative_a exercise_n as_o be_v the_o perfection_n oâ—_n they_o 24._o and_o indeed_o if_o active_a liver_n shall_v proceed_v further_o they_o will_v then_o relinquish_v their_o institute_n that_o refer_v all_o the_o do_n of_o it_o to_o the_o exterior_a which_o can_v be_v without_o the_o use_n and_o help_v of_o particular_a image_n so_o that_o the_o forementioned_a general_a image_n of_o god_n or_o rather_o non-image_n be_v not_o at_o all_o proper_a for_o their_o course_n they_o do_v not_o therefore_o ordain_v these_o their_o externall_n imaginative_a exercise_n in_o order_n to_o contemplation_n but_o only_o to_o enable_v they_o to_o perform_v their_o external_a deed_n of_o charity_n with_o great_a perfection_n and_o purity_n of_o intention_n as_o therefore_o they_o do_v not_o themselves_o practice_v contemplation_n so_o neither_o do_v they_o teach_v it_o to_o other_o nor_o indeed_o can_v they_o for_o want_v of_o experience_n chap._n ii_o §_o 1._o 2._o of_o meditation_n the_o first_o and_o low_a degree_n of_o internal_a prayer_n
§_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
that_o at_o the_o first_o she_o will_v during_o one_o time_n of_o recollection_n stand_v in_o need_n of_o many_o point_n to_o be_v think_v upon_o and_o of_o many_o motive_n to_o produce_v affection_n but_o in_o continuance_n the_o will_n will_v become_v so_o well_o affect_v as_o fewer_n point_n will_v suffice_v to_o employ_v it_o in_o produce_v good_a affection_n and_o purpose_n the_o which_o will_v take_v up_o almost_o the_o whole_a time_n appoint_v for_o the_o recollection_n and_o a_o soul_n be_v come_v to_o this_o state_n will_v be_v ready_a and_o ripe_a for_o a_o more_o sublime_a exercise_n of_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n 23._o another_o way_n of_o meditate_v like_a unto_o this_o and_o proper_a for_o person_n of_o good_a will_n be_v that_o which_o be_v recommend_v by_o blosius_n and_o seem_v to_o have_v be_v his_o own_o practice_n which_o be_v without_o much_o discourse_n to_o represent_v to_o the_o mind_n any_o mystery_n to_o which_o the_o soul_n have_v a_o affection_n as_o our_o lord_n agony_n or_o ecce_fw-la homo_fw-la or_o his_o dereliction_n on_o the_o cross_n etc._n etc._n and_o to_o regard_v he_o in_o such_o a_o state_n with_o as_o much_o tenderness_n of_o affection_n as_o may_v be_v exercise_v short_a act_n of_o love_n compassion_n gratitude_n etc._n etc._n moreover_o he_o advise_v a_o person_n to_o endeavour_v yet_o without_o much_o strain_n or_o force_n use_v to_o preserve_v this_o object_n present_a to_o the_o mind_n all_o the_o day_n after_o and_o to_o perform_v the_o daily_a employment_n as_o in_o our_o lord_n presence_n by_o this_o mean_v a_o soul_n will_v come_v well_o prepare_v with_o a_o tenderness_n of_o heart_n to_o her_o recollection_n and_o so_o will_v have_v little_a need_n to_o spend_v it_o in_o employ_v the_o understanding_n chap._n iu._n §_o 1._o of_o the_o custom_n of_o set_a appoint_a retrait_n for_o meditation_n etc._n etc._n §_o 2._o 3._o for_o what_o sort_n of_o person_n the_o say_v retirement_n be_v proper_a §_o 4._o they_o be_v improper_a for_o religious_a person_n practise_v contemplation_n especial_o woman_n §_o 5._o 6._o 7._o except_o with_o certain_a condition_n §_o 8._o 9_o 10._o how_o secular_o may_v and_o aught_o to_o make_v use_n and_o benefit_n by_o the_o say_a retrait_n 1._o before_o i_o quit_v this_o subject_n of_o meditation_n or_o treat_v of_o the_o sign_n by_o which_o a_o soul_n after_o a_o convenient_a time_n spend_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o it_o may_v be_v able_a to_o judge_v of_o her_o ripeness_n for_o a_o high_a exercise_n of_o prayer_n it_o will_v not_o be_v amiss_o to_o consider_v what_o use_n or_o effect_v in_o soul_n by_o their_o profession_n or_o election_n aspire_v to_o contemplation_n and_o actual_o advance_v in_o the_o same_o way_n the_o yearly_a quarterly_a or_o otherwise_o appoint_v retrait_n for_o more_o serious_a meditation_n may_v have_v towards_o the_o same_o end_n etc._n etc._n now_o just_a ground_n there_o be_v to_o take_v this_o into_o consideration_n because_o experience_n show_v that_o the_o say_a custom_n have_v of_o late_o be_v introduce_v into_o conuent_v even_a of_o woman_n profess_v the_o great_a solitude_n in_o order_n to_o contemplation_n 2._o the_o clear_n of_o this_o doubt_n will_v depend_v upon_o 2_o due_a consideration_n of_o what_o condition_n the_o person_n be_v and_o what_o be_v the_o proper_a end_n and_o use_n for_o which_o the_o say_a retrait_n and_o practice_n of_o recollection_n therein_o be_v or_o aught_o to_o be_v design_v the_o which_o in_o the_o first_o place_n in_o regard_n of_o secular_a person_n be_v 1._o to_o be_v a_o efficacious_a instrument_n for_o one_o in_o a_o imperfect_a extroverted_a course_n of_o life_n to_o be_v bring_v to_o discern_v the_o foulness_n of_o his_o soul_n the_o peril_n of_o his_o state_n etc._n etc._n and_o from_o thence_o to_o procure_v remorse_n contrition_n and_o purpose_n of_o amendment_n 2._o or_o for_o a_o secular_a person_n in_o a_o less_o perfect_a state_n of_o life_n to_o discern_v and_o know_v god_n will_v concern_v the_o undertake_n of_o a_o more_o perfect_a state_n for_o such_o recollection_n proper_a for_o the_o imperfect_a condition_n of_o the_o say_a person_n be_v practise_v in_o solitude_n do_v serve_v much_o to_o the_o illuminate_n of_o the_o understanding_n purify_n the_o intention_n &_o fortify_v the_o will_n in_o good_a purpose_n and_o design_n 3._o by_o the_o same_o the_o say_a person_n may_v be_v well_o instruct_v how_o to_o serve_v god_n better_o remain_v in_o the_o same_o less_o perfect_a state_n on_o which_o ground_n they_o have_v be_v worthy_o recommend_v by_o the_o sea_n apostolic_a and_o their_o practice_n promote_v by_o the_o grant_n of_o indulgence_n 3._o next_o in_o regard_n of_o religious_a person_n the_o say_v retirement_n 1._o be_v very_o helpful_a in_o the_o begin_n of_o such_o a_o spiritual_a state_n by_o teach_v with_o great_a exactness_n the_o rudiment_n of_o mental_a prayer_n and_o for_o the_o same_o end_v they_o may_v likewise_o serve_v devout_a secular_a person_n of_o active_a life_n that_o be_v desirous_a and_o have_v the_o courage_n to_o undertake_v a_o more_o spiritual_a course_n 2._o in_o the_o progress_n of_o a_o active_a religious_a life_n religious_a person_n by_o their_o many_o distractive_a employment_n and_o study_n can_v but_o contract_v many_o stain_n &_o defect_n the_o which_o be_v not_o easy_o perceive_v and_o less_o be_v they_o perfect_o correct_v by_o the_o help_n of_o their_o daily_a usual_a meditation_n and_o therefore_o such_o solemn_a and_o rigorous_a retirement_n be_v just_o esteem_v requisite_a to_o procure_v light_n and_o grace_n for_o the_o discover_n &_o rectify_v such_o defect_n and_o dissipation_n of_o the_o spirit_n 4._o these_o sure_o be_v the_o natural_a &_o proper_a end_n of_o the_o say_a retirement_n as_o they_o be_v usual_o practise_v at_o set_a time_n respective_o to_o each_o one_o particular_a need_n now_o in_o none_o of_o these_o regard_n can_v they_o be_v proper_a for_o person_n that_o in_o a_o life_n of_o religious_a solitude_n do_v actual_o practice_v contemplation_n except_o only_o in_o the_o last_o point_n viz._n in_o as_o much_o as_o the_o say_a retrait_n be_v institute_v to_o the_o end_n that_o religious_a person_n may_v thereby_o take_v the_o benefit_n of_o a_o more_o strict_a solitude_n and_o a_o freedom_n from_o distractive_a employment_n there_o to_o enjoy_v a_o vacancy_n to_o attend_v to_o god_n alone_o in_o perfect_a liberty_n of_o spirit_n for_o indeed_o in_o this_o regard_n religious_a person_n of_o contemplative_a order_n especial_o such_o as_o be_v employ_v in_o office_n study_n &c._n &c._n may_v oft_o have_v need_n to_o recollect_v their_o dissipate_v and_o distract_v spirit_n as_o well_o as_o other_o so_o that_o they_o may_v do_v very_o well_o monthly_o or_o as_o occasion_n shall_v require_v by_o such_o retirement_n to_o increase_v their_o light_n and_o to_o lay_v up_o a_o treasure_n of_o good_a purpose_n and_o advice_n for_o the_o time_n follow_a by_o which_o practice_n a_o use_n and_o habitual_a state_n of_o recollectednes_n may_v be_v attain_v and_o provision_n make_v that_o it_o be_v not_o extinguish_v by_o future_a employment_n 5._o but_o if_o the_o end_n of_o such_o retraite_n be_v only_o to_o oblige_v soul_n to_o a_o nice_a observance_n and_o practice_n of_o meditation_n mere_o for_o the_o foresay_a purpose_n without_o any_o consideration_n of_o advance_v they_o in_o affective_a prayer_n it_o can_v be_v imagine_v what_o benefit_n contemplative_a soul_n can_v reap_v thereby_o but_o rather_o a_o hindrance_n and_o distraction_n for._n 1._o they_o be_v suppose_v not_o to_o stand_v in_o need_n now_o to_o learn_v how_o to_o pray_v mental_o to_o which_o kind_n of_o prayer_n the_o say_a exercise_n be_v but_o the_o first_o imperfect_a rudiment_n 2._o much_o less_o do_v they_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o a_o total_a change_n of_o life_n or_o of_o do_v some_o extraordinary_a penitential_a satisfaction_n for_o former_a crime_n or_o to_o learn_v remorse_n for_o they_o 3._o by_o such_o exercise_n as_o they_o be_v common_o teach_v and_o practise_v such_o soul_n will_v not_o learn_v how_o well_o to_o practice_v their_o religious_a observance_n in_o solitude_n or_o to_o use_v vocal_a prayer_n of_o obligation_n more_o perfect_o for_o all_o such_o exercise_n unless_o they_o be_v practise_v in_o order_n to_o affective_a prayer_n do_v end_n in_o themselves_o not_o be_v intend_v to_o be_v mean_n to_o lead_v soul_n to_o high_a prayer_n etc._n etc._n 4._o and_o in_o case_n the_o person_n be_v natural_o indispose_v for_o internal_a discursive_a prayer_n what_o be_v it_o that_o they_o can_v learn_v thereby_o which_o be_v very_o ordinary_o the_o case_n especial_o of_o many_o religious_a woman_n 6._o all_o thing_n therefore_o consider_v nothing_o seem_v to_o i_o more_o improper_a than_o the_o say_v retrait_n for_o meditation_n be_v for_o solitary_a
the_o will_n to_o love_v he_o and_o by_o love_n to_o be_v unite_v to_o he_o and_o this_o union_n by_o exercise_n may_v be_v obtain_v in_o perfection_n by_o soul_n that_o be_v not_o at_o all_o capable_a of_o discourse_n and_o that_o have_v no_o more_o knowledge_n of_o god_n then_o what_o be_v afford_v from_o a_o belief_n of_o the_o fundamental_a verity_n of_o christian_a faith_n so_o that_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o the_o end_n of_o all_o meditation_n &c_n &c_n be_v the_o produce_v act_n of_o the_o will._n therefore_o let_v no_o man_n neglect_v or_o scorn_v the_o exercise_n proper_a for_o he_o out_o of_o a_o conceit_n that_o it_o be_v too_o mean_a but_o let_v he_o first_o try_v the_o profit_n of_o it_o and_o not_o till_o then_o make_v a_o judgement_n 6._o other_o there_o be_v that_o do_v indeed_o persuade_v soul_n in_o due_a time_n to_o quit_v the_o exercise_n of_o the_o understanding_n for_o those_o of_o the_o will_n but_o yet_o always_o with_o one_o exception_n and_o reservation_n to_o wit_n of_o the_o meditation_n on_o the_o passion_n of_o our_o lord_n this_o say_v they_o be_v never_o to_o be_v say_v aside_o but_o will_v be_v a_o subject_a fit_n for_o the_o contemplation_n of_o the_o most_o perfect_a what_o a_o ingratitude_n will_v it_o be_v to_o god_n say_v they_o &_o what_o a_o neglect_n of_o our_o soul_n good_a purposely_o to_o forbear_v a_o frequent_a meditation_n of_o this_o mystery_n the_o ground_n of_o all_o our_o happiness_n the_o root_n of_o all_o merit_n the_o supreme_a testimony_n of_o divine_a love_n towards_o we_o the_o most_o invite_a and_o win_v object_n of_o love_n from_o we_o to_o god_n the_o terror_n of_o all_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n &_o c_o this_o be_v the_o position_n of_o many_o spiritual_a author_n and_o particular_o of_o f._n benet_n canfield_n 7._o nottwithstand_v i_o can_v join_v with_o these_o author_n in_o this_o position_n nor_o agree_v that_o a_o due_a liberty_n of_o spirit_n shall_v be_v abridge_v for_o any_o pretext_n whatsoever_o the_o ground_n of_o which_o liberty_n be_v this_o that_o a_o soul_n be_v to_o make_v the_o experience_n and_o proof_n of_o her_o own_o spiritual_a profit_n to_o be_v the_o rule_n and_o measure_n of_o all_o her_o spiritual_a exercise_n and_o upon_o no_o colour_n or_o conceit_n of_o perfection_n in_o any_o subject_n or_o exercise_n to_o oblige_v herself_o thereto_o further_a than_o she_o find_v it_o helpful_a and_o gustfull_a to_o her_o spirit_n 8._o as_o for_o the_o mystery_n of_o the_o passion_n it_o do_v doubtless_o deserve_v all_o the_o title_n give_v unto_o it_o but_o yet_o soul_n be_v not_o to_o be_v discourage_v if_o they_o find_v in_o themselves_o a_o disability_n to_o meditate_v on_o it_o whether_o this_o disability_n proceed_v from_o some_o natural_a temper_n of_o the_o internal_a sense_n or_o from_o abundance_n of_o affection_n in_o the_o heart_n that_o can_v expect_v because_o they_o do_v not_o need_v curious_o to_o search_v motive_n from_o the_o understanding_n and_o discourse_n neither_o be_v it_o to_o be_v suppose_v that_o such_o person_n exercise_v immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n towards_o god_n without_o discourse_v on_o the_o passion_n be_v therefore_o bereave_v of_o the_o true_a yea_o only_a true_a exercise_v of_o our_o lord_n passion_n on_o the_o contrary_a in_o such_o exercise_n of_o the_o will_n be_v contain_v the_o virtue_n of_o all_o precedent_a meditation_n neither_o be_v the_o person_n drive_v to_o the_o pain_n &_o expense_n of_o time_n in_o find_v out_o reason_n and_o motive_n to_o raise_v their_o affection_n to_o our_o lord_n but_o immediate_o and_o without_o more_o a_o do_v suffer_v the_o affection_n to_o flow_v and_o they_o do_v far_o more_o true_o efficacious_o and_o proffitable_o exercise_v and_o as_o it_o be_v exemplify_v the_o passion_n itself_o and_o this_o in_o two_o manner_n viz._n 1._o in_o their_o internal_a prayer_n wherein_o they_o produce_v the_o same_o affection_n and_o act_n of_o love_n humility_n and_o patience_n of_o which_o our_o lord_n give_v they_o a_o pattern_n in_o his_o passion_n 2._o in_o their_o externall_n do_n real_o on_o occasion_n practise_v the_o same_o virtue_n which_o be_v proper_a to_o the_o passion_n with_o far_o more_o perfection_n in_o virtue_n of_o such_o prayer_n than_o they_o can_v by_o meditation_n and_o so_o do_v show_v themselves_o to_o be_v more_o true_a disciple_n of_o he_o 9_o this_o divine_a object_n therefore_o be_v far_o from_o be_v lose_v or_o forget_v by_o such_o proceed_n in_o prayer_n yea_o it_o be_v in_o a_o far_o more_o noble_a manner_n both_o commemorate_a and_o imitate_v and_o sure_o to_o tie_v the_o soul_n general_o in_o all_o recollection_n to_o a_o particular_a curious_a reflection_n on_o the_o circumstance_n belong_v to_o our_o lord_n passion_n will_v be_v as_o if_o one_o will_v oblige_v a_o person_n that_o can_v read_v perfect_o and_o with_o one_o glance_n of_o his_o eye_n join_v a_o whole_a sentence_n together_o to_o make_v a_o express_a and_o distinct_a reflection_n on_o each_o letter_n syllable_n and_o word_n such_o a_o frame_n and_o multiply_v of_o image_n will_v only_o serve_v to_o obscure_v the_o mind_n and_o cool_v the_o affection_n well_o may_v such_o devout_a soul_n out_o of_o time_n of_o prayer_n in_o read_v or_o discourse_v admit_v such_o image_n and_o receive_v benefit_n by_o they_o in_o future_a recollection_n but_o when_o they_o actual_o pray_v then_o to_o be_v force_v to_o stop_v and_o restrain_v the_o will_n from_o melt_v into_o divine_a love_n or_o from_o sacrifice_v herself_o to_o god_n by_o perfect_a resignation_n &c_n &c_n till_o she_o have_v pass_v through_o her_o former_a imperfect_a method_n of_o imaginative_a meditation_n be_v all_o one_o as_o to_o forbid_v soul_n to_o unite_v themselves_o in_o spirit_n to_o the_o divinity_n 10._o notwithstanding_o when_o soul_n come_v to_o be_v perfect_a they_o will_v be_v in_o such_o a_o state_n as_o that_o the_o express_a consideration_n of_o this_o or_o any_o other_o good_a sensible_a object_n will_v be_v no_o impediment_n at_o all_o to_o their_o high_a exercise_n yea_o it_o will_v very_o efficacious_o advance_v the_o soul_n in_o they_o and_o this_o be_v after_o that_o perfect_a contemplation_n be_v attain_v to_o for_o then_o the_o imagination_n be_v so_o rectify_v and_o so_o perfect_o subject_v to_o the_o superior_a soul_n that_o it_o will_v not_o only_o not_o obscure_a or_o distract_v but_o on_o the_o contrary_a will_n with_o great_a readiness_n help_v to_o make_v contemplation_n more_o pure_a and_o clear_a then_o a_o view_v of_o the_o humanity_n of_o our_o lord_n will_v drive_v the_o soul_n more_o deep_o into_o the_o divinity_n as_o we_o see_v that_o the_o glorify_a saint_n without_o the_o least_o distraction_n to_o their_o vision_n of_o god_n yea_o sure_o with_o a_o addition_n to_o the_o perfection_n of_o it_o do_v in_o their_o thanks-givings_a reflect_v on_o the_o humanity_n and_o passion_n of_o our_o saviour_n say_v dignus_fw-la est_fw-la agnus_n qui_fw-la occisus_fw-la est_fw-la etc._n etc._n 11._o till_o that_o soul_n therefore_o do_v attain_v to_o such_o contemplation_n let_v they_o be_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o immediate_a act_n &c._n &c._n content_v themselves_o to_o exercise_v the_o mystery_n of_o the_o passion_n virtual_o though_o not_o express_o remember_v the_o say_n of_o a_o spiritual_a author_n that_o in_o god_n nothing_o be_v neglect_v all_o faith_n and_o all_o love_n be_v exercise_v in_o the_o contemplation_n and_o union_n of_o the_o spirit_n by_o love_n to_o the_o divinity_n all_o particular_a devotion_n be_v both_o sufficient_o and_o perfect_o perform_v when_o we_o perform_v our_o principal_a duty_n most_o perfect_o in_o do_v this_o we_o do_v honour_v the_o saint_n after_o a_o manner_n most_o acceptable_a to_o they_o we_o do_v most_o perfect_o discharge_v our_o vocal_a prayer_n which_o be_v not_o of_o obligation_n and_o we_o most_o efficacious_o express_v our_o charity_n both_o to_o our_o friend_n live_v and_o dead_a so_o that_o there_o will_v be_v no_o need_n for_o such_o end_n to_o interrupt_v or_o distract_v our_o recollection_n by_o oblige_v ourselves_o voluntary_o to_o multiply_v the_o repeat_n of_o office_n etc._n etc._n and_o last_o so_o far_o be_v this_o from_o be_v any_o disparagement_n to_o our_o gratitude_n unto_o our_o lord_n for_o his_o suffering_n that_o we_o thereby_o acknowledge_v that_o all_o the_o good_a thought_n that_o we_o entertain_v and_o all_o the_o good_a action_n that_o we_o do_v be_v produce_v in_o virtue_n of_o his_o passion_n adhere_v to_o by_o faith_n and_o love_n although_o no_o express_a internal_a discourse_n on_o it_o be_v exercise_v 12._o now_o what_o have_v here_o be_v deliver_v concern_v the_o disoblige_v of_o soul_n that_o practise_v internal_a prayer_n from_o tie_v themselves_o to_o imaginative_a exercise_n about_o sensible_a object_n be_v not_o only_o
