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
abound_v 3._o but_o as_o for_o spiritual_a book_n the_o intention_n of_o a_o internal_a liver_n ought_v not_o to_o be_v such_o as_o be_v that_o of_o those_o who_o live_v extrovert_v life_n who_o read_v they_o out_o of_o a_o vain_a curiosity_n or_o to_o be_v thereby_o enable_v to_o discourse_v of_o such_o sublime_a matter_n without_o any_o particular_a choice_n or_o consideration_n whether_o they_o be_v suitable_a to_o their_o spirit_n for_o practice_v or_o no._n a_o contemplative_a soul_n in_o read_v such_o book_n must_v not_o say_v this_o be_v a_o good_a book_n or_o passage_n but_o moreover_o this_o be_v useful_a &_o proper_a for_o i_o &_o by_o god_n grace_n i_o will_v endeavour_v to_o put_v in_o execution_n in_o due_a time_n &_o place_n the_o good_a instruction_n contain_v in_o it_o as_o far_o as_o they_o be_v good_a for_o i_o 4._o for_o such_o soul_n the_o book_n most_o proper_a be_v these_o follow_a scala_fw-la perfectionis_fw-la write_v by_o f._n walter_n hilton_n the_o cloud_n of_o unknowing_a write_v by_o a_o unknown_n author_n the_o secret_a path_n of_o divine_a love_n as_o likewise_o the_o anatomy_n of_o the_o soul_n write_v by_o r._n f._n constant_a in_o barbanson_n a_o capucin_n the_o book_n entitle_v of_o the_o threefold_a will_n of_o god_n write_v by_o r.f._n benet_n fitch_n alias_o ganfield_n a_o capucin_n likewise_o the_o work_n of_o s._n teresa_n of_o b._n john_n de_fw-fr cruse_n likewise_o harphius_n thaulerus_n suso_n rusbrochius_n richardus_fw-la de_fw-fr s._n victore_fw-la gerson_n etc._n etc._n and_o of_o the_o ancient_n the_o live_v of_o the_o ancient_a father_n live_v in_o the_o desert_n &_o cassian_n his_o conference_n of_o certain_a ancient_a hermit_n recommend_v particular_o unto_o we_o by_o our_o holy_a father_n s._n basiles_n rule_v etc._n etc._n then_o for_o soul_n that_o tend_v to_o perfection_n in_o a_o active_a life_n book_n most_o proper_a be_v the_o work_n of_o rodriguez_n of_o perfection_n the_o duke_n of_o gandy_n of_o good_a work_n mons_fw-la de_fw-fr sales_n ludovicus_n de_fw-fr puente_n etc._n etc._n and_o last_o book_n of_o a_o mix_a nature_n be_v granatensis_n blosius_n etc._n etc._n indeed_o few_o spiritual_a book_n there_o be_v wherein_o there_o be_v not_o a_o intermingle_v of_o such_o instruction_n now_o i_o shall_v advise_v soul_n in_o a_o active_a life_n not_o at_o all_o to_o meddle_v with_o instruction_n belong_v to_o contemplation_n but_o apply_v themselves_o to_o the_o precept_n &_o exercise_n of_o a_o active_a life_n to_o use_v they_o in_o order_n to_o the_o end_n thereof_o the_o perfection_n of_o external_a christian_a charity_n 5._o in_o all_o spiritual_a book_n as_o likewise_o in_o all_o that_o treat_v of_o christian_a morality_n such_o instruction_n as_o concern_v the_o essential_a quality_n &_o practice_n of_o virtue_n be_v to_o be_v esteem_v proper_a to_o all_o soul_n yet_o not_o so_o the_o motive_n manner_n &_o circumstance_n of_o exercise_v the_o say_a virtue_n 6._o in_o read_v of_o spiritual_a book_n if_o any_o thing_n touch_v prayer_n &c_n &c_n occur_v as_o ofttimes_o it_o will_v happen_v that_o the_o spiritual_a disciple_n understand_v not_o let_v he_o pass_v it_o over_o &_o neither_o unnecessary_o trouble_v his_o own_o brain_n nor_o make_v it_o a_o business_n to_o trouble_v other_o about_o the_o understanding_n of_o it_o perhaps_o in_o time_n after_o more_o read_v &_o especial_o more_o experience_n in_o prayer_n he_o will_v come_v to_o understand_v it_o 7._o and_o as_o for_o those_o thing_n which_o he_o either_o do_v indeed_o or_o think_v he_o understand_v they_o let_v he_o not_o be_v hasty_a to_o apply_v they_o to_o himself_o by_o practice_n out_o of_o his_o own_o natural_a judgement_n or_o like_n but_o let_v he_o observe_v his_o own_o spirit_n way_n &_o internal_a guidance_n by_o god_n &_o according_o make_v use_v of_o they_o otherwise_o instead_o of_o reap_v benefit_n such_o inconvenience_n may_v happen_v that_o it_o will_v have_v be_v better_a he_o have_v never_o read_v nor_o be_v able_a to_o read_v any_o book_n at_o all_o but_o only_o to_o have_v follow_v his_o own_o internal_a light_n as_o many_o good_a soul_n have_v do_v that_o never_o can_v read_v &_o yet_o seek_v god_n in_o simplicity_n of_o their_o heart_n &_o pray_v without_o any_o prescribe_a method_n practise_v likewise_o according_a to_o the_o invitation_n &_o impulse_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n have_v attein_v to_o perfect_a contemplation_n 8._o general_o mystic_a author_n write_v according_a to_o their_o own_o experience_n in_o their_o own_o soul_n when_o they_o treat_v of_o the_o several_a degree_n of_o prayer_n &_o the_o several_a manner_n of_o divine_a operation_n in_o soul_n in_o such_o degree_n as_o if_o the_o same_o instruction_n will_v serve_v indefinite_o for_o all_o other_o whereas_o such_o be_v the_o in_o explicable_a variety_n of_o internal_a disposition_n that_o the_o same_o course_n &_o order_n in_o all_o thing_n will_v scarce_o serve_v any_o two_o soul_n therefore_o if_o the_o indiscreet_a reader_n without_o consider_v their_o own_o spirit_n &_o enablement_n shall_v upon_o the_o authority_n of_o any_o book_n either_o tarry_v too_o long_o in_o a_o inferior_a degree_n of_o prayer_n when_o god_n have_v fit_v they_o &_o do_v call_v they_o to_o a_o high_a or_o in_o a_o foolish_a ambition_n shall_v being_n unprepared_a presume_v to_o a_o degree_n of_o prayer_n too_o sublime_a &_o spiritual_a for_o they_o there_o will_v be_v no_o end_n of_o difficulty_n doubt_n &_o consultation_n 9_o but_o of_o all_o error_n the_o great_a &_o most_o dangerous_a be_v the_o indiscreet_a imitate_v the_o example_n &_o practice_n of_o saint_n in_o particular_a extraordinary_a corporal_a mortification_n voluntary_o yet_o by_o god_n special_a direction_n assume_v by_o they_o as_o labour_n fasting_n watch_n discipline_n &c_n &c_n for_o such_o a_o forwardness_n in_o other_o not_o call_v thereto_o to_o be_v extraordinary_a likewise_o it_o be_v much_o to_o be_v fear_v proceed_v mere_o from_o pride_n &_o self-love_n &_o will_v produce_v no_o better_a effect_n than_o the_o nourish_a of_o the_o same_o inordinate_a affection_n and_o if_o such_o have_v not_o the_o courage_n &_o patience_n as_o it_o can_v be_v expect_v they_o shall_v have_v to_o persevere_v in_o such_o exercise_n this_o will_v cause_v infirmity_n of_o body_n deâ—ection_n of_o mind_n &_o weariness_n if_o not_o a_o utter_a cast_n of_o a_o spiritual_a course_n 10._o the_o benefit_n that_o we_o ought_v &_o easy_o may_v reap_v from_o the_o read_n of_o such_o extraordinary_a practice_n of_o other_o be_v to_o admire_v god_n way_n in_o the_o conduct_v of_o his_o saint_n &_o to_o take_v occasion_n from_o thence_o of_o humble_v &_o despise_v of_o ourselves_o see_v how_o short_a we_o come_v of_o they_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o their_o virtue_n but_o no_o further_o to_o imitate_v they_o in_o such_o thing_n than_o we_o may_v be_v assure_v that_o god_n direct_v we_o by_o a_o supernatural_a light_n &_o enable_v we_o by_o a_o extraordinary_a grace_n yea_o &_o moreover_o till_o we_o have_v obtain_v the_o leave_n &_o approbation_n of_o a_o prudent_a director_n till_o this_o be_v let_v we_o supply_v with_o a_o good_a will_n what_o our_o force_n will_v not_o reach_v unto_o and_o above_o all_o thing_n we_o must_v take_v heed_n that_o we_o do_v not_o entangle_v ourselves_o by_o lay_v obligation_n or_o vow_n upon_o our_o soul_n about_o such_o matter_n the_o which_o we_o shall_v have_v difficulty_n to_o discharge_v ourselves_o from_o when_o by_o trial_n we_o find_v the_o inconvenience_n 11._o mystic_a writer_n in_o express_v the_o spiritual_a way_n in_o which_o they_o have_v be_v lead_n do_v oft_o seem_v to_o differ_v extreme_o from_o one_o another_o the_o which_o difference_n notwithstanding_o if_o right_o understand_v be_v mere_o in_o the_o phrase_n &_o manner_n of_o expression_n and_o the_o ground_n hereof_o be_v because_o the_o pure_a immaterial_a operation_n of_o perfect_a soul_n in_o prayer_n &_o especial_o the_o operation_n of_o god_n in_o soul_n in_o which_o they_o be_v patient_n only_o be_v so_o sublime_a that_o intelligible_a word_n &_o phrase_n can_v perfect_o express_v they_o &_o therefore_o they_o be_v force_v to_o invent_v new_a word_n the_o best_a they_o can_v or_o to_o borrow_v similitude_n from_o corporal_a thing_n etc._n etc._n to_o make_v their_o conception_n more_o intelligible_a &_o thus_o do_v each_o one_o according_a to_o the_o manner_n that_o he_o find_v or_o conceive_v in_o himself_o or_o according_a to_o his_o skill_n in_o language_n no_o wonder_n therefore_o if_o there_o seem_v to_o be_v diversity_n among_o they_o herupon_o the_o author_n of_o the_o cloud_n observe_v that_o great_a harm_n may_v come_v by_o understand_v thing_n literal_o gross_o &_o sensible_o which_o howsoever_o they_o be_v express_v be_v intend_v &_o ought_v to_o be_v understand_v spiritual_o 12._o some_o good_a
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
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
the_o exercise_n of_o divine_a love_n which_o be_v most_o perfect_o perform_v in_o internal_a prayer_n in_o attention_n to_o and_o union_n with_o god_n in_o spirit_n what_o a_o expert_a persuade_v &_o subtle_a master_n love_n be_v beyond_o study_n or_o consideration_n we_o see_v even_o in_o natural_a and_o secular_a business_n one_o that_o be_v immerse_v in_o sensual_a love_n to_o any_o person_n have_v no_o need_n of_o instruction_n or_o book_n to_o teach_v he_o the_o art_n of_o love_v we_o see_v how_o skilful_a on_o the_o sudden_a such_o a_o one_o become_v in_o the_o way_n how_o to_o please_v the_o person_n belove_v he_o lose_v not_o neither_o out_o of_o ignorance_n nor_o negligence_n the_o least_o opportunity_n to_o ingratiate_v himself_o he_o understand_v the_o mind_n and_o intention_n of_o the_o other_o by_o the_o least_o sign_n the_o motion_n of_o a_o hand_n the_o cast_n of_o a_o eye_n be_v sufficient_a to_o inform_v he_o and_o set_v he_o on_o work_n to_o attempt_v any_o thing_n or_o procure_v any_o thing_n that_o may_v content_v the_o party_n the_o like_a subtlety_n and_o perspicacy_n we_o may_v see_v in_o those_o earthy_a soul_n which_o cleave_v with_o a_o earnest_a affection_n unto_o riches_n what_o subtle_a way_n do_v they_o find_v out_o to_o increase_v their_o wealth_n such_o trifle_a inconsiderable_a thing_n they_o make_v use_v of_o for_o that_o purpose_n as_o another_o will_v not_o take_v notice_n of_o or_o can_v not_o see_v how_o to_o make_v profit_n by_o they_o they_o have_v almost_o a_o prophetical_a spirit_n to_o foresee_v danger_n where_o none_o be_v and_o advantage_n probable_a or_o possible_a to_o happen_v many_o year_n after_o 17._o now_o how_o come_v it_o to_o pass_v that_o the_o eye_n of_o love_n be_v so_o quicksighted_n sure_o by_o this_o that_o where_o love_n to_o any_o particular_a object_n be_v predominant_a it_o subdue_v all_o other_o affection_n to_o all_o other_o object_n which_o will_v distract_v the_o thought_n and_o seduce_v the_o will_n from_o contemplate_v and_o adhere_v to_o the_o thing_n so_o belove_v 18._o upon_o such_o ground_n therefore_o as_o these_o it_o be_v that_o s._n augustin_n call_v divine_a love_n luminosissimam_fw-la charitatem_fw-la most_o full_a of_o light_n and_o most_o enlighten_v for_o a_o soul_n that_o true_o love_v god_n with_o a_o love_n worthy_a of_o he_o have_v the_o mind_n clear_v from_o all_o strange_a image_n and_o the_o will_v purify_v from_o all_o strange_a affection_n be_v thereby_o enable_v pure_o to_o contemplate_v god_n without_o any_o distraction_n at_o all_o and_o be_v desirous_a in_o all_o thing_n to_o please_v he_o know_v how_o to_o make_v advantage_n of_o all_o occurrence_n light_a and_o darkness_n consolation_n and_o desolation_n pain_n and_o pleasure_n all_o these_o contribute_v to_o the_o advance_v of_o this_o love._n yea_o there_o be_v nothing_o so_o indifferent_a or_o in_o its_o own_o nature_n so_o inconsiderable_a but_o that_o such_o a_o soul_n can_v perceive_v how_o use_n may_v be_v make_v of_o it_o to_o please_v god_n thereby_o 19_o now_o since_o pure_a love_n be_v exercise_v immediate_o to_o god_n only_o in_o pure_a prayer_n by_o which_o alone_o the_o spirit_n be_v unite_v to_o he_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o prayer_n be_v the_o only_a efficacious_a instrument_n to_o obtain_v supernatural_a light_n according_a the_o say_n of_o david_n accedite_fw-la ad_fw-la deum_fw-la &_o illuminamini_fw-la approach_v unto_o god_n by_o prayer_n and_o you_o shall_v be_v enlighten_v and_o hence_o also_o it_o be_v that_o the_o same_o holy_a prophet_n so_o earnest_o and_o frequent_o above_o twenty_o time_n in_o one_o psalm_n 118._o pray_v for_o such_o light_n to_o understand_v and_o discover_v the_o wonderful_a thing_n of_o god_n law_n and_o what_o be_v those_o wonderful_a thing_n sure_o not_o to_o be_v inform_v that_o murder_n or_o adultery_n be_v sin_n or_o general_o that_o god_n be_v to_o be_v love_v with_o the_o whole_a soul_n for_o much_o more_o knowledge_n he_o have_v then_o this_o before_o he_o pray_v but_o be_v desirous_a to_o give_v himself_o whole_o to_o god_n and_o to_o perform_v his_o will_n alone_o in_o all_o thing_n he_o so_o oft_o make_v use_n of_o prayer_n for_o the_o obtain_v a_o extraordinary_a light_n to_o be_v have_v no_o other_o way_n but_o by_o prayer_n that_o he_o may_v thereby_o be_v enable_v to_o discover_v and_o find_v out_o the_o divine_a will_n in_o all_o manner_n of_o case_n and_o doubtful_a circumstance_n 20._o now_o only_a such_o inspiration_n and_o such_o illumination_n as_o these_o do_v spiritual_a person_n pretend_v to_o by_o the_o mean_a of_o prayer_n and_o attend_v to_o god_n and_o if_o they_o do_v exercise_v prayer_n with_o a_o due_a fervour_n and_o constancy_n these_o they_o shall_v most_o certain_o enjoy_v and_o that_o in_o such_o a_o measure_n that_o whereas_o the_o great_a part_n of_o ordinary_a good_a christian_n be_v so_o dim-sighted_n as_o to_o see_v the_o divine_a will_n only_o in_o circumstance_n where_o there_o be_v a_o necessary_a obligation_n so_o that_o they_o spend_v the_o far_o great_a part_n of_o their_o life_n in_o action_n that_o do_v no_o way_n advance_v they_o in_o divine_a love_n be_v wrought_v chief_o in_o virtue_n of_o the_o principle_n of_o self-love_n and_o interest_n of_o nature_n those_o that_o be_v perfect_o internal_a liver_n be_v cloud_v by_o no_o vain_a image_n and_o distract_v by_o no_o inferior_a affection_n do_v see_v the_o divine_a will_n clear_o in_o the_o minute_a affair_n which_o they_o according_o make_v advantage_n by_o to_o improve_v themselves_o in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o according_a to_o the_o degree_n of_o love_n so_o proportionable_o be_v the_o degree_n of_o light_n and_o thus_o i_o suppose_v the_o pretend_a inconvenience_n suspect_v to_o flow_v from_o the_o publish_n of_o this_o doctrine_n will_v appear_v to_o be_v only_o pretend_v and_o causeless_o fear_v 21._o but_o the_o other_o objection_n at_o the_o first_o sight_n seem_v more_o considerable_a as_o imply_v a_o far_o great_a and_o more_o certain_a inconvenience_n and_o danger_n that_o may_v ensue_v upon_o the_o publish_n of_o this_o doctrine_n concern_v divine_a inspiration_n illumination_n and_o call_n for_o thus_o they_o argue_v it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v that_o the_o fanatic_a sectary_n which_o now_o swarm_v in_o england_n more_o than_o ever_o will_v be_v ready_a to_o take_v advantage_n from_o hence_o to_o justify_v all_o their_o frenzy_n and_o disorder_n all_o which_o they_o impute_v with_o all_o confidence_n to_o divine_a inspiration_n illumination_n and_o impulse_n for_o can_v we_o forbid_v they_o to_o practice_v what_o we_o ourselves_o teach_v to_o be_v a_o christian_a duty_n and_o yet_o it_o be_v apparent_a what_o fearful_a and_o execrable_a effect_n the_o practice_n of_o this_o pretend_a duty_n do_v produce_v among_o they_o it_o be_v by_o inspiration_n say_v they_o that_o their_o progenitour_n do_v break_v out_o of_o the_o church_n and_o by_o inspiration_n they_o do_v still_o introduce_v endlesse_o new_a fancy_n and_o practice_n it_o be_v by_o inspiration_n that_o they_o endanger_v the_o ruin_n of_o christianity_n itself_o by_o infinite_a schism_n and_o pestilent_a reformation_n it_o be_v by_o inspiration_n that_o they_o employ_v the_o gospel_n to_o destroy_v the_o gospel_n from_o thence_o preach_v heresy_n in_o church_n and_o chamber_n sedition_n in_o state_n rebellion_n against_o prince_n and_o prelate_n so_o destroy_v all_o order_n unity_n and_o peace_n every_o where_o these_o thing_n consider_v what_o can_v be_v more_o reasonable_a than_o that_o we_o shall_v take_v heed_n how_o we_o furnish_v they_o thus_o with_o arm_n to_o maintain_v themselves_o and_o to_o fight_v against_o god_n &_o his_o church_n 22._o this_o be_v the_o objection_n which_o though_o it_o have_v a_o fearful_a show_v yet_o be_v well_o examine_v it_o will_v prove_v no_o less_o weak_o ground_v then_o the_o former_a for_o the_o demonstrate_v therefore_o of_o the_o inconsequence_n of_o it_o i_o will_v by_o way_n of_o preparation_n lay_v down_o these_o follow_a undeniable_a principle_n brief_o mention_v before_o viz._n 23._o first_n that_o divine_a inspiration_n be_v so_o absolute_o necessary_a in_o precept_n for_o the_o avoid_v of_o sin_n and_o in_o counsel_n for_o the_o gain_n of_o perfection_n that_o without_o they_o no_o action_n of_o we_o can_v be_v good_a or_o meritorious_a yea_o the_o duty_n of_o obligation_n which_o we_o perform_v or_o counsel_n of_o perfection_n free_o obey_v by_o we_o be_v only_o so_o far_o acceptable_a to_o god_n as_o they_o proceed_v from_o his_o inspiration_n and_o motion_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n this_o be_v not_o only_o a_o undoubted_a verity_n but_o one_o of_o the_o most_o fundamental_a verity_n of_o christian_a religion_n which_o attribute_n all_o good_a in_o we_o to_o the_o divine_a grace_n and_o what_o be_v grace_n but_o the_o divine_a inspiration_n of_o
which_o i_o have_v not_o find_v any_o yet_o to_o join_v with_o he_o but_o however_o he_o show_v in_o his_o bookâ—_n style_v la_fw-fr vie_n interieure_fw-fr that_o he_o have_v a_o true_a notion_n of_o the_o prayer_n of_o mystick_n union_n and_o that_o be_v so_o he_o may_v free_o enjoy_v the_o contentment_n of_o the_o former_a supposition_n 46._o beside_o these_o there_o may_v possible_o be_v other_o passage_n that_o thou_o also_o devout_a reader_n if_o thou_o have_v have_v the_o perusal_n before_o the_o impression_n will_v perhaps_o have_v give_v we_o occasion_n to_o explain_v or_o interpret_v more_o at_o large_a if_o it_o prove_v so_o all_o we_o can_v do_v be_v to_o refer_v they_o to_o thy_o own_o candour_n and_o charity_n promise_v upon_o a_o re-impression_n all_o satisfaction_n possible_a and_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n request_v that_o our_o own_o good_a meaning_n and_o the_o judgement_n of_o our_o superior_n and_o approver_n may_v be_v our_o safeguard_n only_o one_o suit_n we_o make_v unto_o thou_o most_o reasonable_a and_o just_a which_o be_v that_o thou_o will_v not_o proceed_v to_o the_o censure_n of_o any_o passage_n till_o thou_o have_v read_v the_o whole_a book_n the_o same_o point_n and_o matter_n do_v occasional_o come_v in_o in_o several_a place_n and_o it_o will_v have_v be_v too_o great_a a_o tire_v of_o thou_o to_o repeat_v in_o every_o place_n all_o the_o circumstance_n and_o phrase_n necessary_a for_o explanation_n or_o prevention_n of_o suspicion_n and_o objection_n if_o it_o be_v for_o thy_o own_o good_a principal_o that_o thou_o be_v a_o reader_n we_o shall_v stand_v in_o little_a need_n of_o prepare_v thou_o with_o apology_n and_o if_o it_o be_v for_o our_o hurt_n that_o thou_o be_v a_o reader_n we_o thank_v god_n we_o be_v not_o guilty_a of_o the_o least_o ill_a design_n to_o make_v we_o fear_v except_o only_o in_o thy_o behalf_n all_o that_o we_o have_v to_o say_v be_v god_n almighty_a make_v thou_o whosever_v thou_o be_v a_o practiser_n of_o the_o good_a that_o thou_o will_v certain_o find_v in_o the_o follow_a treatise_n and_o then_o we_o shall_v have_v no_o cause_n to_o apprehend_v either_o for_o thou_o or_o ourselves_o 47._o thus_o true_o for_o aught_o appear_v to_o i_o devout_a reader_n thou_o may_v free_o and_o without_o the_o least_o apprehension_n of_o any_o danger_n peruse_v and_o make_v thy_o best_a benefit_n of_o these_o follow_a instruction_n the_o which_o moreover_o as_o thou_o see_v have_v pass_v the_o censure_n and_o deserve_v the_o approbation_n of_o several_a pious_a and_o learned_a person_n what_o ever_o opinion_n thou_o shall_v after_o read_v have_v of_o they_o at_o least_o i_o will_v oblige_v thou_o to_o acknouledge_v that_o here_o in_o the_o treatise_n that_o follow_v be_v no_o manner_n of_o covert_n indirect_a meaning_n or_o design_n according_a to_o the_o fashion_n new_a a_o day_n to_o broach_v any_o bold_a new-fangled_a invention_n and_o much_o less_o of_o maintain_v undue_o what_o shall_v be_v duâ—y_o find_v fault_n with_o since_o they_o be_v expose_v to_o the_o common_a view_v by_o one_o that_o as_o he_o hitherto_o have_v so_o here_o he_o do_v and_o by_o god_n grace_n ever_o will_v submit_v himself_o and_o his_o write_n to_o the_o authority_n and_o judgement_n of_o the_o sea_n apostolic_a in_o the_o first_o place_n and_o next_o to_o all_o other_o his_o superior_n this_o i_o profess_v as_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o a_o humble_a obedient_a son_n of_o the_o church_n and_o this_o if_o i_o do_v not_o moreover_o express_o signify_v with_o reference_n to_o the_o doctrine_n contain_v in_o the_o follow_a treatise_n i_o can_v not_o avoid_v some_o degree_n of_o guilt_n and_o imputation_n of_o not_o deliver_v candide_o and_o faithful_o our_o venerable_a author_n sense_n who_o in_o many_o place_n protest_v the_o like_a submission_n of_o all_o his_o write_n to_o all_o lawful_a authority_n whatsoever_o farewell_n dear_a reader_n oremus_fw-la invicens_fw-la ut_fw-la saluemur_fw-la amen_o the_o first_o treatise_n of_o a_o internal_a life_n in_o general_n the_o first_o treatise_n and_o first_o section_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n in_o general_n the_o nature_n and_o end_n thereof_o and_o general_a disposition_n require_v thereto_o cap._n i._n 1._o cap._n §_o 1._o 2._o 3._o continual_a union_n in_o spirit_n with_o god_n the_o end_n of_o man_n creation_n &_o practise_v by_o adam_n in_o innocence_n §_o 4._o 5._o man_n fall_n &_o misery_n through_o sin_n §_o 4._o 5._o which_o be_v transfuse_v into_o we_o &_o all_o his_o posterity_n §_o 8._o 9_o the_o reparation_n of_o mankind_n by_o christ_n §_o 10._o 11._o that_o all_o christian_n be_v oblige_v to_o aspire_v to_o perfection_n in_o divine_a love_n by_o the_o way_n of_o prayer_n etc._n etc._n as_o adam_n do_v 1._o it_o be_v only_o infinite_a goodness_n that_o move_v almighty_a god_n to_o create_v the_o world_n of_o nothing_o &_o particular_o in_o this_o inferior_a visible_a world_n to_o create_v man_n after_o his_o own_o image_n &_o similitude_n consist_v of_o a_o frail_a earthly_a body_n which_o be_v the_o prison_n of_o a_o immortal_a intellectual_a spirit_n to_o the_o end_n that_o by_o his_o understanding_n which_o be_v capable_a of_o a_o unlimited_a knowledge_n &_o by_o his_o will_n which_o can_v be_v replenish_v which_o any_o object_n of_o goodness_n less_o than_o infinite_a he_o may_v so_o govern_v &_o order_v himself_o &_o all_o other_o visible_a creature_n as_o thereby_o to_o arrive_v unto_o the_o end_n for_o which_o he_o be_v make_v to_o wit_n eternal_a beatitude_n both_o in_o soul_n &_o body_n in_o heaven_n the_o which_o consist_v in_o a_o return_v to_o the_o divine_a principle_n from_o who_o he_o flow_v &_o a_o inconceaveible_o happy_a union_n with_o he_o both_o in_o mind_n contemplate_v eternal_o his_o infinite_a perfection_n &_o in_o will_n &_o affection_n eternal_o love_v admire_a &_o enjoy_v the_o say_a perfection_n 2._o now_o to_o the_o end_n that_o man_n may_v not_o except_o by_o his_o own_o free_a &_o wilful_a choice_n of_o misery_n fail_v from_o attain_v to_o the_o only_a universal_a end_n of_o his_o creation_n god_n be_v please_v to_o the_o natural_a vast_a capacity_n of_o man_n understanding_n &_o wâ—ll_n to_o add_v a_o supernatural_a light_n illustrate_v his_o mind_n to_o believe_v &_o know_v he_o &_o divine_a charity_n in_o the_o will_n which_o be_v as_o it_o be_v a_o weight_n to_o incline_v &_o draw_v the_o soul_n with_o out_o any_o defect_n or_o interruption_n to_o love_n god_n &_o he_o only_o so_o that_o by_o a_o continual_a presence_n of_o this_o light_n &_o a_o uninterrupt_a exercise_n of_o this_o love_n the_o soul_n of_o man_n will_v in_o time_n have_v attein_v to_o such_o a_o measure_n of_o perfection_n of_o union_n with_o god_n in_o this_o world_n as_o with_o out_o die_v to_o merit_v a_o translation_n from_o hence_o to_o heaven_n there_o eternal_o to_o enjoy_v a_o far_o more_o incomprehensible_o perfect_a and_o beatify_a union_n with_o god_n 3._o hence_o it_o appear_v that_o the_o mean_n to_o happiness_n &_o the_o end_n itself_o be_v essential_o the_o same_o thing_n to_o wit_n union_n of_o the_o spirit_n with_o god_n and_o differ_v only_o in_o degree_n and_o the_o union_n which_o adam_n during_o his_o state_n of_o innocency_n do_v &_o will_v always_o have_v practise_v be_v in_o a_o sort_n perpetual_a never_o be_v interrupt_v except_o perhaps_o in_o sleep_n for_o love_v god_n only_o &_o pure_o for_o himself_o he_o have_v no_o strange_a affection_n to_o distract_v he_o and_o the_o image_n of_o creature_n which_o either_o by_o his_o consideration_n of_o they_o or_o operation_n about_o they_o do_v adhere_v to_o his_o internal_a sense_n do_v not_o at_o all_o divert_v his_o mind_n from_o god_n because_o he_o contemplate_v they_o only_o in_o order_n to_o god_n or_o rather_o he_o contemplate_v god_n alone_o in_o they_o love_v &_o serve_v he_o only_o in_o all_o his_o reflection_n on_o they_o or_o working_n about_o they_o so_o that_o creature_n and_o all_o office_n towards_o they_o serve_v as_o step_n to_o raise_v adam_n to_o a_o more_o sublime_a &_o more_o intime_fw-la union_n with_o god_n the_o which_o be_v both_o his_o duty_n &_o his_o present_a happiness_n beside_o that_o it_o be_v a_o disposition_n to_o his_o future_a eternal_a beatitude_n 4._o but_o our_o first_o parent_n by_o a_o wilful_a contempt_n &_o transgression_n of_o that_o one_o most_o easy_a command_n which_o god_n for_o a_o trial_n of_o their_o obedience_n have_v impose_v on_o they_o not_o only_o break_v the_o foresay_a union_n &_o deprive_v themselves_o of_o the_o hope_n of_o enjoy_v god_n eternal_o in_o the_o future_a life_n but_o moreover_o be_v utter_o deve_v of_o all_o supernatural_a grace_n &_o extreme_o weaken_v &_o disorder_v in_o all_o their_o natural_a gift_n so_o that_o have_v lose_v that_o
to_o she_o i_o say_v it_o be_v moral_o impossible_a for_o such_o a_o soul_n so_o love_v god_n deliberate_o &_o habitual_o to_o yield_v to_o the_o love_n of_o any_o thing_n but_o god_n only_o &_o in_o order_n to_o he_o or_o to_o stop_v in_o any_o inferior_a degree_n of_o love_n to_o he_o the_o frailty_n of_o nature_n &_o many_o unavoidable_a distraction_n &_o tentation_n may_v &_o general_o do_v hinder_v most_o soul_n from_o attain_v or_o even_o approach_v to_o such_o perfection_n to_o such_o uninterrupt_a attention_n &_o union_n with_o god_n as_o be_v practise_v by_o adam_n in_o innocency_n &_o by_o a_o few_o perfect_a soul_n in_o all_o age_n but_o nothing_o but_o the_o want_n of_o true_a sincere_a love_n will_v hinder_v the_o aspire_a thereto_o according_a to_o the_o measure_n &_o strength_n of_o grace_n that_o each_o soul_n in_o her_o order_n enjoy_v and_o both_o reason_n &_o experience_n witness_v this_o truth_n in_o all_o manner_n of_o love_n lawful_a or_o unlawful_a for_o we_o see_v that_o whersoever_o the_o love_n to_o riches_n honour_n empire_n or_o pleasure_n be_v the_o tyrannize_a affection_n so_o as_o to_o cause_v the_o person_n to_o place_v his_o suppose_a happiness_n in_o any_o of_o these_o such_o person_n neither_o will_n nor_o can_v be_v so_o dispose_v wilful_o surcease_v a_o continual_a progress_n in_o pursuinge_v their_o design_n endless_o neither_o can_v they_o admit_v a_o habitual_a &_o deliberate_a adherence_n with_o affection_n to_o any_o other_o object_n though_o not_o ruinous_a but_o in_o a_o inferior_a degree_n prejudicial_a to_o what_o they_o principal_o affect_v cap._n ii_o §_o 1._o common_o those_o only_a be_v say_v to_o aspire_v to_o perfection_n that_o consecrate_v themselves_o to_o god_n §_o 2._o a_o natural_a devotion_n &_o propension_n to_o seek_v god_n of_o which_o the_o degree_n be_v infinite_o various_a §_o 3._o 4._o 5._o yet_o all_o range_v under_o two_o state_n active_a &_o contemplative_a §_o 6._o 7._o general_o most_o soul_n be_v of_o a_o mix_v temper_n between_o both_o hence_o come_v the_o difficulty_n of_o the_o guide_n of_o soul_n §_o 8._o at_o the_o first_o entrance_n into_o internal_a way_n all_o soul_n seem_v to_o be_v of_o a_o active_a temper_n 1._o notwithstanding_o although_o all_o christian_n be_v oblige_v to_o aspire_v to_o perfection_n &_o to_o lead_v spiritual_a life_n sanctify_v all_o their_o action_n &_o employment_n by_o prayer_n yet_o the_o effectual_a practice_n of_o this_o obligation_n be_v so_o very_o rare_a that_o in_o ordinary_a speech_n those_o only_o be_v say_v to_o aspire_v unto_o perfection_n who_o have_v be_v so_o high_o favour_v by_o god_n as_o to_o have_v be_v call_v by_o he_o from_o all_o solicitous_a engagement_n in_o worldhy_a affair_n so_o as_o to_o make_v the_o only_a business_n &_o employment_n of_o their_o life_n to_o be_v the_o serve_v adore_a love_a meditate_v &_o pray_v unto_o god_n the_o attend_v to_o &_o follow_a his_o divine_a inspiration_n etc._n etc._n in_o a_o state_n of_o competent_a abstraction_n &_o solitude_n &_o this_o most_o ordinary_o &_o perfect_o in_o a_o religious_a profession_n or_o if_o in_o the_o world_n yet_o in_o a_o course_n of_o life_n divide_v &_o separate_v from_o the_o world_n 2._o there_o seem_v indeed_o to_o remain_v even_o natural_o in_o all_o soul_n a_o certain_a propension_n to_o seek_v god_n though_o not_o at_o all_o for_o himself_o but_o meerelie_o for_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o nature_n &_o selfe-end_n which_o be_v a_o kind_n of_o natural_a devotion_n &_o be_v to_o be_v find_v even_o in_o heretic_n yea_o jew_n &_o heathen_n &_o this_o more_o or_o less_o according_a to_o their_o several_a disposition_n &_o corporal_a complexion_n the_o variety_n of_o which_o be_v wonderful_a &_o almost_o incredible_a now_o when_o divine_a grace_n adjoin_v itself_o to_o such_o good_a propension_n it_o promote_v &_o increase_v they_o rectify_v what_o be_v amiss_o in_o they_o especial_o by_o purify_n the_o intention_n &_o make_v they_o to_o seek_v god_n only_o for_o god_n himself_o &_o no_o unworthy_a in_o feriour_a end_n of_o nature_n but_o it_o do_v not_o at_o all_o alter_v the_o complexion_n itself_o but_o conduct_n soul_n in_o spiritual_a way_n suitable_o to_o their_o several_a disposition_n by_o a_o almost_o infinite_a variety_n of_o path_n &_o fashion_n yet_o all_o tend_v to_o the_o same_o general_a end_n with_o be_v the_o union_n of_o our_o spirit_n with_o god_n by_o perfect_a love_n 3._o notwithstanding_o all_o these_o variety_n of_o disposition_n &_o way_n of_o which_o we_o shall_v treat_v more_o full_o when_o we_o come_v to_o speak_v of_o internal_a prayer_n may_v commodious_o enough_o be_v reduce_v in_o gross_a to_o two_o rank_n to_o wit_n active_a &_o contemplative_a spirit_n both_o which_o aspire_v to_o a_o perfection_n of_o union_n in_o spirit_n with_o god_n by_o perfect_a love_n &_o for_o that_o purpose_n in_o gross_a practice_n &_o make_v use_n of_o the_o same_o mean_v necessary_a to_o that_o end_n to_o wit_n mortification_n &_o prayer_n but_o yet_o the_o manner_n both_o of_o their_o union_n &_o prayer_n &_o consequent_o of_o their_o mortification_n also_o be_v very_o different_a and_o the_o root_n of_o such_o difference_n be_v the_o forementioned_a variety_n of_o propension_n &_o natural_a disposition_n to_o internal_a way_n 4._o for_o first_o the_o propension_n which_o be_v in_o some_o soul_n to_o devotion_n be_v of_o such_o a_o nature_n that_o it_o incline_v they_o much_o to_o buisy_n their_o imagination_n &_o to_o frame_v in_o their_o mind_n motive_n to_o the_o divine_a love_n by_o internal_a discourse_n so_o as_o that_o with_o out_o such_o reason_n &_o use_n of_o image_n they_o can_v seldom_o with_o any_o efficacy_n raise_v or_o fix_v their_o affection_n on_o god_n such_o disposition_n be_v not_o patient_a of_o much_o solitude_n or_o recollection_n more_o than_o shall_v be_v necessary_a to_o enable_v they_o to_o produce_v &_o maintain_v a_o right_a intention_n in_o outward_a do_n &_o work_n of_o charity_n to_o the_o which_o they_o be_v powerful_o incline_v and_o the_o mortification_n most_o willing_o practise_v by_o they_o be_v usual_o external_a &_o oftentimes_o voluntary_o assume_v the_o which_o make_v a_o great_a show_v &_o procure_v very_o great_a esteem_n from_o other_o and_o proportionable_o hereto_o the_o divine_a love_n &_o union_n produce_v by_o such_o mean_n be_v very_o vigorous_a but_o less_o pure_a &_o spiritual_a apt_a to_o express_v itself_o by_o much_o sensible_a devotion_n &_o tenderness_n the_o state_n therefore_o &_o perfection_n of_o these_o soul_n be_v call_v the_o state_n &_o perfection_n of_o a_o active_a life_n 3._o again_o other_o be_v natural_o of_o a_o propension_n to_o seek_v god_n in_o the_o obscurity_n of_o faith_n with_o a_o more_o profound_a introversion_n of_o spirit_n &_o with_o less_o activity_n &_o motion_n in_o sensitive_a nature_n &_o with_o out_o the_o use_n of_o grosser_n image_n yet_o with_o far_o great_a simplicity_n purity_n &_o efficacy_n and_o consequent_o such_o soul_n be_v not_o of_o themselves_o much_o incline_v to_o external_a work_n except_o when_o god_n call_v they_o thereto_o by_o secret_a inspiration_n or_o engage_v they_o therein_o by_o command_n of_o superior_n but_o they_o seek_v rather_o to_o purify_v themselves_o &_o inflame_v their_o heart_n in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n by_o internal_a quiet_a &_o pure_a actuation_n in_o spirit_n by_o a_o total_a abstraction_n from_o creature_n by_o solitude_n both_o externall_n and_o especial_o internal_a so_o dispose_v themselves_o to_o receive_v the_o influx_n &_o inspiration_n of_o god_n who_o guidance_n chief_o they_o endeavour_v to_o follow_v in_o all_o thing_n and_o the_o mortification_n practise_v by_o they_o though_o less_o remarkable_a yet_o be_v fair_a more_o efficacious_a be_v profound_a and_o penetrate_a even_o to_o the_o most_o secret_a deordination_n of_o the_o spirit_n by_o a_o constant_a pursuance_n of_o such_o exercise_n their_o spirit_n become_v naked_a &_o empty_a of_o all_o strange_a affection_n image_n &_o distraction_n the_o divine_a spirit_n only_o live_v &_o operate_v in_o they_o afford_v they_o light_n to_o perceive_v &_o strength_n to_o subdue_v self-love_n in_o its_o most_o secret_a and_o to_o all_o other_o imperceptible_a insinuation_n and_o by_o consequence_n they_o attain_v unto_o a_o union_n with_o god_n far_o more_o strict_a &_o immediate_a than_o the_o former_a by_o a_o love_n much_o more_o masculine_a pure_a &_o divine_a and_o the_o state_n and_o perfection_n of_o these_o happy_a soul_n be_v call_v the_o state_n and_o perfection_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n 6._o now_o though_o all_o internal_a disposition_n of_o soul_n by_o which_o mankind_n be_v more_o diversify_v then_o by_o outward_a feature_n may_v convenient_o enough_o be_v range_v under_o these_o two_o state_n yet_o we_o be_v not_o to_o conceive_v that_o each_o
especial_o for_o the_o discover_n of_o the_o several_a degree_n of_o prayer_n proper_a for_o that_o state_n reason_n require_v that_o since_o in_o all_o doctrine_n which_o tend_v to_o practise_v the_o end_n be_v principal_o to_o be_v regard_v as_o be_v that_o which_o if_o it_o can_v be_v approve_v worthy_a the_o take_n pain_n for_o will_v give_v life_n and_o courage_n in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n conduce_v thereto_o we_o shall_v treat_v more_o precise_o of_o the_o proper_a end_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n the_o which_o indeed_o be_v of_o so_o supreme_a a_o excellence_n and_o divine_a profection_n above_o any_o thing_n that_o can_v be_v design_v or_o seek_v after_o in_o any_o other_o doctrine_n or_o profession_n that_o those_o who_o have_v eye_n to_o see_v it_o and_o palate_n capable_a of_o a_o spiritual_a taste_n of_o it_o will_v think_v no_o difficulty_n no_o tediousness_n no_o bitterness_n or_o labour_n too_o great_a a_o price_n to_o purchase_v it_o 4._o it_o be_v say_v before_o that_o the_o general_a end_n of_o man_n creation_n and_o which_o ought_v to_o be_v aspire_v unto_o by_o all_o christian_n and_o much_o more_o those_o who_o more_o special_a profession_n be_v to_o tend_v perfection_n whether_o in_o a_o active_a or_o a_o contemplative_a state_n be_v a_o perfect_a &_o constant_a union_n in_o spirit_n to_o god_n by_o love_n which_o be_v uninterrupt_a perfect_a prayer_n but_o the_o same_o end_n be_v different_o seek_v &_o attain_v by_o active_a and_o by_o contemplative_a spirit_n for_o in_o a_o active_a life_n the_o union_n be_v not_o so_o immediate_a stable_n sublime_a &_o intime_fw-la of_o the_o supreme_a portion_n of_o the_o spirit_n with_o god_n as_o it_o be_v in_o a_o contemplative_a state_n but_o as_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o active_a liver_n be_v much_o in_o the_o imaginative_a &_o discursive_a faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n so_o be_v likewise_o their_o union_n the_o effect_n indeed_o of_o it_o be_v more_o perceptible_a and_o therefore_o more_o apt_a to_o cause_v admiration_n in_o other_o but_o with_o all_o be_v much_o in_o sense_n it_o be_v not_o so_o clear_a nor_o so_o peaceful_a and_o by_o consequence_n not_o so_o stable_a nor_o immediate_a as_o be_v that_o of_o contemplative_n the_o charity_n of_o actives_a be_v strong_a and_o vigorous_a and_o the_o outward_a effect_n of_o it_o dazzle_v the_o eye_n of_o the_o beholder_n and_o thereby_o cause_v great_a edification_n they_o be_v with_o all_o frequent_o multiply_v for_o strong_a love_n be_v a_o passion_n that_o take_v pleasure_n in_o labour_n whereas_o the_o deed_n of_o contemplative_a soul_n except_o when_o god_n by_o a_o extraordinary_a inspiration_n call_v they_o to_o exterior_a employment_n be_v but_o few_o and_o in_o appearance_n but_o small_a &_o little_o regard_v or_o esteem_v by_o other_o yet_o those_o mean_a action_n of_o they_o in_o god_n esteem_n may_v be_v prefer_v incomparable_o before_o the_o other_o as_o be_v in_o a_o far_o more_o perfect_a degree_n supernatural_a and_o divine_a as_o proceed_v from_o a_o immediate_a and_o most_o certain_a impulse_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n who_o conduct_n light_n &_o virtue_n such_o soul_n do_v far_o more_o clear_o perceive_v and_o more_o faithful_o &_o constant_o follow_v even_o in_o their_o daily_a and_o ordinary_a practice_n then_o active_a liver_n do_v or_o can_v in_o their_o action_n of_o high_a importance_n last_o the_o charity_n of_o contemplative_n though_o it_o be_v less_o stir_v &_o buisy_n yet_o be_v far_o more_o profound_o root_v in_o the_o centre_n of_o the_o spirit_n cause_v a_o union_n much_o more_o spiritual_a &_o divine_a 5._o s._n bernard_n perfect_o experience_v in_o the_o internal_a way_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n writing_n to_o certain_a religious_a father_n of_o the_o carthusian_n order_n profess_v the_o same_o excellent_o express_v this_o union_n in_o these_o word_n aliorum_fw-la est_fw-la deo_fw-la seruire_fw-la vestrum_fw-la adhaerere_fw-la aliorum_fw-la est_fw-la deo_fw-la credere_fw-la scire_fw-la amare_fw-la revereri_fw-la vestrum_fw-la est_fw-la sapere_fw-la intelligere_fw-la cognoscere_fw-la frui_fw-la that_o be_v it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o other_o that_o live_v active_a life_n either_o in_o the_o world_n or_o religion_n â—o_o serve_v god_n but_o it_o be_v you_o to_o adhere_v inseparable_o unto_o he_o it_o belong_v to_o other_o to_o believe_v to_o know_v to_o love_v to_o adore_v god_n but_o to_o you_o to_o taste_v to_o understand_v to_o be_v familiar_o acquaint_v with_o and_o to_o enjoy_v he_o 6._o consonant_o to_o this_o expression_n of_o s._n bernard_n mystic_a writer_n do_v teach_v that_o the_o proper_a end_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n be_v the_o attain_v unto_o a_o habitual_a &_o almost_o uninterrupt_a perfect_a union_n with_o god_n in_o the_o supreme_a point_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o such_o a_o union_n as_o give_v the_o soul_n a_o fruitive_a possession_n of_o he_o &_o a_o real_a experimental_a perception_n of_o his_o divine_a presence_n in_o the_o depth_n &_o centre_n of_o the_o spirit_n which_o be_v full_o possess_v and_o fill_v with_o he_o alone_o not_o onâ—y_o all_o deliberate_a affection_n to_o creature_n be_v exclude_v but_o in_o a_o manner_n all_o image_n of_o they_o also_o at_o least_o so_o far_o as_o they_o may_v be_v distractive_a to_o the_o soul_n 7._o the_o effect_n of_o this_o bless_a perceptible_a presence_n of_o god_n in_o perfect_a soul_n be_v unspeakable_a &_o divine_a for_o he_o be_v in_o they_o both_o as_o a_o principle_n of_o all_o their_o action_n internal_a &_o externall_n be_v the_o life_n of_o their_o life_n and_o spirit_n of_o their_o spirit_n and_o also_o as_o the_o end_n of_o they_o direct_v both_o the_o action_n &_o person_n to_o himself_o only_o he_o be_v all_o in_o all_o thing_n unto_o they_o a_o light_a to_o direct_v secure_o all_o their_o step_n and_o to_o order_v all_o their_o working_n even_o those_o also_o which_o seem_v the_o most_o indifferent_a the_o which_o by_o the_o guidance_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n do_v cause_n a_o far_a advancement_n of_o they_o to_o a_o yet_o more_o immediate_a union_n he_o be_v a_o shield_n to_o protect_v they_o in_o all_o tentation_n and_o danger_n a_o internal_a force_n and_o vigour_n within_o they_o to_o make_v they_o do_v &_o suffer_v all_o thing_n whatsoever_o his_o pleasure_n be_v they_o shall_v do_v or_o suffer_v they_o not_o only_o believe_v &_o know_v but_o even_o feel_v &_o taste_v he_o to_o be_v the_o universal_a infinite_a good_n by_o mean_n of_o a_o continual_a conversation_n with_o he_o they_o be_v reduce_v to_o a_o bless_a state_n of_o a_o perfect_a denudation_n of_o spirit_n to_o a_o absolute_a internal_a solitude_n a_o transcendency_n &_o forgetfulness_n of_o all_o create_a thing_n and_o especial_o of_o themselves_o to_o a_o heavenly-mindednes_a &_o fix_a attention_n to_o god_n only_o and_o this_o even_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o employment_n to_o other_o never_o so_o distractive_a and_o final_o to_o a_o gustfull_a knowledge_n of_o all_o his_o infinite_a perfection_n and_o a_o strict_a application_n of_o their_o spirit_n by_o love_n above_o knowledge_n join_v with_o a_o fruition_n &_o repose_n in_o he_o with_o the_o whole_a extent_n of_o their_o will_n so_o that_o they_o become_v after_o a_o inexpressible_a manner_n partaker_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n yea_o one_o spirit_n one_o will_n one_o love_n with_o he_o be_v in_o a_o sort_n deify_v &_o enjoy_v as_o much_o of_o heaven_n hereas_fw-la mortality_n be_v capable_a of_o 8._o to_o this_o purpose_n saih_o the_o same_o s._n bern_n amor_fw-la dei_fw-la vel_fw-la amor_fw-la deus_fw-la spiritus_fw-la sanctus_n amori_fw-la hominis_fw-la se_fw-la infundens_fw-la afficit_fw-la eum_fw-la sibi_fw-la &_o amans_fw-la semetipsum_fw-la de_fw-la homine_fw-la deus_fw-la secum_fw-la unum_fw-la efficit_fw-la &_o spiritum_fw-la eius_fw-la &_o amorem_fw-la eius_fw-la that_o be_v the_o love_n of_o god_n or_o love_v which_o be_v god_n to_o wit_n the_o holy_a ghost_n pour_v himself_o into_o the_o love_n of_o man_n incline_v &_o appli_v mâ—n_z by_o love_n unto_o himself_o and_o thus_o god_n love_v himself_o by_o man_n make_v both_o his_o spirit_n &_o love_v one_o with_o himself_o 9_o a_o most_o bless_a state_n this_o be_v certain_o be_v the_o portion_n choose_v by_o mary_n which_o our_o lord_n himself_o call_v optimam_fw-la partem_fw-la the_o very_o best_a of_o all_o divine_a grace_n which_o god_n can_v bestow_v in_o this_o life_n and_o wherewith_o he_o enrich_v two_o in_o a_o singular_a mnaner_n those_o his_o most_o high_o favour_v &_o most_o tender_o love_a friend_n s._n john_n the_o evangelist_n and_o s._n mary_n magdalen_n but_o in_o a_o yet_o more_o supereminent_a degree_n his_o own_o most_o heavenly_a virgin-mother_n 10._o happy_a therefore_o be_v those_o soul_n upon_o which_o god_n bestow_v a_o desire_n &_o ambition_n so_o glorious_a as_o serious_o &_o effectual_o to_o tend_v aspire_v and_o endeavour_v