suitable_a to_o reason_n but_o be_v moreover_o confirm_v by_o the_o authority_n of_o learned_a and_o experience_v mystic_a writer_n and_o particular_o the_o devout_a reader_n may_v see_v what_o barbancon_n in_o his_o secret_n sentier_n 1_o cap._n 6._o admonit_fw-la 2._o have_v write_v on_o this_o point_n 13._o thus_o have_v show_v the_o indispensable_a necessity_n for_o a_o soul_n aspire_v to_o contemplation_n with_o all_o due_a liberty_n of_o spirit_n to_o follow_v the_o divine_a guidance_n from_o each_o inferior_a degree_n of_o prayer_n to_o another_o more_o sublime_a they_o become_v more_o proper_a &_o profitable_a i_o will_v now_o endeavour_v to_o give_v more_o particular_a advice_n concern_v pass_v from_o the_o exercise_n of_o meditation_n to_o that_o of_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n and_o will_v show_v by_o what_o sign_n and_o mark_n a_o devout_a soul_n may_v reasonable_o judge_v and_o conclude_v that_o such_o a_o change_n and_o transition_n be_v proper_a for_o she_o yet_o so_o as_o that_o my_o intention_n and_o desire_n be_v that_o soul_n shall_v principal_o depend_v on_o their_o internal_a light_n which_o god_n holy_a spirit_n will_v afford_v they_o in_o and_o by_o prayer_n 14._o let_v every_o devout_a soul_n diligent_o pursue_v her_o present_a exercise_n in_o prayer_n advise_o undertake_v or_o recommend_v to_o she_o by_o a_o prudent_a director_n till_o there_o come_v a_o proper_a time_n for_o a_o change_n let_v she_o say_v the_o excellent_a author_n of_o scala_fw-la perfectionis_fw-la content_v herself_o with_o this_o gift_n of_o god_n till_o he_o be_v please_v to_o bestow_v on_o she_o a_o better_a which_o he_o will_v not_o fail_v to_o do_v when_o he_o shall_v see_v it_o to_o be_v for_o her_o good_a and_o so_o do_v she_o can_v but_o increase_v in_o charity_n although_o she_o see_v no_o evident_a proof_n of_o her_o advancement_n in_o spiritual_a operation_n whensoever_o it_o shall_v be_v god_n pleasure_n to_o make_v a_o change_n in_o her_o prayer_n he_o will_v by_o degree_n so_o press_v she_o thereto_o that_o in_o the_o end_n she_o shall_v both_o clear_o perceive_v and_o correspond_v to_o his_o invitation_n and_o till_o that_o time_n come_v it_o be_v to_o no_o purpose_n for_o she_o to_o examine_v or_o frame_v any_o judgement_n of_o her_o progress_n her_o best_a be_v to_o do_v her_o duty_n and_o leave_v the_o success_n to_o god_n 15._o a_o change_n whensoever_o it_o be_v make_v as_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v consist_v in_o this_o that_o the_o activity_n of_o the_o fancy_n and_o discourse_n be_v abate_v and_o the_o whole_a internal_a exercise_n of_o prayer_n by_o little_a be_v reduce_v to_o blind_a operation_n of_o the_o will_v the_o which_o operation_n or_o affection_n likewise_o grow_v by_o practice_n more_o and_o more_o natural_a quiet_a pure_a silent_a subtle_a imperceptible_a and_o profound_a the_o divine_a spirit_n draw_v the_o soul_n in_o her_o exercise_n ever_o more_o and_o more_o unto_o itself_o 16._o ordinary_o when_o a_o time_n of_o change_n from_o a_o more_o imperfect_a to_o a_o more_o sublime_a exercise_n of_o prayer_n come_v it_o will_v not_o on_o the_o sudden_a or_o at_o once_o be_v perceive_v or_o but_o very_o obscure_o &_o doubtful_o only_o a_o soul_n will_v perceive_v a_o better_n in_o her_o exercise_n her_o operation_n by_o little_a and_o little_o become_v more_o spiritual_a and_o indeed_o in_o some_o person_n there_o be_v almost_o daily_a a_o better_n and_o purify_n of_o their_o prayer_n the_o which_o themselves_o do_v or_o may_v well_o enough_o observe_v though_o perhaps_o they_o be_v not_o able_a to_o express_v the_o manner_n of_o it_o to_o another_o by_o reason_n of_o its_o subtlety_n 17._o far_o less_o inconvenience_n will_v follow_v by_o detain_v a_o soul_n somewhat_o too_o long_o in_o a_o humble_a inferior_a exercise_n as_o of_o meditation_n when_o she_o be_v fit_a and_o ripe_a for_o a_o more_o sublime_a one_o then_o if_o through_o inconsideration_n levity_n or_o a_o ambitious_a humour_n to_o imitate_v example_n or_o instruction_n in_o book_n not_o pertinent_a to_o she_o she_o shall_v at_o the_o first_o or_o before_o her_o time_n be_v put_v into_o one_o above_o her_o present_a capacity_n for_o in_o the_o former_a case_n a_o easy_a and_o present_a remedy_n may_v be_v find_v by_o exalt_v the_o soul_n afterward_o to_o a_o more_o perfect_a exercise_n suitable_a to_o her_o present_a disposition_n till_o which_o be_v do_v she_o will_v at_o least_o exercise_v her_o humility_n and_o submission_n of_o judgement_n by_o which_o she_o will_v receive_v much_o profit_n but_o it_o be_v very_o difficult_a to_o find_v a_o remedy_n in_o the_o other_o case_n because_o first_o the_o natural_a unwillingnes_n and_o shame_n that_o be_v in_o soul_n to_o acknowledge_v their_o too_o hasty_a ambition_n and_o to_o descend_v lower_n will_v secret_o hinder_v they_o and_o beside_o they_o will_v be_v ready_a to_o justify_v themselves_o by_o misapply_v certain_a document_n in_o spiritual_a author_n which_o forbid_v soul_n to_o quit_v their_o present_a exercise_n for_o one_o inferior_a through_o any_o discouragement_n from_o aridity_n or_o unsatisfaction_n find_v in_o they_o notwithstanding_o except_o they_o will_v be_v content_a with_o the_o mortification_n of_o return_v to_o meditation_n in_o case_n they_o be_v not_o yet_o ripe_a for_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n they_o will_v be_v in_o danger_n of_o incur_v a_o habitual_a dryenes_n melancholy_a and_o stupidity_n and_o morever_o they_o will_v run_v into_o a_o endless_a labarynth_n perplex_v and_o entangle_v themselves_o therein_o to_o the_o great_a disquiet_n of_o their_o own_o mind_n and_o the_o trouble_v of_o other_o with_o question_n and_o doubt_n 18._o yet_o it_o can_v be_v deny_v but_o that_o god_n do_v often_o invite_v soul_n to_o some_o change_n in_o prayer_n according_a to_o that_o which_o before_o they_o have_v read_v in_o some_o book_n and_o then_o they_o be_v to_o follow_v the_o instruction_n of_o such_o a_o book_n as_o a_o light_n send_v they_o from_o god_n in_o which_o case_n it_o be_v indeed_o the_o secret_a motion_n and_o invitation_n afford_v they_o by_o god_n to_o apply_v such_o instruction_n that_o be_v their_o sure_a guide_n without_o which_o they_o must_v apply_v nothing_o that_o they_o find_v in_o book_n 19_o more_o particular_o by_o these_o follow_a sign_n a_o devout_a soul_n may_v for_o the_o most_o part_n perceive_v and_o judge_v when_o it_o be_v fit_a for_o she_o to_o change_v her_o exercise_n of_o prayer_n as_o for_o example_n to_o quit_v meditation_n and_o to_o betake_v herself_o to_o a_o prayer_n of_o the_o will_n etc._n etc._n 20._o first_o she_o will_v not_o find_v that_o pleasure_n satisfaction_n and_o profit_n in_o her_o present_a exercise_n which_o former_o she_o do_v but_o on_o the_o contrary_a a_o sensible_a disgust_n and_o a_o kind_n of_o impotency_n to_o practice_v internal_a discourse_n any_o long_o or_o if_o she_o will_v force_v herself_o to_o observe_v her_o method_n of_o meditate_v it_o will_v produce_v no_o effect_n upon_o her_o affection_n the_o which_o if_o they_o be_v leave_v to_o themselves_o will_v flow_v far_o more_o free_o and_o this_o disgust_n be_v not_o for_o once_o or_o twice_o nor_o as_o former_o upon_o occasion_n of_o some_o corporal_a distemper_n passion_n aridity_n or_o any_o unusual_a accident_n but_o it_o be_v a_o last_a disgust_n arise_v from_o a_o desire_n to_o please_v god_n and_o to_o grow_v in_o perfection_n join_v with_o a_o uncertainty_n or_o fear_n that_o the_o way_n wherein_o she_o now_o be_v be_v not_o proper_a to_o effect_v that_o desire_n 21._o second_o she_o will_v thereupon_o find_v in_o herself_o a_o certain_a motion_n or_o inward_a invitation_n to_o enter_v into_o some_o other_o new_a exercise_n at_o yet_o not_o clear_o know_v to_o she_o or_o if_o there_o be_v no_o new_a exercise_n propose_v to_o she_o there_o be_v however_o a_o motion_n to_o a_o cessation_n from_o the_o present_a exercise_n at_o least_o for_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v the_o manner_n of_o it_o as_o it_o happen_v when_o from_o aspiration_n a_o soul_n be_v invite_v to_o a_o rest_a and_o repose_v in_o god_n with_o a_o cessation_n of_o all_o active_a aspiration_n or_o affection_n the_o which_o be_v a_o immediate_a disposition_n to_o a_o supernatural_a contemplation_n 22._o three_o a_o devout_a soul_n consider_v the_o benefit_n that_o she_o have_v hitherto_o reap_v by_o her_o present_a exercise_n and_o her_o accustomance_n to_o it_o which_o be_v not_o easy_o leave_v consider_v likewise_o that_o for_o want_n of_o trial_n she_o do_v not_o as_o yet_o know_v the_o worth_a and_o benefit_n of_o the_o new_a propose_a exercise_n the_o which_o at_o first_o appear_v a_o little_a strange_a and_o uncouth_a to_o she_o she_o will_v not_o easy_o see_v or_o believe_v that_o it_o will_v prove_v as_o profitable_a as_o her_o present_a exercise_n have_v already_o be_v for_o
these_o and_o the_o like_a reason_n she_o will_v be_v apprehensive_a and_o unwilling_a to_o adventure_v upon_o the_o new_a one_o 23._o four_o during_o these_o uncertainty_n and_o irresolution_n her_o disgust_n in_o her_o present_a exercise_n rather_o increase_v then_o diminish_v and_o god_n still_o interious_o though_o not_o gross_o and_o sensible_o incline_v she_o to_o the_o new_a propose_a way_n she_o at_o length_n as_o it_o be_v force_v thereto_o adventure_n upon_o it_o yet_o with_o some_o fear_n at_o the_o first_o whether_o this_o change_n will_v prove_v for_o her_o good_a or_o no._n 24._o five_o as_o soon_o as_o she_o be_v well_o enter_v into_o this_o new_a exercise_n present_o she_o will_v find_v it_o gustfull_a &_o delightful_a unto_o she_o and_o withal_o much_o more_o profitable_a than_o be_v the_o other_o former_o practise_v whereupon_o she_o will_v thenceforward_o with_o courage_n and_o joy_n persevere_v in_o it_o 25._o by_o such_o step_n and_o degree_n do_v a_o soul_n that_o be_v pure_o under_o the_o guidance_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n pass_v from_o one_o degree_n of_o prayer_n to_o another_o former_o unknowen_a unto_o she_o till_o at_o last_o she_o come_v to_o contemplation_n and_o she_o will_v clear_o perceive_v that_o it_o be_v not_o herself_o but_o god_n only_o that_o do_v as_o it_o be_v lead_v she_o by_o the_o hand_n and_o draw_v she_o forward_o into_o the_o new_a exercise_n teach_v she_o likewise_o how_o to_o hehave_v herself_o in_o the_o beginning_n whereas_o in_o the_o pursuance_n of_o it_o she_o afterward_o proceed_v as_o it_o be_v by_o she_o own_o habitual_a skill_n though_o real_o god_n be_v in_o every_o thing_n her_o secret_a master_n and_o helper_n and_o he_o deal_v with_o a_o humble_a soul_n as_o a_o write_a master_n with_o his_o scholar_n who_o at_o first_o move_v and_o direct_v his_o hand_n to_o form_n &_o join_v letter_n but_o afterward_o direct_v he_o only_o with_o his_o eye_n and_o tongue_n or_o as_o a_o father_n that_o carry_v his_o child_n over_o a_o ditch_n or_o style_n but_o let_v we_o he_o go_v alone_o in_o the_o even_o plain_a way_n 26._o and_o as_o for_o a_o soul_n that_o by_o read_v or_o teach_v be_v inform_v in_o the_o nature_n and_o degree_n of_o internal_a prayer_n her_o proceed_n and_o transition_n be_v much_o after_o the_o same_o manner_n except_v only_o that_o the_o next_o degree_n to_o which_o she_o be_v to_o ascend_v do_v not_o seem_v so_o strange_a to_o she_o but_o the_o sign_n by_o which_o a_o necessity_n of_o change_n do_v appear_v be_v as_o formerly_z a_o constant_a disgust_n in_o her_o present_a exercise_n of_o meditation_n etc._n etc._n and_o a_o kind_n of_o disability_n to_o continue_v it_o with_o any_o profit_n to_o her_o spirit_n by_o which_o mean_v it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o in_o her_o recollection_n the_o meditate_v or_o discourse_v part_n diminish_v daily_a and_o the_o affective_a part_n increase_v the_o will_n by_o little_a and_o little_o get_v ground_n of_o the_o understanding_n till_o at_o last_o the_o prayer_n become_v entire_o of_o the_o will_n and_o thus_o she_o pass_v almost_o unaware_n into_o the_o next_o degree_n her_o prayer_n become_v by_o little_a and_o little_o more_o and_o more_o purify_v into_o the_o which_o degree_n when_o she_o be_v in_o such_o a_o manner_n and_o order_n enter_v then_o indeed_o she_o be_v not_o for_o any_o aridity_n or_o obscurity_n to_o quit_v it_o and_o to_o return_v to_o meditation_n but_o to_o use_v a_o discreet_a violence_n upon_o the_o will_n to_o make_v it_o to_o produce_v good_a affection_n and_o act_n although_o nature_n take_v little_a comfort_n or_o satisfaction_n in_o the_o exercise_n for_o by_o so_o do_v she_o will_v much_o benefit_v herself_o both_o by_o mortify_a nature_n and_o fix_v divine_a love_n more_o profound_o in_o the_o spiritual_a region_n of_o the_o soul_n 27._o to_o conclude_v this_o point_n a_o spiritual_a life_n be_v subject_a to_o many_o and_o wonderful_a change_n interiour_n as_o well_o as_o exterior_a and_o all_o be_v according_a to_o the_o mere_a will_n and_o good_a pleasure_n of_o god_n who_o be_v tie_v to_o no_o method_n or_o rule_n therefore_o follow_a he_o in_o all_o simplicity_n and_o resignation_n let_v we_o wonder_n at_o nothing_o let_v we_o neither_o oblige_v self_n too_o rigorous_o to_o any_o exercise_n nor_o refuse_v any_o to_o which_o he_o shall_v invite_v we_o seem_v it_o never_o so_o strange_a or_o to_o natural_a reason_n even_o senseless_a for_o in_o his_o guidance_n there_o can_v be_v no_o danger_n of_o error_n but_o on_o the_o contrary_a there_o be_v all_o security_n and_o this_o may_v and_o aught_o to_o be_v a_o great_a comfort_n and_o encouragement_n to_o a_o wellminded_n resolute_a soul_n the_o three_o section_n of_o the_o three_o treatise_n to_o wit_n of_o the_o exercise_n of_o immediate_a force_a act_n of_o the_o will_n be_v the_o second_o degree_n of_o internal_a prayer_n chap._n i._n §_o 1._o 2._o 3._o of_o exercise_n of_o the_o will_n to_o wit_n force_v immediate_a act_n or_o affection_n &_o aspiration_n §_o 4._o 5._o &c_n &c_n difference_n between_o act_n of_o the_o will_n &_o affection_n §_o 8._o 9_o how_o the_o prayer_n of_o sensible_a affection_n be_v to_o be_v exercise_v §_o 10._o of_o sublime_a pure_a affection_n of_o the_o spirit_n §_o 11._o 12._o &c_n &c_n of_o the_o prayer_n of_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n compare_v with_o meditation_n §_o 17._o 18._o condition_n of_o acts._n §_o 19_o mere_a cessation_n of_o prayer_n to_o be_v avoid_v §_o 20._o a_o account_v not_o to_o be_v require_v touch_v the_o behaviour_n of_o soul_n in_o affective_a prayer_n §_o 21._o act_n proceed_v from_o a_o good_a natural_a propension_n be_v most_o efficacious_a 1._o a_o soul_n that_o by_o a_o divine_a call_n as_o be_v in_o a_o state_n of_o maturity_n for_o it_o relinquish_v meditation_n to_o the_o end_n to_o betake_v herself_o to_o a_o more_o sublime_a exercise_n which_o be_v that_o of_o immediate_a act_n or_o affection_n of_o the_o will_n then_o only_o begin_v to_o enter_v into_o the_o way_n of_o contemplation_n for_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o will_n be_v the_o sublimest_n that_o any_o soul_n can_v practice_v and_o all_o the_o difference_n that_o hereafter_o follow_v be_v only_o either_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o great_a or_o lesser_a promptitude_n or_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o degree_n of_o purity_n wherewith_o a_o soul_n produce_v such_o acts._n 2._o so_o that_o the_o whole_a latitude_n of_o internal_a prayer_n of_o the_o will_v which_o be_v contemplative_a prayer_n may_v be_v comprehend_v under_o these_o two_o distinct_a exercise_n to_o wit_n 1._o the_o exercise_n of_o force_a act_n or_o affection_n of_o the_o will_n produce_v either_o immediate_o according_a to_o the_o person_n present_a disposition_n without_o a_o distinct_a or_o express_a motive_n represent_v by_o the_o understanding_n or_o else_o suitable_a to_o such_o â—_o motive_n yet_o without_o any_o formal_a discourse_n of_o the_o understanding_n these_o be_v call_v force_v act_n because_o after_o â—hat_n a_o soul_n be_v become_v indispose_v to_o prosecute_v the_o exâ—rcise_n of_o meditation_n it_o will_v be_v long_o before_o that_o good_a affection_n do_v as_o it_o be_v natural_o flow_v from_o she_o so_o that_o she_o will_v need_v to_o use_v some_o force_n upon_o herself_o for_o the_o produce_v of_o the_o say_a act_n of_o the_o will_n which_o be_v imperfect_a contemplation_n 2._o the_o exercise_n of_o aspiration_n the_o which_o though_o they_o be_v in_o substance_n little_o differ_v from_o the_o former_a yet_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o facility_n wherewith_o they_o be_v produce_v without_o force_n foresight_n or_o election_n pure_o flow_a from_o a_o internal_a impulse_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n we_o therefore_o give_v they_o another_o name_n &_o call_v they_o not_o act_n but_o aspiration_n the_o constant_a exercise_n of_o which_o be_v proper_a &_o perfect_a contemplation_n 3._o of_o these_o two_o exercise_n i_o shall_v consequent_o treat_v beginning_n with_o the_o more_o imperfect_a which_o be_v that_o of_o force_a immediate_a act_n or_o affection_n of_o the_o will_n 4._o in_o the_o which_o exercise_n i_o make_v some_o difference_n between_o act_n &_o affection_n of_o the_o will_n the_o former_a oâ—_n which_o be_v make_v in_o and_o by_o the_o superior_a will_n only_o without_o any_o concurrence_n of_o sensitive_a nature_n such_o be_v act_n of_o humiliation_n resignation_n &c_n &c_n the_o produce_v of_o which_o do_v not_o cause_v any_o gust_n in_o inferiors_n nature_n whereas_o affection_n of_o love_n joy_n hope_v desire_v &c_n &c_n be_v exercise_v by_o imperfect_a soul_n be_v mucâ—_n immerse_v in_o sense_n and_o they_o begin_v at_o the_o first_o almoâ—â—_n whole_o in_o inferior_a nature_n but_o yet_o by_o practice_n theâ—_n become_v more_o and_o more_o pure_a be_v raise_v to_o the_o toâ—_n
of_o sensitive_a nature_n where_o it_o be_v join_v or_o combine_a witâ—_n the_o superior_a spiritual_a will_n 5._o now_o whether_o of_o these_o two_o that_o be_v act_n or_o affection_n be_v to_o be_v practise_v respective_o by_o soul_n that_o must_v depend_v upon_o the_o observation_n and_o experience_n that_o each_o soul_n have_v of_o she_o own_o natural_a disposition_n &_o inclination_n general_o soul_n be_v more_o dispose_v to_o the_o exercise_n of_o immediate_a act_n the_o which_o likewise_o be_v both_o more_o profitable_a &_o more_o secure_a and_o therefore_o in_o the_o follow_a discourse_n i_o shall_v most_o insist_v upon_o they_o 6._o and_o as_o for_o the_o exercise_n of_o sensible_a affection_n it_o belong_v only_o to_o such_o soul_n as_o in_o their_o natural_a temper_n be_v more_o tender_a and_o affectionate_a who_o love_n express_v itself_o with_o great_a liquefaction_n in_o sensible_a nature_n so_o that_o they_o be_v easy_o move_v to_o tear_n and_o do_v feel_v warmth_n &_o quick_a motion_n about_o the_o heart_n &c_n &c_n which_o effect_n or_o symptom_n do_v not_o argue_v love_n to_o be_v great_a for_o it_o may_v be_v as_o cordial_a &_o more_o firm_a generous_a &_o active_a in_o other_o who_o seldom_o or_o never_o feel_v such_o effect_n 7._o such_o tender_a soul_n as_o these_o have_v withal_o a_o natural_a good_a propension_n to_o seek_v god_n in_o their_o interiour_n can_v easy_o exercise_v their_o affection_n to_o god_n in_o and_o by_o their_o corporal_a nature_n without_o trouble_v themselves_o with_o seek_v reason_n &_o motive_n for_o it_o yea_o in_o a_o short_a time_n they_o come_v to_o have_v a_o kind_n of_o disgust_n in_o invent_v or_o consider_v motive_n represent_v by_o the_o understanding_n 8._o as_o for_o the_o manner_n how_o such_o soul_n be_v to_o behave_v themselves_o in_o their_o recollection_n the_o special_a instruction_n follow_a concern_v the_o exercise_v of_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n will_v serve_v so_o that_o there_o will_v be_v no_o need_n of_o repeat_v they_o twice_o 9_o the_o principal_a care_n that_o such_o soul_n ought_v to_o have_v be_v to_o endeavour_v to_o raise_v this_o their_o love_n out_o of_o sensitive_a nature_n to_o the_o superior_a spiritual_a will_n by_o who_o operation_n alone_o the_o soul_n be_v true_o perfect_v therefore_o according_a to_o the_o advice_n former_o give_v touch_v sensible_a devotion_n they_o be_v to_o mortify_v and_o restrain_v rather_o than_o to_o give_v scope_n to_o tear_n and_o other_o tenderness_n of_o nature_n in_o prayer_n &c_n &c_n and_o some_o other_o particular_n which_o do_v concern_v affection_n as_o distinct_a from_o act_n of_o the_o will_n shall_v hereafter_o be_v occasional_o take_v notice_n of_o 10._o now_o beside_o these_o sensible_a act_n of_o love_n there_o be_v other_o which_o be_v pure_o in_o spirit_n &_o which_o among_o all_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o will_v be_v the_o most_o sublime_a that_o can_v be_v exercise_v in_o this_o life_n for_o they_o can_v be_v use_v by_o a_o soul_n so_o as_o to_o be_v her_o constant_a usual_a exercise_n till_o she_o be_v come_v to_o a_o perfect_a degree_n of_o mortification_n which_o ordinary_o be_v not_o before_o a_o passive_a union_n after_o which_o they_o be_v exercise_v in_o a_o manner_n so_o spiritual_a &_o divine_a that_o the_o unexperienced_a can_v conceive_v nor_o the_o experience_a express_v these_o be_v certain_a painful_a yet_o delightful_a long_n afâ—er_v god_n certain_a languish_a elevation_n of_o spirit_n towards_o a_o unknown_a dark_a divine_a object_n the_o desire_n &_o absence_n of_o which_o cause_v a_o tedious_a disgust_n of_o all_o sensible_a contentment_n yea_o even_o in_o spiritual_a thing_n also_o but_o of_o such_o operation_n as_o these_o it_o will_v be_v seasonable_a to_o speak_v when_o we_o come_v