the_o sight_n of_o they_o be_v unacceptable_a to_o their_o neighbour_n and_o acquaintance_n as_o if_o they_o do_v silent_o condemn_v their_o liberty_n for_o this_o reason_n they_o be_v apt_a to_o raise_v and_o disperse_v evil_a report_n of_o they_o calling_z they_o illuminat_n pretender_n to_o extraordinary_a visit_n and_o light_n person_n that_o walk_v in_o mirabilibus_fw-la super_fw-la se_fw-la &_o 6._o or_o at_o least_o to_o deride_v they_o as_o silly_a seduce_v melancholy_a spirit_n that_o follow_v unusual_a and_o dangerous_a way_n 18._o all_o these_o and_o many_o other_o the_o like_a persecution_n calumny_n and_o contempt_n a_o well_o dispose_v soul_n that_o pure_o seek_v god_n must_v expect_v and_o be_v arm_v against_o and_o know_v that_o they_o do_v not_o come_v by_o chance_n but_o by_o the_o most_o wise_a holy_a and_o merciful_a providence_n of_o god_n for_o her_o good_a to_o exercise_v her_o courage_n in_o the_o beginning_n and_o to_o give_v she_o a_o opportunity_n to_o testify_v her_o true_a esteem_n and_o love_n to_o god_n and_o spiritual_a thing_n let_v she_o from_o hence_o not_o be_v affright_v but_o rather_o pursue_v internal_a way_n more_o vigorous_o as_o know_v that_o there_o can_v not_o be_v a_o better_a proof_n of_o the_o excellency_n of_o they_o then_o that_o they_o be_v displease_v to_o carnal_a or_o at_o least_o ignorant_a man_n unexperienced_a in_o such_o divine_a way_n let_v she_o not_o with_o passion_n judge_v or_o condemn_v those_o that_o be_v contrary_a to_o she_o for_o many_o of_o they_o may_v have_v a_o good_a intention_n and_o zeal_n therein_o though_o a_o zeal_n not_o direct_v by_o knowledge_n if_o therefore_o she_o will_v attend_v to_o god_n follow_a his_o divine_a inspiration_n etc._n etc._n she_o will_v see_v that_o god_n will_v give_v her_o light_n and_o courage_n and_o much_o inward_a security_n in_o her_o way_n 19_o but_o her_o great_a and_o more_o frequent_a persecution_n will_v be_v from_o she_o own_o corrupt_a nature_n and_o vicious_a habit_n root_v in_o the_o soul_n the_o which_o will_v assault_v she_o many_o time_n with_o tentation_n and_o inward_a bitterness_n and_o agony_n sharp_a and_o strange_a than_o she_o do_v expect_v or_o can_v perhaps_o imagine_v and_o no_o wonder_n for_o her_o design_n and_o continual_a endeavour_n both_o in_o mortification_n &_o prayer_n be_v to_o raise_v herself_o out_o of_o and_o above_o nature_n to_o contradict_v nature_n in_o all_o its_o vain_a pleasure_n and_o interest_n she_o can_v expect_v no_o other_o but_o that_o nature_n will_v continual_o struggle_v against_o the_o spirit_n especial_o be_v inflame_v by_o the_o devil_n who_o will_v not_o fail_v to_o employ_v all_o his_o art_n all_o his_o malice_n and_o fury_n to_o disturb_v a_o design_n so_o utter_o destructive_a to_o his_o infernal_a kingdom_n establish_v in_o the_o soul_n of_o carnal_a man_n the_o well_o mind_a soul_n therefore_o must_v make_v a_o general_a strong_a resolution_n to_o bear_v all_o with_o as_o much_o quietness_n as_o may_v be_v to_o distrust_v herself_o entire_o to_o rely_v only_o upon_o god_n and_o to_o seek_v unto_o he_o by_o prayer_n and_o all_o will_v assure_o be_v well_o she_o will_v find_v that_o the_o yoke_n of_o christ_n whiâ—h_o at_o the_o first_o be_v burdensome_a will_n be_v bear_v with_o constancy_n become_v easy_a and_o delightful_a yea_o though_o she_o shall_v never_o be_v able_a to_o subdue_v the_o resistance_n of_o evil_a inclination_n in_o she_o yet_o as_o long_o as_o there_o remain_v in_o she_o a_o sincere_a endeavour_n after_o it_o no_o such_o ill_a inclination_n will_v hinder_v her_o happiness_n cap_n v._n §_o 1._o 2._o a_o 3._o motive_n to_o resolution_n be_v the_o danger_n of_o repidity_n of_o which_o the_o nature_n and_o root_n be_v discover_v §_o 3._o 4._o 5._o the_o misery_n of_o a_o tepid_v religious_a person_n that_o be_v ignorant_a of_o internal_a way_n §_o 6._o 7._o or_o of_o one_o that_o know_v they_o but_o neglect_v to_o pursue_v they_o §_o 8._o 9_o how_o pestilent_a such_o be_v in_o a_o community_n §_o 10._o on_o the_o otherside_n a_o undiscreete_a passionate_a fervour_n may_v be_v as_o dangerous_a as_o negligence_n 1._o a_o three_o yet_o more_o press_v motive_n to_o a_o courageous_a resolution_n of_o prosecute_a internal_a way_n once_o begin_v and_o a_o strong_a proof_n of_o the_o extreme_a necessity_n thereof_o be_v the_o consideration_n of_o the_o extreme_a danger_n and_o misery_n unexpressible_a of_o a_o negligent_a and_o tepid_a life_n whether_o in_o religion_n or_o in_o the_o world_n the_o which_o not_o only_o render_v perfection_n impossible_a to_o be_v attein_v but_o endanger_v the_o very_a root_n of_o essential_a sanctity_n and_o all_o pretention_n to_o eternal_a happiness_n as_o among_o other_o mystic_a writer_n harphius_n in_o his_o twelue_fw-mi mortification_n earnest_o demonstrate_v 2._o tepidity_n be_v a_o bitter_a poysonnous_a root_n fix_v in_o the_o mind_n of_o negligent_a christian_n who_o though_o out_o of_o a_o servile_a fear_n they_o abstain_v from_o a_o habitual_a practice_n of_o acknowledged_a mortal_a actual_a sin_n and_o therefore_o groundless_o enough_o think_v themselves_o secure_a from_o the_o danger_n of_o hell_n yet_o they_o perform_v their_o external_a necessary_a obligation_n to_o god_n and_o their_o brethren_n sleepy_o and_o heartles_o without_o any_o true_a affection_n content_v themselves_o with_o the_o thing_n however_o outward_o do_v yea_o perhaps_o know_v no_o perfection_n beyond_o this_o but_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n remain_v full_a of_o self_n love_n inward_a pride_n sensual_a desire_n aversion_n from_o internal_a conversation_n with_o god_n etc._n etc._n and_o the_o ground_n and_o cause_n of_o this_o pernicious_a tepidity_n be_v want_n of_o affection_n and_o esteem_v of_o spiritual_a thing_n and_o a_o voluntary_a affection_n to_o venial_a sin_n not_o as_o they_o be_v sin_n but_o as_o the_o object_n of_o they_o be_v casefull_a or_o delightful_a to_o nature_n join_v with_o a_o willfullnes_n not_o to_o avoid_v the_o occasion_n of_o they_o nor_o to_o do_v any_o more_o in_o god_n service_n than_o what_o themselves_o judge_v to_o be_v necessary_a for_o the_o escape_n of_o hell_n 3._o such_o person_n if_o they_o live_v in_o religion_n must_v needs_o pass_v very_o uncomfortable_a and_o discontent_a life_n have_v exclude_v themselves_o from_o the_o vain_a entertainment_n and_o pleasure_n of_o the_o world_n and_o yet_o retain_v a_o strong_a affection_n to_o they_o in_o their_o heart_n with_o a_o incapacity_n of_o enjoy_v they_o they_o must_v undergo_v all_o obligation_n austerity_n and_o cross_n incident_a to_o a_o religious_a state_n without_o comfort_n but_o only_o in_o have_v dispatch_v they_o with_o very_o little_a benefit_n to_o their_o soul_n and_o with_o extreme_a wearisomenes_n and_o unwillingnes_n now_o what_o a_o resemblance_n to_o hell_n have_v such_o a_o life_n where_o there_o be_v a_o impossibility_n free_o to_o enjoy_v what_o the_o soul_n principal_o desire_v and_o where_o she_o be_v force_v continual_o to_o do_v and_o suffer_v such_o thing_n as_o be_v extreme_o contrary_a to_o her_o inclination_n 4._o whereas_o if_o soul_n will_v courageous_o at_o once_o give_v themselves_o whole_o to_o god_n and_o with_o a_o discrete_a fervour_n combat_v against_o corrupt_a nature_n pursue_v their_o internal_a exercise_n they_o will_v find_v that_o all_o thing_n will_v cooperate_v not_o only_o to_o their_o eternal_a good_a but_o even_o to_o their_o present_a contentment_n and_o joy_n they_o will_v find_v pleasure_n even_o in_o their_o great_a mortification_n and_o cross_n by_o consider_v the_o love_n with_o which_o god_n send_v they_o and_o the_o great_a benefit_n that_o their_o spirit_n reap_v by_o they_o what_o contentment_n can_v be_v great_a to_o any_o soul_n then_o to_o become_v a_o true_a inward_a friend_n of_o god_n chain_v unto_o he_o with_o a_o love_n the_o like_a whereto_o never_o be_v between_o any_o mortal_a creature_n to_o know_v and_o even_o feel_v that_o she_o belong_v to_o god_n and_o that_o god_n be_v continual_o watchful_a over_o she_o and_o careful_a of_o her_o salvation_n none_o of_o which_o comfort_v tepid_v soul_n can_v hope_v to_o taste_v but_o on_o the_o contrary_n be_v not_o only_o continual_o torture_v with_o present_a discontent_n but_o much_o more_o with_o a_o fear_n and_o horror_n consider_v their_o doubtfullnes_n about_o their_o future_a state_n 5._o if_o such_o tepid_a soul_n be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o internal_a way_n of_o the_o spirit_n which_o with_o out_o some_o fault_n of_o their_o own_o they_o scarce_o can_v be_v when_o they_o come_v to_o die_v it_o be_v not_o conceivable_a what_o apprehension_n and_o horror_n they_o will_v feel_v consider_v that_o a_o settle_a wilful_a affection_n to_o venial_a sin_n bring_v a_o soul_n to_o a_o imminent_a danger_n of_o a_o frequent_a incur_v actual_a mortal_a sin_n the_o which_o though_o they_o be_v not_o of_o the_o great_a kind_n
the_o least_o benefit_n of_o their_o spirit_n yea_o to_o their_o great_a distraction_n &_o dissipation_n 12._o general_o &_o ordinary_o speak_v when_o there_o be_v propose_v the_o do_v or_o not_o do_v of_o any_o external_a work_n &_o that_o both_o of_o they_o be_v in_o themselves_o lawful_a the_o divine_a inspiration_n in_o contemplative_a soul_n move_v to_o the_o not-doing_a because_o the_o abstain_v from_o much_o external_a work_v &_o the_o increase_n in_o internal_a solitude_n of_o spirit_n be_v more_o suitable_a to_o their_o present_a state_n &_o to_o that_o abstraction_n of_o life_n which_o they_o profess_v except_o when_o the_o do_v may_v prove_v a_o more_o beneficial_a mortification_n to_o self-love_n or_o other_o inordinate_a affection_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n 13._o the_o special_a point_n &_o matter_n of_o omission_n which_o among_o other_o be_v usual_o the_o object_n of_o such_o divine_a call_n &_o inspiration_n may_v be_v such_o as_o these_o viz._n 1._o to_o eschew_v unnecessary_a though_o permit_v conversation_n &_o correspondence_n with_o other_o either_o by_o speak_v or_o writing_n 2._o to_o be_v very_o wary_a &_o spare_v in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o tongue_n 3._o not_o sollicitous_o to_o avoid_v occasion_n of_o mortification_n or_o affliction_n 4._o to_o avoid_v the_o encombr_n ourselves_o with_o business_n not_o pertain_v to_o us._n 5._o to_o fly_v honour_n office_n care_v over_o other_o &_o the_o like_a 6._o not_o to_o crave_v this_o or_o that_o unnecessary_a thing_n or_o commodity_n but_o to_o be_v content_a with_o out_o they_o 7._o not_o to_o question_v or_o expostulate_v why_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v say_v or_o do_v but_o to_o hold_v patience_n &_o to_o let_v thing_n be_v as_o they_o be_v 8._o not_o to_o complain_v of_o or_o accuse_v any_o 9_o in_o case_n of_o supportable_a &_o not_o harmful_a oppression_n to_o abstain_v from_o appeal_n to_o high_a superior_n 10._o to_o avoid_v the_o voluntary_a cause_v or_o procure_v a_o change_n in_o our_o present_a condition_n employment_n place_n etc._n etc._n 11._o to_o quiet_a &_o compose_v all_o manner_n of_o passion_n rise_v in_o the_o heart_n &_o all_o trouble_n in_o mind_n &_o to_o preserve_v the_o soul_n in_o peace_n tranquillity_n &_o cheerfullnes_n in_o god_n service_n 1â—_n to_o avoid_v such_o thing_n or_o do_n as_o will_n distract_v our_o mind_n with_o dissipate_v image_n 13._o to_o forbear_v &_o break_v of_o all_o particular_a partial_a freindships_n &_o compliance_n 14._o to_o preserve_v convenient_a liberty_n of_o spirit_n &_o to_o abstain_v from_o enconbr_v or_o ensnare_a ourselves_o by_o any_o voluntary_o assume_v task_n obligation_n &c_n &c_n though_o in_o matter_n in_o themselves_o good_a but_o which_o may_v become_v obligatory_a prove_v hindrance_n to_o better_a thing_n 15._o in_o a_o word_n the_o divine_a inspiration_n of_o which_o we_o here_o treat_v do_v ever_o tend_v to_o a_o simplicity_n in_o thought_n word_n &_o deed_n &_o to_o all_o thing_n which_o may_v advance_v the_o more_o perfect_a exercise_n of_o obedience_n humility_n resignation_n purity_n of_o prayer_n purity_n of_o intention_n &c_n &c_n so_o that_o whatsoever_o be_v contrary_a to_o any_o of_o these_o be_v to_o be_v reject_v as_o a_o diabolical_a suggestion_n 14._o as_o for_o extraordinary_a supernatural_a inspiration_n illumination_n apparition_n voice_n conversation_n with_o spirit_n message_n from_o heaven_n &c_n &c_n a_o spiritual_a internal_a liver_n be_v forbid_v to_o pretend_v to_o or_o so_o much_o as_o desire_v they_o yea_o rather_o to_o pray_v against_o they_o lest_o he_o shall_v abuse_v they_o to_o vanity_n &_o pride_n and_o however_o never_o to_o admit_v or_o esteem_v they_o for_o such_o &_o much_o less_o to_o put_v in_o execution_n any_o thing_n that_o seem_v to_o be_v such_o a_o way_n command_v till_o they_o have_v be_v first_o examine_v judge_v &_o approve_v by_o superior_n &c_n &c_n but_o of_o this_o particular_a we_o shall_v speak_v more_o hereafter_o 15._o the_o divine_a inspiration_n light_n impulse_n or_o call_v of_o which_o we_o here_o speak_v be_v 1._o either_o such_o as_o be_v immediate_o communicate_v to_o the_o soul_n alone_o 2._o or_o also_o mediate_o with_o the_o concurrence_n of_o some_o other_o person_n or_o thing_n to_o wit_n by_o the_o mean_a of_o a_o externall_n directour_n or_o else_o by_o the_o use_n &_o read_v or_o hear_v read_v spiritual_a or_o other_o pious_a book_n we_o will_v in_o the_o first_o place_n treat_v of_o this_o latter_a way_n of_o understand_v the_o divine_a will_n because_o it_o be_v both_o more_o easy_a to_o be_v discern_v &_o also_o it_o be_v the_o way_n by_o which_o common_o imperfect_a soul_n be_v first_o instruct_v cap._n ii_o §_o 1._o 2._o why_o a_o externall_n guide_n be_v necessary_a in_o the_o beginning_n §_o 3._o 4._o 5._o 6._o the_o condition_n of_o such_o a_o guide_n of_o which_o the_o principal_a be_v experience_n in_o the_o same_o way_n beyond_o learning_n etc._n etc._n §_o 7._o 8._o active_a spirit_n can_v be_v fit_a guide_n for_o contemplative_a §_o 9_o 10._o actual_a illumination_n oft_o necessary_a to_o external_a directour_n §_o 11._o 12._o 13._o the_o office_n of_o a_o director_n may_v not_o be_v voluntary_o assume_v or_o seek_v §_o 14._o 15._o lay-person_n may_v be_v spiritual_a guide_n to_o religious_a yea_o woman_n §_o 16._o that_o be_v no_o prejudice_n to_o the_o spirit_n of_o a_o order_n §_o 17._o condition_n necessary_a in_o directour_n §_o 18._o 19_o directour_n must_v teach_v their_o disciple_n to_o seek_v light_n from_o god_n §_o 20._o sincerity_n &_o obedience_n necessary_a in_o the_o disciple_n §_o 21._o the_o gift_n of_o discern_a spirit_n necessary_a in_o a_o director_n §_o 22._o his_o instruction_n must_v be_v general_a §_o 23._o 24._o frequent_a consultation_n harmful_a §_o 25._o two_o general_a remedy_n against_o difficulty_n viz._n 1._o riddance_n 2._o patience_n §_o 26._o 27._o the_o director_n must_v not_o with_o unnecessary_a question_n raise_v doubt_n §_o 28._o great_a danger_n from_o unnecessary_a conversation_n of_o directour_n with_o woman_n §_o 29._o more_o particular_a advice_n refer_v to_o other_o follow_a place_n 1._o a_o soul_n that_o come_v out_o of_o the_o world_n to_o a_o religious_a contemplative_a life_n or_o that_o live_v yet_o in_o the_o world_n be_v abstract_v from_o the_o world_n &_o aspire_v to_o a_o state_n of_o perfection_n at_o the_o first_o ordinary_o will_v stand_v in_o need_n of_o a_o externall_n instructor_n &_o guide_n for_o most_o matter_n that_o concern_v she_o in_o that_o way_n the_o reason_n be_v because_o that_o such_o soul_n although_o be_v suppose_v to_o be_v in_o the_o state_n grace_n they_o have_v sufficient_a internal_a light_n to_o direct_v they_o in_o the_o ordinary_a duty_n of_o a_o christian_a life_n for_o the_o avoid_n of_o sin_n &_o perform_v the_o necessary_a act_n of_o virtue_n requisite_a yet_o as_o to_o the_o proper_a practice_n of_o internal_a way_n &_o to_o the_o order_n of_o common_a action_n to_o the_o advance_v of_o themselves_o towards_o contemplation_n they_o be_v indeed_o penitùs_fw-la animal_fw-la govern_v by_o sense_n &_o the_o obscure_a deceitful_a light_n of_o natural_a reason_n scarce_o know_v what_o a_o internal_a inspiration_n with_o regard_n to_o such_o matter_n be_v &_o however_o very_o much_o disable_v be_v they_o to_o discern_v or_o correspond_v to_o such_o a_o inspiration_n and_o for_o this_o reason_n their_o natural_a light_n &_o general_a knowledge_n that_o they_o have_v of_o their_o own_o insufficiency_n to_o be_v their_o own_o directour_n in_o a_o new_a unknown_a state_n will_v tell_v they_o that_o they_o must_v have_v recourse_n to_o other_o guide_v skill_v in_o those_o thing_n of_o which_o themselves_o have_v no_o experience_n yet_o even_o this_o seek_n &_o submit_v themselves_o unto_o externall_n directour_n be_v not_o to_o be_v esteem_v mere_o a_o act_n of_o nature_n or_o guide_v only_o by_o a_o natural_a light_n but_o of_o such_o inspiration_n &_o supernatural_a light_n which_o attend_v the_o action_n of_o all_o good_a christian_n by_o which_o they_o be_v teach_v &_o move_v to_o distrust_v themselves_o &_o not_o know_v as_o yet_o how_o to_o dispose_v themselves_o for_o the_o receive_n supernatural_a light_n from_o god_n much_o less_o to_o merit_v they_o grace_n direct_v they_o to_o use_v the_o mediation_n of_o other_o &_o to_o hear_v &_o obâ—y_v god_n speak_v &_o ordain_v by_o they_o 2._o but_o the_o necessity_n of_o a_o externall_n instructor_n be_v general_o only_a at_o the_o begin_n of_o a_o contemplative_a course_n for_o after_o that_o soul_n by_o the_o mean_n of_o general_a direction_n give_v &_o a_o competent_a pursuit_n of_o internal_a exercise_n have_v be_v once_o put_v &_o convenient_o settle_v in_o a_o rightway_o how_o to_o seek_v for_o more_o light_n from_o god_n alone_o they_o must_v not_o afterward_o out_o of_o levity_n curiosity_n or_o
that_o so_o much_o talk_v of_o spirit_n of_o a_o order_n nor_o how_o several_a order_n though_o never_o so_o much_o distinguish_v by_o habit_n or_o certain_a external_a practice_n if_o their_o profession_n be_v to_o tend_v to_o contemplation_n can_v have_v any_o more_o than_o one_o spirit_n which_o direct_v they_o to_o make_v their_o principal_a design_n to_o be_v the_o seek_n of_o god_n in_o his_o internal_a way_n of_o divine_a love_n &_o for_o that_o only_a end_n beside_o conformable_a prayer_n to_o practice_v such_o observance_n &_o mortification_n as_o will_v best_o promote_v this_o design_n and_o sure_o this_o good_a spirit_n of_o religion_n &_o contemplation_n a_o good_a director_n of_o what_o profession_n soever_o will_v very_o studious_o endeavour_v to_o advance_v yea_o &_o moreover_o will_v no_o doubt_n oblige_v his_o disciple_n to_o be_v very_o regular_a &_o zealous_a in_o the_o observance_n of_o all_o good_a ordinance_n of_o the_o community_n &_o principal_o of_o the_o rule_n according_a to_o their_o profession_n make_v instruct_v they_o withal_o how_o they_o may_v use_v such_o thing_n for_o the_o advance_v of_o their_o spirit_n &_o the_o service_n of_o god_n although_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n perhaps_o he_o be_v not_o cunning_a in_o all_o the_o particular_a observance_n that_o belong_v to_o they_o and_o little_a or_o nothing_o at_o all_o to_o he_o 17._o all_o soul_n that_o live_v in_o contemplative_a order_n be_v nor_o natural_o fit_v for_o contemplative_a way_n nor_o the_o seek_n of_o god_n in_o spirit_n those_o therefore_o that_o have_v not_o &_o indeed_o be_v not_o capable_a of_o much_o light_n in_o their_o interiour_n and_o so_o be_v not_o so_o fit_a to_o be_v guide_v by_o divine_a inspiration_n do_v the_o more_o need_n to_o have_v certain_a rule_n from_o without_o at_o least_o for_o the_o exterior_a and_o for_o such_o it_o be_v god_n will_v and_o direction_n that_o they_o shall_v more_o depend_v on_o externall_n guide_v 18._o he_o that_o take_v upon_o he_o the_o office_n of_o a_o spiritual_a director_n say_v thauâ—erus_n aught_o for_o some_o reasonable_a space_n of_o time_n to_o converse_v with_o his_o disciple_n especial_o at_o the_o beginning_n for_o a_o few_o transitory_a conference_n will_v not_o suffice_v to_o give_v he_o light_v concern_v their_o propension_n &_o disposition_n that_o he_o may_v fit_v they_o with_o a_o degree_n of_o prayer_n proper_a for_o they_o both_o for_o the_o present_a &_o future_a and_o his_o principal_a care_n must_v be_v to_o set_v they_o in_o such_o a_o way_n as_o that_o they_o may_v not_o need_v to_o have_v much_o recourse_n unto_o he_o afterward_o the_o which_o be_v do_v by_o give_v they_o general_a direction_n about_o their_o prayer_n &_o especial_o how_o thereby_o to_o dispose_v themselves_o to_o receive_v light_n from_o god_n who_o inspiration_n ought_v for_o the_o future_a to_o â—e_v their_o principal_a rule_n especial_o for_o the_o interiour_n and_o for_o the_o practise_n in_o particular_a according_a to_o the_o general_a direction_n give_v the_o disciple_n must_v use_v their_o own_o judgement_n &_o for_o a_o help_n they_o may_v also_o make_v use_n of_o such_o instruction_n as_o they_o may_v find_v in_o book_n so_o far_o as_o they_o shall_v be_v proper_a for_o their_o spirit_n but_o in_o case_n when_o neither_o their_o own_o judgement_n nor_o book_n will_v help_v they_o if_o the_o difficulty_n be_v of_o great_a moment_n they_o may_v again_o have_v recourse_n unto_o their_o director_n 19_o and_o in_o this_o sort_n be_v writer_n that_o speak_v much_o of_o the_o necessity_n of_o a_o externall_n directour_n to_o be_v understand_v for_o if_o such_o necessity_n be_v to_o last_v always_o good_a soul_n shall_v be_v oblige_v to_o spend_v their_o whole_a life_n in_o confer_v with_o directour_n from_o whence_o