to_o treat_v of_o perfect_a contemplation_n 11._o as_o touch_v the_o most_o profitable_a exercise_n of_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n the_o practice_n thereof_o in_o gross_a be_v after_o this_o manner_n the_o soul_n aim_n be_v to_o recollect_v herself_o by_o that_o general_a notion_n that_o faith_n give_v she_o of_o god_n but_o be_v not_o able_a to_o do_v this_o present_o she_o do_v in_o her_o mind_n and_o by_o the_o help_n of_o the_o imagination_n represent_v unto_o herself_o some_o divine_a object_n as_o some_o one_o or_o more_o perfection_n of_o god_n or_o some_o mystery_n of_o faith_n as_o the_o incarnation_n tranfiguration_n passion_n agony_n or_o dereliction_n of_o our_o lord_n &c_n &c_n and_o thereupon_o without_o such_o discourse_n as_o be_v use_v in_o meditation_n she_o do_v immediate_o without_o more_o ado_n produce_v act_n or_o affection_n one_o after_o a_o other_o towards_o god_n or_o upon_o herself_o with_o reference_n to_o god_n adore_v give_v thanks_o humble_v herself_o in_o his_o presence_n resigning_n herself_o to_o his_o will_n etc._n etc._n 12._o this_o exercise_n be_v more_o easy_a to_o learn_v and_o comprehend_v then_o meditation_n because_o so_o many_o rule_n be_v not_o necessary_a to_o it_o neither_o be_v there_o in_o it_o such_o study_n or_o exercise_v the_o ability_n of_o the_o understanding_n or_o imagination_n it_o be_v indeed_o a_o very_a plain_n downright_a and_o simple_a exercise_n consist_v mere_o in_o the_o efficacy_n of_o the_o will_n but_o notwithstanding_o such_o plain_a simplicity_n it_o be_v a_o far_o more_o noble_a exercise_n then_o that_o of_o meditation_n as_o be_v the_o fruit_n and_o result_n of_o it_o for_o whatsoever_o the_o understanding_n operate_v with_o reference_n to_o god_n can_v produce_v no_o good_a effect_n upon_o the_o soul_n further_o than_o it_o have_v relation_n to_o and_o influence_n on_o the_o will_n by_o dispose_v it_o to_o submit_v and_o resign_v itself_o to_o god_n or_o to_o tend_v towards_o he_o by_o act_n of_o love_n adoration_n etc._n etc._n 13._o now_o this_o exercise_n although_o likewise_o it_o be_v not_o so_o busy_a and_o laborious_a as_o meditation_n yet_o it_o may_v &_o will_v often_o time_n seem_v to_o some_o soul_n even_o after_o they_o have_v make_v a_o reasonable_a progress_n in_o it_o to_o be_v more_o harsh_a &_o difficult_a but_o the_o good_a will_n and_o resolution_n of_o the_o soul_n persist_v in_o it_o will_v by_o god_n grace_n overcome_v all_o difficulty_n 14._o a_o advice_n therefore_o it_o be_v again_o and_o again_o to_o be_v repeat_v and_o never_o to_o be_v forget_v to_o wit_n that_o the_o devout_a well-minded_a soul_n that_o shall_v be_v call_v by_o god_n to_o walk_v in_o these_o internal_a way_n of_o prayer_n be_v courageous_a and_o diligent_a in_o the_o pursuance_n of_o they_o after_o the_o best_a manner_n she_o can_v amid_o all_o desolation_n obscurity_n and_o distraction_n practise_v these_o exercise_n as_o much_o as_o may_v be_v in_o the_o superior_a will_n not_o care_v whether_o sensitive_a nature_n concur_v therein_o or_o no._n 15._o in_o force_a immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n especial_o at_o the_o beginning_n there_o be_v some_o degree_n of_o meditation_n which_o be_v the_o think_n on_o the_o object_n and_o thereupon_o internal_o produce_v the_o act_n or_o affection_n itself_o &_o quiet_o continue_v and_o rest_v in_o it_o till_o all_o the_o virtue_n of_o it_o be_v spend_v there_o be_v likewise_o always_o some_o use_n of_o image_n and_o in_o the_o begin_n these_o image_n be_v more_o gross_a but_o afterward_o by_o practice_n they_o grow_v more_o pure_a and_o all_o manner_n of_o discourse_n cease_v yea_o the_o soul_n will_v begin_v to_o reject_v all_o distinct_a image_n and_o apprehend_v god_n without_o any_o particular_a representation_n only_o by_o that_o obscure_a notion_n which_o faith_n inform_v we_o of_o his_o totality_n and_o incomprehensibility_n and_o this_o only_o be_v truth_n whearas_fw-mi all_o distinct_a image_n be_v but_o imperfect_a shadow_n of_o truth_n 16._o now_o how_o great_a be_v the_o security_n of_o a_o soul_n thus_o operate_a pure_o by_o the_o will_n how_o free_a be_v she_o from_o those_o error_n and_o danger_n into_o which_o she_o may_v be_v lead_v by_o the_o curious_a search_a subtlety_n of_o the_o understanding_n here_o god_n himself_o be_v only_o her_o light_n and_o not_o any_o imagination_n of_o her_o own_o though_o image_n shall_v intrude_v themselves_o perforce_o into_o the_o fancy_n or_o be_v inject_v by_o the_o devil_n yet_o the_o soul_n will_v not_o with_o the_o will_v apply_v herself_o to_o such_o image_n but_o either_o divert_v her_o mind_n from_o they_o or_o transcend_v and_o renounce_v they_o and_o without_o image_n stir_v up_o sensuality_n and_o the_o rational_a will_n the_o devil_n can_v produce_v the_o least_o harm_n or_o danger_n to_o the_o soul_n nor_o hinder_v her_o union_n with_o god_n 17._o the_o more_o plain_a and_o simple_a that_o act_n of_o the_o will_v be_v for_o the_o manner_n of_o expression_n the_o more_o proper_a and_o efficacious_a be_v they_o to_o cause_v a_o good_a
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
tu_fw-la autem_fw-la relinque_fw-la sensus_fw-la etc._n etc._n but_o thou_o o_o timothy_n relinquish_v the_o sense_n and_o sensible_a exercise_n yea_o abandon_v all_o intellectual_a operation_n and_o with_o a_o courageous_a force_n of_o mind_n repress_v all_o these_o thing_n and_o according_a to_o thy_o utmost_a possibility_n raise_v thyself_o in_o ignorance_n and_o renounce_n of_o all_o knowledge_n to_o a_o union_n with_o god_n above_o all_o substance_n or_o be_v &_o knowledge_n 11._o but_o these_o be_v secret_n of_o divine_a love_n the_o which_o except_o by_o experience_n they_o be_v taste_v can_v in_o no_o sort_n be_v comprehend_v bless_a be_v those_o soul_n that_o thus_o loose_v themselves_o that_o they_o may_v find_v themselves_o this_o loss_n be_v so_o infinite_o gainful_a that_o it_o be_v cheap_o buy_v with_o all_o the_o anguish_v of_o mortification_n all_o the_o travel_n of_o meditation_n &_o all_o the_o aridity_n obscurity_n and_o desolation_n attend_v the_o prayer_n of_o the_o will_n this_o loss_n be_v the_o design_n of_o all_o these_o exercise_n and_o labour_n this_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o all_o divine_a inaction_n we_o mortify_v our_o passion_n to_o the_o end_v we_o may_v loose_v they_o we_o exercise_v discursive_a prayer_n by_o sensible_a image_n to_o the_o end_v we_o may_v loose_v all_o use_n of_o image_n and_o discourse_n and_o we_o actuate_v immediate_o by_o operation_n of_o the_o will_n to_o the_o end_v we_o may_v arrive_v to_o a_o state_n of_o stability_n in_o prayer_n above_o all_o direct_a exercise_n of_o any_o of_o the_o soul_n faculty_n a_o state_n wherein_o the_o soul_n be_v oft_o bring_v to_o the_o utmost_a of_o her_o working_n be_v force_v to_o cease_v all_o work_v to_o the_o end_n that_o god_n may_v operate_v in_o she_o so_o that_o till_o a_o soul_n be_v reduce_v to_o a_o perfect_a denudation_n of_o spirit_n and_o a_o deprivation_n of_o all_o thing_n god_n do_v not_o enjoy_v a_o secure_a and_o perfect_a possession_n of_o it_o 12._o and_o thus_o by_o god_n assistance_n we_o have_v pass_v through_o the_o several_a degree_n of_o prayer_n according_a to_o which_o especial_o the_o station_n and_o degree_n of_o a_o internal_a life_n be_v to_o be_v measure_v we_o have_v endeavour_v it_o be_v to_o be_v hope_v not_o altogether_o unproffitable_o with_o all_o simplicity_n and_o perspicuity_n to_o declare_v the_o order_n and_o cbange_n of_o they_o if_o god_n by_o the_o mean_n of_o our_o prayer_n give_v we_o the_o grace_n and_o courage_n to_o proceed_v de_fw-fr virtute_fw-la in_o virtutem_fw-la according_a to_o these_o step_n and_o these_o direction_n we_o shall_v without_o doubt_n soon_o or_o late_a arrive_v unto_o the_o top_n of_o the_o mountain_n where_o god_n be_v see_v a_o mountain_n to_o we_o that_o stand_v below_o enuiron_v with_o cloud_n and_o darkness_n but_o to_o they_o who_o have_v their_o dwell_n there_o it_o be_v peace_n &_o serenity_n and_o light_n it_o be_v a_o intellectual_a heaven_n where_o there_o be_v no_o sun_n nor_o moon_n but_o god_n and_o the_o lamb_n be_v the_o light_n of_o it_o the_o bless_a spirit_n of_o prayer_n rest_n upon_o we_o all_o amen_o amen_o finis_fw-la a_o advertisement_n to_o the_o reader_n dear_a christian_a reader_n there_o be_v intend_v and_o according_o promise_n be_v make_v in_o two_o or_o three_o passage_n of_o the_o precedent_a treatise_n that_o hereto_o shall_v be_v adjoin_v a_o appendix_n consist_v of_o a_o few_o chapter_n of_o several_a subject_n as_o 1._o a_o brief_a description_n of_o the_o nature_n faculty_n and_o operation_n of_o a_o intellectual_a soul_n the_o knowledge_n of_o which_o may_v be_v conceive_v very_o expedient_a for_o the_o unlearned_a to_o enable_v they_o the_o better_a to_o comprehend_v many_o passage_n in_o this_o book_n both_o touch_v tentation_n and_o prayer_n etc._n etc._n 2._o a_o discourse_n to_o prove_v that_o it_o be_v no_o prejudice_n or_o disparagement_n to_o divine_a charity_n to_o love_n god_n for_o a_o reward_n so_o that_o such_o a_o reward_n be_v the_o bless_a enjoy_n of_o himself_o and_o not_o any_o inferior_a end_n please_v to_o sense_n etc._n etc._n 3._o a_o protestation_n which_o in_o one_o word_n be_v here_o make_v against_o the_o least_o intention_n of_o reflect_v with_o censure_n or_o disparagement_n upon_o the_o way_n or_o do_n of_o other_o whether_o directour_n or_o disciple_n in_o the_o matter_n of_o prayer_n or_o any_o other_o good_a practice_n teach_v or_o use_v by_o they_o as_o consider_v in_o themselves_o and_o much_o more_o against_o all_o thought_n of_o decry_v any_o ceremonious_a or_o solemn_a observance_n practise_v in_o or_o by_o any_o community_n etc._n etc._n the_o venerable_a author_n of_o these_o instruction_n be_v of_o a_o spirit_n too_o full_a of_o charity_n and_o spiritual_a prudence_n and_o too_o averse_a from_o so_o mean_v a_o ambition_n as_o to_o seek_v the_o procure_n a_o esteem_n to_o himself_o or_o his_o own_o write_n by_o the_o depress_v of_o other_o so_o that_o whensoever_o he_o give_v any_o advice_n or_o caution_n touch_v such_o matter_n his_o intention_n only_o be_v that_o the_o purify_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o exalt_v of_o prayer_n shall_v not_o be_v prejudice_v by_o the_o foresay_a practice_n the_o which_o whether_o indeed_o they_o be_v prejudicial_a hereto_o or_o no_o only_a superior_n be_v to_o be_v the_o judge_n 4._o a_o answer_n to_o certain_a objection_n make_v by_o some_o since_o the_o venerable_a author_n death_n against_o the_o publish_n of_o these_o instruction_n especial_o touch_v divine_a inspiration_n these_o be_v the_o principal_a point_n that_o the_o author_n of_o this_o abridgement_n purpose_v to_o annexe_v here_o at_o the_o end_n of_o the_o three_o treatise_n but_o certain_a press_a occasion_n oblige_v we_o to_o hasten_v the_o publish_n of_o this_o present_a work_n and_o likewise_o a_o unwillingness_n that_o it_o shall_v at_o first_o swell_v to_o too_o great_a a_o proportion_n and_o bulk_n for_o these_o reason_n it_o be_v judge_v expedient_a to_o omit_v the_o say_v discourse_n which_o to_o a_o charitable_a reader_n will_v not_o be_v necessary_a or_o however_o to_o remit_v they_o to_o another_o impression_n if_o we_o shall_v be_v encourage_v thereto_o only_o notice_n may_v be_v take_v that_o for_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v the_o last_o of_o these_o particular_a point_n viz._n the_o answer_n to_o to_o such_o objection_n as_o have_v be_v make_v against_o the_o expose_v indifferent_o to_o the_o world_n instruction_n intend_v only_o for_o a_o few_o solitary_a devout_a religious_a soul_n and_o especial_o those_o that_o concern_v the_o duty_n of_o attend_v to_o and_o execute_v divine_a inspiration_n and_o call_n it_o be_v judge_v very_o expedient_a and_o almost_o necessary_a that_o it_o shall_v not_o be_v omit_v but_o rather_o premise_v as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o book_n i_o will_v detain_v thou_o no_o long_o devout_a reader_n but_o only_a to_o tell_v thou_o that_o if_o by_o god_n grace_n these_o instruction_n prove_v instrumental_a to_o the_o teach_n or_o promote_a thou_o in_o pure_a prayer_n my_o hope_n be_v thou_o will_v not_o in_o thy_o prayer_n be_v unmindful_a of_o the_o poor_a unworthy_a author_n of_o this_o abridgement_n a_o postscript_n to_o the_o reader_n belove_a charitable_a reader_n to_o recompense_v with_o some_o advantage_n the_o want_n of_o a_o promise_a appendix_n which_o be_v to_o have_v contain_v certain_a discourse_n frame_v by_o the_o unworthy_a author_n of_o this_o methodical_a abridgement_n for_o a_o clear_a though_o not_o necessary_a explication_n of_o a_o few_o passage_n in_o the_o forego_n treatise_n i_o here_o present_a unto_o thou_o the_o testimony_n and_o approbation_n of_o the_o doctrine_n here_o deliver_v give_v by_o two_o of_o the_o most_o learned_a and_o pious_a father_n of_o our_o congregation_n famous_a through_o all_o christendom_n for_o the_o more_o than_o ordinary_a eminency_n of_o their_o endowment_n to_o wit_n the_o v._o r._n f._n leander_n à _fw-it sancto_fw-it martino_n and_o the_o v._o r._n f._n rudisind_v barlow_n both_o doctor_n in_o divinity_n and_o who_o have_v several_a time_n be_v precedent_n general_n of_o our_o holy_a congregation_n etc._n etc._n the_o which_o approbation_n they_o give_v first_o voluntary_o upon_o the_o request_n of_o the_o venerable_a author_n and_o submission_n of_o his_o write_n to_o their_o judgement_n and_o a_o second_o time_n by_o the_o commission_n and_o order_n of_o the_o general_n chapter_n assemble_v at_o dovay_n a._n d._n 1633._o in_o which_o a_o attempt_n have_v be_v make_v by_o a_o certâ—iâ—e_n religious_a father_n to_o cast_v some_o aspersion_n on_o the_o say_a doctrine_n special_o concern_v divine_a inspiration_n and_o call_n as_o if_o the_o lawful_a authority_n of_o superior_n do_v receive_v prejudice_n thereby_o but_o when_o the_o say_v r._n father_n have_v in_o a_o short_a write_v deliver_v the_o ground_n of_o his_o suspicion_n and_o allegation_n
permit_v thyself_o to_o be_v detain_v while_n in_o the_o entry_n for_o perhaps_o a_o short_a delay_n here_o will_v make_v thy_o progress_n afterward_o both_o more_o speedy_a and_o profitable_a 2._o this_o be_v to_o acquaint_v thou_o that_o the_o immaculate_a doctrine_n contain_v in_o this_o book_n though_o it_o never_o meet_v with_o any_o that_o oppose_v or_o so_o much_o as_o question_v the_o verity_n thereof_o speculative_o consider_v yet_o there_o have_v not_o want_v some_o that_o have_v judge_v they_o not_o fit_a to_o be_v thus_o free_o expose_v to_o thy_o view_v much_o doubt_v thou_o will_v prove_v such_o a_o one_o as_o will_v make_v a_o ill_a use_n and_o perverse_a advantage_n from_o they_o 3._o now_o the_o principal_a yea_o only_a point_n that_o give_v some_o this_o jealousy_n be_v that_o which_o thou_o will_v find_v in_o the_o second_o section_n of_o the_o first_o treatise_n where_o be_v treat_v touch_v divine_a illumination_n inspiration_n impulse_n and_o other_o secret_a operation_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n in_o the_o heart_n of_o internal_a liver_n concern_v which_o the_o constant_a teach_v of_o our_o venerable_a author_n in_o brief_a be_v this_o viz._n that_o the_o divine_a spirit_n by_o virtue_n of_o the_o say_v operation_n be_v to_o be_v acknowledge_v our_o only_a secure_a guide_n and_o master_n in_o these_o secret_a path_n of_o divine_a love_n discover_v in_o some_o measure_n in_o the_o follow_a treatise_n and_o consequent_o that_o the_o most_o essential_a universal_a duty_n to_o be_v aspire_v unto_o by_o every_o one_o that_o pretend_v a_o desire_n or_o intention_n to_o walk_v in_o the_o same_o path_n be_v to_o give_v up_o his_o soul_n and_o all_o its_o faculty_n to_o god_n internal_a guidance_n and_o direction_n only_o relinquish_a and_o renounce_v all_o other_o instructour_n and_o instruction_n as_o far_o as_o they_o be_v not_o subordinate_o cooperate_n with_o this_o our_o divine_a master_n for_o the_o receive_n of_o who_o celestial_a influence_n the_o humble_a and_o devout_a scholar_n be_v oblige_v to_o prepare_v and_o dispose_v himself_o by_o prayer_n abstraction_n of_o life_n &c_n &c_n in_o solitude_n harken_v to_o his_o voice_n &_o call_n and_o learn_v how_o to_o distinguish_v it_o clear_o from_o the_o voice_n &_o solicitation_n of_o humane_a reason_n or_o corrupt_a nature_n till_o that_o by_o long_a familiarity_n &_o conversation_n with_o god_n divine_a love_n alone_o will_v so_o clear_v his_o spiritual_a sight_n that_o he_o shall_v see_v at_o last_o no_o other_o light_n nor_o receive_v motion_n from_o any_o other_o but_o god_n only_o &_o this_o in_o all_o action_n omission_n and_o suffering_n though_o in_o themselves_o of_o the_o small_a importance_n 4._o this_o be_v our_o venerable_a author_n doctrine_n every_o where_o in_o all_o his_o treatise_n what_o ever_o the_o subject_n be_v inculcate_v and_o even_o to_o the_o weary_v of_o the_o reader_n continual_o repeat_v and_o assert_v indeed_o a_o doctrine_n it_o be_v so_o fundamental_a to_o all_o his_o other_o instruction_n concern_v prayer_n and_o mortification_n &c_n &c_n that_o the_o least_o weaken_v of_o its_o authority_n render_v all_o the_o rest_n unproffitable_a 5._o but_o little_a reason_n there_o be_v to_o fear_v that_o a_o doctrine_n which_o be_v the_o very_a soul_n of_o christianity_n can_v be_v shake_v by_o humane_a opposition_n or_o disparage_v by_o jealousy_n true_a it_o be_v notwithstanding_o that_o though_o this_o fundamental_a verity_n receive_v testimony_n abundant_o both_o from_o scripture_n and_o universal_a tradition_n though_o it_o be_v constant_o assert_v in_o the_o school_n and_o sprinkle_v every_o where_o in_o almost_o all_o mystic_a writer_n yet_o scarce_o have_v any_o one_o since_o the_o ancient_a father_n time_n especial_o s._n augustin_n so_o purposely_o large_o and_o earnest_o recommend_v it_o to_o practise_v and_o therefore_o no_o great_a wonder_n it_o be_v if_o such_o a_o way_n of_o deliver_v it_o have_v seem_v a_o novelty_n even_o to_o those_o that_o speculative_o and_o in_o theft_n acknowledge_v it_o to_o be_v the_o establish_a doctrine_n of_o the_o church_n and_o while_o they_o willing_o and_o with_o applause_n hear_v it_o assert_v daily_o in_o the_o school_n yet_o meet_v with_o it_o thus_o popular_o spread_v they_o be_v offend_v with_o it_o i_o mean_v with_o the_o communicate_v it_o to_o the_o use_n and_o practice_v of_o the_o unlearned_a 6._o now_o what_o be_v be_v that_o trouble_a they_o will_v appear_v from_o the_o only_a objection_n in_o the_o author_n life-time_n make_v against_o it_o which_o be_v indeed_o a_o mere_a jealousy_n lest_o this_o doctrine_n so_o deliver_v shall_v prejudice_n the_o authority_n of_o superior_n the_o which_o objection_n he_o answer_v to_o the_o full_a satisfaction_n of_o all_o that_o be_v interest_v in_o the_o matter_n the_o sum_n of_o which_o answer_n follow_v in_o the_o nine_o chapter_n of_o the_o second_o section_n of_o the_o first_o treatise_n and_o need_v not_o be_v here_o repeat_v 7._o but_o since_o his_o death_n and_o especial_o after_o that_o by_o a_o general_a unanimous_a agreement_n of_o all_o superior_n among_o we_o it_o have_v be_v ordain_v that_o the_o sum_n of_o the_o author_n spiritual_a doctrine_n shall_v for_o the_o good_a of_o soul_n aspire_v to_o contemplation_n be_v publish_v both_o the_o same_o objection_n have_v be_v renew_v and_o other_o moreover_o add_v thereto_o and_o all_o of_o they_o have_v rise_v from_o the_o like_a ground_n of_o jealousy_n not_o so_o much_o acknowledge_v to_o be_v rational_a by_o the_o obiectour_n themselves_o who_o ready_o subscribe_v to_o the_o doctrine_n as_o catholick_o true_a and_o holy_a as_o fear_v from_o other_o to_o wit_n partly_o from_o ordinary_a not_o learned_a catholic_n who_o it_o be_v suspect_v will_v be_v suspicious_a of_o a_o doctrine_n that_o will_v seem_v new_a and_o however_o unproper_a to_o they_o but_o principal_o from_o stranger_n &_o enemy_n to_o the_o church_n especial_o the_o frantic_a enthusiast_n of_o this_o age_n who_o as_o be_v fear_v will_v conceive_v their_o frenzy_n and_o disorder_n justify_v here_o 8._o these_o thing_n consider_v both_o zeal_n to_o truth_n duty_n to_o superior_n and_o charity_n to_o thou_o belove_a reader_n oblige_v i_o before_o all_o other_o thing_n to_o beseech_v thou_o to_o abstain_v from_o read_v the_o book_n unless_o it_o can_v be_v demonstrate_v beforehand_o that_o it_o be_v fit_a to_o come_v into_o thy_o hand_n that_o the_o suspect_a inconvenience_n and_o suspicion_n be_v evident_o groundless_a that_o it_o will_v be_v a_o great_a frenzy_n in_o the_o enthusiast_n of_o these_o day_n or_o in_o any_o seduce_v or_o seduce_a spirit_n to_o claim_v any_o right_n in_o this_o doctrine_n then_o that_o which_o all_o ready_a possess_v they_o and_o in_o a_o word_n that_o no_o objection_n either_o against_o the_o doctrine_n or_o publish_n of_o it_o either_o have_v or_o as_o we_o suppose_v can_v rational_o be_v devise_v to_o make_v we_o repent_v the_o print_n or_o thou_o the_o read_n of_o the_o follow_a book_n 9_o among_o the_o say_a objection_n this_o one_o be_v scarce_o worthy_a to_o find_v place_n which_o yet_o by_o some_o have_v be_v urge_v in_o general_a against_o the_o publish_n to_o all_o christian_n view_v instruction_n about_o prayer_n and_o mystical_a practice_n proper_a to_o a_o few_o contemplative_a person_n for_o who_o alone_o the_o author_n intend_v they_o without_o the_o least_o thought_n of_o have_v they_o communicate_v &_o expose_v so_o general_o especial_o consider_v that_o this_o treatise_n discourse_n of_o sublime_a mystic_a matter_n above_o the_o reach_n of_o vulgar_a capacity_n and_o also_o that_o whereas_o to_o such_o tender_a wellminded_n soul_n as_o those_o be_v for_o who_o the_o say_a treatise_n be_v mean_v just_a liberty_n &_o condescendence_n be_v allow_v in_o many_o case_n not_o to_o be_v permit_v to_o other_o that_o either_o in_o the_o world_n or_o else_o in_o a_o religious_a life_n do_v walk_v in_o other_o way_n these_o notwithstanding_o will_v be_v apt_a to_o their_o own_o prejudice_n to_o make_v use_n of_o such_o liberty_n 10._o but_o sure_o as_o it_o will_v be_v most_o unreasonable_a to_o forbid_v a_o physician_n to_o publish_v a_o book_n of_o remedy_n against_o some_o special_a disease_n for_o fear_v that_o some_o that_o be_v untouched_a of_o those_o disease_n or_o perhaps_o sick_a of_o the_o contrary_a shall_v hurt_v themselves_o with_o make_v use_n of_o medecine_n improper_a for_o they_o or_o molina_n the_o carthusian_n to_o publish_v his_o excellent_a instruction_n for_o priest_n least_o lay-person_n shall_v assume_v the_o privilege_n belong_v to_o that_o sublime_a call_v or_o aluarez_n de_fw-fr paz_n to_o print_v his_o volume_n about_o the_o duty_n &_o exercise_n of_o religious_a person_n because_o they_o be_v improper_a for_o secular_o so_o neither_o upon_o such_o ground_n ought_v these_o instruction_n be_v hinder_v from_o be_v public_a neither_o
that_o yet_o be_v not_o very_o capable_a of_o make_v a_o good_a choice_n however_o even_o such_o as_o far_o as_o be_v allow_v aught_o to_o use_v their_o best_a endeavour_n hope_v that_o god_n will_v bless_v such_o their_o care_n for_o the_o advancement_n of_o their_o spirit_n notwithstanding_o such_o aught_o withal_o to_o take_v heed_n that_o from_o too_o nice_a a_o curiosity_n in_o choose_v there_o do_v not_o follow_v any_o disquiet_n in_o the_o family_n where_o they_o live_v if_o several_a person_n shall_v be_v zealous_a each_o for_o a_o particular_a director_n as_o s._n hierome_n chide_v a_o mother_n and_o a_o daughter_n that_o upon_o such_o a_o occasion_n separate_v from_o one_o another_o therefore_o in_o such_o a_o case_n a_o good_a soul_n that_o will_v prefer_v peace_n before_o the_o content_v her_o mind_n may_v of_o all_o other_o rely_v upon_o god_n assure_v herself_o that_o he_o will_v in_o a_o special_a manner_n assist_v and_o conduct_v she_o supply_v all_o other_o want_v and_o particular_o such_o a_o extraordinary_a divine_a assistance_n may_v be_v most_o confident_o expect_v by_o well-disposed_n soul_n in_o religious_a community_n where_o such_o freedom_n of_o choose_v be_v not_o permit_v for_o as_o rusbrochius_n say_v god_n will_v rather_o send_v a_o angel_n from_o heaven_n than_o that_o such_o humble_a obedient_a and_o sincere_a soul_n rely_v upon_o he_o shall_v want_v due_a help_n therefore_o such_o as_o forbear_v a_o solicitous_a search_n after_o a_o director_n either_o for_o the_o prevent_a inconvenience_n or_o out_o of_o a_o humble_a sincere_a apprehension_n of_o the_o danger_n of_o err_v in_o the_o choice_n or_o a_o religious_a regard_n to_o the_o prejudice_n it_o may_v cause_v in_o a_o community_n to_o peace_n and_o good_a order_n &c_n &c_n such_o may_v well_o hope_v that_o god_n will_v not_o permit_v they_o to_o be_v loser_n thereby_o yea_o moreover_o such_o as_o in_o the_o forename_a case_n think_v they_o have_v a_o true_a occasion_n and_o that_o they_o may_v just_o do_v it_o for_o the_o quiet_n of_o their_o conscience_n resolve_v of_o their_o doubt_n &c_n &c_n have_v need_n be_v very_o wary_a that_o they_o proceed_v sincere_o and_o that_o they_o real_o seek_v their_o spiritual_a profit_n and_o not_o natural_a contentment_n for_o as_o our_o venerable_a f._n baker_n in_o a_o certain_a place_n advise_v it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o any_o soul_n that_o it_o be_v permit_v by_o the_o law_n of_o the_o church_n at_o certain_a time_n to_o require_v a_o special_a director_n upon_o a_o consideration_n of_o the_o expedience_n and_o necessity_n that_o some_o soul_n in_o some_o circumstance_n may_v have_v but_o they_o be_v to_o consider_v whether_o their_o case_n have_v these_o circumstance_n and_o whether_o they_o do_v true_o make_v use_n of_o the_o say_a permission_n for_o the_o right_a end_n 41._o a_o second_o point_n in_o the_o same_o chapter_n suppose_v to_o deserve_v explication_n be_v that_o assertion_n that_o a_o devout_a soul_n once_o set_v in_o a_o good_a and_o proper_a way_n of_o prayer_n after_o she_o have_v make_v some_o progress_n in_o it_o ought_v not_o to_o have_v recourse_n ordinary_o to_o a_o director_n but_o that_o she_o shall_v practice_v the_o follow_v of_o god_n direction_n etc._n etc._n on_o the_o contrary_a it_o be_v suppose_v that_o till_o a_o soul_n have_v make_v some_o considerable_a progress_n in_o the_o prayer_n of_o the_o will_n she_o will_v not_o be_v subject_a to_o illusion_n and_o therefore_o have_v thence_o forward_o must_v need_v of_o advice_n from_o a_o prudent_a guide_n but_o this_o difficulty_n be_v clear_v towards_o the_o latter_a end_n of_o the_o three_o treatise_n where_o be_v teach_v that_o in_o the_o case_n and_o peril_n of_o illusion_n upon_o a_o opinion_n of_o some_o extraordinary_a illumination_n &c_n &c_n it_o be_v necessary_a that_o soul_n though_o never_o so_o much_o advance_v shall_v distrust_v their_o own_o judgement_n and_o never_o presume_v to_o add_v belief_n unto_o and_o must_v less_o put_v in_o execution_n any_o thing_n suggest_v by_o any_o illumination_n true_a or_o pretend_a without_o the_o advice_n and_o consent_n of_o superior_n and_o directour_n but_o as_o for_o the_o ordinary_a practice_n of_o a_o internal_a life_n as_o prayer_n and_o mortification_n &c_n &c_n be_v be_v very_o requisite_a that_o soul_n shall_v be_v teach_v as_o soon_o as_o may_v be_v to_o quit_v a_o assiduous_a dependence_n on_o externall_n guide_n from_o whence_o will_v follow_v nothing_o but_o sollicitude_n distraction_n etc._n etc._n there_o be_v a_o parallel_a advice_n though_o in_o somewhat_o a_o different_a case_n in_o 3._o treat_n 4._o sect._n 3_o chap._n §_o 36._o 37._o where_o in_o a_o discourse_n concern_v rapt_n and_o the_o like_a extraordinary_a favour_n it_o be_v say_v of_o perfect_a soul_n that_o they_o may_v judge_v of_o those_o matter_n by_o their_o own_o supernatural_a light_n etc._n etc._n &_o that_o they_o be_v not_o so_o absolute_o oblige_v to_o resign_v their_o judgment_n and_o will_n to_o other_o as_o utter_o to_o neglect_v their_o own_o proper_a call_v receive_v from_o god_n etc._n etc._n by_o which_o word_n be_v not_o mean_v that_o any_o soul_n though_o never_o so_o perfect_a shall_v be_v exempt_v from_o the_o obligation_n of_o submission_n to_o superior_n judge_v or_o ordain_v concern_v any_o such_o divine_a favour_n but_o only_o that_o such_o perfect_a soul_n need_v not_o so_o oft_o to_o have_v recourse_n for_o advice_n about_o such_o matter_n but_o may_v proceed_v by_o that_o divine_a light_n communicate_v to_o they_o whereas_o the_o imperfect_a aught_o neither_o to_o yield_v belief_n nor_o execution_n further_o than_o they_o have_v advice_n and_o order_n for_o now_o who_o will_v find_v fault_n with_o s._n teresa_n s._n catherine_n of_o sienna_n &c_n &c_n if_o they_o shall_v forbear_v consultation_n after_o every_o rapt_v or_o revelation_n have_v former_o be_v sufficient_o warrant_v by_o superior_n &_o c_o 42._o in_o consequence_n to_o the_o story_n of_o v._o r._n f._n balthasar_n aluarez_n his_o account_n give_v of_o his_o prayer_n to_o his_o general_n mention_v in_o the_o 3._o treat_n 1._o sect._n 7._o chap._n at_o the_o latter_a end_n where_o a_o relation_n be_v make_v of_o the_o general_n order_n require_v all_o superior_n to_o direct_v and_o assist_v the_o young_a religious_a among_o they_o so_o as_o that_o they_o may_v high_o y_o esteem_n and_o in_o their_o practice_n follow_v the_o manner_n of_o prayer_n most_o suitable_a to_o their_o institute_n &_o prescribe_v in_o their_o exercise_n i_o think_v myself_o oblige_v to_o acquaint_v thou_o dear_a reader_n that_o by_o two_o book_n publish_v of_o late_a by_o two_o rr._n ff_n of_o the_o society_n and_o peruse_v by_o i_o since_o the_o writing_n and_o print_n of_o that_o passage_n i_o do_v find_v that_o the_o say_v order_n of_o the_o general_n be_v not_o at_o least_o of_o late_a so_o rigide_o interpret_v as_o former_o they_o be_v 43._o the_o author_n of_o say_a book_n write_v in_o french_a be_v r._n f._n ant._n civoré_n and_o r._n f._n andr._n baiole_n in_o which_o the_o whole_a doctrine_n of_o this_o book_n especial_o concern_v the_o excellency_n of_o affective_a prayer_n beyond_o discursive_a be_v most_o copious_o and_o strong_o assert_v yea_o and_o moreover_o the_o instruction_n concern_v the_o necessity_n of_o attend_v to_o and_o follow_v divine_a inspiration_n as_o likewise_o way_n prescribe_v to_o distinguish_v they_o from_o false_a suggestion_n of_o the_o devil_n or_o corrupt_a nature_n be_v so_o large_o clear_o and_o even_o in_o the_o very_a phrase_n of_o this_o book_n deliver_v by_o the_o former_a of_o the_o two_o in_o his_o book_n call_v les_fw-fr secret_n de_fw-fr la_fw-fr science_n des_fw-fr saint_n tr._n iii_o cap._n ix_o from_o p._n 402._o to_o p._n 486._o that_o it_o not_o be_v credible_a that_o he_o have_v see_v our_o v._n f._n a._n baker_n write_n we_o may_v rational_o in_o far_o that_o what_o he_o write_v with_o such_o extraordinary_a exactness_n proceed_v from_o a_o deep_a and_o experimental_a knowledge_n of_o these_o internal_a and_o secret_a path_n of_o contemplation_n 44._o so_o that_o no_o doubt_n there_o be_v many_o devout_a person_n in_o the_o society_n which_o not_o be_v engage_v in_o many_o external_a employment_n and_o enjoy_v consequent_o both_o a_o solitude_n and_o liberty_n of_o spirit_n great_a perhaps_o than_o will_v be_v afford_v in_o many_o community_n by_o profession_n pure_o contemplative_a do_v permit_v themselves_o to_o the_o divine_a conduct_n &_o make_v wonderful_a progress_n in_o these_o divine_a way_n 45._o true_o indeed_o it_o be_v that_o the_o other_o author_n f._n ant._n baiole_n seem_v to_o maintain_v that_o the_o spiritual_a exercise_n according_a to_o the_o intention_n of_o s._n ignatius_n will_v by_o practice_n become_v a_o prayer_n of_o contemplation_n and_o mystick_n union_n a_o assertion_n in_o
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
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
shall_v be_v pure_a and_o internal_a in_o spirit_n will_v be_v turn_v into_o a_o distract_n meditation_n upon_o a_o external_a affair_n and_o so_o the_o mind_n come_v to_o be_v fill_v with_o sensible_a image_n and_o passion_n perhaps_o will_v be_v raise_v 2._o because_o by_o so_o do_v we_o incur_v the_o danger_n of_o be_v seduce_v by_o mistake_v our_o own_o imagination_n or_o perhaps_o natural_a inclination_n for_o the_o divine_a light_n and_o motion_n whereas_o such_o divine_a light_n be_v most_o effectual_o and_o secure_o yea_o and_o seldom_o otherwise_o obtain_v then_o when_o the_o imagination_n be_v quiet_a and_o the_o soul_n in_o a_o profound_a recollection_n in_o spirit_n 3._o because_o such_o discourse_n in_o time_n of_o prayer_n be_v nothing_o less_o than_o prayer_n be_v little_o more_o than_o humane_a consideration_n and_o examination_n of_o the_o matter_n the_o which_o if_o at_o all_o aught_o to_o be_v dispatch_v before_o prayer_n 7._o let_v not_o the_o soul_n therefore_o that_o be_v desirous_a by_o prayer_n to_o obtain_v light_n from_o god_n in_o a_o doubtful_a matter_n for_o that_o end_n alter_v any_o thing_n in_o the_o order_n and_o manner_n of_o her_o accustom_a recollection_n but_o let_v she_o pursue_v they_o as_o she_o be_v wont_v before_o only_o it_o may_v be_v permit_v she_o secret_o and_o brief_o to_o wish_v that_o god_n will_v teach_v she_o his_o will_n about_o the_o say_a difficulty_n 8._o but_o let_v she_o be_v sure_a to_o take_v great_a care_n she_o do_v not_o give_v way_n to_o any_o hope_n or_o desire_v that_o god_n shall_v reveile_v his_o will_n unto_o she_o by_o any_o extraordinary_a way_n as_o by_o the_o ministry_n of_o angel_n strange_a revelation_n voice_n etc._n etc._n for_o as_o nothing_o but_o pride_n can_v ordinary_o nourish_v such_o foolish_a hope_n or_o desire_n so_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v that_o if_o such_o desire_n shall_v be_v grant_v it_o will_v be_v to_o her_o prejudice_n and_o will_v increase_v that_o pride_n from_o whence_o they_o flow_v 9_o now_o there_o be_v two_o ordinary_a way_n by_o which_o god_n intimate_v his_o will_n to_o his_o servant_n that_o with_o humble_a &_o resign_v prayer_n address_v themselves_o unto_o he_o the_o first_o be_v by_o clear_v of_o the_o understanding_n thereto_o add_v a_o supernatural_a light_n by_o which_o natural_a reason_n come_v to_o see_v something_o that_o it_o see_v not_o before_o or_o at_o least_o do_v not_o esteem_v before_o so_o considerable_a for_o by_o this_o new_a light_n of_o supernatural_a discretion_n such_o obscurity_n as_o do_v before_o hinder_v reason_n from_o discern_a truth_n be_v remove_v the_o which_o obscurity_n be_v general_o cause_v by_o sensible_a image_n which_o have_v prepossess_v themselves_o of_o the_o fancy_n or_o by_o interest_n of_o nature_n which_o have_v engage_v the_o affection_n by_o both_o which_o reason_n be_v precipitate_v to_o hasten_v a_o judgement_n and_o election_n before_o she_o have_v consider_v mature_o and_o without_o partiality_n all_o circumstance_n fit_a to_o be_v consider_v in_o a_o action_n so_o that_o reason_n want_v this_o supernatural_a light_n kindle_v by_o charity_n determine_v itself_o to_o choose_v that_o part_n to_o which_o passion_n incline_v 10._o now_o since_o there_o be_v no_o mean_n so_o efficacious_a to_o free_v the_o soul_n from_o both_o these_o impediment_n as_o pure_a spiritual_a prayer_n in_o which_o the_o soul_n transcend_v all_o gross_a sensible_a image_n and_o withal_o contradict_v and_o renounce_v all_o motion_n and_o interest_n of_o nature_n we_o may_v secure_o rely_v upon_o the_o light_n and_o dictamen_fw-la which_o be_v suggest_v by_o our_o understanding_n so_o clear_v purify_v &_o free_v from_o all_o noise_n &_o distraction_n from_o the_o sensible_a faculty_n and_o appetite_n and_o this_o be_v the_o best_a and_o safe_a light_n that_o man_n can_v have_v we_o may_v &_o must_v acknowledge_v it_o to_o be_v supernatural_a because_o it_o illuminate_v we_o in_o supernatural_a thing_n discover_v the_o proportion_n between_o the_o present_a action_n and_o our_o supernatural_a end_n and_o extinguish_v the_o light_n of_o carnal_a reason_n by_o which_o the_o thing_n which_o be_v of_o god_n be_v either_o not_o see_v at_o all_o or_o esteem_v foolishness_n it_o be_v therefore_o to_o be_v accept_v as_o the_o very_a light_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n a_o light_n that_o can_v be_v obtain_v by_o study_n not_o instill_v into_o another_o by_o the_o most_o spiritual_a person_n in_o the_o world_n yea_o moreover_o it_o be_v a_o light_n that_o exceed_v the_o efficacy_n of_o the_o ordinary_a light_n of_o faith_n which_o be_v permanent_o in_o we_o by_o which_o we_o be_v only_o illuminate_v to_o preceive_v in_o a_o general_a manner_n supernatural_a object_n and_o the_o mean_n lead_v to_o they_o whereas_o by_o this_o lamp_n new_o kindle_v in_o our_o understanding_n by_o prayer_n and_o charity_n we_o clear_o discern_v in_o each_o particular_a action_n and_o circumstance_n in_o what_o manner_n and_o how_o far_o they_o have_v relation_n and_o efficacy_n to_o dispose_v we_o to_o a_o perfect_a union_n by_o love_n with_o god_n 11._o if_o a_o soul_n before_o her_o recollection_n have_v advise_v and_o consider_v of_o the_o difficulty_n and_o that_o afterward_o upon_o her_o prayer_n she_o do_v find_v herself_o incline_v to_o what_o before_o she_o consult_v with_o her_o own_o reason_n or_o with_o any_o other_o counsellor_n have_v judge_v to_o be_v the_o best_a i_o shall_v esteem_v it_o now_o to_o be_v a_o divine_a inspiration_n not_o for_o the_o former_a debating_n sake_n but_o for_o the_o subsequent_a confirmation_n of_o it_o in_o virtue_n of_o recollection_n the_o second_o way_n by_o which_o god_n do_v immediate_o signify_v his_o will_n to_o the_o intellective_a soul_n in_o virtue_n of_o prayer_n be_v by_o imprint_v a_o blind_a reasonles_a motion_n into_o the_o superior_a will_n give_v it_o a_o weight_n and_o propension_n to_o one_o side_n of_o the_o doubt_n rather_o than_o to_o the_o other_o without_o represent_v actual_o and_o at_o the_o present_a to_o the_o understanding_n any_o special_a motive_n or_o reason_n sufficient_a to_o determine_v the_o will_n this_o also_o come_v in_o virtue_n of_o spiritual_a prayer_n may_v confident_o be_v esteem_v the_o work_n of_o god_n since_o no_o creature_n can_v immediate_o move_v the_o superior_a will_n 13._o pertinent_o herto_o we_o read_v that_o the_o holy_a abbot_n nisteron_fw-gr who_o be_v a_o familiar_a friend_n of_o s._n anthony_n be_v ask_v by_o one_o what_o kind_n of_o work_n he_o will_v advise_v he_o to_o exercise_v for_o the_o good_a and_o advancement_n of_o his_o soul_n answer_v god_n only_o know_v what_o be_v good_a for_o thou_o to_o do_v and_o therefore_o look_v what_o thou_o find_v that_o thy_o soul_n according_a to_o god_n will_v have_v thou_o to_o do_v that_o do_v thou_o 14._o certain_o if_o ever_o god_n will_v show_v that_o he_o stand_v to_o his_o promise_n of_o grant_v the_o petition_n of_o his_o child_n in_o all_o thing_n which_o they_o ask_v according_a to_o his_o will_n this_o promise_n be_v in_o no_o case_n so_o infallible_o make_v good_a as_o when_o a_o sincere_a humble-minded_n soul_n be_v urge_v mere_o out_o of_o spiritual_a necessity_n do_v with_o all_o resignation_n beg_v at_o his_o hand_n the_o light_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n for_o resolution_n of_o difficulty_n that_o concern_v she_o pure_o in_o order_n to_o his_o service_n and_o honour_n and_o for_o the_o perfect_a she_o in_o his_o divine_a love._n when_o can_v a_o soul_n be_v say_v to_o ask_v according_a to_o god_n will_v but_o when_o withdraw_v herself_o from_o all_o interest_n of_o nature_n and_o fix_v her_o eye_n and_o heart_n upon_o god_n only_o she_o make_v her_o request_n know_v unto_o he_o 15._o the_o doctrine_n here_o deliver_v and_o particular_o touch_v this_o reasonles_a and_o indeliberate_a move_n of_o the_o will_n to_o good_a be_v excellent_o and_o full_o confirm_v by_o s._n thomas_n part_n 1._o q._n 1._o a._n 5._o where_o to_o the_o three_o objection_n make_v against_o his_o position_n that_o the_o doctrine_n of_o scholastic_a divinity_n be_v sapientia_fw-la wisdom_n the_o which_o objection_n be_v thus_o conceive_v this_o doctrine_n be_v attien_v by_o study_n but_o wisdom_n be_v have_v by_o infusion_n and_o thereupon_a it_o be_v reckon_v among_o the_o seven_o gift_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n isa_n xi_o therefore_o this_o doctrine_n be_v not_o wisdom_n herto_o he_o answer_v thus_o since_o judge_v perteine_n to_o a_o wise_a man_n according_a to_o a_o twofold_a manner_n of_o judge_v wisdom_n be_v understand_v in_o a_o twofold_a sense_n for_o one_o may_v judge_v 1._o either_o by_o way_n of_o inclination_n as_o he_o that_o have_v the_o habit_n of_o virtue_n do_v right_o judge_v of_o those_o thing_n which_o be_v to_o be_v do_v according_a to_o virtue_n in_o as_o much_o as_o he_o be_v