will_v follow_v continual_a sollicitude_n scrupulosity_n &_o dangerous_a distraction_n &c._n &c._n most_o contrary_a to_o a_o internal_a spiritual_a life_n which_o ought_v to_o be_v a_o state_n of_o much_o repose_n cessation_n introversion_n &_o a_o continual_a attendance_n unto_o what_o god_n speak_v within_o unto_o a_o soul_n who_o if_o soul_n will_v humble_o &_o faithful_o depend_v on_o he_o will_v clear_v &_o resolve_v difficulty_n which_o externall_n master_n will_v never_o be_v able_a to_o penetrate_v into_o but_o it_o be_v too_o general_a a_o humour_n in_o directour_n now_o adays_o to_o make_v themselves_o seem_v necessary_a unto_o their_o disciple_n who_o hey_n endeavour_v to_o keep_v in_o a_o continual_a dependence_n to_o the_o great_a prejudice_n of_o their_o progress_n in_o spirit_n beside_o many_o other_o inconvenience_n not_o needful_a to_o be_v mention_v particular_o 20._o a_o soul_n thar_z have_v recourse_n to_o a_o instructor_n provide_v by_o god_n for_o she_o or_o that_o use_v her_o best_a advice_n she_o have_v make_v choice_n of_o must_v deal_v free_o plain_o &_o candid_o with_o he_o conceil_v nothing_o necessary_a to_o be_v know_v by_o he_o &_o his_o direction_n she_o must_v follow_v in_o all_o thing_n assure_v herself_o that_o if_o she_o do_v so_o in_o the_o simplicity_n of_o her_o heart_n &_o as_o in_o obedience_n to_o god_n himself_o god_n will_v enlighten_v he_o so_o that_o she_o shall_v not_o be_v mislead_v 21._o the_o gift_n of_o discern_a spirit_n be_v so_o necessary_a to_o a_o spiritual_a guide_n that_o except_o thereby_o he_o be_v able_a to_o fit_v a_o soul_n with_o a_o sort_n &_o degree_n of_o prayer_n suitable_a to_o her_o natural_a disposition_n not_o tie_v all_o soul_n to_o begin_v according_a to_o any_o general_a method_n for_o none_o such_o can_v be_v perscribe_v but_o will_v be_v prejudicial_a to_o some_o &_o unless_o he_o teach_v she_o how_o she_o may_v become_v illuminate_v without_o he_o by_o god_n alone_o by_o the_o mean_n of_o prayer_n &_o abstraction_n of_o life_n wherewith_o the_o mist_n of_o image_n &_o passion_n be_v dispel_v a_o light_n will_v spring_v forth_o in_o the_o soul_n far_o more_o clear_a &_o certain_a than_o any_o that_o can_v come_v from_o humane_a instruction_n not_o all_o the_o instruction_n of_o man_n &_o angel_n join_v with_o all_o mortification_n imaginable_a will_v be_v able_a to_o bring_v a_o soul_n to_o contemplation_n for_o seldom_o or_o never_o do_v god_n work_v contrary_a to_o our_o natural_a complexion_n and_o till_o soul_n come_v to_o exercise_n in_o spirit_n &_o prayer_n infuse_v by_o god_n alone_o they_o be_v far_o from_o contemplation_n 22._o now_o at_o the_o first_o it_o be_v very_o hard_a for_o any_o director_n to_o know_v exact_o the_o secret_a inclination_n of_o imperfect_a soul_n which_o be_v so_o infinite_o various_a and_o therefore_o for_o the_o most_o part_n their_o instruction_n about_o prayer_n &_o attendance_n to_o divine_a inspiration_n must_v be_v general_a the_o which_o the_o disciple_n themselves_o must_v make_v a_o particular_a use_n of_o by_o observe_v their_o own_o ability_n &_o inclination_n &_o by_o mark_v what_o more_o particular_a form_n of_o prayer_n etc._n etc._n suit_n best_o with_o they_o &_o do_v they_o most_o good_a and_o this_o if_o they_o be_v not_o able_a in_o a_o reasonable_a manner_n to_o do_v or_o if_o they_o have_v not_o the_o courage_n to_o abide_v in_o a_o way_n in_o which_o they_o be_v put_v it_o will_v be_v in_o vain_a for_o they_o to_o proceed_v in_o those_o secret_a internal_a way_n 23._o if_o the_o way_n wherein_o a_o soul_n be_v put_v &_o have_v make_v a_o reasonable_a progress_n be_v indeed_o proper_a for_o she_o there_o will_v be_v little_a need_n of_o frequent_a recourse_n unto_o her_o director_n neither_o ought_v he_o to_o examine_v she_o about_o her_o internal_a exercise_n of_o which_o he_o may_v judge_v well_o enough_o by_o her_o external_a comportment_n for_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o a_o soul_n to_o be_v in_o a_o wrong_a way_n interior_o but_o of_o itself_o it_o will_v break_v out_o exterior_o especial_o to_o the_o eye_n of_o those_o who_o themselves_o be_v in_o a_o right_a way_n as_o the_o spiritual_a director_n be_v suppose_v to_o be_v and_o there_o be_v scarce_o any_o more_o certain_a sign_n that_o a_o soul_n be_v not_o interior_o in_o a_o good_a way_n then_o be_v she_o be_v forward_o to_o trouble_v her_o director_n with_o multiplicity_n of_o question_n &_o doubt_n &_o her_o readiness_n to_o discover_v she_o interiour_n to_o other_o who_o she_o have_v hear_v or_o do_v believe_v to_o be_v skilful_a in_o spirituality_n 24._o the_o image_n &_o internal_a distraction_n raise_v by_o impertinent_a consultation_n about_o the_o interiour_n be_v of_o all_o other_o most_o pernicious_a for_o distraction_n from_o without_o be_v but_o superficial_a whereas_o those_o be_v hatch_v &_o breed_v within_o the_o soul_n from_o some_o secret_a ill_a quality_n as_o fear_v scrupulosity_n curiosity_n etc._n etc._n they_o be_v more_o profound_a &_o destructive_a to_o true_a recollection_n
in_o confession_n 4._o renew_v of_o general_a confession_n 5._o the_o force_v act_n of_o sensible_a contrition_n 6._o not_o content_v once_o self_n many_o time_n with_o virtual_a examination_n of_o conscience_n 7._o use_v certain_a vocal_a prayer_n voluntary_o 8._o the_o oblige_a one_o self_n to_o coustume_n &_o ceremony_n not_o of_o obligation_n 9_o continue_v voluntary_a mortification_n when_o the_o soul_n find_v no_o benefit_n by_o they_o but_o rather_o become_v dishearten_v &_o deject_a 10._o practise_v what_o be_v find_v in_o book_n though_o improper_a for_o the_o spirit_n 11._o imitate_v unwary_o the_o good_a practice_n of_o other_o 12._o oblige_v once_o self_a not_o to_o quit_v the_o meditate_v on_o the_o passion_n 13._o do_v thing_n mere_o for_o edification_n 14._o tie_v once_o self_n to_o nice_a method_n order_n &_o a_o determinate_a number_n of_o succeed_a act_n or_o affection_n in_o recollection_n 15._o exercise_v corporal_a labour_n &_o austerity_n without_o due_a consideration_n &_o necessity_n 16_o adhere_v to_o any_o kind_n of_o internal_a exercise_n when_o perhaps_o the_o soul_n be_v invite_v &_o enable_v to_o a_o high_a 17._o the_o trouble_v one_o self_n to_o inquire_v after_o or_o to_o procure_v sermon_n 18._o the_o oblige_a one_o self_n to_o a_o determinate_a posture_n in_o prayer_n 19_o the_o voluntary_a hear_n of_o such_o a_o number_n of_o mass_n 20._o set_a devotion_n or_o exercise_n to_o saint_n or_o prayer_n for_o the_o dead_a or_o live_a 21._o solicitous_a or_o distract_n care_v to_o gain_v indulgence_n by_o go_v to_o such_o or_o such_o church_n 22._o adjoin_v once_o self_n to_o confraternity_n and_o the_o several_a duty_n belong_v to_o they_o 23._o iterate_v the_o office_n in_o case_n any_o thing_n through_o inaduertence_n have_v be_v omit_v 24._o generally_n fettr_n one_o self_n with_o any_o practice_n which_o be_v not_o of_o obligation_n 25._o and_o which_o be_v worst_a of_o all_o entangle_v the_o soul_n by_o hasty_a &_o undiscreete_a promise_n &_o vow_n make_v during_o some_o fit_n of_o sensible_a devotion_n or_o in_o a_o passion_n of_o remorse_n fear_v etc._n etc._n by_o these_o &_o other_o such_o practice_n as_o these_o which_o be_v suppose_v not_o to_o be_v of_o obligation_n many_o soul_n in_o desire_n tend_v to_o perfection_n do_v so_o overburden_v &_o entangle_v themselves_o that_o they_o either_o can_v observe_v the_o operation_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n in_o they_o or_o have_v not_o the_o liberty_n to_o follow_v whither_o it_o will_v draw_v they_o &_o thereby_o remain_v in_o their_o imperfect_a state_n without_o hope_n of_o make_v any_o progress_n unless_o they_o will_v renounce_v their_o own_o preconceive_a judgement_n &_o preassume_v selfe-imposed_n obligation_n 11_o hitherto_o it_o may_v suffice_v to_o have_v speak_v of_o the_o impediment_n by_o which_o soul_n be_v hinder_v from_o attend_v to_o &_o obey_v their_o internal_a divine_a teacher_n who_o only_o know_v what_o be_v best_a for_o every_o one_o in_o all_o circumstance_n &_o will_v not_o fail_v to_o direct_v for_o the_o very_o best_a every_o soul_n that_o with_o humility_n and_o resignation_n have_v recourse_n to_o he_o 12._o now_o such_o be_v the_o nature_n of_o the_o reasonable_a soul_n which_o be_v all_o activity_n &_o will_v be_v continual_o think_v on_o &_o love_v somewhat_o that_o if_o these_o impediment_n cause_v by_o impertinent_a image_n of_o creature_n inordinate_a affection_n to_o they_o &_o by_o a_o voluntary_a shackle_v the_o soul_n with_o assume_v opinion_n &_o coustume_n be_v once_o remove_v she_o will_v see_v clear_o what_o she_o ought_v to_o follow_v &_o love_v which_o be_v god_n only_o for_o creature_n be_v remove_v &_o forget_v nothing_o remain_v but_o god_n no_o other_o light_n for_o our_o understanding_n nor_o other_o object_n for_o our_o will_n &_o affection_n but_o he_o only_o 13._o and_o the_o general_a of_o all_o other_o most_o efficacious_a mean_o to_o remove_v all_o these_o impediment_n be_v by_o abstraction_n &_o prayer_n in_o spirit_n to_o aspire_v unto_o a_o habitual_a state_n of_o recollection_n &_o introversion_n for_o such_o prayer_n beside_o the_o virtue_n of_o impetration_n by_o which_o god_n will_v be_v move_v according_a to_o his_o so_o frequent_a &_o express_v promise_n to_o be_v a_o light_n to_o the_o meek_a &_o humble_a it_o have_v also_o a_o direct_a virtue_n to_o procure_v this_o illumination_n in_o as_o much_o as_o therein_o our_o soul_n see_v he_o &_o nothing_o else_o so_o that_o they_o have_v no_o other_o guide_n to_o follow_v but_o he_o and_o especial_o in_o as_o much_o as_o by_o prayer_n in_o spirit_n divine_a charity_n be_v most_o firm_o root_v in_o our_o heart_n which_o make_v they_o insensible_a to_o all_o other_o thing_n that_o will_v divert_v our_o attention_n or_o affection_n and_o we_o see_v by_o experience_n thar_z love_v of_o what_o object_n soever_o it_o be_v do_v more_o clear_a the_o mind_n &_o conferr_v in_o a_o moment_n as_o it_o be_v more_o skill_n to_o find_v out_o the_o mean_n by_o which_o the_o object_n belove_v may_v be_v obtain_v than_o never_o so_o much_o study_v or_o meditation_n cap._n vi_o §_o 1._o 2._o the_o gift_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n be_v the_o principle_n of_o all_o good_a action_n in_o us._n §_o 3._o 4._o 5._o 6._o it_o do_v not_o work_v of_o itself_o unless_o excite_v by_o actual_a grace_n &_o our_o endeavour_n §_o 7._o by_o the_o use_n &_o employment_n of_o this_o gift_n there_o be_v raise_v in_o we_o a_o supernatural_a light_n of_o discretion_n as_o prudence_n be_v increase_v by_o the_o practice_n of_o virtue_n §_o 8._o how_o the_o exercise_n of_o love_n cause_v illumination_n §_o 9_o 10._o supernatural_a light_n be_v 1._o actual_a 2._o permanent_a §_o 11._o the_o effect_n of_o supernatural_a discretion_n §_o 12._o 13._o 14._o 15._o contemplative_n &_o active_a liver_n both_o guide_v by_o a_o supernatural_a light_n but_o different_o §_o 16._o how_o imperfect_a soul_n may_v do_v their_o ordinary_a daily_a action_n in_o light_n 1._o the_o three_o point_v before_o propose_v for_o our_o consideration_n in_o this_o matter_n of_o internal_a inspiration_n be_v the_o manner_n how_o god_n communicate_v his_o light_n &_o grace_n to_o our_o understanding_n &_o will_n for_o our_o instruction_n &_o direction_n in_o the_o mystic_a way_n of_o contemplation_n 2._o now_o for_o a_o clear_a explication_n of_o this_o point_n we_o be_v to_o consider_v that_o that_o fundamental_a grace_n which_o in_o scripture_n be_v call_v donum_fw-la spiritus_fw-la sancti_fw-la the_o gift_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n &_o which_o be_v confer_v on_o all_o in_o baptism_n &_o be_v afterward_o by_o actual_a sin_n smother_v or_o extinguish_v be_v renew_v by_o penance_n prayer_n &c_n &c_n &_o cherish_v or_o increase_v by_o the_o worthy_a use_n of_o the_o holy_a eucharist_n &_o other_o virtuous_a practice_n of_o a_o christian_a life_n this_o grace_n i_o say_v what_o ever_o it_o be_v physical_o in_o its_o own_o nature_n if_o it_o be_v examine_v scholastical_o which_o be_v not_o my_o intent_n be_v a_o certain_a divine_a principle_n or_o faculty_n partake_v somewhat_o of_o the_o nature_n of_o a_o permanent_a habit_n infuse_v into_o the_o spirit_n of_o man_n by_o which_o he_o be_v enable_v whensoever_o the_o free_a will_n concur_v actual_o both_o for_o know_v believe_v &_o practise_v to_o do_v the_o will_n of_o god_n in_o all_o thing_n for_o the_o virtue_n thereof_o extend_v itself_o through_o all_o the_o faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n cure_v the_o distemper_n want_v &_o deordination_n that_o sin_n have_v cause_v in_o they_o 3._o this_o new_a divine_a faculty_n therefore_o which_o seem_v to_o be_v express_v by_o the_o prophet_n david_n when_o he_o say_v signatum_fw-la est_fw-la super_fw-la nos_fw-la lumen_fw-la vultus_fw-la tui_fw-la domine_fw-la that_o be_v the_o light_n of_o thy_o countenance_n o_o lord_n be_v like_o a_o seal_n stamp_v on_o our_o soul_n do_v not_o neither_o be_v it_o sufficient_a of_o itself_o alone_o actual_o to_o produce_v any_o save_a effect_n as_o we_o see_v that_o a_o musician_n or_o a_o poet_n though_o never_o so_o skilful_a do_v not_o therefore_o ever_o actual_o sing_v or_o write_v verse_n until_o some_o certain_a occasion_n or_o circumstance_n do_v actual_o determine_v they_o thereto_o as_o gain_v or_o request_n of_o other_o or_o praise_n or_o a_o mind_n to_o please_v themselves_o &c_n &c_n for_o the_o actual_a employment_n &_o exercise_n of_o such_o grace_n there_o be_v moreover_o necessary_a a_o actual_a aid_n from_o god_n who_o by_o a_o special_a divine_a providence_n do_v often_o administer_v occasion_n hint_n &_o enablement_n exciting_a the_o will_n to_o waken_v this_o grace_n in_o the_o soul_n which_o otherwise_o will_v lie_v vacant_a &_o unuseful_a 4._o and_o proof_n of_o this_o daily_a experience_n show_v we_o both_o in_o ourselves_o &_o other_o how_o a_o sermon_n or_o
employment_n and_o imperfect_a degree_n of_o prayer_n and_o consequent_o neither_o can_v they_o nor_o perhaps_o if_o they_o can_v will_v they_o teach_v it_o to_o other_o since_o thereby_o many_o soulâ—s_n will_v quick_o be_v discharge_v from_o any_o necessity_n of_o continue_v in_o a_o dependence_n on_o their_o manage_n &_o direction_n 14._o if_o any_o there_o be_v that_o notwithstanding_o all_o that_o have_v be_v here_o write_v touch_v divine_a inspiration_n and_o the_o necessity_n of_o attend_v to_o they_o shall_v yet_o be_v unsatisfied_a or_o at_o least_o suspect_n that_o the_o publish_n of_o such_o doctrine_n may_v not_o be_v convenient_a such_o a_o one_o for_o further_a satisfaction_n may_v consult_v the_o appendix_n adjoin_v at_o the_o end_n of_o the_o treatise_n the_o three_o section_n of_o the_o three_o treatise_n touch_v the_o school_n of_o contemplation_n viz._n solitude_n and_o a_o religious_a profession_n chap._n i._n §_o 1._o 2._o that_o the_o proper_a school_n of_o contemplation_n be_v solitude_n §_o 3._o which_o may_v be_v enjoy_v in_o the_o world_n §_o 4._o 5._o 6._o contemplation_n be_v by_o god_n deny_v to_o no_o state_n yea_o in_o some_o regard_v woman_n be_v rather_o better_o dispose_v thereto_o then_o man_n and_o why_o §_o 7._o 8._o 9_o 10._o 11._o 12._o 13._o the_o condition_n of_o ecclesiastic_n in_o the_o world_n be_v of_o great_a perfection_n what_o disposition_n be_v require_v to_o the_o undertake_v and_o execute_v of_o that_o sublime_a charge_n 1._o have_v hitherto_o treat_v of_o the_o nature_n and_o end_n of_o a_o internal_a contemplative_a life_n in_o general_a as_o likewise_o of_o the_o general_a quality_n &_o disposition_n requisite_a to_o all_o those_o who_o by_o a_o divine_a vocation_n do_v undertake_v that_o sublime_a course_n of_o life_n and_o in_o consequence_n thereto_o have_v demonstrate_v that_o the_o only_a sufficient_a master_n and_o guide_n in_o such_o a_o life_n be_v god_n and_o his_o divine_a inspiration_n by_o who_o alone_o both_o disciple_n and_o also_o master_n &_o guide_n must_v be_v direct_v it_o remain_v in_o the_o three_o place_n that_o i_o shall_v show_v what_o and_o where_o the_o school_n be_v wherein_o ordinary_o this_o divine_a master_n instruct_v his_o disciple_n in_o this_o so_o heavenly_a divine_a doctrine_n &_o science_n 2._o now_o by_o the_o unanimous_a acknowledgement_n of_o all_o mystic_a writer_n the_o only_a proper_a school_n of_o contemplation_n be_v solitude_n that_o be_v a_o condition_n of_o life_n both_o external_o free_v from_o the_o distractive_a encumbrance_n tempt_a flattery_n and_o disquiet_v sollicitude_n of_o the_o world_n and_o likewise_o wherein_o the_o mind_n internal_o be_v in_o a_o good_a measure_n at_o least_o in_o serious_a desire_n free_v also_o from_o inordinate_a affection_n to_o all_o worldly_a and_o carnal_a object_n that_o so_o the_o soul_n may_v be_v at_o leisure_n to_o attend_v unto_o god_n who_o deserve_v all_o our_o thought_n and_o affection_n and_o to_o practice_v such_o duty_n of_o mortification_n and_o prayer_n as_o dispose_v she_o for_o a_o immediate_a perfect_a union_n with_o he_o 3._o now_o though_o this_o so_o necessary_a solitude_n be_v find_v both_o more_o perfect_o and_o more_o permanent_o in_o a_o well-ordred_n religious_a state_n which_o afford_v likewise_o many_o other_o advantage_n scarce_o to_o be_v find_v elsewhere_o for_o a_o better_o practise_v the_o exercise_n dispose_v to_o contemplation_n yet_o be_v it_o not_o so_o confine_v to_o that_o state_n but_o that_o in_o the_o world_n also_o and_o in_o a_o secular_a course_n of_o life_n god_n have_v oft_o raise_v and_o guide_v many_o soul_n in_o these_o perfect_a way_n afford_v they_o even_o there_o as_o much_o solitude_n and_o as_o much_o internal_a freedom_n of_o spirit_n as_o he_o see_v be_v necessary_a to_o bring_v they_o to_o a_o high_a degree_n of_o perfection_n 4._o and_o indeed_o it_o be_v a_o illustrious_a proof_n of_o the_o abundant_a most_o communicative_a overflow_a riches_n of_o the_o divine_a goodness_n to_o all_o his_o servant_n whatsoever_o that_o in_o truth_n of_o heart_n seek_v he_o that_o this_o state_n of_o contemplation_n be_v the_o supreme_a and_o most_o divine_a that_o a_o intellectual_a soul_n be_v capable_a of_o either_o in_o this_o life_n or_o in_o heaven_n also_o shall_v neither_o be_v enclose_v only_o in_o cavern_n rock_n or_o desert_n nor_o fix_v to_o solitary_a religious_a community_n nor_o appropriate_v to_o the_o subtlety_n of_o wit_n profoundness_n of_o judgement_n gift_n of_o learning_n or_o study_n etc._n etc._n but_o that_o the_o poor_a simple_a soul_n live_v in_o the_o world_n and_o follow_a the_o common_a life_n of_o good_a christian_n there_o if_o she_o will_v faithful_o correspond_v to_o the_o internal_a light_n and_o tract_n afford_v she_o by_o god_n spirit_n may_v as_o secure_o yea_o and_o sometime_o more_o speedy_o arrive_v to_o the_o top_n of_o the_o mountain_n of_o vision_n than_o the_o learn_a doctor_n the_o most_o profound_o wise_a man_n yea_o the_o most_o abstract_a confine_v hermit_n 5._o yea_o both_o history_n &_o fresh_a experience_n do_v assure_v we_o that_o in_o these_o latter_a time_n god_n have_v as_o free_o and_o perhaps_o more_o common_o communicate_v the_o divine_a light_n and_o grace_n proper_a to_o a_o contemplative_a life_n to_o simple_a woman_n endue_v with_o lesser_a &_o more_o contemptible_a gift_n of_o judgement_n but_o yet_o enrich_v with_o strong_a will_n and_o more_o fervent_a affection_n to_o he_o than_o the_o able_a men._n and_o the_o reason_n hereof_o we_o may_v judge_v to_o be_v partly_o because_o god_n thereby_o shall_v as_o be_v most_o due_a reap_v all_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o most_o free_a grace_n the_o which_o if_o they_o do_v usual_o attend_v our_o natural_a endowment_n will_v be_v challenge_v as_o due_a to_o our_o own_o ability_n and_o endeavour_n and_o partly_o also_o because_o as_o substantial_a holiness_n so_o the_o perfection_n of_o it_o which_o be_v contemplation_n consist_v far_o more_o principal_o in_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o will_v then_o of_o the_o understanding_n as_o shall_v be_v demonstrate_v in_o due_a place_n and_o since_o woman_n do_v far_o more_o abound_v and_o be_v far_o more_o constant_a &_o fix_v in_o affecction_n and_o other_o operation_n of_o the_o will_v then_o man_n though_o inferior_a in_o those_o of_o the_o understanding_n no_o marvel_n if_o god_n do_v oft_o find_v they_o fit_a subject_n for_o his_o grace_n then_o men._n 6._o and_o for_o this_o reason_n it_o be_v beside_o that_o woman_n be_v less_o encumber_v with_o solicitous_a business_n abroad_o their_o secular_a employment_n be_v chief_o domestical_a within_o their_o own_o wall_n that_o they_o do_v far_o more_o frequent_o repair_v to_o the_o church_n more_o assiduous_o perform_v their_o devotion_n both_o there_o &_o at_o home_n &_o reap_v the_o blessing_n of_o the_o sacrament_n more_o plentiful_o upon_o which_o ground_n the_o church_n call_v they_o the_o devout_a sex_n insomuch_o as_o a_o very_a spiritual_a and_o experience_a author_n do_v not_o doubt_v to_o pronounce_v that_o according_a to_o his_o best_a judgement_n which_o be_v ground_v on_o more_o than_o only_o outward_a appearance_n for_o one_o man_n never_o ten_o woman_n go_v to_o heaven_n notwithstanding_o true_a it_o be_v that_o the_o contemplation_n of_o man_n be_v more_o noble_a sublime_a &_o more_o exalt_v in_o spirit_n that_o be_v less_o partake_v of_o sensible_a effect_n as_o rapt_n ecstasy_n or_o imaginative_a representation_n as_o likewise_o melt_a tenderness_n of_o affection_n than_o those_o of_o woman_n 7._o now_o though_o the_o true_a &_o immediate_a motive_n of_o the_o writing_n of_o these_o spiritual_a instruction_n be_v the_o direct_v of_o certain_a devout_a religious_a soul_n in_o the_o way_n of_o contemplation_n to_o the_o aspire_a whereto_o their_o profession_n do_v oblige_v they_o and_o for_o this_o reason_n most_o of_o the_o say_a instruction_n be_v intend_v to_o be_v most_o proper_a for_o such_o yet_o be_v a_o debtor_n to_o all_o wellminded_a soul_n whatsoever_o that_o desire_n to_o tread_v in_o the_o say_v internal_a way_n i_o will_v here_o brief_o show_v how_o they_o also_o may_v make_v use_n of_o my_o write_n for_o the_o same_o end_n from_o thence_o select_v such_o special_a direction_n as_o may_v also_o as_o well_o belong_v to_o they_o and_o pass_v over_o those_o that_o be_v more_o peculiarly_a proper_a to_o soul_n in_o a_o religious_a state_n 8._o in_o the_o world_n therefore_o there_o be_v two_o sort_n of_o person_n that_o do_v or_o may_v aspire_v unto_o contemplation_n or_o perfection_n in_o prayer_n to_o wit_n 1._o ecclesiastic_n 2._o lay-person_n 9_o first_o as_o for_o ecclesiastic_n i_o mean_v especial_o priest_n to_o which_o all_o other_o inferior_a order_n do_v tend_v they_o not_o only_o may_v but_o ought_v serious_o to_o aspire_v thereunto_o yea_o perhaps_o more_v they_o simple_a religious_a for_o their_o most_o