in_o all_o the_o good_a action_n we_o do_v or_o good_a thought_n we_o entertain_v we_o so_o do_v &_o think_v in_o virtue_n only_o of_o a_o precedent_n &_o concomitant_a illumination_n of_o our_o understanding_n &_o incline_v of_o our_o will_n both_o which_o be_v immediate_o cause_v by_o god_n reason_n likewise_o &_o experience_n tell_v we_o that_o while_o vain_a or_o sinful_a distract_n image_n or_o inordinate_a passion_n cloud_n the_o mind_n god_n illumination_n be_v either_o unperceived_a or_o neglect_v by_o we_o &_o his_o motion_n ineffectual_a if_o ever_o therefore_o the_o soul_n be_v in_o a_o fit_a disposition_n to_o receive_v those_o bless_a effect_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n &_o if_o ever_o god_n will_v make_v good_a his_o so_o serious_a &_o frequent_a promise_n it_o be_v then_o when_o by_o a_o profound_a recollection_n a_o humble_a soul_n withdraw_v all_o her_o affection_n from_o herself_o &_o all_o other_o creature_n yea_o &_o endeavour_n to_o expel_v all_o the_o image_n of_o they_o transcend_v all_o create_a thing_n &_o raise_v herself_o according_a to_o her_o power_n to_o a_o strict_a union_n with_o he_o and_o withal_o power_v forth_o her_o desire_n to_o be_v inform_v in_o his_o will_n only_o intend_v thereby_o his_o glory_n &_o the_o increase_n of_o his_o divine_a love._n 3._o now_o though_o imperfect_a soul_n not_o be_v able_a as_o yet_o to_o drive_v away_o distract_n image_n &_o to_o still_o all_o unruly_a passion_n be_v force_v to_o content_v themselves_o with_o their_o natural_a light_n in_o many_o matter_n of_o less_o importance_n so_o that_o a_o great_a part_n of_o their_o ordinary_a action_n do_v not_o at_o all_o contribute_v to_o their_o advancement_n in_o spirit_n yet_o perfect_a soul_n walk_v almost_o continual_o in_o a_o supernatural_a light_n perceive_v &_o resist_v the_o subtle_a insinuation_n of_o self_n love_n &_o not_o suffer_v themselves_o hasty_o to_o be_v push_v forward_o to_o action_n before_o they_o have_v consult_v their_o internal_a guide_n &_o much_o less_o contrary_a to_o his_o direction_n 4._o most_o secure_o therefore_o may_v we_o yea_o with_o all_o confidence_n ought_v we_o to_o yield_v ourselves_o to_o be_v dispose_v of_o by_o god_n &_o to_o follow_v he_o in_o any_o way_n that_o he_o will_v lead_v we_o both_o for_o the_o exterior_a &_o interior_a through_o light_n &_o darkness_n through_o bitter_a &_o sweet_a and_o what_o doubt_n can_v there_o be_v of_o err_a have_v such_o a_o guide_n which_o always_o lead_v the_o soul_n through_o the_o path_n of_o mortification_n &_o renunciation_n of_o self_n will_n although_o sometime_o some_o special_a way_n may_v to_o our_o or_o other_o natural_a judgement_n seem_v strange_a &_o perhaps_o impertinent_a 5._o the_o ground_n of_o which_o duty_n &_o the_o security_n attend_v it_o be_v these_o 1._o because_o we_o through_o the_o ignorance_n of_o our_o interior_a complexion_n &_o temper_n of_o soul_n as_o likewise_o of_o our_o present_n want_v incomprehensible_a to_o humane_a knowledge_n get_v by_o sense_n can_v neither_o know_v the_o special_a way_n either_o of_o prayer_n or_o mortification_n proper_a to_o we_o nor_o can_v we_o be_v assure_v that_o other_o do_v sufficient_o know_v they_o whereas_o of_o god_n omniscience_n and_o equal_o infinite_a goodness_n none_o can_v doubt_v 2._o because_o the_o end_n whereto_o we_o aspire_v be_v supernatural_a consequent_o the_o way_n lead_v thereunto_o &_o the_o light_n direct_v in_o those_o way_n must_v likewise_o be_v supernatural_a 3._o because_o if_o we_o know_v the_o most_o proper_a &_o most_o direct_a way_n lead_v to_o contemplation_n &_o divine_a union_n yet_o they_o be_v most_o contrary_a to_o our_o natural_a inclination_n without_o a_o divine_a impulse_n we_o will_v not_o choose_v the_o fit_a that_o be_v those_o which_o be_v the_o most_o opposite_a to_o our_o nature_n 6._o yet_o we_o be_v to_o consider_v that_o there_o be_v degree_n of_o security_n according_a to_o the_o several_a manner_n by_o which_o god_n communicate_v unto_o we_o his_o inspiration_n for_o 1._o though_o in_o sensible_a devotion_n the_o good_a thought_n &_o affection_n give_v we_o be_v in_o themselves_o &_o according_a to_o their_o substance_n the_o effect_n of_o god_n spirit_n &_o aught_o with_o all_o security_n to_o be_v comply_v withal_o yet_o with_o discretion_n so_o as_o that_o out_o of_o a_o gluttonous_a pleasure_n conceive_v by_o they_o we_o do_v not_o yield_v unto_o they_o so_o far_o as_o thereby_o to_o weaken_v our_o head_n or_o prejudice_n our_o health_n notwithstanding_o the_o resolution_n of_o undertake_v any_o practice_n for_o the_o future_a ground_v on_o such_o sensible_a devotion_n be_v to_o be_v mistrust_v as_o have_v in_o they_o more_o of_o nature_n &_o self-love_n &_o want_v sincerity_n of_o resignation_n beside_o that_o the_o sense_n be_v principal_a worker_n the_o reason_n be_v rather_o obscure_v then_o illuminate_v thereby_o yea_o &_o by_o god_n permission_n the_o devil_n may_v have_v some_o influence_n in_o such_o devotion_n &_o subsequent_a resolution_n 2._o of_o the_o like_a uncertain_a nature_n may_v the_o seem_a inspiration_n or_o light_n be_v which_o be_v get_v by_o the_o work_v of_o the_o imagination_n &_o discourse_n upon_o the_o matter_n either_o in_o prayer_n or_o our_o of_o it_o the_o person_n thereupon_o conclude_v this_o or_o that_o side_n to_o be_v more_o likely_a to_o be_v god_n will_n 3._o but_o if_o without_o such_o work_v of_o the_o imagination_n or_o if_o after_o it_o the_o soul_n in_o recollect_v prayer_n make_v with_o resignation_n &_o submission_n of_o her_o natural_a judgement_n &_o renounce_v all_o interest_n of_o nature_n come_v as_o it_o be_v unexpected_o to_o have_v one_o part_n of_o the_o question_n present_v to_o her_o mind_n as_o truth_n &_o as_o god_n will_n god_n then_o give_v a_o clarity_n to_o the_o reason_n to_o see_v that_o which_o it_o see_v not_o before_o or_o otherwise_o then_o it_o see_v it_o or_o if_o the_o soul_n do_v find_v a_o blind_a &_o reasonles_a motion_n in_o the_o will_n to_o one_o side_n of_o the_o matter_n in_o such_o case_n the_o soul_n may_v most_o secure_o &_o confident_o judge_v it_o to_o be_v a_o divine_a inspiration_n &_o motion_n be_v wrought_v without_o any_o trouble_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o imagination_n sense_n or_o passion_n 7._o let_v not_o a_o soul_n therefore_o be_v discourage_v from_o commit_v herself_o to_o god_n internal_a direction_n though_o it_o shall_v happen_v that_o those_o who_o pass_v for_o the_o most_o spiritual_a person_n &_o that_o be_v most_o forward_o to_o usurp_v the_o conduct_a of_o soul_n to_o perfection_n while_o themselves_o know_v no_o further_o than_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o imagination_n shall_v declaim_v against_o it_o &_o out_o of_o a_o apprehension_n that_o it_o will_v be_v a_o disparagement_n to_o they_o if_o god_n shall_v be_v acknowledge_v the_o principal_a guide_n they_o shall_v accuse_v the_o doctrine_n here_o deliver_v as_o fantastical_a unsafe_a &_o pretend_v to_o enthusiasm_n no_o wonder_v it_o be_v if_o such_o be_v stranger_n to_o the_o contemplative_a way_n of_o the_o spirit_n shall_v be_v ignorant_a of_o these_o secret_a path_n by_o which_o god_n lead_v soul_n to_o perfection_n in_o the_o which_o none_o can_v tread_v or_o at_o least_o make_v any_o considerable_a progress_n till_o quit_v a_o servile_a dependence_n on_o external_a teacher_n they_o rely_v only_o upon_o the_o divine_a guidance_n and_o for_o this_o propose_v devout_a soul_n be_v serious_o &_o oft_o to_o be_v exhort_v to_o keep_v themselves_o in_o a_o disposition_n of_o as_o much_o abstraction_n both_o external_a &_o internal_a as_o may_v be_v to_o the_o end_n they_o may_v be_v enable_v to_o hear_v &_o discern_v the_o divine_a voice_n to_o the_o direction_n of_o which_o if_o they_o will_v in_o practice_n faithful_o correspond_v god_n will_v be_v want_v to_o they_o in_o nothing_o 8._o and_o for_o a_o further_a security_n that_o there_o can_v scarce_o happen_v any_o considerable_a danger_n to_o a_o soul_n proceed_v this_o way_n for_o know_v the_o divine_a will_n though_o she_o shall_v sometime_o mistake_v in_o the_o thing_n itself_o both_o she_o &_o also_o the_o opposer_n of_o this_o doctrine_n be_v to_o consider_v that_o as_o have_v former_o be_v say_v the_o only_a matter_n that_o be_v here_o suppose_v to_o be_v propose_v for_o a_o resolution_n be_v &_o must_v be_v of_o the_o nature_n of_o those_o thing_n which_o of_o themselves_o and_o in_o the_o general_n be_v indifferent_a but_o yet_o which_o be_v well_o choose_v may_v &_o will_v advance_v the_o soul_n for_o in_o no_o other_o thing_n but_o such_o can_v there_o be_v any_o doubt_n and_o sure_o if_o we_o be_v capable_a of_o know_v god_n will_v in_o such_o thing_n as_o who_o can_v question_v it_o certain_o the_o proceed_n thus_o with_o indifference_n &_o resignation_n &_o without_o
suddenness_n of_o resolution_n or_o motion_n of_o natural_a passion_n or_o self_n love_n be_v the_o most_o secure_a &_o most_o assure_a way_n to_o come_v to_o that_o knowledge_n chap._n ix_o §_o 1._o objection_n prevent_v §_o 2._o 3._o difference_n between_o the_o term_n of_o inspiration_n be_v only_o internal_a &_o call_v which_o be_v also_o external_a §_o 4._o 5._o how_o inspiration_n direct_v we_o about_o externall_n call_v &_o obligation_n §_o 6._o externall_n call_v be_v to_o over-rule_v internal_a §_o 7._o 8._o authority_n of_o superior_n ought_v to_o over-rule_v inspiration_n even_o in_o thing_n not_o of_o obligation_n §_o 9_o impertinent_a command_n of_o superior_n in_o such_o thing_n to_o be_v obey_v though_o superior_n will_v be_v severe_o accountable_a to_o god_n §_o 10._o decay_n of_o true_a spirituality_n arise_v from_o the_o ignorance_n or_o neglect_n of_o this_o doctrine_n touch_v attend_v to_o divine_a inspiration_n 1._o last_o to_o prevent_v all_o misunderstanding_n of_o this_o most_o holy_a &_o most_o necessary_a doctrine_n touch_v our_o obligation_n to_o attend_v unto_o &_o to_o practice_v according_o the_o divine_a inspiration_n direct_v we_o to_o act_n of_o perfection_n as_o likewise_o to_o prevent_v all_o misapplication_n thereof_o by_o soul_n that_o ought_v &_o be_v willing_a to_o follow_v it_o i_o will_v here_o take_v away_o the_o pretend_a ground_n upon_o which_o some_o who_o either_o out_o of_o ignorance_n passion_n or_o interest_n have_v declare_v themselves_o to_o be_v enemy_n thereto_o do_v declaim_v against_o it_o suppose_v that_o they_o have_v a_o great_a advantage_n against_o it_o while_o they_o pretend_v that_o by_o the_o teach_n &_o practise_v of_o it_o great_a prejudice_n will_v come_v to_o the_o due_a authority_n of_o superior_n from_o which_o their_o subject_n follow_a these_o instruction_n will_v endeavour_v to_o exempt_v themselves_o upon_o a_o pretext_n of_o divine_a inspiration_n to_o the_o contrary_n 2._o for_o the_o clear_n therefore_o &_o dissolve_v of_o this_o suppose_a difficulty_n &_o inconvenience_n we_o be_v to_o consider_v that_o though_o in_o this_o discourse_n we_o have_v promiscuous_o use_v the_o term_n of_o inspiration_n light_n impulse_n divine_a call_v etc._n etc._n yet_o the_o former_a be_v only_o such_o operation_n of_o god_n as_o be_v internal_a whereas_o the_o term_n of_o divine_a call_n import_v both_o a_o external_a ordination_n of_o god_n &_o also_o his_o internal_a operation_n in_o our_o soul_n suitable_a to_o the_o external_a call_n and_o both_o these_o be_v proper_o term_v call_v because_o by_o both_o of_o they_o god_n do_v signify_v his_o will_n to_o soul_n for_o by_o the_o external_a ordination_n &_o commission_n give_v by_o god_n to_o all_o in_o lawful_a authority_n under_o he_o god_n by_o they_o do_v reveyle_v his_o will_n unto_o we_o which_o we_o obey_v while_o we_o submit_v unto_o &_o execute_v the_o command_n &_o will_n of_o his_o substitute_n and_o by_o his_o internal_a operation_n he_o direct_v we_o to_o perform_v such_o obedience_n in_o a_o spiritual_a manner_n for_o the_o good_a &_o advancement_n of_o our_o soul_n in_o his_o divine_a love_n 3_o all_o law_n therefore_o all_o constitution_n precept_n &_o command_n of_o superior_n &_o all_o external_a or_o internal_a duty_n of_o obligation_n by_o virtue_n of_o our_o state_n of_o life_n as_o christian_n or_o moreover_o as_o religious_a or_o ecclesiastical_a person_n etc._n etc._n be_v indeed_o &_o so_o to_o be_v esteem_v by_o we_o true_a divine_a call_n necessary_o to_o be_v attend_v to_o know_v &_o perform_v by_o us._n 4._o and_o as_o for_o internal_a inspiration_n which_o have_v regard_n unto_o those_o external_a call_n the_o end_n for_o which_o they_o be_v give_v we_o be_v not_o only_o simple_o to_o direct_v &_o incline_v we_o to_o perform_v all_o our_o christian_a regular_n or_o other_o duty_n with_o readiness_n &_o chearfullnes_n but_o to_o do_v they_o with_o perfection_n &_o purity_n of_o intention_n in_o &_o for_o god_n only_o as_o if_o he_o have_v immediate_o &_o visible_o impose_v they_o upon_o us._n and_o for_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v the_o not-doing_a to_o the_o which_o i_o say_v that_o in_o a_o contemplative_a life_n the_o divine_a inspiration_n do_v invite_v we_o that_o be_v mean_v only_o in_o matter_n either_o indifferent_a or_o at_o least_o to_o the_o which_o we_o have_v no_o obligation_n by_o virtue_n of_o any_o external_a la_o yea_o on_o the_o contrary_a we_o may_v say_v that_o our_o holy_a rule_n the_o end_n whereof_o be_v to_o dispose_v &_o lead_v we_o to_o a_o perfect_a union_n with_o god_n by_o contemplation_n do_v in_o general_n oblige_v we_o to_o such_o abstraction_n &_o not-doing_a whersoever_o it_o do_v not_o require_v the_o do_n of_o any_o thing_n of_o us._n 5._o therefore_o whatsoever_o internal_a suggestion_n motion_n or_o impulse_v we_o may_v find_v that_o shall_v be_v contrary_a or_o prejudicial_a to_o such_o external_a call_v to_o obedience_n &_o regularity_n we_o be_v to_o be_v so_o far_o from_o harken_v to_o they_o or_o esteem_v they_o for_o divine_a that_o we_o ought_v to_o despise_v &_o reject_v they_o judge_v they_o to_o be_v no_o better_o then_o diabolical_a illusion_n yea_o this_o be_v to_o hold_v although_o the_o say_v external_a law_n command_n or_o observance_n be_v such_o as_o we_o in_o our_o private_a judgment_n can_v think_v to_o be_v very_o proper_a or_o convenient_a for_o we_o in_o particular_a 6._o now_o the_o reason_n why_o no_o internal_a suggestion_n ought_v to_o take_v place_n of_o external_a obligation_n be_v evident_a &_o convince_a because_o such_o external_a call_v to_o obedience_n be_v of_o themselves_o both_o manifest_a &_o certain_o unquestionable_a token_n &_o expression_n of_o the_o divine_a will_n they_o ought_v not_o to_o give_v place_n to_o any_o suppose_a internal_a signification_n of_o the_o same_o will_v whatsoever_o which_o be_v not_o nor_o can_v be_v so_o manifest_a but_o rather_o to_o prescribe_v rule_n unto_o they_o &_o over-rule_v they_o we_o know_v the_o former_a to_o be_v god_n will_n &_o to_o proceed_v from_o he_o &_o therefore_o we_o can_v rational_o believe_v that_o those_o thing_n that_o be_v opposite_a thereto_o can_v be_v acceptable_a to_o he_o beside_o god_n will_v reveil_v to_o a_o subject_n by_o the_o mouth_n of_o his_o superior_a or_o by_o establish_a law_n have_v a_o kind_n of_o public_a authority_n be_v derive_v by_o a_o public_a person_n &_o mean_a &_o therefore_o must_v needs_o take_v place_n &_o be_v prefer_v before_o a_o inspiration_n or_o signification_n of_o the_o divine_a will_n to_o a_o private_a person_n alone_o 7._o yea_o moreover_o so_o indispensable_o careful_a &_o even_o scrupulous_a aught_o we_o to_o be_v that_o exterior_a order_n &_o due_a subordination_n appoint_v by_o god_n shall_v not_o upon_o any_o pretence_n be_v prejudice_v that_o we_o be_v to_o regard_v the_o authority_n of_o superior_n even_o in_o do_v or_o omit_v those_o thing_n which_o be_v not_o within_o the_o compass_n of_o any_o special_a law_n or_o command_n but_o be_v leave_v to_o our_o own_o liberty_n &_o judgement_n so_o that_o we_o ought_v not_o to_o put_v in_o execution_n any_o thing_n to_o which_o we_o be_v by_o a_o internal_a inspiration_n invite_v or_o direct_v without_o the_o approbation_n &_o leave_n either_o express_a or_o interpretative_a of_o our_o superior_a &_o if_o the_o matter_n be_v of_o considerable_a moment_n his_o express_a permission_n be_v requisite_a 8._o yea_o i_o will_v add_v further_o that_o if_o a_o religious_a subject_n shall_v have_v a_o inspiration_n which_o he_o confident_o believe_v to_o be_v divine_a by_o which_o he_o be_v invite_v to_o the_o do_v of_o any_o thing_n yet_o if_o his_o superior_a shall_v declare_v such_o a_o inspiration_n not_o to_o be_v divine_a &_o forbid_v the_o execute_n of_o what_o it_o direct_v the_o subject_n ought_v not_o only_o to_o obey_v his_o superior_a by_o forbear_v to_o do_v according_a to_o such_o a_o inspiration_n but_o he_o be_v also_o oblige_v to_o submit_v his_o judgement_n &_o to_o believe_v his_o superior_a and_o this_o he_o may_v sincere_o &_o secure_o do_v because_o though_o it_o be_v so_o that_o in_o truth_n the_o inspiration_n come_v from_o god_n &_o do_v direct_v to_o the_o do_v of_o a_o thing_n more_o perfect_a or_o to_o a_o more_o perfect_a omission_n yet_o all_o this_o be_v to_o be_v understand_v only_o conditional_o that_o be_v upon_o supposition_n that_o a_o lawful_a superior_a do_v not_o judge_v &_o command_v otherwise_o for_o in_o such_o a_o case_n it_o will_v be_v a_o act_n of_o great_a perfection_n in_o the_o subject_n to_o obey_v he_o forbid_v the_o do_v or_o forbear_v of_o any_o thing_n though_o in_o itself_o &_o such_o prohibition_n not_o consider_v more_o perfect_a yea_o &_o a_o divine_a light_n &_o new_a inspiration_n will_v inform_v &_o direct_v the_o subject_n
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