herself_o likewise_o as_o be_v here_o teach_v for_o the_o better_a receive_n &_o discern_v of_o they_o 3._o the_o practice_n both_o of_o externall_n &_o internal_a mortification_n i_o mean_v those_o which_o through_o the_o divine_a providence_n be_v send_v she_o or_o do_v belong_v to_o her_o present_a state_n and_o condition_n of_o life_n and_o as_o for_o voluntary_a mortification_n she_o be_v likewise_o to_o behave_v herself_o according_a to_o the_o follow_a direction_n 4._o the_o exercise_n of_o internal_a prayer_n according_a to_o the_o several_a degree_n of_o it_o in_o these_o general_a duty_n there_o be_v little_a or_o no_o difference_n between_o the_o obligation_n of_o religious_a from_o that_o of_o secular_a person_n 3._o but_o whereas_o in_o the_o next_o place_n there_o be_v in_o this_o book_n many_o instruction_n that_o seem_v peculiar_a to_o soul_n of_o a_o religious_a profession_n such_o i_o mean_v as_o be_v ground_v upon_o and_o refer_v unto_o a_o life_n abstract_v from_o the_o world_n confine_v unto_o solitude_n and_o there_o limit_v with_o a_o strict_a enclosure_n of_o special_a law_n constitution_n observance_n etc._n etc._n even_o in_o these_o also_o a_o secular_a devout_a person_n tend_v to_o contemplation_n may_v think_v himself_o in_o some_o proportion_n &_o degree_n concern_v &_o interest_v and_o from_o they_o he_o may_v reap_v much_o benefit_n apply_v to_o his_o own_o use_n so_o much_o of_o the_o spirit_n of_o religion_n as_o discretion_n will_v show_v to_o be_v fruitful_a to_o he_o now_o for_o a_o better_a application_n of_o this_o advice_n i_o will_v exemplify_v in_o certain_a peculiar_a duty_n of_o a_o religious_a life_n and_o therein_o show_v in_o what_o sort_n a_o secular_a person_n may_v do_v well_o yea_o &_o in_o some_o proportion_n be_v oblige_v to_o imitate_v they_o 4._o first_o therefore_o such_o a_o soul_n though_o she_o be_v not_o oblige_v real_o &_o personal_o to_o withdraw_v herself_o from_o worldly_a conversation_n &_o to_o retire_v herself_o into_o a_o solitude_n as_o strict_a as_o that_o of_o religion_n yet_o so_o much_o solitude_n &_o silence_n she_o must_v needs_o allow_v herself_o daily_o as_o may_v be_v necessary_a for_o a_o due_a practice_n of_o internal_a prayer_n neither_o must_v she_o engage_v herself_o in_o any_o business_n of_o solicitude_n &_o distraction_n that_o do_v not_o necessary_o belong_v to_o her_o vocation_n and_o even_o those_o also_o must_v she_o perform_v with_o as_o much_o internal_a quietness_n &_o recollectednes_n as_o may_v be_v careful_o avoid_v all_o anxiety_n of_o mind_n care_v of_o multiply_a riches_n etc._n etc._n and_o as_o for_o vain_a conversation_n compliment_n all_o visit_n feast_n &c._n &c._n she_o must_v not_o think_v to_o permit_v unto_o herself_o such_o a_o free_a scope_n as_o other_o do_v &_o as_o former_o herself_o do_v but_o she_o must_v set_v a_o great_a value_n upon_o her_o precious_a time_n as_o much_o whereof_o as_o she_o can_v borrow_v from_o the_o necessary_a employment_n of_o her_o call_v aught_o to_o be_v spend_v upon_o the_o advance_v of_o her_o spirit_n in_o the_o way_n of_o contemplation_n and_o she_o indeed_o will_v find_v the_o great_a inconvenience_n that_o do_v attend_v vain_a conversation_n as_o dissipation_n of_o thought_n engagement_n in_o new_a unnecessary_a affair_n sensual_a friendship_n etc._n etc._n all_o which_o she_o ought_v careful_o to_o prevent_v &_o avoid_v 5._o second_o such_o a_o soul_n be_v by_o virtue_n of_o her_o new_a divine_a vocation_n oblige_v studious_o to_o imitate_v especial_o the_o internal_a solitude_n belong_v to_o a_o religious_a person_n abstract_v her_o spirit_n as_o much_o as_o may_v be_v both_o from_o all_o affection_n to_o outward_a thing_n as_o riches_n pleasure_n &c_n &c_n and_o like_o wise_a from_o the_o image_n of_o creature_n &_o worldly_a object_n for_o which_o purpose_n she_o be_v to_o perform_v all_o the_o duty_n of_o her_o external_a vocation_n in_o order_n to_o god_n &_o in_o subordination_n to_o her_o principal_a design_n which_o be_v the_o perfectionate_v of_o her_o spirit_n in_o the_o divine_a love._n she_o be_v therefore_o not_o to_o account_v herself_o as_o absolute_a mistress_n of_o the_o riches_n that_o god_n have_v give_v she_o but_o only_o as_o his_o steward_n to_o manage_v they_o so_o as_o may_v be_v most_o to_o his_o glory_n so_o that_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o she_o ought_v to_o exercise_v true_a poverty_n of_o spirit_n renounce_v all_o propriety_n join_v with_o affection_n to_o they_o so_o as_o not_o to_o be_v disquiet_v if_o god_n shall_v take_v they_o from_o she_o &_o make_v no_o more_o use_n of_o they_o for_o her_o own_o sensual_a contentment_n or_o for_o show_v in_o the_o world_n then_o shall_v in_o true_a discretion_n be_v necessary_a this_o internal_a solitude_n introversion_n &_o nakedness_n of_o spirit_n she_o must_v increase_v as_o much_o as_o may_v be_v both_o in_o her_o affection_n to_o it_o &_o practice_v of_o it_o so_o that_o it_o may_v become_v habitual_a to_o she_o because_o without_o it_o she_o will_v never_o be_v in_o a_o fit_a disposition_n to_o attend_v unto_o the_o divine_a inspiration_n or_o to_o exercise_v the_o internal_a duty_n of_o prayer_n etc._n etc._n belong_v to_o a_o state_n tend_v to_o contemplation_n 6._o three_o in_o conformity_n to_o religious_a obedience_n she_o be_v to_o behave_v herself_o to_o all_o those_o in_o the_o world_n who_o god_n have_v set_v over_o she_o with_o a_o most_o profound_a submission_n of_o spirit_n obey_v they_o or_o rather_o god_n in_o they_o with_o all_o purity_n of_o intention_n and_o moreover_o she_o be_v at_o the_o first_o especial_o to_o put_v herself_o under_o the_o government_n of_o a_o spiritual_a director_n if_o such_o a_o one_o be_v to_o be_v have_v who_o be_v to_o teach_v she_o how_o she_o may_v discern_v the_o exercise_n of_o prayer_n &_o mortification_n proper_a for_o she_o and_o in_o the_o choice_n of_o such_o a_o one_o she_o be_v to_o use_v the_o utmost_a of_o her_o prudence_n recommend_v withal_o a_o affair_n of_o such_o importance_n in_o her_o prayer_n to_o god_n that_o he_o will_v provide_v she_o one_o of_o sufficient_a ability_n &_o virtue_n &_o especial_o one_o that_o be_v experience_v in_o those_o internal_a way_n much_o exalt_v above_o the_o ordinary_a exercise_n of_o prayer_n common_o teach_v &_o practise_v and_o when_o god_n have_v find_v out_o such_o a_o one_o for_o she_o she_o be_v with_o all_o sincerity_n &_o humility_n to_o obey_v he_o yet_o without_o prejudice_n to_o the_o duty_n which_o she_o principal_o owe_v to_o her_o divine_a internal_a master_n as_o have_v be_v teach_v in_o the_o foregoe_v section_n the_o doctrine_n and_o practice_n whereof_o do_v as_o well_o belong_v to_o she_o as_o to_o any_o religious_a person_n 7._o four_o although_o such_o a_o soul_n be_v not_o by_o any_o vow_n or_o otherwise_o oblige_v to_o any_o rule_n or_o restrain_v by_o any_o constitution_n or_o regular_a observance_n notwthstanding_n she_o be_v to_o reduce_v the_o whole_a course_n of_o her_o action_n &_o behaviour_n to_o a_o certain_a order_n regularity_n and_o uniformity_n observe_v in_o her_o retirement_n read_v pray_v as_o also_o her_o refection_n sleep_n etc._n etc._n a_o orderly_a practice_n both_o for_o time_n &_o manner_n according_a as_o prudence_n &_o her_o spiritual_a guide_n shall_v ordain_v this_o order_n &_o uniformity_n observe_v discreet_o yet_o without_o any_o nice_a scrupulosity_n be_v very_o requisite_a in_o a_o internal_a course_n for_o otherwise_o a_o soul_n be_v leave_v at_o large_a will_v be_v unstable_a &_o uncertain_a in_o she_o most_o necessary_a duty_n 8._o it_o will_v not_o be_v necessary_a to_o exemplify_v in_o any_o more_o particular_n for_o the_o same_o reflection_n &_o the_o like_a application_n may_v a_o soul_n make_v from_o any_o other_o instruction_n &_o duty_n peculiar_o design_v for_o religious_a person_n beside_o if_o she_o pursue_v diligent_o &_o constant_o her_o internal_a prayer_n god_n will_v not_o be_v want_v to_o afford_v her_o sufficient_a internal_a light_n &_o likewise_o strong_a impulse_n &_o spiritual_a force_n to_o follow_v such_o light_n to_o the_o which_o if_o she_o faithful_o correspond_v she_o will_v find_v that_o since_o god_n have_v not_o give_v she_o a_o vocation_n to_o religion_n yet_o he_o have_v not_o deprive_v she_o of_o the_o mean_n of_o enjoy_v in_o the_o world_n in_o a_o sufficient_a manner_n the_o principal_a advantage_n of_o a_o religious_a state_n except_o the_o solemn_a vow_n themselves_o yea_o in_o this_o case_n she_o may_v not_o altogether_o unprobable_o think_v that_o it_o be_v for_o she_o own_o particular_a good_a that_o god_n do_v not_o give_v she_o a_o opportunity_n to_o enter_v into_o religion_n 9_o and_o whereas_o it_o be_v require_v of_o such_o soul_n that_o they_o shall_v quit_v all_o sollicitude_n about_o temporal_a riches_n let_v they_o not_o fear_v any_o great_a
of_o two_o most_o sublime_a contemplative_n thus_o therefore_o speak_v one_o of_o they_o in_o the_o conference_n cap._n 7._o finis_fw-la monachi_fw-la &_o totius_fw-la perfectionis_fw-la culmen_fw-la in_o orationis_fw-la consummatione_fw-la consistit_fw-la that_o be_v the_o end_n of_o a_o monastical_a profession_n and_o the_o supreme_a degree_n of_o all_o perfection_n consist_v in_o the_o perfection_n of_o prayer_n and_o in_o the_o ten_o confer_v cap._n 7._o another_o say_v hic_fw-la finis_fw-la totius_fw-la perfectionis_fw-la est_fw-la ut_fw-la eo_fw-la usque_fw-la extenuata_fw-la mens_fw-la ab_fw-la omni_fw-la situ_fw-la carnali_fw-la ad_fw-la spiritualia_fw-la quotidie_fw-la sublimetur_fw-la donec_fw-la omnis_fw-la eius_fw-la conuersatio_fw-la omnisque_fw-la volutatio_fw-la cordis_fw-la una_fw-la &_o iugis_fw-la efficiatur_fw-la oratio_fw-la that_o be_v this_o be_v the_o end_n of_o all_o perfection_n that_o the_o mind_n become_v so_o purify_v from_o all_o carnal_a defilement_n that_o it_o may_v be_v raise_v up_o daily_o to_o spiritual_a thing_n till_o its_o whole_a employment_n and_o every_o motion_n of_o the_o heart_n may_v become_v one_o uninterrupted_n prayer_n 11._o now_o what_o a_o kind_n of_o prayer_n this_o be_v that_o they_o aspire_v to_o how_o sublime_a in_o spirit_n though_o ofttimes_o join_v with_o their_o vocal_a prayer_n may_v appear_v from_o that_o description_n give_v of_o it_o by_o a_o holy_a hermit_n in_o these_o word_n in_o the_o 10._o confer_v cap._n 20._o ita_fw-la ad_fw-la illam_fw-la orationis_fw-la purissimam_fw-la perveniet_fw-la qualitatem_fw-la quae_fw-la non_fw-la solum_fw-la nullam_fw-la deitatis_fw-la effigiem_fw-la in_o sva_fw-la supplicatione_n miscebit_fw-la sed_fw-la nec_fw-la ullam_fw-la quidem_fw-la in_o se_fw-la memoriam_fw-la dicti_fw-la cuiusdam_fw-la vel_fw-la facti_fw-la speciem_fw-la seu_fw-la formam_fw-la characteris_fw-la admittet_fw-la that_o be_v thus_o by_o much_o practice_n the_o soul_n will_v arrive_v to_o that_o most_o sublime_a purity_n of_o praler_n wherein_o no_o image_n at_o all_o of_o the_o divinity_n be_v mingle_v and_o which_o will_v not_o admit_v the_o least_o memory_n nor_o a_o character_n or_o representation_n of_o anything_o either_o speak_v or_o do_v the_o strange_a subtlety_n &_o spirituality_n of_o which_o prayer_n consider_v there_o be_v apply_v unto_o it_o that_o say_v of_o s._n antony_n in_o the_o 9_o conf._n chap._n 31._o non_fw-fr est_fw-fr perfecta_fw-la oratio_fw-la in_fw-la qua_fw-la se_fw-la monachus_n vel_fw-la hoc_fw-la ipsum_fw-la quod_fw-la orat_fw-la intelligit_fw-la that_o be_v that_o prayer_n be_v not_o a_o perfect_a one_o unless_o the_o religious_a person_n that_o exercise_v it_o be_v not_o able_a to_o give_v a_o account_n of_o his_o own_o thought_n that_o pass_v in_o it_o or_o do_v not_o perceive_v that_o he_o pray_v 12._o what_o great_a advantage_n the_o ancient_a hermit_n &_o other_o religious_a person_n enjoy_v for_o the_o more_o certain_a and_o more_o speedy_a attain_n to_o this_o internal_a purity_n of_o prayer_n &_o wonderful_a cleanness_n of_o spirit_n the_o end_n of_o their_o profession_n how_o much_o more_o able_a their_o bodily_a complexion_n be_v to_o support_v that_o most_o rigorous_a solitude_n those_o long_a continue_a attention_n of_o mind_n &c_n &c_n and_o how_o much_o more_o efficacious_a herto_o be_v their_o manual_a labour_n beyond_o our_o employment_n in_o study_n and_o last_o how_o by_o such_o like_a mean_n they_o with_o the_o only_a exercise_n of_o vocal_a prayer_n attain_v to_o perfect_a contemplation_n shall_v be_v show_v more_o full_o when_o we_o come_v to_o the_o last_o treatise_n concern_v internal_a prayer_n 13._o in_o this_o place_n i_o will_v content_v myself_o with_o show_v that_o by_o the_o rule_n of_o our_o holy_a father_n s_o benedict_n all_o his_o disciple_n be_v oblige_v to_o propose_v to_o themselves_o no_o other_o end_n of_o their_o religious_a profession_n but_o only_o such_o purity_n both_o of_o soul_n and_o the_o operation_n of_o it_o in_o spiritual_a prayer_n so_o that_o how_o exact_a soever_o they_o be_v in_o outward_a observance_n unless_o they_o be_v refer_v unto_o and_o efficacious_a also_o for_o the_o produce_v of_o this_o internal_a purity_n in_o some_o reasonable_a measure_n they_o shall_v not_o be_v esteem_v by_o god_n to_o have_v comply_v with_o their_o vocation_n and_o profession_n 14._o to_o this_o purpose_n we_o may_v observe_v that_o it_o be_v from_o those_o ancient_a holy_a hermit_n &_o religious_a that_o our_o holy_a father_n borrow_v the_o great_a part_n of_o his_o rule_n and_o ordinance_n which_o in_o the_o conclusion_n he_o profess_v to_o be_v mean_v only_o by_o he_o as_o a_o disposition_n whereby_o we_o may_v be_v enable_v to_o imitate_v they_o in_o their_o most_o perfect_a internal_a practice_n it_o be_v from_o they_o that_o he_o borrow_n the_o phrase_n of_o oratio_fw-la pura_fw-la pure_a prayer_n in_o the_o 20._o chap._n the_o exercise_n whereof_o beside_o the_o recite_v of_o the_o office_n he_o appoint_v daily_o as_o appear_v both_o by_o the_o same_o chapter_n of_o the_o rule_n and_o also_o by_o the_o story_n relate_v by_o s._n gregory_n of_o one_o of_o his_o monk_n who_o the_o devil_n in_o the_o shape_n of_o a_o blackmore_n tempt_v out_o of_o the_o community_n in_o the_o time_n of_o such_o recollection_n by_o which_o may_v be_v perceive_v the_o great_a fruit_n and_o efficacy_n of_o such_o prayer_n for_o the_o devil_n can_v be_v content_v he_o shall_v be_v present_a at_o the_o office_n because_o during_o that_o exercise_n he_o can_v more_o easy_o distract_v his_o mind_n but_o know_v the_o force_n of_o internal_a prayer_n how_o recollective_a it_o be_v and_o what_o light_n it_o afford_v to_o discover_v the_o inward_a defect_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o to_o obtain_v grace_n to_o correct_v they_o his_o principal_a aim_n be_v to_o withdraw_v he_o from_o so_o profitable_a a_o exercise_n and_o therefore_o to_o countermine_v the_o devil_n malice_n our_o holy_a father_n think_v it_o worth_a a_o journey_n express_o to_o cure_v the_o infirmity_n and_o prevent_v the_o danger_n of_o one_o of_o his_o seduce_a monk_n 15._o for_o this_o end_v it_o be_v that_o our_o holy_a father_n in_o the_o 58._o c._n ordeine_n superior_n in_o the_o examination_n of_o the_o spirit_n &_o disposition_n of_o newcomer_n that_o they_o shall_v most_o especial_o have_v a_o eye_n to_o this_o most_o necessary_a condition_n si_fw-la deum_fw-la veer_fw-la quaerit_fw-la if_o he_o be_v such_o a_o one_o as_o true_o seek_v god_n and_o more_o particulary_a si_fw-la sollicitùs_fw-la est_fw-la ad_fw-la opus_fw-la dei_fw-la if_o he_o have_v a_o solicitous_a care_n due_o to_o perform_v the_o work_n of_o god_n which_o he_o interpret_v to_o be_v prayer_n and_o this_o so_o principal_a a_o work_n that_o he_o ordeine_n that_o nihil_fw-la operi_fw-la dei_fw-la praeponatur_fw-la nothing_o must_v be_v prefer_v before_o it_o 16._o for_o the_o advance_v of_o this_o prayer_n that_o it_o may_v become_v such_o as_o be_v suitable_a to_o a_o contemplative_a state_n all_o other_o exterior_a observance_n be_v appoint_v 1._o by_o the_o 12._o degree_n of_o humility_n by_o frequent_a prostration_n acknowledge_v of_o secret_a imperfection_n etc._n etc._n pride_n selfelove_n &_o all_o other_o our_o corrupt_a affection_n hinder_v our_o union_n in_o spirit_n with_o god_n be_v subdue_v &_o expel_v and_o as_o our_o holy_a father_n say_v at_o the_o end_n of_o the_o last_o degree_n that_o perfect_a charity_n which_o most_o immediate_o unite_v the_o soul_n to_o god_n be_v produce_v in_o the_o soul_n 2._o by_o perfect_a obedience_n self_n judgement_n &_o self_n will_v be_v abate_v 3._o by_o fast_n watch_n &_o other_o austerity_n sensuality_n be_v mortify_v 4._o by_o religious_a poverty_n all_o distract_n care_v about_o temporal_a thing_n be_v expel_v 5._o and_o for_o the_o gain_n of_o a_o habitual_a state_n of_o recollectednes_n and_o introversion_n so_o great_a silence_n and_o solitude_n be_v so_o rigorous_o enjoin_v and_o practise_v all_o object_n of_o sensual_a affection_n remove_v all_o conversation_n with_o the_o world_n all_o relate_n or_o harken_v to_o news_n severe_o prohibit_v all_o this_o sure_o for_o no_o other_o end_n but_o that_o soul_n may_v be_v bring_v to_o a_o fit_a disposition_n to_o imitate_v those_o solitary_a and_o devout_a saint_n propose_v by_o our_o holy_a father_n for_o our_o example_n in_o their_o continual_a conversation_n with_o god_n attend_v to_o his_o divine_a inspiration_n and_o uninterrupted_n union_n of_o spirit_n with_o he_o by_o pure_a spiritual_a contemplation_n 17._o therefore_o though_o our_o holy_a lawgiver_n do_v not_o in_o his_o rule_n give_v his_o disciple_n any_o special_a instruction_n for_o order_v their_o interiour_n spiritual_a prayer_n touch_v such_o matter_n refer_v they_o to_o the_o inspiration_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n as_o himself_o say_v as_o likewise_o to_o the_o advice_n of_o the_o ancient_a father_n and_o hermit_n profess_v contemplation_n yet_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o his_o principal_a design_n be_v to_o dispose_v his_o disciple_n by_o his_o ordinance_n to_o
a_o abbot_n shall_v be_v set_v over_o he_o from_o whence_o we_o ought_v to_o infer_v that_o the_o intention_n of_o a_o religious_a person_n ought_v ever_o to_o be_v to_o live_v in_o subjection_n to_o the_o will_n of_o another_o and_o in_o such_o a_o mind_n to_o continue_v all_o his_o life_n and_o therefore_o those_o that_o ready_o accept_v &_o much_o more_o those_o that_o ambitious_o seek_v government_n and_o prelature_n may_v reasonable_o be_v judge_v to_o be_v lead_v by_o a_o spirit_n direct_o opposite_a to_o the_o spirit_n of_o religion_n and_o sure_o he_o that_o shall_v serious_o consider_v of_o what_o difficul_n y_z and_o of_o what_o extreme_a danger_n the_o office_n of_o a_o superior_a be_v what_o terrible_a threaten_n our_o holy_a father_n so_o oft_o denounce_v from_o god_n against_o a_o negligent_a partial_a and_o unfaithful_a discharge_n of_o such_o a_o office_n will_v think_v it_o far_o fit_a to_o be_v the_o object_n of_o his_o fear_n and_o aversion_n then_o of_o his_o desire_n therefore_o that_o superior_a that_o do_v not_o find_v himself_o more_o willing_a to_o give_v up_o his_o place_n then_o to_o retain_v it_o aught_o to_o suspect_v that_o he_o be_v scarce_o in_o a_o good_a state_n 3._o now_o to_o the_o end_n that_o both_o subject_n may_v be_v inform_v what_o quality_n they_o be_v to_o regard_v in_o the_o elect_v of_o superior_n and_o also_o superior_n be_v put_v in_o mind_n what_o be_v expect_v from_o they_o in_o the_o discharge_n of_o such_o a_o office_n due_o impose_v on_o they_o i_o will_v from_o s._n bernard_n set_v down_o three_o necessary_a condition_n or_o endowment_n by_o which_o superior_n be_v to_o direct_v their_o subject_n the_o which_o be_v 1._o verbum_fw-la 2._o exemplum_fw-la &_o 3_o oratio_fw-la that_o be_v exhortation_n good_a example_n and_o prayer_n add_v moreover_o maior_fw-la autem_fw-la horum_fw-la est_fw-la oratio_fw-la nam_fw-la et_fw-la si_fw-la vocis_fw-la virtus_fw-la sit_fw-la &_o operis_fw-la et_fw-la operi_fw-la tamen_fw-la &_o voci_fw-la gratiam_fw-la efficaciamque_fw-la promeretur_fw-la oratio_fw-la that_o be_v of_o those_o three_o necessary_a quality_n the_o great_a and_o most_o necessary_a be_v prayer_n for_o although_o there_o be_v much_o virtue_n in_o exhortation_n and_o example_n yet_o prayer_n be_v that_o which_o procure_v efficacy_n and_o success_n to_o both_o the_o other_o 4._o from_o which_o testimony_n and_o authority_n yea_o even_o from_o the_o light_n of_o natural_a reason_n we_o may_v firm_o conclude_v that_o the_o spirit_n of_o prayer_n be_v so_o absolute_o necessary_a to_o a_o religious_a superior_a that_o without_o it_o he_o can_v exercise_v his_o charge_n proffitable_o either_o to_o himself_o or_o his_o subject_n and_o consequent_o that_o to_o a_o superior_a in_o a_o order_n who_o spirit_n be_v contemplation_n it_o be_v necessary_a that_o he_o have_v attain_v to_o a_o good_a establish_a habit_n of_o contemplative_a prayer_n for_o as_o have_v be_v say_v in_o the_o forego_n discourse_n concern_v spiritual_a guide_n how_o can_v such_o a_o superior_a without_o knowledge_n gain_v by_o experience_n inculcate_v the_o so_o necessary_a duty_n of_o recollection_n and_o prayer_n nay_o rather_o will_v he_o not_o be_v more_o likely_a to_o discountenance_v those_o exercise_n in_o which_o he_o be_v not_o skill_v and_o from_o which_o perhaps_o he_o have_v a_o aversion_n 5._o therefore_o that_o too_o ordinary_o maintain_v position_n of_o some_o that_o active_a spirit_n be_v