of_o confession_n although_o the_o correct_a &_o abate_v of_o they_o ought_v to_o be_v the_o object_n of_o our_o daily_a care_n 3._o i_o will_v endeavour_v to_o explain_v my_o meaning_n more_o full_o in_o this_o matter_n because_o it_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o the_o whole_a follow_a discourse_n we_o must_v know_v then_o that_o the_o duty_n of_o a_o christian_a much_o more_o of_o a_o soul_n that_o aspire_v to_o perfection_n be_v to_o love_v nothing_o at_o all_o but_o god_n or_o in_o order_n to_o he_o that_o be_v as_o a_o mean_a &_o instrument_n to_o beget_v &_o increase_v his_o divine_a love_n in_o our_o soul_n all_o adhesion_n to_o creature_n by_o affection_n whether_o such_o affection_n be_v great_a or_o small_a be_v according_o sinful_a more_o or_o less_o so_o that_o if_o be_v deprive_v of_o any_o thing_n or_o person_n whatsoever_o or_o be_v pain_v by_o any_o thing_n we_o find_v a_o trouble_n &_o sorrow_v in_o our_o mind_n for_o the_o loss_n or_o suffer_v of_o the_o thing_n itself_o such_o trouble_n in_o what_o degree_n soever_o argue_v that_o our_o affection_n be_v sinful_a not_o only_o because_o the_o affection_n be_v excessive_a but_o because_o it_o be_v a_o affection_n the_o object_n whereof_o be_v not_o god_n 4._o but_o yet_o withal_o this_o affection_n which_o i_o say_v be_v unlawful_a be_v not_o simple_o such_o a_o one_o as_o reside_v &_o be_v confine_v to_o sensitive_a nature_n for_o that_o be_v impossible_a to_o be_v root_v out_o neither_o be_v there_o any_o fault_n at_o all_o in_o it_o consider_v as_o such_o for_o to_o adam_n in_o the_o state_n of_o innocency_n yea_o even_o to_o our_o lord_n himself_o many_o object_n be_v please_v &_o delightful_a to_o sense_n his_o fight_n &_o taste_n take_v contentment_n in_o pleasurable_a object_n &_o there_o be_v in_o nature_n a_o aversion_n from_o pain_n &_o a_o earnest_a desire_n to_o prolong_v natural_a life_n &_o in_o all_o this_o there_o be_v not_o the_o least_o imperfection_n the_o affection_n to_o creature_n therefore_o which_o we_o affirm_v to_o be_v sinful_a be_v such_o as_o be_v seat_v in_o the_o superior_a soul_n or_o rational_a will_n by_o which_o the_o mind_n &_o will_n consider_v &_o adhere_v unto_o creature_n &_o knowing_o &_o willing_o pursue_v the_o attain_n &_o enjoy_v of_o they_o as_o if_o they_o be_v the_o good_a not_o of_o sense_n only_o for_o so_o they_o be_v but_o of_o the_o person_n the_o which_o indeed_o they_o be_v not_o for_o the_o only_a good_a of_o a_o intellectual_a nature_n be_v god_n who_o be_v only_o exalt_v above_o it_o whereas_o all_o other_o creature_n be_v but_o equal_a or_o inferior_a to_o it_o to_o the_o superior_a will_n therefore_o all_o thing_n but_o god_n must_v be_v indifferent_a as_o in_o &_o for_o themselves_o &_o only_o to_o be_v love_v as_o they_o be_v serviceable_a to_o the_o spirit_n so_o that_o if_o thing_n which_o be_v unpleasant_a yea_o destructive_a to_o inferior_a nature_n do_v yet_o advance_v the_o spirit_n in_o her_o tendance_n to_o god_n or_o if_o by_o the_o will_n &_o providence_n of_o god_n they_o be_v present_v to_o she_o to_o suffer_v she_o must_v with_o all_o indifference_n &_o resignation_n accept_v of_o they_o though_o sensitive_a nature_n do_v never_o so_o much_o struggle_v &_o contradict_v 5._o a_o most_o perfect_a example_n hereof_o be_v give_v by_o our_o saviour_n the_o which_o we_o be_v oblige_v to_o the_o utmost_a of_o our_o capacity_n &_o enablement_n to_o imitate_v though_o sensitive_a nature_n in_o he_o take_v contentment_n in_o life_n &_o in_o the_o action_n &_o function_n thereof_o &_o above_o all_o thing_n do_v abhor_v a_o dissolution_n by_o death_n especial_o such_o a_o death_n accompany_v with_o such_o inexpressible_a torment_n &_o shame_n and_o though_o for_o our_o instruction_n he_o voluntary_o give_v way_n to_o inferior_a nature_n to_o express_v such_o her_o innocent_a inclinanation_n &_o aversion_n yet_o when_o the_o will_n of_o his_o father_n oppose_v itself_o &_o present_v he_o a_o cup_n in_o the_o high_a degree_n mortal_a to_o nature_n &_o all_o the_o inclination_n thereof_o he_o most_o willing_o quiet_o &_o cheerful_o accept_v it_o than_o subdue_a all_o reluctance_n in_o nature_n the_o which_o reluctance_n in_o he_o be_v to_o the_o thing_n itself_o consider_v in_o itself_o &_o not_o at_o all_o to_o the_o dictate_v of_o the_o superior_a soul_n the_o which_o have_v so_o absolute_a a_o dominion_n over_o sensitive_a nature_n that_o it_o never_o oppose_v itself_o or_o express_v the_o least_o unwillingnes_n to_o conform_v itself_o to_o the_o dictate_v of_o reason_n though_o with_o its_o own_o destruction_n 6._o whereas_o therefore_o there_o be_v continual_o present_v to_o our_o outward_a &_o inward_a sense_n infinite_a object_n please_v &_o displease_v to_o they_o and_o that_o the_o function_n of_o of_o life_n which_o we_o be_v bind_v to_o preserve_v can_v be_v exercise_v without_o admit_v the_o use_n of_o many_o thing_n delightful_a to_o sensitive_a nature_n meat_n drink_n recreative_a conversatious_a &_o relaxation_n of_o mind_n &c_n &c_n we_o be_v to_o consider_v &_o resolve_v that_o none_o of_o these_o thing_n please_v to_o the_o appetite_n be_v give_v to_o be_v possess_v with_o any_o affection_n at_o all_o or_o fruition_n but_o the_o mere_a simple_a use_n of_o they_o be_v allow_v we_o for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o soul_n &_o the_o contentment_n that_o the_o appetite_n natural_o take_v in_o they_o be_v no_o further_o nor_o with_o other_o intention_n to_o be_v admit_v then_o in_o as_o much_o as_o thereby_o the_o spirit_n or_o rational_a will_n be_v or_o may_v be_v enable_v more_o cheerful_o to_o pursue_v its_o supreme_a good_n and_o with_o this_o end_n &_o intention_n to_o admit_v sometime_o with_o caution_n &_o discretion_n of_o moderate_a comfort_n &_o contentment_n to_o inferior_a nature_n be_v not_o in_o itself_o at_o all_o unlawful_a on_o the_o contrary_a it_o be_v fit_v requisite_a &_o necessary_a 7._o but_o withal_o consider_v the_o most_o miserable_a and_o inexpressible_a corruption_n of_o our_o nature_n the_o violent_a adhesion_n of_o our_o appetite_n to_o sensual_o please_a object_n the_o uncertain_a &_o weak_a dominion_n that_o the_o superior_a faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n have_v over_o sensitive_a nature_n it_o be_v our_o duty_n &_o obligation_n not_o only_o to_o be_v watchful_a over_o the_o sensitive_a appetite_n that_o it_o do_v not_o with_o too_o much_o greediness_n pursue_v the_o contentment_n proper_a and_o necessary_a to_o it_o but_o also_o as_o much_o as_o may_v be_v to_o abridge_v the_o number_n of_o they_o make_v as_o few_o necessary_a as_o may_v be_v &_o not_o suffer_v it_o to_o accept_v all_o the_o lawful_a contentment_n offer_v to_o it_o yea_o oft_o to_o restrain_v &_o contradict_v the_o inclination_n of_o it_o in_o a_o word_n to_o use_v all_o the_o industry_n we_o can_v not_o to_o suffer_v it_o to_o run_v on_o blind_o before_o or_o without_o the_o conduct_n of_o reason_n to_o thing_n please_v to_o it_o &_o when_o we_o perceive_v it_o do_v so_o to_o call_v it_o back_o however_v not_o to_o suffer_v reason_n to_o favour_v it_o and_o join_v with_o it_o in_o its_o desire_n but_o to_o reserve_v all_o our_o rational_a inclination_n and_o affection_n to_o god_n only_o 8._o for_o the_o case_n with_o we_o be_v far_o different_a from_o that_o it_o be_v with_o adam_n during_o his_o state_n of_o innocency_n for_o than_o it_o be_v no_o inconvenience_n but_o rather_o perhaps_o a_o help_n to_o he_o free_o to_o make_v use_n of_o the_o pleasure_n afford_v he_o in_o paradise_n because_o though_o sensual_a pleasure_n be_v to_o he_o consider_v the_o exquisiteness_n of_o his_o temper_n far_o more_o pleasurable_a than_o they_o can_v be_v to_o we_o yet_o his_o appetite_n do_v not_o so_o much_o as_o desire_v or_o wish_v the_o least_o excess_n and_o his_o spirit_n be_v so_o replenish_v with_o divine_a love_n that_o by_o admit_v of_o such_o innocent_a satisfaction_n to_o nature_n it_o rather_o increase_v then_o diminish_v or_o interrupt_v its_o fervour_n in_o tend_v to_o god_n and_o express_v its_o gratitude_n love_n &_o obedience_n to_o he_o whereas_o we_o find_v all_o the_o contrary_a effect_n &_o therefore_o must_v take_v a_o quite_o contrary_a course_n 9_o this_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o mortification_n so_o proper_a &_o necessary_a in_o a_o spiritual_a life_n and_o these_o be_v the_o venial_a sin_n or_o imperfection_n that_o we_o be_v continual_o to_o combat_v against_o in_o this_o point_n of_o distinction_n between_o the_o use_n of_o creature_n for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o enjoy_n of_o creature_n for_o the_o pleasure_n of_o sense_n without_o regard_n to_o the_o soul_n good_a &_o advancement_n lie_v the_o difference_n between_o the_o child_n of_o god_n &_o the_o child_n of_o belial_n yea_o in_o
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 â—astly_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
those_o that_o be_v to_o go_v abroad_o &_o the_o like_a when_o they_o return_v home_o whither_o when_o they_o come_v they_o be_v strict_o forbid_v to_o tell_v any_o news_n of_o their_o journey_n all_o this_o as_o if_o by_o only_o step_v out_o of_o their_o enclosure_n they_o be_v expose_v to_o immediate_a peril_n &_o that_o it_o be_v not_o possible_a to_o have_v be_v in_o the_o world_n without_o contract_v such_o stain_n as_o that_o for_o the_o wash_v they_o away_o public_a prayer_n of_o the_o community_n be_v needful_a such_o be_v the_o care_n express_v by_o our_o holy_a patriarch_n who_o by_o own_o experience_n have_v learn_v the_o wonderful_a benefit_n &_o extreme_a necessity_n of_o solitude_n for_o the_o attain_n to_o contemplation_n according_a to_o that_o of_o the_o prophet_n by_o who_o mouth_n god_n say_v ose_n cap._n 4._o ducam_fw-la eam_fw-la in_o solitudinem_fw-la &_o loquar_fw-la ad_fw-la cor_fw-la illius_fw-la that_o be_v i_o will_v lead_v the_o devour_v soul_n into_o a_o solitary_a place_n and_o there_o i_o will_v speak_v word_n of_o kindness_n &_o intimacy_n to_o her_o spirit_n and_o to_o the_o same_o purpose_n another_o prophet_n say_v lament_v cap._n 3._o sedebit_fw-la solitarius_fw-la &_o tacebit_fw-la quia_fw-la levauit_fw-la se_fw-la super_fw-la se_fw-la the_o solitary_a person_n will_v sit_v still_o &_o hold_v his_o peace_n because_o he_o have_v raise_v up_o his_o spirit_n above_o himself_o &_o all_o creature_n 12._o indeed_o whatsoever_o spiritual_a employment_n a_o soul_n have_v &_o whensoever_o she_o desire_v to_o have_v any_o conversation_n with_o god_n solitude_n be_v the_o state_n most_o proper_a for_o it_o whether_o it_o be_v to_o bewail_v her_o sin_n to_o exercise_v penance_n to_o meditate_v on_o the_o holy_a scripture_n to_o prepare_v herself_o for_o any_o employment_n but_o especial_o to_o exercise_v spiritual_a prayer_n free_o thither_o most_o of_o the_o ancient_a saint_n yea_o many_o holy_a bishop_n oft_o retire_v themselves_o because_o they_o know_v that_o in_o solitude_n god_n dwell_v be_v especial_o fix_v &_o after_o a_o free_a immediate_a &_o unexpressible_a communion_n with_o he_o there_o they_o return_v more_o enable_v &_o enlighten_v to_o discharge_v the_o solicitous_a duty_n of_o their_o calling_n 13._o but_o absolute_a solitude_n such_o as_o be_v that_o of_o ancient_a hermit_n be_v never_o permit_v to_o soul_n till_o after_o a_o sufficient_a time_n spend_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o a_o coenobiticall_a life_n except_o to_o a_o very_a few_o miraculous_o call_v thereto_o out_o of_o the_o world_n as_o s._n anthony_n s._n hilarion_n our_o holy_a father_n s._n benedict_n &c_n &c_n because_o a_o wonderful_a firmness_n of_o mind_n confidence_n in_o god_n purity_n of_o soul_n &c_n &c_n be_v requisite_a to_o he_o that_o without_o the_o comfort_n &_o assistance_n of_o any_o shall_v oppose_v himself_o single_a to_o the_o devil_n assault_n which_o in_o such_o a_o solitude_n be_v more_o furious_a and_o likewise_o a_o unusual_a measure_n of_o spiritual_a light_n be_v needful_a to_o such_o a_o soul_n to_o enable_v she_o to_o be_v she_o own_o director_n &_o disposer_n in_o all_o thing_n chap._n vii_o §_o 1._o 2._o etc._n etc._n the_o three_o kind_n of_o general_a mortification_n be_v silence_n the_o which_o be_v strict_o enjoin_v in_o s._n benedict_v rule_n but_o in_o these_o day_n can_v so_o rigorous_o be_v observe_v &_o why_o the_o condition_n of_o it_o §_o 12._o 13._o 14._o 15._o of_o recreation_n now_o permit_v §_o 16._o 17._o 18._o condition_n to_o be_v observe_v in_o conference_n §_o 19_o of_o melancholic_a disposition_n &_o how_o they_o be_v to_o be_v treat_v 1._o the_o three_o general_a kind_n of_o mortification_n be_v silence_n the_o which_o be_v one_o of_o the_o most_o profitable_a mortification_n in_o a_o spiritual_a life_n prevent_v a_o world_n of_o inconceiveable_o pernicious_a damage_n which_o the_o spirit_n of_o devotion_n and_o recollection_n receive_v by_o the_o superfluity_n and_o intemperance_n of_o the_o tongue_n the_o ordinary_a subject_n of_o unnecessary_a conversation_n be_v murmur_n detraction_n at_o least_o vain_a and_o distractive_a dispute_n profession_n of_o friendship_n news_n etc._n etc._n upon_o the_o guard_n of_o the_o tongue_n say_v the_o wiseman_n depend_v life_n and_o death_n and_o whosoever_o account_v himself_o religious_a and_o refrain_v not_o his_o tongue_n that_o man_n religion_n be_v vain_a say_v s._n james_n of_o such_o infinite_a importance_n be_v the_o well_o order_v of_o so_o small_a a_o member_n and_o this_o even_o in_o the_o world_n much_o more_o therefore_o in_o religion_n 2._o herupon_o our_o holy_a father_n deal_v with_o his_o disciple_n as_o god_n do_v with_o a_o certain_a devout_a and_o holy_a monk_n to_o who_o he_o leave_v no_o power_n at_o all_o to_o use_v his_o tongue_n but_o only_o for_o prayer_n in_o the_o community_n be_v absolute_o dumb_a in_o all_o other_o occasion_n and_o time_n for_o in_o our_o holy_a rule_n there_o seem_v no_o permission_n allow_v to_o particular_a religious_a for_o any_o voluntary_a or_o recreative_a discourse_n at_o any_o time_n no_o not_o to_o superior_n themselves_o and_o for_o spiritual_a discourse_n by_o way_n of_o teach_v those_o be_v only_o allow_v to_o the_o abbot_n or_o to_o certain_a seniors_n and_o officer_n by_o the_o abbot_n express_a appointment_n or_o leave_n and_o when_o there_o happen_v a_o necessity_n that_o a_o answer_n shall_v be_v give_v by_o any_o of_o the_o private_a religious_a they_o be_v to_o deliver_v it_o as_o brief_o as_o be_v possible_a if_o yea_o or_o nay_o will_v serve_v the_o turn_n they_o must_v add_v no_o more_o and_o it_o seem_v answer_v only_o be_v permit_v not_o ask_v of_o question_n except_o when_o necessary_a business_n require_v 3._o but_o in_o these_o latter_a day_n superior_n have_v conceive_v themselves_o oblige_v to_o remit_v much_o of_o this_o rigorous_a silence_n not_o only_o permit_v but_o even_o appoint_v set_v time_n for_o recreative_a conversation_n and_o entertainment_n therein_o comply_v with_o the_o indisposition_n and_o general_a infirmity_n either_o of_o our_o complexion_n or_o mind_n 4._o now_o whether_o it_o be_v true_a real_a necessity_n or_o no_o that_o have_v cause_v such_o dispensation_n i_o will_v not_o inquire_v but_o this_o be_v certain_a that_o no_o ancient_a than_o s._n bernard_n day_n the_o rigorous_a silence_n of_o the_o rule_n be_v most_o exact_o observe_v yea_o even_o in_o these_o our_o day_n and_o that_o in_o community_n of_o woman_n there_o be_v little_o want_v of_o the_o like_a rigour_n and_o if_o religious_a person_n have_v true_o good_a will_n to_o seek_v god_n they_o will_v find_v many_o thing_n not_o very_o difficult_a which_o in_o their_o present_a disposition_n seem_v impossible_a both_o in_o the_o point_n of_o silence_n and_o also_o of_o diet_n etc._n etc._n 5._o how_o ever_o this_o be_v certain_a that_o much_o and_o willing_a speak_n be_v the_o effect_n of_o tepidity_n self-love_n and_o pride_n for_o common_o it_o flow_v from_o a_o opinion_n that_o we_o can_v speak_v well_o and_o consequent_o out_o of_o a_o desire_n of_o gain_v estimation_n from_o other_o by_o show_v our_o wit_n and_o ability_n but_o such_o intention_n and_o design_n as_o these_o the_o disciple_n of_o true_a humility_n and_o spirituality_n will_v abhor_v 6._o it_o be_v very_o requisite_a for_o a_o internal_a liver_n therefore_o at_o least_o to_o observe_v that_o moderate_a and_o qualify_a silence_n require_v in_o his_o community_n not_o transgress_v either_o in_o the_o appoint_a place_n or_o at_o the_o determinate_a time_n in_o which_o speak_v be_v forbid_v 7._o a_o young_a religious_a person_n must_v not_o without_o necessity_n be_v the_o first_o mover_n or_o proposer_n of_o a_o discourse_n nor_o ordinary_o speak_v till_o he_o be_v ask_v unless_o it_o be_v to_o propose_v a_o question_n or_o doubt_v in_o a_o matter_n of_o concernment_n yea_o this_o advice_n may_v likewise_o concern_v the_o more_o ancient_a unless_o we_o do_v conceive_v that_o they_o be_v disoblige_v from_o humility_n and_o necessary_a abstraction_n indeed_o perfect_a soul_n can_v when_o a_o occasion_n of_o necessary_a discourse_n be_v administer_v speak_v more_o with_o incur_v few_o and_o less_o defect_n than_o the_o imperfect_a 8._o when_o prudence_n and_o charity_n require_v of_o we_o to_o speak_v we_o must_v be_v very_o careful_a not_o to_o make_v the_o imperfection_n of_o other_o any_o part_n of_o the_o matter_n of_o our_o discourse_n and_o especial_o not_o the_o imperfection_n of_o those_o from_o who_o in_o our_o nature_n we_o seem_v to_o have_v a_o aversion_n and_o principal_o we_o must_v take_v heed_n of_o speak_v or_o do_v any_o thing_n to_o breed_v a_o dislike_n between_o any_o therefore_o all_o secret_a informing_n and_o accusation_n be_v most_o careful_o to_o be_v avoid_v as_o the_o ruin_n of_o christian_a charity_n in_o community_n 9_o and_o this_o concern_v superior_n as_o
mark_n and_o for_o this_o reason_n before_o i_o begin_v any_o work_n i_o do_v serious_o offer_v it_o to_o god_n beg_v his_o assistance_n 22._o active_a liver_n have_v need_v in_o almost_o all_o their_o action_n of_o moment_n to_o frame_v a_o actual_a intention_n but_o not_o so_o the_o contemplative_a who_o be_v always_o habitual_o unite_v to_o god_n for_o such_o iteration_n of_o actual_a intention_n will_v cause_v too_o much_o distraction_n to_o they_o 23._o to_o conclude_v how_o difficult_a and_o uneasy_a soever_o to_o nature_n the_o attain_n to_o purity_n of_o intention_n be_v because_o thereby_o the_o very_a soul_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n which_o be_v propriety_n be_v root_v out_o yet_o since_o it_o be_v absolute_o necessary_a in_o a_o internal_a life_n therefore_o consider_v god_n promise_n that_o he_o never_o will_v be_v want_v to_o our_o endeavour_n soul_n of_o good_a will_n will_v find_v it_o neither_o impossible_a nor_o of_o so_o great_a difficulty_n as_o at_o first_o it_o appear_v if_o they_o will_v attempt_v it_o with_o a_o strong_a resolution_n to_o quicken_v &_o fortify_v which_o resolution_n i_o will_v end_v this_o discourse_n with_o that_o pierce_a saying_n of_o harphius_n o_o how_o great_a and_o hide_a deceit_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n will_v appear_v say_v he_o and_o be_v discover_v and_o consequent_o be_v severe_o punish_v after_o this_o life_n for_o that_o soul_n have_v not_o here_o be_v purify_v and_o make_v deiforme_a in_o their_o intention_n god_n almighty_n give_v we_o the_o grace_n to_o discover_v now_o and_o reform_v this_o perilous_a and_o secret_a self-seeking_a of_o nature_n to_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o holy_a name_n amen_o chap._n v._n §_o 1._o 2._o of_o the_o love_v of_o god_n in_o ourselves_o &_o other_o creature_n and_o how_o the_o love_n to_o ourselves_o be_v to_o be_v order_v §_o 3._o even_o that_o love_n which_o be_v duty_n in_o heathen_n etc._n etc._n be_v defectuous_a §_o 4._o we_o can_v not_o love_v other_o true_o &_o meritorious_o till_o we_o first_o love_n god_n §_o 5._o 6._o 7._o all_o affection_n not_o proceed_v from_o charity_n be_v to_o be_v mortify_v §_o 8._o all_o intellectual_a creature_n be_v the_o object_n of_o our_o charity_n except_o the_o damn_a soul_n &_o devil_n §_o 9_o of_o the_o order_n of_o charity_n §_o 10._o 11._o 12_o 13._o 14._o those_o be_v most_o to_o be_v love_v even_o above_o ourselves_o who_o god_n love_v most_o yet_o certain_a duty_n proceed_v from_o love_n as_o honour_n sustenance_n alm_n etc._n etc._n be_v first_o to_o be_v extend_v to_o parent_n friend_n &c_n &c_n and_o special_o to_o ourselves_o §_o 15._o 16._o 17._o further_a proof_n of_o this_o §_o 18._o whether_o beauty_n etc._n etc._n may_v be_v a_o motive_n of_o love._n §_o 19_o 20._o 21._o 22._o of_o love_n extend_v to_o enemy_n who_o be_v esteem_v enemy_n §_o 23._o great_a grace_n require_v to_o practice_v this_o duty_n aright_o §_o 24._o 25._o degree_n of_o love_n to_o suppose_v enemy_n and_o the_o fruit_n thereof_o §_o 26_o of_o a_o special_a kind_n of_o love_n call_v philadelphia_n or_o love_n of_o the_o fraternity_n of_o believe_v holy_a christian_n catholic_n 1._o before_o we_o end_v the_o subject_n of_o divine_a love_n something_o be_v to_o be_v say_v of_o love_n to_o ourselves_o &_o our_o neighbour_n in_o and_o for_o god_n for_o as_o for_o the_o love_n which_o out_o of_o god_n we_o bear_v to_o ourselves_o or_o any_o other_o it_o be_v not_o worth_a the_o treat_v of_o as_o be_v altogether_o defectuous_a and_o ground_v in_o nature_n and_o the_o more_o vehement_a it_o be_v the_o more_o defectuous_a be_v it_o 2._o the_o right_a order_v therefore_o of_o our_o love_n to_o ourselves_o and_o our_o brethren_n consist_v in_o this_o 1._o that_o the_o motive_n of_o our_o love_n must_v be_v the_o divine_a will_n &_o command_n 2._o the_o ground_n thereof_o must_v be_v the_o relation_n in_o which_o we_o stand_v to_o god_n as_o capable_a of_o the_o communication_n of_o divine_a grace_n and_o beatitude_n 3._o the_o end_n must_v be_v to_o bring_v ourselves_o and_o other_o either_o by_o our_o endeavour_n exhortaion_n etc._n etc._n or_o by_o our_o prayer_n to_o god_n that_o he_o may_v be_v love_v &_o glorify_v by_o we_o in_o the_o do_n of_o which_o consist_v our_o perfection_n &_o happiness_n 4._o last_o the_o subject_n of_o this_o love_n must_v be_v the_o superior_a will_n especial_o as_o for_o tenderness_n of_o nature_n distract_n sollicitude_n &_o unquiet_a image_n in_o the_o mind_n touch_v those_o we_o love_v the_o best_a &_o safe_a course_n will_v be_v to_o mortify_v &_o diminish_v they_o as_o much_o as_o may_v be_v as_o proceed_v from_o a_o natural_a sensual_a affection_n the_o which_o as_o far_o as_o it_o do_v not_o flow_v from_o the_o superior_a soul_n &_o be_v not_o subordinate_a &_o direct_v to_o the_o love_n of_o god_n be_v defectuous_a 3._o hence_o appear_v first_o that_o affection_n in_o person_n that_o be_v stranger_n from_o the_o true_a faith_n be_v full_a of_o defectuousnesse_n in_o all_o the_o particular_a respect_n before_o mention_v for_o though_o for_o example_n the_o love_n which_o child_n owe_v to_o their_o parent_n &_o the_o affection_n mutual_o due_a between_o husband_n &_o wife_n &c_n &c_n be_v for_o the_o substance_n according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n &_o right_a reason_n &_o consequent_o so_o far_o conformable_a to_o the_o divine_a will_n so_o that_o the_o want_n or_o refusal_n of_o such_o love_n &_o the_o neglect_n of_o the_o duty_n &_o office_n require_v by_o such_o relation_n be_v a_o great_a sin_n yet_o there_o can_v bâ—_n no_o merit_n either_o in_o such_o love_n or_o the_o effect_n of_o it_o by_o reason_n that_o it_o be_v neither_o from_o the_o motive_n of_o divine_a charity_n nor_o direct_v to_o the_o glorify_v of_o god_n by_o perfect_a love_n from_o which_o all_o merit_n proceed_v 4._o second_o it_o follow_v from_o hence_o that_o we_o can_v neither_o meritorious_o love_v ourselves_o nor_o our_o brethren_n till_o first_o we_o be_v firm_o root_v in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n because_o charity_n to_o ourselves_o or_o other_o be_v indeed_o only_a love_n to_o god_n by_o reflection_n or_o the_o love_a of_o god_n in_o thing_n belong_v to_o he_o &_o which_o he_o either_o love_n or_o may_v love_v 5._o therefore_o a_o internal_a liver_n ought_v to_o mortify_v all_o sensual_a affection_n to_o creature_n i_o mean_v all_o particular_a freindships_n &_o intimacy_n which_o be_v not_o ground_v upon_o the_o necessary_a foundation_n of_o the_o divine_a love_n and_o as_o for_o such_o affection_n as_o be_v necessary_o due_a by_o virtue_n of_o some_o respect_n &_o relation_n that_o god_n have_v put_v between_o ourselves_o &_o any_o other_o such_o a_o one_o ought_v as_o much_o as_o may_v be_v to_o root_v they_o out_o of_o the_o sensual_a portion_n of_o the_o soul_n because_o there_o they_o will_v cause_v great_a distraction_n &_o hindrance_n of_o our_o most_o necessary_a love_n to_o god_n 6._o a_o serious_a care_n to_o practice_v according_a to_o this_o advice_n be_v very_o necessary_a especial_o in_o religious_a community_n both_o for_o our_o own_o good_a &_o other_o for_o beside_o that_o sensual_a freindships_n ground_a on_o external_a or_o sensual_a respect_n be_v most_o unbeseeming_a person_n that_o have_v consecrate_v themselves_o only_o to_o god_n &_o infinite_o prejudicial_a to_o abstraction_n &_o recollectednes_n of_o mind_n &_o much_o more_o if_o they_o be_v between_o person_n of_o different_a sex_n such_o particular_a intimatcy_n can_v choose_v but_o cause_n particulity_n faction_n particular_a design_n &c_n &c_n to_o the_o great_a disturbance_n &_o harm_n of_o the_o community_n 7._o the_o least_o defectuous_a among_o the_o ground_n of_o a_o particular_a friendship_n may_v be_v the_o resentment_n &_o gratitude_n for_o benefit_n especial_o spiritual_a one_o that_o have_v ben_fw-mi receive_v but_o yet_o even_o in_o this_o case_n also_o we_o ought_v to_o prevent_v the_o settle_n of_o amity_n in_o the_o sensual_a part_n of_o the_o soul_n &_o content_v ourselves_o with_o requite_v such_o obligation_n by_o our_o prayer_n or_o by_o a_o return_n of_o proportionable_a benefit_n 8._o now_o charity_n be_v to_o be_v extend_v to_o all_o intellectual_a creature_n that_o be_v to_o all_o angel_n &_o all_o man_n whether_o alive_a or_o dead_a except_o only_o the_o reprobate_a angel_n &_o damn_a soul_n which_o be_v not_o object_n of_o our_o charity_n in_o as_o much_o as_o they_o be_v not_o capable_a of_o enjoy_v god_n which_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o charity_n and_o the_o effect_n of_o our_o charity_n to_o the_o glorify_a saint_n &_o angel_n must_v be_v a_o congratulation_n with_o they_o for_o their_o happiness_n &_o for_o the_o love_n which_o they_o bear_v to_o god_n &_o which_o god_n will_v eternal_o bear_v reciprocal_o to_o they_o
prayer_n either_o vocal_a or_o discoursive_o mental_a the_o which_o virtue_n be_v indeed_o admirable_a &_o inestimable_a deserve_v to_o be_v purchase_v with_o all_o the_o care_n &_o endeavour_n of_o our_o whole_a life_n 10._o the_o first_o excellency_n of_o internal_a affective_a prayer_n above_o all_o other_o be_v that_o only_o by_o such_o prayer_n our_o union_n in_o spirit_n with_o god_n in_o which_o our_o essential_a happiness_n consist_v be_v perfect_o obtain_v for_o therein_o the_o will_n with_o all_o the_o power_n &_o affection_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v apply_v and_o fix_v to_o the_o love_a adore_a &_o glorify_v this_o only_a beatify_a object_n whereas_o in_o vocal_a prayer_n there_o be_v a_o continual_a variety_n &_o succession_n of_o image_n of_o creature_n suggest_v the_o which_o do_v distract_v the_o soul_n of_o the_o imperfect_a from_o such_o a_o application_n and_o meditation_n in_o which_o discourse_n be_v employ_v be_v so_o far_o little_o more_o than_o a_o philosophical_a contemplation_n of_o god_n delay_v this_o fix_v of_o the_o heart_n and_o affection_n on_o god_n the_o which_o be_v only_o acceptable_a to_o he_o 11._o the_o second_o virtue_n be_v this_o that_o by_o this_o prayer_n of_o the_o will_v the_o soul_n enter_v far_o more_o profound_o into_o god_n the_o fountain_n of_o light_n partake_v of_o the_o beam_n of_o his_o divine_a light_n far_o more_o plentiful_o by_o which_o she_o both_o discover_v god_n perfection_n more_o clear_o &_o also_o see_v the_o way_n wherein_o she_o be_v to_o walk_v more_o perfect_o then_o by_o any_o other_o prayer_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o when_o the_o soul_n endeavour_n to_o apply_v all_o her_o affection_n entire_o on_o god_n then_o only_o it_o be_v that_o be_v profound_o introvert_v a_o world_n of_o impurity_n of_o intention_n &_o inordinate_a affection_n lurk_v in_o she_o do_v discover_v themselves_o &_o the_o obscure_a mist_n of_o they_o be_v dispel_v the_o soul_n then_o find_v by_o a_o real_a perception_n &_o feel_n how_o prejudicial_a they_o be_v to_o her_o present_a union_n in_o will_n with_o god_n whereas_o when_o the_o understanding_n alone_o or_o principal_o be_v busy_v in_o the_o consideration_n of_o god_n or_o of_o the_o soul_n herself_o the_o imagination_n which_o be_v very_o active_a &_o subtle_a will_v not_o represent_v to_o the_o soul_n either_o god_n or_o herself_o so_o liquid_o &_o sincere_o but_o be_v blind_v &_o seduce_v by_o natural_a self-love_n will_v invent_v a_o hundred_o excuse_n &_o pretext_n to_o deceive_v the_o soul_n &_o to_o make_v she_o believe_v that_o many_o thing_n be_v intend_v &_o do_v pure_o for_o god_n which_o proceed_v principal_o if_o not_o total_o from_o the_o root_n of_o concupiscence_n &_o self-love_n 12._o a_o three_o admirable_a perfection_n of_o internal_a affective_a prayer_n be_v this_o that_o not_o only_o divine_a light_n but_o also_o grace_n &_o spiritual_a strength_n to_o put_v in_o practice_v all_o thing_n to_o which_o supernatural_a light_n direct_v be_v obtain_v principal_o by_o this_o internal_a prayer_n of_o the_o heart_n and_o this_o by_o a_o double_a causality_n &_o virtue_n to_o wit_n 1._o by_o way_n of_o impetration_n ground_v on_o the_o rich_a &_o precious_a promise_n make_v by_o god_n to_o prayer_n above_o all_o other_o good_a action_n 2._o by_o a_o direct_a &_o proper_a efficiency_n for_o since_o all_o the_o virtue_n &_o merit_n of_o our_o external_a action_n do_v depend_v upon_o and_o flow_v from_o the_o internal_a disposition_n &_o operation_n of_o the_o soul_n exercise_v charity_n &_o purity_n of_o intention_n in_o they_o &_o conquer_a the_o resistance_n of_o nature_n and_o since_o all_o internal_a exercise_n of_o all_o virtue_n whatsoever_o be_v true_o &_o in_o propriety_n of_o speech_n direct_a prayer_n of_o the_o spirit_n hence_o be_v follow_v that_o as_o all_o habit_n be_v get_v by_o frequency_n &_o constancy_n of_o exercise_n therefore_o by_o the_o persevere_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o internal_a prayer_n the_o soul_n be_v enable_v with_o facility_n to_o practice_v perfect_o all_o virtue_n 13._o to_o this_o may_v be_v add_v that_o such_o prayer_n be_v universal_a mortification_n &_o a_o mortification_n the_o most_o profound_a intime_fw-la &_o perfect_a that_o a_o soul_n can_v possible_o perform_v entire_o destructive_a to_o sensual_a satisfaction_n for_o therein_o the_o will_n force_v inferior_a nature_n &_o all_o the_o power_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o avert_v themselves_o from_o all_o other_o object_n please_v to_o they_o and_o to_o concur_v to_o her_o internal_a actuation_n towards_o god_n &_o this_o ofttimes_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o distraction_n by_o vain_a image_n during_o a_o torpide_a dullnes_n of_o the_o heart_n yea_o a_o violent_a contradiction_n of_o sensuality_n when_o there_o be_v according_a to_o any_o sensible_a perception_n a_o total_a disgust_n in_o the_o soul_n to_o such_o a_o exercise_n yea_o when_o the_o spirit_n itself_o be_v in_o obscurity_n &_o can_v by_o any_o reflexed_a act_n reap_v any_o consolation_n from_o such_o a_o exercise_n such_o a_o exilium_fw-la cordis_fw-la such_o a_o desertion_n &_o internal_a desolation_n be_v a_o mortification_n to_o the_o purpose_n yet_o as_o of_o extreme_a bitterness_n so_o of_o unexpressible_a efficacy_n to_o the_o purify_n &_o universal_a perfect_a of_o the_o soul_n &_o spirit_n therefore_o s._n chrysostome_n tract_n de_fw-fr oratione_fw-la have_v good_a reason_n to_o say_v it_o be_v impossible_a again_o i_o say_v it_o be_v utter_o impossible_a that_o a_o soul_n which_o with_o a_o due_a care_n &_o assiduity_n pray_v unto_o god_n shall_v ever_o sin_v 17._o a_o four_o excellence_n of_o internal_a affective_a prayer_n be_v that_o it_o be_v the_o only_a action_n that_o can_v possible_o want_v purity_n of_o intention_n soul_n may_v from_o a_o impulse_n of_o nature_n and_o its_o satirfaction_n exact_o observe_v fast_n perform_v obedience_n keep_v the_o choir_n approach_v to_o sacrament_n yea_o exercise_v themselves_o in_o curious_a speculation_n during_o meditation_n or_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o sensible_a devotion_n they_o may_v comply_v with_o self-love_n etc._n etc._n and_o indeed_o they_o have_v no_o far_o any_o purity_n of_o intention_n in_o any_o of_o these_o duty_n then_o as_o they_o do_v proceed_v from_o internal_a affective_a prayer_n that_o be_v the_o will_v fix_v by_o charity_n on_o god_n whereas_o if_o any_o oblique_a intention_n shall_v endeavour_v to_o insinuate_v itself_o into_o internal_a prayer_n of_o the_o will_n it_o will_v present_o be_v observe_v &_o unless_o it_o be_v contradict_v &_o expel_v there_o can_v be_v no_o progress_n in_o such_o prayer_n so_o that_o it_o be_v not_o possible_a to_o find_v a_o exercise_n either_o more_o secure_a or_o more_o profitable_a since_o it_o be_v by_o the_o virtue_n of_o it_o alone_o that_o all_o other_o exercise_n have_v any_o concurrence_n towards_o the_o perfectionate_v of_o the_o soul_n 15._o last_o affective_a prayer_n of_o the_o will_n be_v that_o alone_a which_o make_v all_o other_o sort_n of_o prayer_n to_o deserve_v the_o name_n of_o prayer_n for_o be_v that_o exclude_v meditation_n be_v but_o a_o useless_a speculation_n and_o curiosity_n of_o the_o understanding_n and_o vocal_a prayer_n but_o a_o empty_a sound_n of_o word_n for_o god_n only_o desire_v our_o heart_n or_o affection_n without_o which_o our_o tongue_n or_o brain_n be_v of_o no_o esteem_n at_o all_o yea_o there_o be_v not_o so_o much_o as_o any_o profitable_a attention_n in_o any_o prayer_n further_o than_o the_o heart_n concurre_v for_o if_o the_o attention_n be_v only_o of_o the_o mind_n that_o will_v not_o constitute_v prayer_n for_o then_o study_n or_o disputation_n about_o divine_a thing_n may_v be_v call_v prayer_n hence_o say_v a_o ancient_a holy_a hermit_n nunquam_fw-la verè_fw-la orat_fw-la quisquis_fw-la etiam_fw-la flexis_fw-la genibus_fw-la evagatione_fw-la cordis_fw-la etiam_fw-la qualicumque_fw-la distrahitur_fw-la that_o be_v that_o man_n do_v never_o true_o pray_v who_o though_o he_o be_v upon_o his_o knes_n be_v distract_v with_o any_o wander_a or_o unattention_n of_o his_o heart_n and_o likewise_o the_o learned_a soto_n to_o the_o same_o purpose_n conclusive_o affirm_v orationi_fw-la mentali_fw-la deesse_fw-la non_fw-la potest_fw-la attentio_fw-la cum_fw-la ipsa_fw-la attentio_fw-la &c_n &c_n that_o be_v attention_n can_v possible_o be_v want_v to_o mental_a prayer_n of_o the_o heart_n since_o the_o attention_n itself_o be_v the_o very_a prayer_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v a_o contradiction_n to_o say_v that_o one_o pray_v mental_o &_o be_v not_o attentive_a as_o be_v of_o itself_o manifest_a for_o as_o soon_o as_o ever_o the_o mind_n begin_v to_o wander_v it_o cease_v to_o pray_v therefore_o vocal_a prayer_n be_v only_o that_o prayer_n which_o may_v want_v attention_n namely_o when_o the_o thought_n divert_v themselves_o to_o other_o object_n the_o tongue_n without_o the_o concurrence_n of_o the_o mind_n give_v a_o uncertain_a
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
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 theâ—â—n_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 wholâ—y_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
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
due_a regard_n be_v have_v to_o the_o body_n that_o it_o be_v not_o too_o much_o prejudice_v by_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o spirit_n perform_v with_o overmuch_o violence_n &_o impetuosity_n and_o this_o not_o so_o much_o for_o the_o body_n sake_n as_o the_o spirit_n the_o which_o since_o in_o this_o life_n it_o can_v work_v without_o the_o body_n by_o too_o violent_a working_n it_o may_v so_o weaken_v the_o body_n as_o that_o it_o will_v not_o be_v enable_v for_o continuance_n &_o so_o those_o little_a short_a gain_n which_o be_v get_v by_o a_o few_o impetuous_a exercise_n will_v be_v dear_o buy_v by_o a_o incapacity_n of_o continue_v they_o contract_v in_o both_o soul_n &_o body_n we_o must_v neither_o stretch_v our_o understanding_n to_o high_a seeking_n lest_o we_o be_v plunge_v thereby_o in_o internal_a darkness_n from_o which_o will_v proceed_v intolerable_a perplexity_n neither_o must_v we_o force_v the_o affection_n even_o to_o good_a object_n too_o much_o nor_o suffer_v they_o to_o flow_v with_o too_o violent_a a_o stream_n nor_o last_o must_v we_o exhaust_v bodily_a strength_n by_o unnecessary_a external_a austerity_n 4._o as_o for_o the_o painfullnes_n trouble_n &_o uneasine_n to_o nature_n that_o without_o too_o much_o debility_n do_v accompany_v spiritual_a exercise_n those_o may_v well_o enough_o be_v digest_v consider_v the_o unspeakable_a benefit_n &_o service_n that_o they_o produce_v unto_o the_o soul_n and_o yet_o for_o our_o comfort_n this_o uneasines_n will_v by_o custom_n &_o constancy_n continual_o diminish_v for_o as_o harphius_n observe_v a_o soul_n after_o long_a practice_n of_o elevation_n of_o spirit_n will_v come_v to_o such_o a_o facility_n in_o they_o that_o they_o will_v become_v as_o it_o be_v natural_a to_o she_o and_o herein_o we_o may_v observe_v the_o wonderful_a wisdom_n &_o goodness_n of_o the_o divine_a providence_n over_o soul_n how_o he_o temper_v the_o exercise_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o the_o exigence_n of_o the_o body_n for_o while_o the_o body_n be_v vigorous_a be_v able_a to_o endure_v more_o he_o give_v her_o rude_a &_o more_o laborious_a exercise_n but_o when_o by_o long-continued_a working_n it_o be_v become_v so_o feeble_a that_o any_o violent_a intention_n of_o the_o spirit_n or_o rude_a external_a mortification_n of_o which_o there_o be_v no_o need_n will_v overwhelm_a it_o than_o the_o exercise_n be_v most_o easy_a peaceable_a silent_a &_o serene_a yet_o infinite_o more_o full_a of_o virtue_n then_o former_o 5._o now_o the_o peculiar_a virtue_n by_o which_o all_o harmful_a inconvenience_n either_o to_o the_o body_n or_o spirit_n may_v be_v avoid_v be_v that_o supernatural_a discretion_n by_o which_o a_o soul_n be_v enable_v to_o hold_v a_o mean_a &_o avoid_v the_o vicious_a extreme_n in_o the_o practise_n of_o all_o spiritual_a duty_n it_o be_v just_o call_v a_o supernatural_a virtue_n because_o god_n only_o can_v bestow_v it_o for_o all_o the_o wit_n &_o philosophy_n in_o the_o world_n be_v but_o mere_a folly_n &_o blindness_n in_o these_o matter_n and_o this_o he_o do_v principal_o by_o the_o mean_n of_o prayer_n with_o the_o use_n of_o requisite_a abstraction_n &_o attendance_n to_o his_o divine_a inspiration_n whereby_o we_o shall_v receive_v a_o celestial_a habitual_a light_n to_o direct_v we_o in_o all_o thing_n suitable_o to_o our_o own_o particular_a disposition_n &_o ability_n for_o no_o one_o man_n can_v in_o all_o matter_n be_v a_o rule_n unto_o another_o 6._o now_o as_o touch_v a_o particular_a application_n of_o this_o supernatural_a discretion_n to_o the_o exercise_n of_o a_o internal_a life_n much_o have_v already_o be_v set_v down_o dispersedly_z in_o these_o treatise_n i_o will_v therefore_o only_o point_v at_o some_o few_o consideration_n which_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o several_a duty_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n do_v regard_v this_o mistress_n of_o all_o virtue_n discretion_n which_o sure_o deserve_v above_o all_o other_o to_o be_v purposely_o &_o by_o itself_o treat_v of_o in_o as_o much_o as_o without_o it_o all_o other_o virtue_n be_v imprudent_a that_o be_v not_o virtue_n at_o all_o 7._o first_o therefore_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o duty_n of_o mortification_n i_o speak_v now_o only_o of_o necessary_a mortification_n of_o which_o kind_n all_o be_v to_o be_v esteem_v that_o come_v from_o god_n either_o immediate_o or_o by_o mean_n of_o other_o especial_o superior_n a_o soul_n be_v to_o esteem_v those_o mortification_n which_o a_o superior_a beyond_o the_o rule_n shall_v voluntary_o impose_v upon_o the_o subject_n to_o be_v to_o the_o subject_n himself_o necessary_a however_o voluntary_a to_o the_o superior_a 8._o now_o superior_n aught_o rare_o to_o impose_v such_o kind_n of_o mortification_n on_o their_o subject_n because_o so_o many_o circumstance_n be_v require_v to_o make_v they_o well_o impose_v that_o a_o great_a measure_n of_o illumination_n from_o god_n be_v requisite_a for_o those_o that_o practise_v the_o impose_v of_o they_o for_o 1._o the_o superior_a must_v evident_o see_v that_o the_o subject_n in_o probability_n will_v make_v good_a use_n of_o they_o 2._o and_o that_o though_o they_o may_v do_v the_o subject_a good_a some_o one_o way_n yet_o they_o will_v not_o harm_v he_o more_o another_o 3._o he_o must_v take_v heed_n that_o other_o be_v not_o scandalize_v thereby_o 9_o the_o like_a circumstance_n be_v to_o be_v observe_v by_o a_o particular_a person_n that_o will_v voluntary_o assume_v mortification_n for_o want_n of_o which_o point_n of_o discretion_n harphius_n say_v that_o such_o kind_n of_o strange_a odd_a and_o uncouth_a mortification_n as_o be_v impose_v &_o practise_v in_o some_o community_n ought_v not_o to_o be_v voluntary_o assume_v as_o if_o with_o a_o design_n therefore_o to_o be_v despise_v by_o another_o 10._o the_o author_n of_o the_o abridgement_n of_o perfection_n just_o impute_v indiscretion_n to_o those_o who_o will_v never_o give_v rest_n to_o nature_n but_o will_v always_o have_v some_o cross_n or_o other_o exterior_a or_o interiour_n by_o which_o to_o mortify_v nature_n for_o say_v he_o the_o high_a perfection_n be_v not_o to_o desire_v to_o be_v always_o suffer_v but_o to_o be_v content_a to_o suffer_v all_o that_o by_o god_n providence_n shall_v befall_v us._n the_o which_o contentment_n be_v take_v away_o by_o that_o continual_a anxiety_n which_o those_o must_v suffer_v that_o will_v needs_o be_v always_o upon_o the_o rack_n 11._o in_o like_a manner_n harphius_n tax_v those_o that_o think_v themselves_o ready_a for_o affliction_n &_o complain_v that_o they_o â—vant_n occasion_n to_o exercise_v their_o resignation_n for_o â—ives_n he_o to_o such_o a_o one_o thou_o deceive_v thyself_o by_o â—ide_v god_n do_v see_v that_o as_o yet_o thou_o be_v not_o indeed_o ready_a &_o strong_a enough_o for_o extraordinary_a trial_n for_o if_o he_o do_v he_o will_v not_o fail_v to_o furnish_v thou_o with_o occasion_n he_o will_v send_v a_o angel_n from_o heaven_n on_o purpose_n to_o exercise_v a_o soul_n rather_o than_o she_o will_v want_v mortification_n for_o her_o good_a therefore_o let_v soul_n never_o be_v solicitous_a nor_o set_v themselves_o to_o devise_v or_o procure_v mortification_n as_o if_o they_o think_v that_o god_n have_v forget_v they_o notable_a example_n of_o this_o providence_n of_o god_n may_v be_v see_v in_o the_o life_n of_o thaulerus_n where_o likewise_o we_o read_v how_o god_n reprehend_v the_o layman_n that_o convert_v thaulerus_n in_o his_o sleep_n for_o certain_a assume_v voluntary_a corporal_a austerity_n to_o this_o purpose_n there_o be_v a_o memorable_a passage_n in_o the_o life_n of_o suso_n concern_v a_o spiritual_a daughter_n of_o he_o who_o of_o herself_o be_v dispose_v to_o have_v undertake_v some_o great_a corporal_a mortification_n but_o be_v dissuade_v by_o suso_n although_o himself_o by_o a_o special_a call_v from_o god_n do_v use_v very_o violent_a &_o sharp_a one_o in_o the_o which_o discourse_n there_o be_v many_o excellent_a document_n very_o well_o deserve_v to_o be_v peruse_v by_o the_o devout_a reader_n 12._o let_v a_o soul_n therefore_o serious_o practice_v that_o mortification_n of_o mortification_n which_o be_v pure_a internal_a prayer_n &_o with_o it_o join_v a_o diligent_a good_a use_n of_o those_o mortification_n attend_v her_o state_n of_o life_n or_o send_v she_o otherwise_o from_o god_n not_o omit_v those_o most_o efficacious_a internal_a mortification_n by_o act_n of_o humiliation_n &_o annihilation_n of_o herself_o &_o so_o do_v she_o will_v have_v little_a reason_n to_o complain_v of_o want_n of_o exercise_n of_o this_o virtue_n for_o corporal_a austerity_n do_v not_o by_o the_o excess_n of_o they_o but_o by_o the_o fitness_n &_o proportion_n to_o the_o soul_n present_a disposition_n perfectionate_a a_o internal_a liver_n so_o that_o some_o in_o firm_a but_o sincere_o affect_v person_n do_v advance_v themselves_o more_o by_o ordinary_a &_o trifle_a