more_o fit_a for_o superiority_n and_o externall_n employment_n then_o contemplative_a which_o be_v to_o be_v leave_v to_o the_o solitude_n and_o sequestration_n to_o which_o their_o spirit_n incline_v they_o be_v indeed_o most_o unreasonable_a &_o groundless_a 6._o on_o the_o contrary_a no_o doubt_n there_o be_v but_o that_o the_o decay_n of_o religion_n have_v principal_o proceed_v from_o this_o preposterous_a disorder_n viz._n that_o in_o most_o religious_a community_n active_a spirit_n have_v get_v the_o advantage_n to_o possess_v themselves_o of_o prelature_n and_o spiritual_a pastourship_n over_o the_o contemplative_a though_o the_o state_n of_o religion_n be_v institute_v only_o for_o contemplation_n and_o this_o have_v happen_v even_o since_o contemplative_a prayer_n have_v be_v restore_v by_o person_n extraordinary_o raise_v by_o god_n as_o rusbrochius_n thaulerus_n s._n teresa_n etc._n etc._n so_o that_o religious_a community_n have_v be_v order_v even_o in_o the_o point_n of_o spirituallity_n by_o spirit_n of_o a_o quite_o different_a &_o contrary_a temper_n to_o that_o for_o which_o they_o be_v intend_v 7._o indeed_o it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v wonder_v at_o that_o active_a spirit_n shall_v so_o prevail_v consider_v that_o those_o who_o be_v true_o of_o a_o contemplative_a disposition_n and_o design_n know_v well_o the_o difficulty_n and_o danger_n of_o superiority_n how_o full_a of_o extroversion_n distraction_n and_o solicitude_n it_o be_v and_o what_o occasion_n and_o tentation_n there_o be_v in_o it_o to_o raise_v nourish_v and_o satisfy_v sensual_a affection_n pride_n etc._n etc._n to_o the_o peril_n of_o extinguish_v the_o spirit_n of_o prayer_n except_o in_o soul_n far_o advance_v in_o prayer_n and_o mortification_n such_o i_o say_v be_v therefore_o just_o afraid_a of_o and_o do_v use_v all_o lawful_a mean_n to_o avoid_v the_o care_n and_o government_n of_o other_o whereas_o active_a spirit_n that_o live_v in_o religion_n not_o be_v capable_a of_o such_o prayer_n as_o will_v raise_v they_o much_o out_o of_o nature_n have_v not_o the_o like_a apprehension_n of_o such_o employment_n but_o on_o the_o contrary_n be_v lead_n by_o natural_a desire_n of_o preeminence_n and_o love_n of_o liberty_n and_o believe_v that_o those_o who_o be_v true_a internal_a liver_n will_v not_o submit_v themselves_o to_o all_o the_o way_n &_o policy_n use_v for_o the_o increase_a the_o temporal_a good_a of_o their_o community_n do_v not_o fear_v to_o offer_v themselves_o yea_o and_o ambitious_o to_o seek_v dominion_n over_o other_o false_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n persuade_v themselves_o that_o their_o only_a motive_n be_v charity_n and_o a_o desire_n to_o promote_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o the_o advancement_n both_o temporal_a and_o spiritual_a of_o their_o conuent_v or_o congregation_n but_o what_o the_o effect_n be_v experience_n show_v 8._o true_a it_o be_v that_o it_o can_v be_v avoid_v but_o that_o many_o unfit_a spirit_n will_v oft_o be_v admit_v into_o religious_a order_n very_o different_a from_o the_o disposition_n requisite_a though_o it_o belong_v to_o superior_n to_o provide_v as_o well_o as_o may_v be_v against_o such_o a_o abuse_n but_o such_o be_v admit_v of_o active_a disposition_n the_o best_a be_v to_o employ_v they_o in_o active_a exercise_n &_o externall_n matter_n as_o in_o the_o office_n of_o procuration_n dispense_v building_n and_o the_o like_a but_o as_o for_o prelacy_n the_o charge_n of_o instruct_v novice_n or_o other_o office_n pertain_v to_o the_o direct_n of_o soul_n it_o be_v the_o destruction_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o contemplation_n to_o employ_v active_a disposition_n in_o such_o for_o how_o can_v they_o without_o light_n or_o experience_n direct_a soul_n in_o way_n unknowen_a to_o themselves_o yea_o which_o through_o ignorance_n or_o mistake_v they_o perhaps_o disapprove_v 9_o beside_o upon_o exact_a consideration_n it_o will_v be_v find_v that_o in_o the_o point_n of_o government_n contemplative_a spirit_n that_o have_v make_v a_o good_a progress_n in_o internal_a prayer_n have_v great_a advantage_n above_o the_o active_a for_o such_o be_v careful_a themselves_o to_o use_v all_o due_a abstraction_n will_v less_o molest_v themselves_o and_o other_o with_o impertinent_a business_n not_o pry_v too_o narrow_o into_o all_o passage_n as_o if_o they_o seek_v occasion_n of_o show_v their_o authority_n and_o ability_n in_o make_v unnecessary_a reprehension_n to_o the_o disquiet_v of_o community_n but_o for_o peace_n sake_n they_o will_v sometime_o even_o silere_fw-la a_o bonis_fw-la pass_v over_o many_o thing_n which_o do_v seem_v a_o little_a amiss_o wherein_o they_o show_v great_a prudence_n and_o also_o cause_v much_o profit_n to_o subject_n 2._o such_o be_v diligent_a about_o their_o own_o recollection_n do_v out_o of_o a_o love_n to_o silence_n patience_n &_o peace_n forbear_v the_o do_v or_o impose_v of_o a_o multitude_n of_o unnecessary_a task_n upon_o other_o 3._o by_o mean_n of_o prayer_n they_o obtain_v light_a to_o order_v all_o thing_n to_o the_o benefit_n of_o their_o subject_n soul_n and_o in_o case_n they_o have_v err_v or_o be_v defective_a in_o any_o thing_n they_o discover_v and_o amend_v it_o in_o their_o next_o recollection_n 4._o in_o the_o manner_n and_o fashion_n of_o their_o whole_a comportment_n a_o certain_a divine_a grace_n shine_v forth_o which_o be_v of_o great_a efficacy_n to_o win_v their_o subject_n heart_n to_o obedience_n and_o divine_a love._n 5._o yea_o if_o by_o corporal_a infirmity_n they_o be_v disable_v to_o attend_v
to_o many_o externall_n observance_n yet_o a_o view_v of_o the_o patience_n quietness_n and_o resignation_n show_v by_o they_o be_v more_o edify_v to_o soul_n under_o their_o care_n than_o all_o the_o most_o exact_a external_a regularity_n and_o severity_n of_o active_a spirit_n 6._o yea_o even_o in_o regard_n of_o temporal_a benefit_n to_o community_n contemplative_a spirit_n be_v more_o advantageous_a than_o active_a because_o they_o not_o put_v any_o confidence_n in_o their_o own_o industry_n prudence_n and_o activity_n but_o only_o in_o the_o divine_a providence_n which_o be_v never_o want_v to_o those_o that_o for_o temporal_a regard_n will_v not_o do_v any_o thing_n unseemly_a or_o misbecome_a their_o abstract_a state_n do_v enjoy_v the_o effect_n and_o blessing_n of_o god_n far_o more_o plentiful_o while_o they_o prefer_v his_o love_n and_o service_n before_o any_o humane_a distract_n sollicitude_n for_o outward_a thing_n memorable_a example_n of_o great_a blessing_n attend_v such_o a_o confidence_n in_o god_n we_o find_v abundant_o in_o the_o life_n of_o our_o holy_a father_n and_o of_o the_o ancient_a monk_n and_o more_o late_o in_o the_o life_n of_o suso_n joannes_n the_o cruse_n etc._n etc._n now_o the_o want_n of_o such_o confidence_n in_o active_a spirit_n proceed_v mere_o from_o defect_n in_o divine_a love_n and_o that_o from_o the_o want_n of_o internal_a prayer_n and_o hence_o proceed_v hurtful_a &_o unseemly_a compliance_n with_o the_o world_n a_o regard_n rather_o to_o wealth_n then_o good_a will_n to_o serve_v god_n in_o the_o soul_n that_o enter_v into_o religion_n etc._n etc._n 10._o a_o fearful_a example_n of_o the_o mischief_n follow_a the_o neglect_n of_o internal_a prayer_n in_o a_o superior_a we_o find_v in_o bernardinus_fw-la ochinus_n a_o superior_a in_o a_o most_o strict_a order_n who_o be_v a_o famous_a zealous_a preacher_n and_o as_o may_v be_v judge_v by_o outward_a appearance_n of_o more_o than_o ordinary_a sanctity_n yet_o withal_o to_o comply_v with_o those_o outward_a employment_n a_o great_a neglecter_n of_o internal_a conuentuall_a recollection_n and_o when_o he_o be_v sometime_o charitable_o admonish_v of_o such_o his_o tepidity_n his_o ordinary_a answer_n be_v do_v you_o not_o know_v that_o he_o who_o be_v always_o in_o a_o good_a action_n be_v always_o in_o prayer_n which_o say_v of_o his_o have_v be_v true_a if_o such_o good_a action_n have_v be_v perform_v in_o virtue_n of_o prayer_n and_o by_o grace_n obtain_v thereby_o for_o than_o they_o have_v be_v virtual_o prayer_n whereas_o action_n though_o in_o themselves_o never_o so_o good_a if_o they_o want_n that_o purity_n of_o intention_n which_o be_v only_o to_o be_v have_v by_o pure_a prayer_n be_v in_o god_n esteem_n of_o little_a or_o no_o value_v the_o principal_a motive_n of_o they_o be_v no_o other_o than_o such_o as_o corrupt_v nature_n be_v likely_a to_o suggest_v ochinus_n therefore_o continue_v in_o the_o same_o neglect_n be_v by_o one_o of_o his_o brethren_n prophetical_o warn_v that_o he_o must_v expect_v some_o terrible_a issue_n thereof_o in_o these_o word_n cave_n ne_fw-la te_fw-la ordo_fw-la euâ—mat_fw-la that_o be_v take_v heed_n that_o our_o order_n be_v not_o hereafter_o constreive_v to_o vomit_v thou_o out_o of_o it_o the_o which_o unhappy_o fall_v out_o for_o notwithstanding_o all_o his_o other_o specious_a quality_n and_o endowment_n he_o first_o forsake_v god_n be_v afterward_o forsake_v by_o he_o and_o become_v a_o wretched_a antitrinitarian_n apostate_n and_o it_o be_v very_o probable_a that_o the_o great_a part_n of_o the_o apostate_n of_o these_o time_n such_o i_o mean_v as_o have_v former_o live_v in_o religious_a order_n do_v own_o their_o apostasy_n and_o perdition_n to_o no_o other_o cause_n so_o much_o as_o to_o such_o neglect_n and_o apostasy_n first_o from_o prayer_n the_o which_o holy_a exercise_n if_o they_o have_v continue_v they_o will_v never_o have_v be_v weary_a of_o their_o habit_n first_o and_o afterward_o of_o their_o faith_n chap._n viii_o §_o 1._o superior_n ought_v careful_o to_o examine_v the_o disposition_n of_o those_o that_o they_o admit_v to_o religion_n §_o 2._o 3._o great_a danger_n to_o community_n from_o loose_a spirit_n §_o 4._o 5._o other_o ill_a quality_n to_o be_v avoid_v §_o 6._o 7._o 8._o 9_o of_o a_o good_a nature_n what_o be_v and_o how_o to_o be_v prise_v §_o 10._o 11._o inconvenience_n by_o admit_v active_a spirit_n into_o contemplative_a religion_n §_o 12._o 13._o 14._o 15._o sufficient_a time_n for_o recollection_n be_v to_o be_v allow_v to_o all_o religious_a §_o 16._o superior_n will_v be_v accountable_a for_o disorder_n in_o their_o flock_n 1._o now_o one_o of_o the_o principal_a point_n of_o a_o superior_n care_v for_o the_o welfare_n of_o his_o community_n consist_v in_o provide_v or_o admit_v into_o it_o only_o such_o spirit_n and_o disposition_n as_o be_v likely_a to_o promote_v the_o good_a of_o it_o by_o live_v according_a to_o the_o spirit_n of_o it_o and_o in_o this_o all_o such_o officer_n and_o counselor_n be_v concern_v to_o who_o the_o law_n have_v refer_v the_o examination_n and_o trial_n of_o such_o as_o offer_v themselves_o to_o a_o regular_a life_n and_o be_v afterward_o upon_o their_o approbation_n to_o be_v profess_v and_o a_o great_a consideration_n of_o this_o point_n be_v more_o necessary_a in_o these_o day_n then_o ancient_o it_o be_v for_o it_o be_v not_o now_o as_o in_o our_o holy_a father_n time_n when_o incorrigible_a person_n may_v be_v expel_v the_o congregation_n 2._o it_o be_v not_o i_o suppose_v needful_a to_o advise_v such_o as_o be_v in_o those_o office_n to_o take_v care_n how_o they_o admit_v loose_a spirit_n into_o religion_n among_o they_o who_o will_v not_o so_o much_o as_o intend_v god_n or_o his_o service_n all_o who_o action_n have_v no_o other_o motive_n but_o either_o fear_n of_o penance_n or_o hope_n of_o gain_v reputation_n preferment_n &c_n &c_n who_o body_n be_v prisoner_n in_o religion_n but_o their_o mind_n and_o desire_n wander_v in_o the_o world_n who_o must_v enjoy_v all_o privilege_n and_o corporal_a help_n equal_o with_o the_o best_a yea_o and_o general_o use_v they_o most_o wasteful_o without_o consideration_n of_o other_o who_o find_v no_o taste_n or_o contentment_n in_o spiritual_a matter_n be_v even_o force_v to_o seek_v satisfaction_n in_o sensual_a pleasure_n and_o for_o the_o pass_n of_o the_o time_n to_o frame_v design_n to_o raise_v and_o maintain_v faction_n and_o this_o especial_o against_o those_o that_o they_o see_v do_v most_o intend_v god_n on_o who_o they_o will_v cast_v from_o of_o themselves_o all_o the_o burden_n of_o a_o regular_a life_n who_o will_v think_v themselves_o excuse_v from_o all_o duty_n for_o the_o least_o corporal_a incommodity_n who_o will_v desire_v and_o endeavour_v to_o make_v other_o like_o themselves_o that_o their_o party_n and_o power_n may_v be_v great_a last_o who_o reap_v so_o little_a good_a to_o their_o own_o soul_n and_o be_v likely_a to_o do_v so_o much_o prejudice_n to_o other_o that_o probable_o it_o have_v be_v much_o better_a for_o they_o to_o have_v continue_v in_o the_o world_n the_o state_n of_o religion_n only_o serve_v to_o increase_v their_o guilt_n and_o misery_n 3._o such_o loose_a spirit_n be_v worse_o in_o a_o community_n where_o the_o knowledge_n of_o true_a spirituality_n be_v common_a then_o in_o other_o place_n because_o there_o they_o be_v wilful_o naught_o and_o do_v resist_v amendment_n if_o by_o the_o severity_n of_o law_n and_o constitution_n they_o may_v come_v to_o be_v keep_v in_o some_o tolerable_a order_n yet_o this_o reach_n only_o to_o the_o exterior_a &_o last_v no_o long_o than_o the_o superior_n eye_n be_v upon_o they_o and_o indeed_o the_o superior_n themselves_n will_v in_o all_o probability_n feel_v the_o great_a smart_n from_o such_o undue_a admission_n be_v likely_a to_o find_v daily_o great_a bitterness_n from_o their_o obstinacy_n such_o loose_a spirit_n be_v the_o cause_n of_o such_o a_o burdensome_a multiplicity_n of_o law_n all_o which_o notwithstanding_o be_v little_a avayleable_a for_o their_o amendment_n and_o yet_o do_v abridge_v the_o due_a liberty_n of_o spirit_n necessary_a to_o devout_a wellminded_a soul_n nourish_v scrupulosity_n etc._n etc._n in_o they_o 4._o let_v the_o best_a care_n that_o be_v possible_a be_v use_v notwithstanding_o some_o unfit_a person_n will_v through_o easiness_n partial_a affection_n or_o other_o respect_n in_o the_o examiner_n slip_v in_o if_o therefore_o those_o who_o be_v apparent_o bid_v be_v receive_v what_o a_o community_n will_v there_o be_v provide_v many_o that_o seem_v good_a will_v prove_v bad_a but_o seldom_o or_o never_o will_v those_o that_o appear_v bad_a become_v good_a god_n indeed_o can_v change_v the_o worst_a but_o yet_o a_o uncertain_a hope_n in_o extraordinary_a grace_n be_v not_o to_o be_v rely_v upon_o especial_o where_o
the_o degree_n of_o such_o use_n or_o enjoy_n between_o perfect_a good_a christian_n &_o imperfect_a yea_o moreover_o between_o those_o that_o be_v perfect_a in_o a_o active_a &_o those_o in_o a_o contemplative_a state_n for_o wicked_a man_n give_v way_n deliberate_o to_o a_o habitual_a enjoy_n of_o creature_n without_o regard_n to_o their_o soul_n or_o god_n yea_o contrary_a to_o his_o command_n and_o imperfect_a good_a christian_n have_v no_o care_n to_o root_v out_o of_o their_o soul_n a_o habitual_a love_n to_o creature_n except_o it_o be_v such_o a_o love_n as_o endanger_v the_o soul_n by_o expelling_a charity_n and_o last_o those_o that_o be_v perfect_a in_o a_o active_a life_n for_o want_n of_o a_o constant_a state_n of_o recollection_n do_v not_o enjoy_v a_o sufficient_a light_n to_o discover_v how_o in_o many_o thing_n of_o less_o importance_n they_o give_v way_n to_o sense_n prevent_v reason_n &_o enjoy_v outward_a contentment_n without_o that_o purity_n of_o intention_n which_o contemplative_n be_v far_o less_o distract_v do_v much_o more_o frequent_o &_o perfect_o exercise_v 10._o now_o have_v mention_v this_o diversity_n of_o venial_a sin_n &_o imperfection_n before_o i_o come_v to_o speak_v further_o of_o the_o mortification_n here_o intend_v i_o will_v add_v some_o few_o consideration_n touch_v venial_a sin_n with_o relation_n to_o a_o contemplative_a state_n 11._o if_o it_o be_v require_v to_o perfection_n in_o a_o contemplative_a life_n that_o a_o soul_n shall_v be_v entire_o free_a from_o venial_a defect_n it_o will_v be_v impossible_a to_o attain_v unto_o it_o consider_v the_o incurable_a frailty_n of_o our_o nature_n the_o frequency_n of_o tentation_n &_o the_o incapacity_n which_o be_v in_o a_o soul_n to_o be_v in_o a_o continual_a actual_a guard_n over_o herself_o true_a it_o be_v that_o by_o perseverance_n in_o spiritual_a prayer_n accompany_v with_o mortification_n such_o defect_n become_v for_o number_n more_o rare_a &_o for_o quality_n less_o considerable_a but_o though_o prayer_n &_o mortification_n shall_v continue_v never_o so_o long_o a_o soul_n will_v find_v occasion_n &_o a_o necessity_n to_o be_v in_o continual_a resistance_n against_o her_o perverse_a inclination_n &_o in_o such_o combat_n will_v sometime_o come_v off_o with_o loss_n 12._o venial_a sin_n therefore_o be_v not_o inconsistent_a with_o perfection_n although_o they_o shall_v be_v commit_v never_o so_o oft_o out_o of_o frailty_n subreption_n or_o ignorance_n but_o if_o they_o be_v commit_v deliberate_o advise_o customary_o &_o with_o affection_n they_o render_v the_o soul_n in_o a_o incapacity_n of_o attain_v to_o perfection_n in_o prayer_n &c_n &c_n this_o be_v a_o point_n of_o great_a moment_n &_o consideration_n &_o therefore_o that_o we_o may_v distinguish_v aright_o between_o sin_v out_o of_o frailty_n surprise_n or_o infirmity_n &_o the_o sin_v out_o of_o affection_n to_o the_o object_n of_o venial_a sin_n we_o must_v know_v 13._o first_o that_o those_o be_v say_v to_o fall_v into_o venial_a sin_n out_o of_o frailty_n which_o commit_v they_o only_o when_o a_o occasion_n or_o tentation_n unwilling_o present_v itself_o &_o then_o be_v surprise_v with_o a_o sudden_a passion_n or_o deprive_v of_o sufficient_a vigilancy_n &_o reflection_n but_o upon_o a_o observation_n of_o their_o fault_n they_o present_o return_v to_o themselves_o &_o find_v a_o remorse_n &_o selfe-condemnation_n for_o it_o &_o a_o aversion_n at_o least_o in_o their_o superior_a will_n from_o such_o thing_n as_o hinder_v their_o approach_n unto_o god_n or_o if_o this_o be_v not_o do_v present_o however_o in_o their_o next_o recollection_n such_o offence_n if_o they_o be_v of_o any_o moment_n will_v be_v bring_v into_o their_o mind_n &_o will_v procure_v a_o sorrow_n &_o consequent_o a_o pardon_n for_o they_o but_o when_o they_o be_v out_o of_o such_o occasion_n or_o tentation_n they_o do_v not_o give_v way_n to_o a_o pleasure_n conceive_v in_o the_o object_n of_o they_o &_o much_o less_o do_v they_o voluntary_o seek_v or_o intend_v such_o occasion_n 14._o those_o in_o the_o second_o place_n be_v say_v to_o sin_n venial_o out_o of_o affection_n who_o both_o before_o &_o after_o such_o fault_n do_v deliberate_o neglect_v they_o yea_o &_o be_v so_o far_o from_o avoid_v the_o occasion_n of_o they_o that_o they_o do_v oft_o procure_v they_o and_o this_o out_o of_o affection_n not_o to_o the_o salt_n but_o to_o the_o thing_n which_o they_o see_v do_v often_o occasion_v the_o fault_n such_o be_v those_o that_o love_n curiosity_n in_o apparel_n delicacy_n of_o meat_n hear_v of_o vain_a discouse_n &_o that_o contrive_v meeting_n of_o jollity_n from_o whence_o they_o never_o escape_v without_o incur_v many_o defect_n now_o such_o soul_n may_v perhaps_o have_v remorse_n for_o the_o sin_n so_o commit_v &_o mention_v they_o with_o sorrow_n in_o confession_n but_o yet_o such_o remorse_n &_o confession_n be_v not_o from_o the_o whole_a heart_n not_o be_v sufficient_a to_o make_v they_o avoid_v the_o occasion_n when_o this_o may_v be_v do_v without_o much_o inconvenience_n or_o trouble_n yea_o they_o do_v not_o sufficient_o consider_v that_o the_o very_a love_n unto_o those_o vanity_n which_o occasion_n great_a defect_n if_o it_o be_v a_o deliberate_a love_n be_v in_o itself_o a_o sin_n though_o no_o other_o defect_n be_v occasion_v by_o it_o such_o can_v make_v no_o progress_n in_o spiritual_a prayer_n yea_o on_o the_o contrary_a as_o long_o as_o such_o know_v voluntary_a affection_n either_o to_o the_o sin_n or_o occasion_n be_v not_o mortify_v they_o do_v every_o day_n decline_v &_o grow_v more_o &_o more_o indispose_v to_o prayer_n the_o which_o thereby_o be_v so_o distract_a &_o so_o full_a of_o disquiet_v remorse_n that_o it_o be_v almost_o impossible_a to_o persevere_v constant_o in_o a_o exercise_n so_o very_o painful_a 15._o a_o hundred_o imperfection_n therefore_o though_o of_o some_o more_o than_o ordinary_a moment_n be_v not_o so_o contrary_a to_o perfection_n while_o thy_o be_v incur_v by_o surprisal_n or_o infirmity_n as_o be_v a_o affection_n retain_v to_o the_o least_o imperfection_n though_o it_o be_v but_o a_o unproffitable_a thought_n a_o wellminded_n &_o courageous_a soul_n therefore_o at_o her_o first_o entrance_n into_o the_o internal_a way_n of_o the_o spirit_n must_v &_o do_v in_o a_o instant_n cut_v of_o this_o deliberate_a affection_n to_o all_o venial_a sin_n &_o their_o occasion_n with_o discretion_n seek_v to_o avoid_v they_o although_o it_o may_v happen_v without_o any_o great_a prejudice_n to_o her_o progress_n that_o she_o may_v find_v herself_o very_o oft_o surprise_v &_o overcome_v by_o many_o &_o great_a fault_n 16._o neither_o ought_v any_o soul_n vain_o to_o flatter_v herself_o with_o a_o hope_n of_o reserve_v this_o affection_n without_o preiudice_v her_o pretension_n to_o perfection_n because_o one_o or_o two_o example_n almost_o miraculous_a be_v find_v of_o some_o soul_n that_o notwithstanding_o such_o affection_n have_v be_v visit_v by_o god_n with_o supernatural_a favour_n &_o exalt_v to_o a_o very_a sublime_a prayer_n as_o a_o late_a eminent_a saint_n write_v of_o her_o own_o self_n for_o beside_o that_o there_o be_v perhaps_o some_o excusable_a ignorance_n in_o she_o of_o the_o unlawfullnes_n of_o such_o affection_n we_o may_v say_v that_o god_n be_v please_v to_o confer_v on_o she_o such_o extraordinary_a favour_n not_o so_o much_o for_o she_o own_o sake_n but_o rather_o for_o the_o good_a of_o other_o in_o as_o much_o as_o she_o be_v destine_v by_o he_o to_o be_v the_o mistress_n &_o teacher_n of_o true_a contemplative_a prayer_n than_o almost_o unknow_v to_o the_o world_n 17._o but_o most_o certain_a it_o be_v that_o according_a to_o the_o ordinary_a establish_a course_n of_o divine_a providence_n perfection_n in_o prayer_n be_v accompany_v with_o a_o proportionable_a perfection_n in_o mortification_n and_o therefore_o such_o soul_n as_o during_o a_o voluntary_a habitual_a affection_n to_o venial_a sin_n as_o to_o the_o obie&s_n obie&s_n obie&s_n &_o occasion_n of_o they_o do_v seem_v to_o have_v great_a light_n and_o profound_a recollection_n in_o prayer_n if_o the_o say_a light_n and_o recollection_n do_v not_o urge_v and_o incite_v they_o to_o quit_v such_o harmful_a affection_n such_o aught_o to_o suspect_v that_o all_o go_v not_o right_a with_o they_o but_o may_v just_o fear_v that_o the_o devil_n have_v some_o influence_n into_o such_o devotion_n so_o utter_o destitute_a of_o true_a mortification_n chap._n iii_o §_o 1._o natural_o we_o love_v ourselves_o only_o §_o 2._o even_o the_o best_a &_o most_o compose_a temper_n be_v deep_o guilty_a of_o self-love_n §_o 3._o the_o benefit_n of_o such_o good_a disposition_n §_o 4._o self-love_n &_o propriety_n must_v unjuersal_o be_v avoid_v §_o 5._o 6._o a_o state_n of_o affliction_n &_o cross_n be_v only_o secure_a §_o 7._o what_o use_n be_v to_o
as_o follow_v in_o virtue_n of_o a_o precedent_n actual_a intention_n make_v in_o prayer_n etc._n etc._n in_o so_o do_v she_o shall_v perform_v after_o the_o best_a &_o secure_a way_n the_o exercise_n of_o the_o continual_a presence_n of_o god_n so_o much_o commend_v by_o spiritual_a author_n &_o particular_o by_o our_o holy_a father_n in_o the_o first_o degree_n of_o humility_n by_o the_o which_o exercise_n sure_o it_o can_v be_v intend_v that_o a_o soul_n shall_v be_v oblige_v to_o have_v continual_o a_o actual_a remembrance_n of_o god_n for_o this_o be_v the_o same_o with_o actual_a internal_a prayer_n will_v so_o much_o endammage_n the_o head_n of_o imperfect_a soul_n especial_o that_o they_o will_v quick_o be_v disable_v from_o make_v any_o progress_n in_o spirit_n 3._o the_o same_o practice_n likewise_o do_v after_o the_o secure_a manner_n supply_v that_o other_o exercise_n oft_o recommend_v of_o a_o continual_a think_v on_o our_o own_o nothing_o for_o by_o conformity_n to_o the_o foresay_a direction_n propriety_n &_o self-will_a by_o the_o which_o alone_o we_o will_v fain_o seem_v to_o be_v something_o more_o than_o we_o be_v or_o aught_o to_o be_v be_v not_o only_o in_o thought_n imagination_n or_o desire_n of_o mind_n but_o real_o &_o effectual_o abandon_v &_o the_o inordinate_a affection_n of_o the_o soul_n mortify_v &_o annihilate_v and_o it_o be_v only_o for_o this_o end_n that_o the_o say_a exercise_n be_v so_o much_o magnify_v in_o a_o word_n by_o such_o practice_n join_v with_o a_o intention_n to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n &_o his_o divine_a love_n a_o soul_n will_v be_v very_o well_o dispose_v to_o the_o most_o perfect_a prayer_n of_o contemplation_n 4._o such_o a_o world_n there_o be_v of_o condition_n and_o circumstance_n require_v to_o the_o perfection_n of_o every_o action_n both_o touch_v the_o substance_n manner_n motive_n principle_n &_o end_n thereof_o &_o corrupt_a nature_n be_v so_o subtle_a to_o insinuate_v she_o own_o interest_n seek_v they_o in_o every_o thing_n we_o do_v &_o persuade_v we_o that_o we_o renounce_v propriety_n even_o when_o we_o most_o earnest_o intend_v it_o that_o without_o a_o extraordinary_a light_n from_o god_n to_o be_v obtain_v only_o by_o spiritual_a prayer_n we_o can_v discover_v the_o inclination_n of_o our_o own_o heart_n and_o the_o reason_n why_o this_o light_n can_v be_v have_v only_o by_o prayer_n be_v because_o then_o alone_a every_o the_o least_o defect_n &_o most_o secret_a suggestion_n hinder_v our_o view_n &_o contemplation_n of_o god_n and_o our_o tendance_n to_o he_o &_o by_o consequence_n be_v easy_o discernible_a as_o be_v set_v between_o our_o eye_n &_o the_o sun_n whereas_o in_o our_o ordinary_a vocal_a prayer_n &_o external_a good_a action_n only_o great_a tentation_n be_v able_a perceptible_o to_o distract_v us._n 5._o those_o therefore_o that_o do_v not_o pursue_v internal_a prayer_n can_v only_o so_o far_o mortify_v their_o passion_n that_o they_o break_v not_o forth_o into_o outward_a expression_n or_o action_n but_o the_o evil_a root_n remain_v still_o alive_a cause_v inward_a disorder_n very_o displease_v to_o god_n 6._o as_o for_o cross_n and_o adversity_n which_o a_o soul_n undergo_v out_o of_o the_o strength_n of_o reason_n and_o not_o in_o virtue_n of_o divine_a grace_n and_o prayer_n the_o chief_a effect_n of_o they_o be_v only_o to_o vex_v and_o trouble_v nature_n or_o at_o most_o they_o serve_v to_o mortify_v the_o superabundant_a activity_n and_o vigour_n of_o the_o internal_a sense_n and_o natural_a affection_n by_o which_o mean_v the_o person_n may_v become_v more_o judicious_a prudent_a and_o temperate_a but_o they_o pierce_v not_o to_o the_o spirit_n itself_o to_o cause_v any_o purity_n therein_o or_o real_o to_o diminish_v self-love_n moreover_o the_o like_a cross_n undergo_v by_o virtue_n of_o such_o a_o common_a grace_n as_o ordinary_a good_a extrovert_v christian_n do_v enjoy_v though_o they_o may_v be_v helpful_a to_o prevent_v the_o mortal_o poysonnous_a effect_n of_o self-love_n which_o be_v in_o we_o yet_o be_v far_o from_o expel_v that_o secret_a self-love_n which_o lurk_v in_o the_o inmost_a centre_n of_o our_o soul_n so_o that_o they_o may_v remain_v greivous_o full_a of_o stain_n and_o infirmity_n and_o the_o divine_a love_n feeble_a and_o easy_a to_o be_v extinguish_v notwithstanding_o the_o effect_n of_o such_o cross_n 7._o whereas_o difficulty_n undergo_v in_o virtue_n of_o grace_n obtain_v by_o internal_a prayer_n do_v as_o it_o be_v scour_n &_o purity_n the_o spirit_n itself_o from_o the_o rust_n of_o inordinate_a affection_n &_o so_o do_v spiritualise_v all_o the_o faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n cause_v it_o to_o become_v a_o pure_a spirit_n exalt_v and_o separate_v from_o sensible_a object_n &_o all_o adhesion_n to_o they_o from_o which_o all_o vicious_a impurity_n proceed_v this_o be_v that_o division_n of_o the_o soul_n &_o spirit_n mention_v by_o s._n paul_n by_o which_o the_o pure_a spirit_n work_n as_o a_o spirit_n not_o obscure_v nor_o infect_v with_o sensual_a end_n and_o interest_n 8._o the_o way_n of_o mortification_n therefore_o practise_v by_o internal_a contemplative_a liver_n be_v different_a from_o that_o of_o actives_a though_o live_v in_o a_o religious_a state_n &_o well_o advance_v in_o active_a exercise_n for_o these_o endeavour_n to_o mortify_v their_o inordinate_a affection_n by_o combat_v they_o purposely_o &_o direct_o to_o wit_n by_o meditate_v discoursive_o on_o the_o motive_n afford_v by_o christian_a doctrine_n to_o oppose_v they_o as_o a_o consideration_n of_o their_o deformity_n danger_n etc._n etc._n and_o also_o by_o exercise_v a_o act_n of_o virtue_n contrary_a thereto_o so_o repress_v the_o inordinate_a passion_n whereas_o contemplative_a soul_n do_v indirect_o yet_o far_o more_o efficacious_o mortify_v their_o passion_n by_o transcend_v they_o that_o be_v by_o elevate_n &_o unite_n their_o spirit_n to_o god_n with_o the_o help_n of_o pure_a intellectual_a actuation_n by_o this_o mean_n forget_v &_o drown_a both_o their_o sensual_a desire_n yea_o all_o create_a thing_n &_o chief_o themselves_o in_o god_n so_o that_o in_o a_o tentation_n they_o do_v not_o turn_v themselves_o towards_o the_o object_n to_o the_o end_n to_o resist_v &_o contradict_v it_o but_o by_o a_o vigorous_a act_n of_o resignation_n &_o love_n they_o convert_v their_o spirit_n unto_o god_n scorn_v even_o to_o cast_v a_o regard_n or_o glance_n upon_o creature_n that_o will_v allure_v their_o affection_n from_o god_n &_o which_o can_v be_v consider_v except_o in_o god_n without_o leave_v some_o tincture_n &_o imperfection_n in_o the_o soul_n 9_o it_o be_v not_o therefore_o the_o external_a practice_n of_o virtue_n nor_o much_o less_o customary_a frequent_a confession_n communion_n obedience_n austerity_n &c_n &c_n but_o pure_a spiritual_a prayer_n &_o the_o sublime_a degree_n of_o it_o to_o wit_n aspiration_n pure_a elevation_n of_o the_o will_n &_o other_o such_o divine_a operation_n that_o must_v be_v the_o principal_a instrument_n to_o bring_v a_o soul_n to_o a_o state_n of_o perfect_a freedom_n from_o exterior_a &_o interiour_n immortification_n for_o by_o such_o operation_n only_o she_o be_v enable_v to_o transcend_v inferior_a nature_n &_o to_o live_v in_o the_o quiet_a secure_a &_o illuminate_v region_n of_o the_o spirit_n 10._o but_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n till_o a_o devout_a soul_n do_v attain_v to_o such_o perfection_n of_o prayer_n she_o must_v be_v content_a to_o work_v according_a to_o her_o present_a light_n &_o enablement_n so_o endeavour_v to_o correct_v her_o defect_n by_o less_o perfect_a exercise_n &_o such_o as_o partake_v of_o the_o active_a way_n and_o she_o must_v with_o patience_n &_o quietness_n of_o spirit_n bear_v with_o she_o own_o imperfection_n as_o she_o will_v with_o other_o expect_v god_n good_a time_n &_o endeavour_v to_o hasten_v the_o approach_n of_o that_o time_n by_o assiduous_a prayer_n by_o mean_n of_o which_o alone_o she_o may_v come_v to_o expel_v those_o defect_n which_o do_v now_o so_o much_o exercise_v &_o trouble_v she_o &_o also_o to_o discover_v &_o correct_v many_o other_o which_o as_o yet_o her_o eye_n be_v too_o infirm_a &_o dim_a to_o see_v 11._o indeed_o the_o provident_a care_n that_o god_n general_o have_v over_o his_o child_n both_o perfect_a &_o imperfect_a be_v wonderful_a be_v careful_o suit_v to_o their_o present_a state_n for_o he_o do_v not_o usual_o send_v to_o imperfect_a soul_n any_o mortification_n but_o such_o as_o be_v ordinary_a &_o proportionable_a to_o their_o infirmity_n namely_o such_o as_o do_v gall_n &_o afflict_v their_o sensitive_a nature_n but_o do_v not_o pierce_v into_o the_o quick_a &_o centre_n of_o the_o spirit_n that_o remain_v free_a to_o support_v the_o other_o but_o as_o for_o soul_n arrive_v to_o the_o state_n of_o perfection_n or_o near_o it_o god_n do_v usual_o provide_v for_o they_o strange_a
unexpressible_a mortification_n most_o subtle_a tentation_n privation_n &_o desolation_n the_o which_o be_v worthy_o undergo_v do_v wonderful_o purify_v the_o spirit_n the_o former_a mortification_n s._n paul_n express_v thus_o there_o have_v no_o tentation_n take_v you_o but_o such_o as_o be_v according_a to_o ordinary_a humane_a nature_n &c_n &c_n but_o the_o latter_a thus_o our_o wrestle_n be_v not_o against_o flesh_n &_o blood_n the_o usual_a tentation_n of_o god_n imperfect_a child_n but_o against_o principality_n &_o power_n against_o the_o governor_n of_o the_o darkness_n of_o this_o world_n against_o spiritual_a wickedness_n in_o high_a place_n or_o thing_n 12._o every_o act_n of_o mortification_n perform_v by_o virtue_n of_o internal_a prayer_n do_v increase_v in_o we_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n &_o dispose_v we_o to_o a_o more_o perfect_a future_a prayer_n as_o on_o the_o contrary_a every_o act_n of_o immortification_n do_v increase_v in_o we_o self-love_n &_o do_v make_v we_o more_o indispose_v for_o future_a internal_a prayer_n again_o prayer_n enable_v we_o for_o future_a mortification_n teach_v we_o how_o to_o undertake_v &_o support_v they_o so_o that_o these_o duty_n must_v never_o be_v separate_v these_o contain_v all_o that_o a_o internal_a liver_n be_v oblige_v to_o 13._o i_o will_v conclude_v this_o discourse_n concern_v mortification_n in_o gross_a with_o one_o observation_n which_o may_v serve_v for_o a_o caution_n to_o a_o wellminded_n soul_n that_o live_v a_o internal_a life_n to_o prevent_v a_o inconvenience_n which_o otherwise_o may_v perhaps_o surprise_v she_o it_o be_v this_o that_o it_o may_v happen_v that_o religious_a or_o spiritual_a person_n will_v find_v a_o great_a difficulty_n in_o mortify_v &_o renounce_v some_o sensual_a contentment_n after_o they_o have_v enter_v into_o a_o spiritual_a course_n than_o they_o former_o find_v while_o they_o lead_v a_o extrovert_v secular_a life_n in_o the_o world_n now_o this_o happen_v to_o they_o may_v perhaps_o suggest_v either_o scrupulous_a or_o at_o least_o disquiet_v thought_n as_o if_o the_o change_n that_o they_o have_v make_v be_v not_o for_o the_o better_a or_o as_o if_o some_o thing_n they_o well_o know_v not_o what_o be_v amiss_o with_o they_o but_o if_o they_o will_v well_o consider_v of_o the_o matter_n they_o will_v find_v that_o this_o be_v no_o strange_a thing_n nor_o deserve_v that_o they_o shall_v much_o trouble_v themselves_o about_o it_o 14._o for_o the_o reason_n hereof_o be_v 1._o because_o if_o such_o a_o one_o have_v not_o pursue_v a_o internal_a life_n he_o will_v have_v perhaps_o enable_v himself_o to_o quit_v one_o pleasure_n by_o divert_v himself_o from_o thence_o to_o some_o other_o which_o will_v have_v recompense_v &_o satisfy_v for_o that_o loss_n take_v away_o the_o present_a difficulty_n whereas_o in_o a_o spiritual_a life_n a_o soul_n have_v in_o resolution_n abandon_v all_o sensual_a pleasure_n as_o such_o that_o can_v be_v abandon_v she_o can_v recompense_v the_o bitterness_n find_v in_o mortify_v one_o by_o a_o deliberate_a yield_n to_o another_o the_o pleasure_n feel_v in_o enjoy_v whereof_o might_n make_v she_o less_o sensible_a of_o the_o loss_n of_o the_o other_o 2._o again_o a_o imperfect_a soul_n will_v judge_v it_o necessary_a for_o the_o sustain_n of_o corporal_a infirmity_n &_o to_o prevent_v a_o unchearfull_a discontent_a habit_n of_o mind_n to_o allow_v unto_o herself_o some_o contentment_n recreative_a to_o sense_n and_o therefore_o when_o such_o be_v deny_v she_o she_o will_v be_v apt_a to_o be_v impatient_a or_o if_o she_o endeavour_v to_o contradict_v &_o resist_v such_o impatience_n of_o nature_n she_o will_v do_v it_o more_o feeble_o &_o faint_o 3._o because_o it_o be_v impossible_a that_o a_o soul_n can_v live_v &_o not_o take_v pleasure_n in_o something_o or_o other_o that_o assord_n contentment_n either_o to_o the_o sense_n or_o the_o spirit_n now_o a_o spiritual_a person_n be_v yet_o in_o a_o imperfect_a state_n have_v but_o little_a present_a sensible_a pleasure_n in_o the_o exercise_n proper_a to_o his_o way_n except_o god_n now_o &_o then_o visit_v he_o with_o sensible_a devotion_n for_o the_o chief_a pleasure_n that_o spirituality_n afford_v be_v in_o hope_n only_o &_o that_o without_o any_o regard_n to_o the_o body_n it_o regard_v the_o spirit_n alone_o now_o hope_n be_v not_o so_o attractive_a as_o present_v sensual_a contentment_n be_v 4._o beside_o all_o this_o such_o a_o soul_n not_o have_v yet_o chase_v out_o of_o the_o superior_a faculty_n all_o affection_n to_o sensual_a pleasure_n &_o find_v for_o the_o present_a little_a or_o nothing_o but_o pain_n in_o all_o her_o exercise_n both_o of_o mortification_n &_o prayer_n no_o marvel_v if_o when_o pleasure_n sometime_o come_v in_o her_o way_n that_o she_o find_v difficulty_n in_o reject_v it_o indeed_o the_o great_a pain_n come_v not_o from_o the_o particular_a object_n of_o mortification_n but_o rather_o from_o tediousness_n &_o irkesomenes_n in_o be_v continual_o in_o a_o condition_n of_o suffer_v which_o she_o judge_n must_v last_v to_o her_o life_n end_n this_o be_v very_o painful_a to_o a_o imperfect_a soul_n but_o yet_o by_o a_o constant_a practice_n of_o mortification_n &_o prayer_n she_o will_v find_v daily_o a_o abatement_n of_o this_o tediousness_n &_o in_o the_o end_n the_o renounce_n of_o all_o contentment_n of_o sense_n &_o nature_n for_o themselves_o will_v become_v easy_a &_o pleasurable_a to_o she_o 5._o 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
whereof_o it_o be_v very_o requisiite_v that_o the_o allow_v conversation_n shall_v be_v perform_v in_o common_a for_o from_o the_o single_v out_o of_o person_n by_o two_o or_o three_o in_o a_o meeting_n will_v flow_v personal_a engagement_n design_n divide_v from_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o community_n discourse_n tend_v to_o the_o prejudice_n of_o other_o etc._n etc._n 3._o the_o true_a ground_n of_o the_o necessity_n of_o abstraction_n be_v this_o because_o the_o divine_a union_n in_o spirit_n which_o be_v the_o end_n of_o a_o internal_a liver_n can_v be_v attâ—ained_v without_o a_o exclusion_n of_o all_o other_o inferior_a strange_a image_n &_o affection_n therefore_o by_o the_o mean_n of_o abstraction_n the_o soul_n be_v oblige_v to_o bring_v herself_o to_o as_o much_o unity_n vacancy_n &_o simplicity_n as_o may_v be_v for_o this_o end_n a_o religious_a soul_n leave_v the_o world_n &_o if_o she_o practise_v not_o abstraction_n in_o religion_n she_o do_v as_o good_a as_o return_v to_o that_o which_o by_o profession_n she_o have_v renounce_v to_o this_o purpose_n be_v that_o sentence_n of_o the_o wiseman_n sapientia_fw-la in_o tempore_fw-la vacuitatis_fw-la &_o qui_fw-la minoratur_fw-la actu_fw-la sapientiam_fw-la percipiet_fw-la that_o be_v wisdom_n be_v find_v in_o a_o state_n of_o vacancy_n &_o he_o that_o diminish_v external_a employment_n shall_v attain_v unto_o she_o 4._o i_o shall_v in_o the_o next_o treatise_n speak_v more_o on_o this_o subject_n especial_o give_v advice_n how_o a_o internal_a liver_n may_v without_o prejudice_n to_o his_o recollection_n behave_v himself_o in_o distractive_a employment_n &_o office_n impose_v on_o he_o &_o therefore_o i_o will_v say_v no_o more_o here_o 5._o the_o next_o general_a mortification_n be_v solitude_n which_o differ_v from_o abstraction_n only_o in_o this_o that_o solitude_n regard_v the_o exterior_a as_o abstraction_n do_v the_o interiour_n abstraction_n be_v a_o internal_a solitude_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o solitude_n a_o external_a abstraction_n of_o the_o person_n abstraction_n may_v by_o fervent_a soul_n be_v practise_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o noise_n &_o trouble_n of_o the_o world_n preserve_v themselves_o from_o all_o engagement_n of_o their_o affection_n in_o business_n or_o to_o person_n &_o ever_o remain_v free_a to_o attend_v unto_o god_n and_o on_o the_o contrary_a some_o soul_n even_o in_o the_o most_o retire_a external_a solitude_n do_v whole_o plunge_v their_o mind_n &_o affection_n in_o thought_n &_o sollicitude_n about_o person_n &_o business_n abroad_o by_o continual_a endless_a writing_n &_o answer_a letter_n give_v advice_n inquire_v after_o news_n &c_n &c_n by_o which_o mean_n they_o do_v more_o embroyle_v their_o mind_n &_o be_v less_o capable_a of_o spiritual_a conversation_n with_o god_n than_o many_o that_o live_v in_o the_o world_n by_o reason_n that_o their_o retire_a state_n keep_v they_o in_o ignorance_n &_o uncertainty_n about_o the_o success_n of_o their_o advice_n &_o correspondence_n they_o be_v in_o a_o continual_a solicitude_n about_o any_o thing_n but_o their_o own_o soul_n 6._o so_o that_o if_o with_o externall_n solitude_n there_o be_v not_o join_v internal_a abstraction_n &_o prayer_n it_o be_v rather_o a_o hindrance_n than_o a_o instrument_n of_o advance_v spiritual_a perfection_n because_o such_o a_o soul_n be_v moreover_o always_o at_o leisure_n to_o attend_v to_o the_o object_n of_o her_o sollicitude_n &_o so_o root_n more_o fix_o all_o internal_a deordination_n of_o faction_n anger_n pride_n self_n love_n etc._n etc._n hence_o we_o see_v that_o faction_n grow_v sometime_o to_o a_o great_a violence_n in_o many_o retire_a community_n because_o of_o the_o vacancy_n there_o to_o attend_v to_o they_o the_o object_n of_o their_o passion_n likewise_o be_v in_o a_o manner_n continual_o present_a before_o their_o eye_n 7._o there_o be_v another_o which_o may_v be_v call_v a_o philosophical_a solitude_n make_v use_v of_o by_o religious_a person_n not_o with_o a_o design_n the_o more_o free_o to_o seek_v god_n but_o to_o attend_v to_o their_o study_n &_o the_o enrich_a their_o mind_n with_o much_o knowledge_n indeed_o study_v &_o read_v use_v with_o discretion_n &_o if_o the_o matter_n about_o which_o study_n be_v employ_v be_v not_o such_o as_o be_v apt_a to_o puff_n up_o the_o mind_n with_o pride_n or_o a_o forwardness_n to_o dispute_v &_o maintain_v topical_a opinion_n &c_n &c_n may_v be_v no_o inconvenient_a diversion_n for_o a_o contemplative_a spirit_n especial_o since_o that_o manual_a labour_n have_v be_v disuse_v but_o otherwise_o a_o inward_a affection_n to_o curiosity_n of_o knowledge_n be_v perhaps_o caeteris_fw-la paribus_fw-la more_o prejudicial_a to_o contemplation_n &_o produce_v effect_n more_o hurtful_a to_o the_o soul_n because_o more_o deep_o root_v in_o the_o spirit_n itself_o than_o some_o sensual_a affection_n 8._o the_o solitude_n therefore_o here_o recommend_v and_o which_o be_v proper_a to_o a_o religious_a life_n consist_v in_o a_o serious_a affection_n to_o our_o cell_n at_o all_o time_n when_o conventuall_a duty_n do_v not_o require_v the_o contrary_a &_o there_o admit_v no_o conversation_n but_o god_n nor_o no_o employment_n but_o for_o god_n keep_v thy_o cell_n say_v a_o ancient_a holy_a father_n &_o thy_o cell_n will_v teach_v thou_o all_o thing_n a_o soul_n that_o by_o use_v at_o first_o a_o little_a violence_n shall_v bring_v herself_o to_o a_o love_n of_o this_o solitude_n &_o that_o shall_v therefore_o love_v it_o because_o there_o she_o may_v more_o free_o &_o intimate_o converse_v with_o god_n it_o be_v incredible_a what_o progress_n she_o will_v make_v in_o internal_a way_n whereas_o from_o a_o neglect_n of_o such_o solitude_n nothing_o proceed_v but_o tepidity_n sensual_a design_n etc._n etc._n 9_o now_o to_o the_o end_n that_o solitude_n may_v in_o the_o beginning_n become_v less_o tedious_a &_o afterward_o delightful_a religious_a person_n not_o only_o may_v but_o aught_o to_o preserve_v a_o convenient_a &_o discreet_a liberty_n of_o spirit_n about_o their_o employment_n &_o entertainment_n of_o their_o mind_n in_o private_a prudent_o use_v a_o variety_n in_o they_o change_v any_o one_o when_o it_o become_v over-burdensome_a into_o another_o more_o grateful_a sometime_o read_v sometime_o write_v other_o time_n work_v often_o pray_v yea_o if_o they_o shall_v find_v it_o convenient_a sometime_o remain_v for_o a_o short_a space_n in_o a_o kind_n of_o cessation_n from_o all_o both_o externall_n &_o internal_a work_v yet_o ever_o be_v at_o least_o in_o a_o virtual_a attention_n &_o tendance_n to_o god_n refer_v all_o to_o he_o &_o his_o glory_n for_o so_o they_o can_v true_o say_v with_o the_o psalmist_n fortitudinem_fw-la meam_fw-la ad_fw-la te_fw-la custodiam_fw-la i_o will_v reserve_v my_o principal_a strength_n to_o be_v employ_v for_o thou_o o_o my_o god_n all_o other_o employment_n not_o of_o obligation_n be_v both_o for_o the_o manner_n &_o measure_n to_o be_v order_v as_o shall_v be_v most_o commodious_a for_o the_o spirit_n that_o it_o may_v come_v with_o chearfullnes_n &_o a_o appetite_n to_o the_o appoint_a recollection_n suitable_a herto_o be_v the_o counsel_n give_v by_o a_o ancient_a holy_a hermit_n to_o one_o of_o his_o brethren_n demand_v to_o what_o he_o shall_v apply_v himself_o in_o time_n out_o of_o prayer_n he_o answer_v whatsoever_o thy_o mind_n according_a to_o god_n shall_v bid_v thou_o do_v that_o do_v thou_o and_o indeed_o after_o a_o reasonable_a time_n well_o spend_v in_o solitude_n by_o the_o help_n of_o internal_a prayer_n a_o soul_n will_v receive_v a_o divine_a light_n by_o which_o she_o will_v clear_o see_v what_o shall_v be_v most_o convenient_a &_o proper_a for_o she_o at_o all_o time_n to_o do_v 10._o notwitstand_v this_o caution_n be_v to_o be_v use_v that_o if_o in_o any_o employment_n a_o soul_n do_v find_v herself_o carry_v to_o it_o with_o too_o much_o eagerne_v &_o affection_n she_o be_v to_o qualify_v such_o eagerne_n by_o forbear_v &_o a_o while_n interrupt_v her_o present_a exercise_n with_o a_o resignation_n of_o her_o will_n to_o be_v quite_o debar_v from_o it_o if_o such_o be_v god_n will_v for_o her_o good_a &_o actual_o refer_v it_o to_o god_n 11._o it_o be_v very_o remarkable_a the_o great_a &_o studious_a care_n that_o our_o holy_a father_n in_o his_o rule_n take_v to_o recommend_v solitude_n &_o to_o show_v the_o necessity_n of_o it_o as_o likewise_o to_o imprint_v deep_o in_o the_o mind_n of_o his_o disciple_n not_o only_o a_o great_a aversion_n but_o even_o a_o fear_n &_o horror_n of_o the_o world_n all_o thing_n must_v be_v provide_v &_o execute_v within_o door_n ut_fw-la non_fw-la sit_fw-la necessitas_fw-la evagandi_fw-la that_o no_o necessity_n may_v force_v the_o religious_a to_o be_v gad_v abroad_o and_o in_o case_n there_o shall_v be_v a_o unavoidable_a necessity_n thereto_o prayer_n be_v appoint_v to_o be_v make_v for_o