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 wâ—y_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
which_o in_o some_o soul_n during_o this_o exercise_n flow_v from_o the_o spirit_n into_o inferior_a nature_n he_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o iniect_v his_o bait_n a_o humble_a and_o perfect_o mortify_a soul_n will_v easy_o turn_v his_o malice_n to_o her_o own_o good_a and_o the_o enemy_n confusion_n 25._o three_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o understanding_n whereas_o it_o be_v before_o all_o be_v paint_v with_o image_n of_o creature_n yea_o when_o it_o regard_v god_n it_o see_v he_o by_o a_o image_n of_o its_o own_o create_v now_o the_o soul_n lose_v all_o remembrance_n of_o itself_o and_o of_o all_o create_a thing_n and_o all_o that_o she_o retain_v of_o god_n be_v a_o remembrance_n that_o he_o can_v be_v see_v nor_o comprehend_v all_o creature_n therefore_o be_v remove_v and_o no_o particular_a distinct_a image_n of_o god_n admit_v there_o remain_v in_o the_o soul_n and_o mind_n as_o it_o be_v a_o nothing_n and_o mere_a emptiness_n the_o which_o nothing_o be_v more_o worth_a than_o all_o creature_n for_o it_o be_v all_o that_o we_o can_v know_v of_o god_n in_o this_o life_n this_o nothing_o be_v the_o rich_a inheritance_n of_o perfect_a soul_n who_o perceive_v clear_o that_o god_n be_v nothing_o of_o all_o that_o may_v be_v comprehend_v by_o our_o sense_n or_o understanding_n the_o state_n therefore_o of_o such_o soul_n for_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v knowledge_n be_v worthy_o call_v the_o cloud_n of_o unknowing_a and_o the_o cloud_n of_o forget_v by_o the_o author_n of_o that_o sublime_a treatise_n so_o call_v and_o this_o be_v the_o perfect_a and_o most_o angelical_a know_v that_o a_o soul_n be_v capable_a of_o in_o this_o life_n now_o this_o perception_n of_o this_o nothing_o do_v appear_v more_o clear_o and_o comfortable_o the_o long_o that_o a_o soul_n remain_v under_o this_o cloud_n &_o darkness_n where_o god_n dwell_v be_v for_o as_o the_o psalmist_n say_v this_o darkness_n be_v immediate_o under_o his_o foot_n this_o knowledge_n of_o nothing_o be_v by_o f._n benet_n canfield_n call_v a_o active_a annihilation_n 26._o four_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o will_n it_o be_v in_o this_o exercise_n so_o whole_o possess_v and_o inflame_v with_o divine_a love_n the_o which_o do_v so_o intime_o prenetrate_v into_o the_o very_a centre_n of_o it_o that_o it_o be_v become_v like_o fiery_a burn_a steel_n clean_a through_o shine_v with_o this_o fire_n it_o be_v now_o a_o will_n deiforme_a and_o in_o a_o manner_n deify_v for_o it_o be_v so_o close_o unite_v and_o hide_a in_o the_o divine_a will_n that_o god_n may_v be_v say_v to_o will_n and_o do_v all_o thing_n in_o and_o by_o she_o 27._o five_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o whole_a person_n till_o a_o soul_n be_v arrive_v unto_o this_o exercise_n she_o never_o attain_v to_o a_o perfect_a possession_n of_o all_o virtue_n universal_o they_o be_v indeed_o all_o in_o a_o inferior_a degree_n and_o with_o much_o mixture_n of_o natural_a sensual_a end_n produce_v by_o the_o former_a exercise_n and_o if_o some_o special_a virtue_n seem_v to_o be_v in_o a_o high_a degree_n it_o be_v either_o because_o nature_n dispose_v more_o to_o they_o or_o because_o the_o practice_n of_o they_o may_v be_v more_o suitable_a to_o some_o design_n of_o nature_n but_o assoon_o as_o by_o the_o exercise_n of_o aspiration_n divine_a love_n be_v far_o more_o perfect_o exercise_v the_o very_a root_n of_o all_o sin_n self_n love_n be_v destroy_v &_o purity_n of_o intention_n be_v practise_v to_o god_n for_o himself_o only_o and_o only_o by_o his_o instruction_n and_o motion_n the_o divine_a love_n that_o the_o soul_n exercise_v before_o be_v immediate_o upon_o herself_o with_o relation_n to_o god_n and_o not_o direct_o and_o immediate_o to_o god_n himself_o or_o if_o so_o sometime_o yet_o it_o be_v with_o reflection_n upon_o herself_o but_o in_o aspiration_n she_o exercise_n love_v only_o to_o god_n himself_o without_o reflection_n which_o can_v be_v exercise_v but_o by_o soul_n perfect_o mortify_v be_v the_o high_a mystic_a contemplation_n possible_a to_o be_v exercise_v in_o this_o life_n for_o as_o alphonsus_n madriliensis_n say_v a_o soul_n be_v never_o able_a to_o to_o produce_v a_o proper_a act_n of_o love_n to_o god_n till_o she_o have_v first_o get_v a_o perfect_a hatred_n of_o herself_o which_o be_v the_o supreme_a degree_n of_o mortification_n the_o which_o once_o attain_v she_o be_v ripe_a for_o a_o passive_a union_n and_o perhaps_o at_o the_o very_a door_n of_o it_o 28._o the_o author_n of_o the_o cloud_n and_o likewise_o barbanson_n do_v with_o great_a reason_n teach_v that_o after_o a_o soul_n be_v mount_v to_o this_o degree_n of_o exercise_v love_n constant_o by_o aspiration_n she_o be_v not_o in_o any_o difficulty_n aridity_n &c_n &c_n to_o descend_v to_o any_o inferior_a exercise_n herein_o differ_v from_o f._n benet_n canfield_n and_o some_o other_o who_o require_v some_o exercise_n of_o the_o passion_n in_o all_o estate_n chap._n iii_o §_o 1._o 2._o of_o the_o second_o sort_n of_o union_n to_o wit_n passive_a §_o 3._o 4._o &c_n &c_n of_o several_a sort_n of_o passive_a union_n and_o first_o of_o such_o as_o be_v sensible_a exterior_o or_o interior_o §_o 6._o 7._o &c_n &c_n of_o rapt_n and_o ecstasy_n etc._n etc._n §_o 9_o 10._o &c_n &c_n rule_n of_o discern_v true_a ecstasy_n &_o apparition_n from_o false_a §_o 22._o 23._o &c_n &c_n how_o a_o soul_n be_v to_o behave_v herself_o with_o humility_n &_o disaffection_n in_o regard_n of_o these_o extraordinary_a favour_n §_o 26._o 27._o &c_n &c_n in_o what_o case_n the_o judgement_n of_o a_o prudent_a director_n be_v necessary_a §_o 36._o 37._o &c_n &c_n in_o what_o case_n some_o soul_n may_v follow_v theâ—â—_n own_o light_n §_o 39_o 40._o in_o what_o sense_n ecstasy_n be_v supernatural_a 1._o hitherto_o of_o the_o exercise_n of_o perfect_a active_a union_n or_o contemplation_n i_o call_v it_o perfect_a because_o though_o in_o every_o degree_n of_o prayer_n there_o be_v a_o proportionable_a degree_n of_o union_n of_o the_o soul_n with_o god_n â—et_o perfect_a union_n be_v only_o in_o this_o of_o aspiration_n but_o so_o as_o that_o it_o may_v increase_v in_o degree_n and_o grow_v more_o and_o more_o immediate_a without_o all_o limit_n but_o how_o much_o soever_o it_o increase_v it_o will_v never_o exceed_v that_o obscure_a light_n which_o faith_n afford_v which_o be_v the_o perfect_a light_n that_o we_o can_v have_v in_o this_o life_n for_o to_o see_v god_n as_o he_o be_v be_v reserve_v for_o the_o future_a life_n now_o though_o even_o the_o most_o imperfect_a have_v this_o light_n of_o faith_n yet_o in_o their_o inferior_a contemplation_n they_o do_v for_o the_o most_o part_n make_v use_n of_o and_o follow_v their_o natural_a light_n regard_v such_o image_n and_o representation_n of_o god_n as_o they_o frame_v in_o their_o imagination_n or_o by_o discourse_n but_o in_o perfect_a contemplation_n this_o light_n of_o faith_n be_v the_o only_a light_n 2._o but_o beside_o these_o active_a union_n there_o be_v other_o union_n and_o contemplation_n which_o be_v passive_a and_o extraordinary_a by_o which_o god_n reveile_v himself_o unto_o the_o soul_n by_o a_o supernatural_a species_n impress_v in_o she_o in_o which_o he_o be_v the_o only_a agent_n and_o she_o the_o patient_n not_o as_o if_o when_o a_o soul_n do_v contemplate_v god_n she_o be_v not_o in_o some_o sort_n active_a but_o because_o by_o no_o disposition_n or_o preparation_n that_o the_o soul_n can_v use_v can_v she_o assure_o procure_v they_o but_o when_o god_n be_v please_v gracious_o to_o communicate_v they_o the_o soul_n be_v take_v out_o of_o her_o own_o disposal_n and_o do_v and_o must_v see_v &_o think_v only_o what_o god_n will_v have_v she_o and_o this_o no_o long_o than_o his_o good_a pleasure_n be_v such_o 3._o now_o such_o supernatural_a grace_n be_v either_o 1._o sensible_n or_o 2._o pure_o intellectual_a the_o former_a be_v the_o most_o imperfect_a and_o least_o efficacious_a to_o cause_v a_o gracious_a good_a disposition_n in_o the_o soul_n that_o receive_v they_o 4._o of_o sensible_a union_n the_o most_o imperfect_a and_o least_o to_o be_v rely_v upon_o be_v 1._o those_o which_o by_o god_n be_v communicate_v to_o the_o outward_a sense_n as_o apparition_n visible_a to_o the_o eye_n word_n frame_v in_o the_o air_n by_o the_o operation_n of_o angel_n alteration_n make_v in_o the_o other_o sense_n as_o in_o the_o smell_n by_o a_o grateful_a odour_n present_v thereto_o in_o the_o palate_n by_o a_o pleasant_a taste_n cause_v therein_o etc._n etc._n of_o which_o kind_n of_o favour_n diverse_a example_n occur_v in_o spiritual_a author_n to_o which_o may_v be_v add_v the_o gift_n of_o tear_n warmth_n about_o the_o heart_n etc._n etc._n and_o which_o seem_v to_o be_v the_o high_a kind_n of_o sensible_a favour_n a_o
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
soul_n powerful_o and_o immediate_o direct_v and_o move_v by_o the_o holy_a spirit_n now_o this_o three_o degree_n to_o which_o the_o prayer_n belong_v be_v indeed_o true_o the_o prayer_n of_o contemplation_n beyond_o which_o there_o be_v no_o state_n of_o prayer_n may_v very_o convenient_o include_v all_o the_o four_o degree_n mention_v by_o barbanson_n &_o so_o nice_o distinguish_v by_o he_o rather_o out_o of_o a_o particular_a experience_n of_o the_o effect_n pass_v in_o his_o own_o soul_n the_o which_o perhaps_o be_v not_o the_o same_o in_o all_o for_o god_n work_v according_a to_o his_o own_o good_a pleasure_n in_o the_o soul_n of_o his_o perfect_a servant_n and_o not_o according_a to_o any_o method_n that_o man_n can_v conceive_v or_o express_v 6._o these_o therefore_o be_v the_o three_o degree_n of_o internal_a prayer_n the_o which_o do_v most_o proper_o answer_n to_o the_o common_o assign_a way_n of_o spirituality_n the_o purgative_n illuminative_a and_o vnitive_a of_o they_o the_o first_o be_v a_o prayer_n consist_v much_o of_o discourse_n of_o the_o vndestanding_n the_o other_o two_o be_v prayer_n of_o the_o will_n but_o most_o principal_o and_o pure_o the_o last_o of_o these_o three_o i_o shall_v treat_v in_o order_n in_o the_o follow_a discourse_n to_o wit_n 1._o in_o pursuit_n of_o this_o second_o section_n of_o the_o most_o imperfect_a degree_n to_o wit_n meditation_n 2._o in_o the_o follow_a section_n of_o the_o prayer_n of_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n 3._o and_o in_o the_o last_o section_n of_o the_o prayer_n of_o aspiration_n or_o contemplation_n but_o before_o i_o come_v to_o treat_v of_o each_o in_o particular_a i_o conceive_v it_o requisite_a first_o to_o show_v the_o ground_n upon_o which_o the_o propriety_n and_o reasonableness_n of_o this_o division_n of_o the_o succeed_a degree_n of_o prayer_n be_v build_v and_o may_v be_v evident_o and_o convince_o demonstrate_v so_o far_o that_o according_a to_o the_o ordinary_a dispensation_n of_o divine_a grace_n to_o soul_n that_o tend_v to_o perfection_n it_o may_v be_v affirm_v that_o they_o be_v conduct_v by_o these_o degree_n in_o this_o order_n and_o no_o other_o way_n and_o this_o experience_n will_v make_v good_a even_o in_o soul_n that_o never_o hear_v of_o any_o degree_n of_o prayer_n but_o without_o learning_n read_v or_o instruction_n be_v immediate_o guide_v by_o god_n holy_a spirit_n in_o his_o internal_a way_n the_o reason_n hereof_o will_v appear_v by_o that_o which_o follow_v 7._o first_o therefore_o it_o be_v apparent_a and_o acknowledged_a that_o general_a speak_n a_o soul_n from_o a_o state_n of_o negligence_n &_o secularity_n first_o enter_v into_o a_o spiritual_a course_n though_o she_o be_v suppose_v by_o virtue_n of_o that_o grace_n by_o which_o she_o be_v move_v to_o make_v so_o great_a and_o happy_a a_o change_n to_o be_v real_o in_o the_o state_n of_o justification_n yet_o there_o still_o remain_v in_o she_o a_o great_a measure_n of_o fear_n conceive_v from_o the_o guilt_n of_o her_o former_a sin_n and_o withal_o strong_a inclination_n to_o sin_n and_o vicious_a habit_n do_v yet_o abide_v and_o will_v do_v so_o till_o by_o long_a practice_n of_o virtue_n and_o piety_n they_o be_v abate_v and_o expel_v moreover_o a_o world_n of_o vain_a and_o sinful_a image_n do_v possess_v the_o soul_n which_o distract_v she_o whensoever_o she_o set_v her_o mind_n on_o god_n call_v she_o to_o attend_v to_o her_o formerly-pleasing_a object_n which_o take_v up_o all_o her_o affection_n and_o which_o do_v still_o ofttimes_o insinuate_v themselves_o into_o her_o memory_n with_o too_o much_o contentment_n to_o inferior_a nature_n the_o which_o contentment_n though_o she_o upon_o reflection_n do_v resist_v and_o renown_n with_o her_o superior_a soul_n yet_o this_o resistance_n be_v ofttimes_o so_o feeble_a that_o frequent_o she_o be_v real_o entangle_v and_o seduce_v &_o more_o oft_o do_v find_v ground_n to_o doubt_v that_o she_o have_v give_v consent_n thereto_o 8._o such_o be_v ordinary_o the_o disorder_a condition_n of_o a_o soul_n at_o her_o first_o conversion_n the_o remedy_n acknowledge_v to_o be_v proper_a and_o necessary_a for_o she_o be_v prayer_n and_o the_o high_a degree_n of_o prayer_n that_o for_o the_o present_a she_o be_v capable_a of_o be_v either_o a_o much_o distract_a vocal_a prayer_n or_o discursive_a meditation_n in_o which_o the_o understanding_n and_o imagination_n be_v chief_o employ_v and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o although_o god_n have_v imprint_v true_a charity_n in_o such_o a_o soul_n yet_o seduce_v image_n so_o abound_v and_o vicious_a affection_n be_v as_o yet_o so_o predominant_a in_o sensitive_a nature_n there_o be_v a_o necessity_n for_o the_o fortify_v it_o to_o chase_v away_o the_o say_a image_n and_o subdue_v such_o affection_n by_o store_v the_o imagination_n with_o contrary_a good_a image_n and_o set_v on_o work_n affection_n contrary_a to_o these_o and_o this_o be_v do_v by_o invent_v argument_n and_o motive_n especial_o of_o fear_n so_o that_o the_o exercise_n proper_a to_o a_o soul_n in_o this_o first_o imperfect_a state_n be_v those_o of_o sensible_a contrition_n and_o remorse_n for_o sin_n etc._n etc._n cause_v by_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o foulness_n of_o it_o of_o the_o misery_n that_o attend_v it_o the_o certainty_n and_o uncertainty_n of_o death_n the_o terror_n of_o god_n judgement_n the_o horror_n of_o hell_n etc._n etc._n as_o likewise_o a_o consideration_n that_o no_o less_o a_o price_n will_v serve_v for_o the_o reparation_n of_o a_o soul_n from_o sin_n then_o the_o ibloudy_a passion_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n etc._n etc._n such_o matter_n as_o these_o be_v now_o the_o seasonable_a subject_n of_o meditation_n and_o the_o action_n of_o mortification_n fit_a to_o attend_v such_o prayer_n be_v more_o sensible_a gross_a and_o exterior_a proper_a to_o repress_v she_o grosser_n defect_n 9_o now_o when_o by_o mean_n of_o such_o exercise_n the_o soul_n be_v become_v well_o ease_v from_o remorse_n and_o begin_v to_o be_v move_v to_o the_o resistance_n and_o hatred_n of_o sin_n by_o the_o love_n of_o god_n rather_o than_o fear_v of_o his_o judgement_n her_o discursive_a prayer_n for_o all_o that_o do_v not_o cease_v but_o there_o be_v a_o change_n make_v only_o in_o the_o object_n of_o it_o because_o instead_o of_o the_o consideration_n of_o judgement_n hell_n etc._n etc._n the_o soul_n find_v herself_o more_o incline_v to_o resist_v sin_n by_o the_o motive_n of_o love_n or_o a_o consideration_n of_o the_o charity_n patience_n and_o suffering_n of_o our_o lord_n as_o likewise_o out_o of_o a_o comfortable_a meditation_n of_o the_o future_a joy_n promise_v and_o prepare_v for_o she_o although_o charity_n be_v much_o increase_v yet_o not_o yet_o to_o such_o a_o point_n but_o that_o she_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o motive_n and_o consideration_n to_o set_v it_o on_o work_n as_o likewise_o of_o good_a holy_a and_o efficacious_a image_n of_o divine_a thing_n to_o allure_v she_o to_o forget_v or_o neglect_v the_o vain_a image_n that_o yet_o do_v much_o distract_v she_o the_o object_n of_o her_o thought_n now_o be_v the_o infinite_a joy_n of_o heaven_n the_o sublime_a mystery_n of_o faith_n the_o bless_a humanity_n of_o our_o lord_n the_o glorious_a attribute_n of_o the_o divinity_n etc._n etc._n and_o the_o mortification_n answerable_a to_o the_o present_a state_n do_v grow_v more_o internal_a be_v much_o exercise_v about_o inward_a defect_n which_o by_o prayer_n be_v discover_v to_o she_o and_o correct_v now_o a_o soul_n whilst_o she_o continue_v in_o this_o sort_n of_o prayer_n and_o mortification_n stand_v in_o need_n of_o a_o much_o and_o frequent_a consideration_n of_o motive_n be_v proper_o say_v to_o be_v in_o the_o purgative_n way_n though_o towards_o the_o latter_a end_n there_o be_v a_o mixture_n of_o the_o illuminative_a 10._o in_o the_o second_o place_n when_o a_o soul_n by_o perseverance_n in_o such_o discursive_a prayer_n come_v to_o find_v as_o in_o â—â—me_n she_o will_v that_o she_o stand_v in_o less_o need_n of_o invent_v motive_n to_o induce_v she_o to_o exercise_v love_n to_o god_n because_o good_a affection_n by_o exercise_n abound_v and_o â—owing_v ripe_a do_v with_o facility_n move_v themselves_o so_o â—â—at_a the_o mere_a present_v of_o a_o good_a object_n to_o the_o soul_n suffise_v to_o make_v she_o produce_v a_o good_a affection_n thenceforward_o by_o little_a and_o little_a the_o soul_n in_o prayer_n quit_v discourse_v and_o the_o will_v immediate_o stir_v itself_o towards_o god_n and_o here_o meditation_n end_v the_o second_o and_o more_o perfect_a degree_n or_o state_n of_o internal_a prayer_n begin_v to_o wit_n the_o prayer_n of_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n 11._o now_o a_o soul_n live_v a_o solitary_a or_o abstract_a life_n and_o be_v arrive_v to_o this_o prayer_n if_o she_o shall_v be_v oblige_v by_o