well_o as_o other_o who_o ought_v to_o be_v very_o far_o from_o favour_v this_o pernicious_o officious_a and_o uncharitable_a humour_n of_o accuse_v or_o inform_v in_o any_o of_o their_o religious_a much_o less_o ought_v they_o to_o esteem_v that_o their_o authority_n can_v extend_v to_o the_o prejudice_n of_o brotherly_a charity_n so_o far_o as_o to_o excuse_v or_o however_o to_o oblige_v any_o one_o to_o be_v a_o accuser_n or_o informer_n against_o his_o brethren_n a_o pretence_n of_o do_v good_a to_o their_o subject_n soul_n will_v be_v allege_v by_o such_o superior_n as_o be_v of_o a_o curious_a inquisitive_a disposition_n and_o be_v continual_o search_v into_o the_o behaviour_n of_o their_o religious_a but_o little_a good_a reformation_n will_v ever_o be_v wrought_v by_o such_o a_o humour_n of_o jealous_a curiosity_n on_o the_o contrary_a the_o effect_n of_o it_o be_v the_o breed_n of_o discontent_n general_o in_o all_o and_o the_o great_a mischief_n to_o the_o soul_n of_o private_a uncharitable_a informer_n 10._o it_o be_v more_o secure_a for_o one_o that_o be_v apt_a to_o offend_v in_o his_o tongue_n to_o be_v in_o company_n of_o many_o then_o of_o one_o or_o two_o who_o he_o affect_v therefore_o particular_a intimacy_n and_o private_a correspondence_n between_o religious_a be_v much_o to_o be_v avoid_v both_o for_o the_o peace_n of_o community_n and_o the_o good_a of_o each_o private_a religious_a person_n 11._o no_o word_n be_v to_o be_v speak_v nor_o action_n do_v mere_o upon_o the_o motive_n of_o edify_v other_o and_o indeed_o where_o recreative_a conversation_n be_v allow_v the_o most_o commodious_a subject_n of_o discourse_n be_v pure_o indifferent_a thing_n and_o such_o as_o be_v neither_o apt_a to_o move_v passion_n nor_o to_o leave_v distract_n image_n in_o the_o hearer_n mind_n 12._o upon_o this_o occasion_n i_o conceive_v it_o necessary_a to_o add_v some_o advice_n touch_v religious_a recreation_n the_o which_o be_v not_o to_o be_v conclude_v fit_a to_o be_v prohibit_v because_o we_o say_v that_o the_o duty_n of_o mortification_n extend_v itself_o universal_o to_o the_o whole_a soul_n and_o that_o it_o be_v to_o be_v continue_v to_o the_o end_n of_o one_o life_n on_o the_o contrary_a not_o only_a reason_n but_o the_o example_n of_o the_o most_o perfect_a among_o the_o ancient_a saint_n famous_a for_o contemplation_n show_v that_o it_o be_v profitable_a yea_o at_o due_a time_n necessary_a to_o this_o purpose_n seem_v the_o story_n of_o s._n john_n the_o evangelist_n the_o first_o doctor_n and_o example_n of_o contemplation_n who_o custom_n be_v to_o recreate_v himself_o with_o a_o tame_a dove_n for_o which_o be_v censure_v by_o a_o hunter_n that_o pass_v by_o as_o for_o a_o action_n that_o be_v beneath_o his_o gravity_n and_o not_o beseem_v one_o that_o profess_v a_o continual_a conversation_n with_o god_n he_o defend_v himself_o to_o the_o conviction_n of_o the_o reprover_n by_o show_v that_o as_o a_o bow_n if_o it_o be_v always_o bend_v will_v loose_v its_o force_n so_o the_o mind_n likewise_o will_v become_v utter_o uncapable_a of_o divine_a thought_n if_o no_o relaxation_n be_v allow_v to_o it_o consider_v the_o infirmity_n of_o the_o body_n that_o can_v always_o supply_v fit_a spirit_n to_o action_n especial_o to_o such_o as_o be_v so_o contrary_a to_o its_o inclination_n 13._o true_a it_o be_v that_o in_o our_o holy_a rule_n there_o be_v extant_a not_o order_n about_o conuentuall_a recreation_n which_o argue_v that_o none_o be_v practise_v in_o those_o day_n yea_o our_o holy_a father_n take_v a_o particular_a care_n how_o every_o hour_n of_o the_o day_n shall_v be_v employ_v in_o common_a notwithstanding_o after_o refection_n he_o enjoin_v the_o religious_a to_o retire_v each_o one_o into_o his_o cell_n permit_v they_o a_o convenient_a time_n to_o refresh_v themselves_o alone_o either_o with_o sleep_n as_o the_o custom_n be_v in_o that_o warm_a climate_n or_o otherwise_o as_o they_o find_v themselves_o dispose_v if_o they_o have_v no_o inclination_n to_o sleep_v for_o no_o certain_a employment_n be_v then_o appoint_v 14._o but_o because_o in_o these_o latter_a day_n our_o complexion_n be_v not_o suppose_v able_a to_o support_v so_o great_a solitude_n and_o attention_n to_o the_o spirit_n as_o have_v be_v say_v therefore_o have_v superior_n allow_v and_o ordain_v daily_o certain_a time_n for_o recreative_a conference_n almost_o oblige_v each_o particular_a religious_a person_n to_o be_v present_a at_o they_o and_o beside_o at_o certain_a season_n monthly_a or_o as_o the_o custom_n be_v they_o have_v afford_v a_o addition_n to_o the_o diet._n 15._o neither_o do_v this_o prejudice_n the_o duty_n of_o continual_a mortification_n which_o be_v not_o to_o be_v interpret_v in_o extreme_a rigour_n because_o then_o nature_n even_o in_o the_o able_a complexion_n will_v be_v destroy_v and_o beside_o recreation_n be_v appoint_v that_o mortification_n may_v be_v better_a &_o more_o fervent_o exercise_v afterward_o add_v herunto_o that_o even_o in_o recreation_n itself_o mortification_n may_n and_o aught_o in_o some_o reasonable_a degree_n to_o be_v discreet_o exercise_v so_o as_o that_o the_o mind_n be_v not_o to_o power_n itself_o forth_o upon_o that_o which_o be_v pleasant_a to_o nature_n but_o to_o keep_v a_o moderate_a watchfullnesse_n over_o itself_o and_o to_o refer_v the_o contentment_n find_v therein_o to_o the_o good_a of_o the_o spirit_n 16._o to_o speak_v a_o little_a therefore_o particular_o touch_v such_o conference_n decency_n be_v in_o gross_a to_o be_v observe_v but_o it_o will_v be_v difficult_a to_o prescribe_v any_o set_v order_n or_o manner_n for_o the_o talk_n as_o not_o to_o speak_v unasked_a not_o to_o exceed_v such_o a_o limitation_n of_o word_n &c._n &c._n to_o omit_v many_o particular_a caution_n which_o at_o other_o time_n be_v to_o be_v observe_v here_o some_o more_o freedom_n must_v be_v allow_v so_o it_o go_v not_o too_o far_o 17._o among_o woman_n there_o can_v scarce_o be_v any_o recreation_n if_o the_o tongue_n be_v too_o much_o stint_v neither_o be_v it_o to_o be_v expect_v that_o their_o talk_n shall_v be_v of_o spiritual_a matter_n both_o because_o such_o talk_n be_v far_o from_o be_v recreative_a as_o likewise_o because_o none_o but_o expert_a person_n ought_v to_o discourse_v of_o such_o subject_n indeed_o to_o make_v such_o the_o subject_n of_o ordinary_a discourse_n even_o between_o the_o most_o able_a experience_a person_n either_o man_n or_o woman_n be_v not_o convenient_a at_o all_o except_o some_o special_a occasion_n make_v it_o expedient_a for_o it_o usual_o proceed_v from_o pride_n or_o a_o willingness_n to_o interest_n one_o self_n in_o the_o guide_n of_o the_o conscience_n of_o other_o and_o may_v produce_v inconvenient_a effect_n in_o both_o 18._o the_o matter_n and_o condition_n of_o recreative_a discourse_n therefore_o may_v be_v 1._o that_o the_o matter_n do_v not_o particular_o refer_v to_o the_o interiour_n of_o any_o of_o the_o party_n but_o if_o it_o regard_v a_o religious_a state_n that_o it_o be_v about_o less_o considerable_a external_a matter_n as_o ceremony_n custom_n etc._n etc._n 2._o that_o it_o may_v be_v some_o thing_n that_o may_v be_v apt_a to_o cause_v chearfullnes_n though_o not_o laughter_n which_o our_o holy_a father_n will_v have_v banish_v from_o his_o community_n now_o discourse_v about_o such_o matter_n be_v not_o to_o be_v repute_v idle_a word_n 3._o it_o be_v better_a to_o talk_v of_o the_o ocurrence_n of_o former_a time_n then_o of_o the_o present_a because_o our_o holy_a father_n forbid_v the_o inquire_a or_o tell_v of_o news_n in_o the_o world_n for_o fear_v lest_o the_o hearer_n be_v interest_v may_v become_v distract_v with_o sollicitude_n 4._o it_o must_v not_o therefore_o be_v of_o any_o thing_n that_o probable_o will_v leave_v in_o the_o mind_n any_o hurtful_a image_n 5._o the_o hearer_n be_v not_o to_o suffer_v the_o subject_n of_o the_o discourse_n to_o enter_v so_o deep_a into_o his_o mind_n as_o that_o it_o shall_v raise_v any_o passion_n there_o 6._o it_o must_v by_o no_o mean_n be_v of_o any_o thing_n â—y_a which_o any_o one_o present_a or_o absent_a may_v be_v prejudice_v or_o contristate_v nor_o indeed_o afterward_o distract_v etc._n etc._n 19_o as_o touch_v those_o that_o be_v natural_o of_o melancholic_a disposition_n they_o ought_v to_o be_v exceed_o watchful_a over_o themselves_o that_o they_o give_v not_o way_n to_o so_o pestilent_a a_o humour_n nature_n will_v incline_v they_o to_o avoid_v all_o recreation_n and_o diversion_n and_o be_v very_o subtle_a it_o will_v suggest_v pretence_n to_o justify_v a_o froward_a loneliness_n &_o a_o humour_n not_o able_a to_o support_v innocent_a conversation_n as_o if_o this_o be_v do_v out_o of_o a_o love_n to_o a_o religious_a solitude_n and_o recollection_n but_o in_o all_o likelihood_n such_o a_o perverse_a solitude_n be_v employ_v
direct_a combat_n against_o the_o appetits_fw-fr of_o it_o and_o only_o from_o the_o decay_n &_o ignorance_n of_o such_o prayer_n have_v it_o proceed_v that_o spiritual_a directour_n have_v be_v force_v to_o multiply_v such_o &_o so_o many_o nice_a observance_n about_o diet_n and_o other_o duty_n of_o our_o rule_n all_o which_o notwithstanding_o without_o prayer_n have_v but_o small_a effect_n to_o produce_v solid_a virtue_n in_o the_o soul_n 16._o a_o soul_n perfect_o spiritualise_v if_o she_o may_v have_v she_o wish_v will_v willing_o be_v free_v not_o only_o from_o all_o pleasure_n take_v in_o refection_n consider_v the_o daily_a tentation_n to_o excess_n but_o even_o from_o the_o necessity_n of_o they_o be_v force_v to_o cry_v out_o with_o david_n de_n necessitatibus_fw-la meis_fw-la erue_fw-la i_o domine_fw-la o_fw-la lord_n free_v i_o from_o these_o my_o corporal_a necessity_n for_o be_v it_o not_o for_o they_o she_o may_v always_o like_o a_o angel_n be_v in_o continual_a contemplation_n &_o enjoy_v a_o never-failing_a internal_a light_n the_o which_o be_v obscure_v by_o the_o fume_n raise_v even_o by_o the_o most_o temperate_a refection_n by_o which_o also_o passion_n be_v in_o some_o degree_n quicken_v such_o soul_n may_v indeed_o proper_o be_v say_v to_o have_v a_o disaffection_n to_o refection_n and_o the_o best_a way_n beside_o &_o out_o of_o prayer_n to_o beget_v such_o disaffection_n &_o to_o prevent_v the_o harm_n that_o may_v come_v from_o any_o corporal_a necessity_n will_v be_v not_o only_o to_o practice_v the_o mortify_n of_o sensual_a contentment_n in_o go_v to_o the_o refectory_n but_o upon_o serious_a consideration_n of_o the_o tentation_n there_o to_o be_v find_v to_o go_v with_o a_o kind_n of_o unwillingnes_n &_o fear_n 17._o a_o most_o noble_a kind_n of_o mortification_n in_o refection_n be_v that_o mention_v by_o harphius_n of_o a_o certain_a holy_a brother_n of_o the_o order_n of_o s._n francis_n call_v rogerius_n who_o by_o mean_n of_o elevate_n the_o power_n of_o his_o soul_n &_o suspend_v they_o in_o god_n during_o refection_n lose_v all_o perception_n of_o taste_n in_o eat_v &_o when_o he_o find_v himself_o unable_a so_o to_o elevate_v his_o soul_n he_o will_v for_o so_o long_o forbear_v to_o eat_v of_o any_o thing_n that_o may_v afford_v any_o gust_n but_o this_o practice_n belong_v only_o to_o the_o perfect_a it_o may_v prove_v prejudicial_a &_o dangerous_a to_o the_o ordinary_a sort_n of_o less_o perfect_a soul_n or_o any_o that_o have_v not_o a_o especial_a &_o certain_a inspiration_n to_o imitate_v it_o 18._o the_o like_a may_v be_v say_v of_o the_o manner_n of_o mortification_n practise_v by_o some_o of_o the_o ancient_a hermit_n who_o use_v to_o mix_v a_o few_o drop_n of_o oil_n esteem_v by_o they_o a_o great_a delicacy_n with_o their_o vinegar_n to_o the_o end_n thereby_o to_o provoke_v the_o appetite_n to_o desire_v more_o the_o which_o they_o deny_v to_o it_o or_o of_o another_o who_o have_v receive_v a_o bunch_n of_o grape_n ravenous_o devour_v they_o partly_o to_o make_v the_o gustfull_a pleasure_n so_o much_o the_o short_a &_o partly_o as_o he_o say_v to_o cozen_v the_o devil_n to_o who_o he_o desire_v to_o appear_v a_o glutton_n 19_o a_o soul_n that_o practise_v internal_a prayer_n may_v content_v herself_o with_o a_o moderate_a attention_n to_o what_o be_v read_v during_o refection_n and_o the_o like_a may_v be_v say_v of_o that_o part_n of_o the_o office_n which_o in_o some_o community_n be_v say_v immediate_o after_o dinner_n because_o too_o earnest_a a_o attention_n and_o recollectednes_n at_o such_o time_n will_v prejudice_n the_o head_n and_o stomach_n a_o soul_n therefore_o may_v esteem_v this_o to_o be_v as_o a_o time_n of_o desolation_n as_o indeed_o there_o be_v some_o resemblance_n 20._o concern_v the_o use_n of_o physic_n &_o caution_n to_o be_v use_v about_o it_o some_o instruction_n shall_v be_v give_v in_o the_o last_o treatise_n where_o we_o come_v to_o speak_v how_o a_o soul_n be_v to_o behave_v herself_o in_o regard_n of_o her_o prayer_n during_o sickness_n 21._o last_o the_o matter_n of_o sleep_n be_v not_o wnworthy_a the_o ear_n of_o a_o spiritual_a person_n for_o certain_a it_o be_v that_o a_o full_a repast_n do_v not_o so_o much_o plunge_v a_o soul_n in_o sensuality_n nor_o so_o indispose_v she_o for_o spiritual_a exercise_n as_o a_o long_a &_o profound_a sleep_n from_o whence_o even_o a_o perfect_a soul_n will_v not_o be_v able_a to_o raise_v herself_o into_o exercise_n of_o the_o spirit_n without_o much_o difficulty_n &_o long_o strive_v 22._o and_o on_o these_o ground_n doubtless_o it_o be_v that_o the_o midnight_n office_n be_v appoint_v to_o the_o end_n to_o interrupt_v sâ—eepe_a yea_o ancient_o the_o three_o nocturne_n be_v therefore_o divide_v namely_o to_o prevent_v the_o immersing_a of_o soul_n in_o sensual_a nature_n 23._o for_o imperfect_a soul_n it_o may_v be_v very_o prejudicial_a for_o they_o to_o be_v deprive_v of_o a_o convenient_a measure_n of_o sleep_n yet_o it_o be_v 〈◊〉_d â—eing_v it_o shall_v be_v interrupt_v it_o be_v likewise_o good_a for_o they_o to_o go_v to_o bed_n with_o a_o affection_n &_o desire_v so_o be_v early_o up_o for_o such_o a_o affection_n will_v cause_v their_o sleep_n to_o be_v mix_v with_o a_o little_a solicitude_n the_o which_o will_v dispose_v they_o both_o to_o wake_v soon_o and_o to_o rise_v with_o less_o unwillingnes_n 24._o in_o case_n that_o one_o be_v in_o bed_n can_v sleep_v it_o be_v uâ—ry_o dangerous_a to_o continue_v in_o a_o state_n of_o mere_a negligence_n &_o idleness_n because_o than_o not_o only_o vain_a but_o veâ—y_n hurtful_a &_o pernicious_a thought_n will_v be_v apt_a to_o press_v into_o the_o mind_n for_o a_o prevention_n or_o remedy_n against_o which_o i_o shall_v by_o no_o mean_n advise_v one_o to_o betake_v himself_o to_o any_o serious_o recollect_v thought_n or_o exercise_n of_o devotion_n for_o that_o will_v quite_o hinder_v sleep_n for_o the_o future_a and_o spoil_v the_o next_o day_n recollection_n the_o like_a i_o say_v of_o the_o time_n immediate_o go_v before_o bedtime_n but_o in_o case_n they_o be_v simple_o vain_a thought_n that_o then_o wander_v unsetle_o in_o his_o mind_n let_v he_o not_o willing_o pursue_v they_o but_o rather_o neglect_v they_o whereas_o if_o they_o be_v sinful_a imagination_n set_v he_o as_o well_o as_o he_o can_v divert_v quiet_o his_o mind_n from_o they_o and_o now_o &_o then_o without_o much_o force_n lift_v up_o his_o mind_n unto_o god_n or_o use_v some_o familiar_a prayer_n or_o say_v the_o bead_n without_o much_o force_a attention_n yet_o more_o attention_n be_v require_v against_o sinful_a then_o vain_a thought_n 25._o as_o for_o perfect_a soul_n their_o prayer_n in_o such_o a_o case_n will_v less_o hinder_v sleep_n by_o reason_n it_o be_v both_o so_o pure_a &_o so_o facile_a that_o it_o be_v become_v almost_o as_o natural_a as_o breathe_v &_o perform_v without_o any_o agitation_n of_o the_o spirit_n or_o revolve_v of_o image_n in_o the_o internal_a sense_n chap._n vii_o §_o 1._o of_o the_o mortification_n of_o anger_n by_o patience_n §_o 2._o 3._o 4._o 5._o here_o be_v treat_v of_o smaller_n impatience_n chief_o scarce_o observable_a but_o by_o recollect_v liver_n §_o 6._o patience_n to_o be_v exercise_v at_o all_o time_n even_o in_o joy_n &_o prosperity_n §_o 7._o 8._o 9_o we_o ought_v to_o aspire_v to_o a_o indifference_n §_o 10._o patience_n towards_o god_n afflict_v we_o be_v easy_a than_o towards_o man._n §_o 11._o 12._o 14._o 15._o 16._o 17._o 18._o seven_o degree_n of_o patience_n §_o 19_o example_n of_o seem_o extravagant_a kind_n of_o patience_n etc._n etc._n §_o 20._o prayer_n the_o only_a efficacious_a instrument_n to_o get_v patience_n §_o 21._o all_o action_n except_o actual_a prayer_n be_v in_o some_o degree_n defectuous_a 1._o the_o next_o passion_n to_o be_v mortify_v be_v anger_n the_o which_o whosoever_o willing_o suffer_v to_o arise_v &_o increase_v or_o that_o deliberate_o yield_v to_o trouble_v of_o mind_n for_o any_o matter_n that_o concern_v the_o body_n health_n fortune_n life_n &c_n &c_n yea_o or_o pretend_v soul_n good_a such_o a_o one_o real_o make_v more_o esteem_n of_o they_o then_o of_o the_o solid_a good_a of_o his_o soul_n for_o as_o far_o as_o anger_n get_v a_o mastery_n over_o he_o so_o far_o he_o lose_v that_o dominion_n that_o his_o soul_n ought_v to_o have_v over_o all_o other_o thing_n &_o put_v reason_n out_o of_o its_o throne_n herupon_o our_o saviour_n say_v in_o patientia_fw-la vestra_fw-la possidebitis_fw-la animas_fw-la vestras_fw-la that_o be_v by_o patience_n you_o shall_v keep_v the_o possession_n of_o your_o soul_n as_o imply_v that_o by_o impatience_n we_o lose_v that_o possession_n and_o what_o great_a loss_n can_v we_o have_v hence_o it_o be_v also_o that_o
be_v apt_a not_o only_o to_o think_v better_o of_o ourselves_o then_o of_o any_o other_o to_o excuse_v our_o own_o fault_n &_o to_o accuse_v even_o the_o best_a action_n of_o other_o &c._n &c._n but_o also_o to_o raise_v up_o ourselves_o against_o &_o above_o god_n himself_o consider_v ourselves_o as_o if_o we_o be_v both_o the_o principle_n &_o end_n of_o all_o good_a challenge_v to_o ourselves_o the_o praise_n of_o all_o either_o real_a or_o imaginary_a good_a in_o we_o &_o refer_v all_o thing_n to_o our_o own_o contentment_n 15._o by_o a_o serious_a &_o frequent_a consideration_n of_o these_o thing_n way_n will_v be_v make_v for_o the_o introduce_v of_o true_a solid_a humility_n into_o our_o soul_n but_o yet_o these_o alone_a will_v not_o suffice_v except_o thereto_o we_o join_v 1._o abstraction_n of_o life_n by_o which_o we_o will_v come_v to_o overlook_v &_o forget_v the_o imperfection_n of_o other_o &_o only_o look_v upon_o our_o own_o thence_o fly_v employment_n charge_n &_o deal_n with_o other_o or_o when_o necessity_n require_v a_o treat_v with_o other_o do_v it_o with_o all_o modesty_n charity_n &_o a_o cordial_a respectfullnes_n be_v confound_v at_o our_o own_o praise_n &c_n &c_n 2._o a_o care_n to_o practice_v according_a to_o what_o humility_n oblige_v we_o with_o quietness_n of_o mind_n accept_v humiliation_n contempt_n &c_n &c_n from_o other_o endeavour_v to_o welcome_a they_o &_o even_o to_o take_v joy_n in_o they_o &c_n &c_n 3._o but_o especial_o internal_a prayer_n by_o which_o we_o not_o only_o get_v a_o more_o perfect_a light_n to_o discover_v a_o world_n of_o former_o unseen_a imperfection_n but_o also_o we_o approach_v near_o to_o god_n &_o get_v a_o more_o perfect_a sight_n of_o he_o in_o who_o all_o creature_n ourselves_o &_o all_o do_v vanish_v &_o be_v annihilate_v 16._o now_o when_o by_o these_o mean_v humility_n begin_v to_o get_v a_o little_a strength_n in_o we_o it_o be_v wonderful_a to_o see_v how_o inventive_a &_o ingenious_a it_o be_v in_o find_v way_n to_o increase_v in_o perfection_n then_o this_o degree_n of_o prefer_v all_o other_o whatsoever_o before_o ourselves_o will_v appear_v not_o only_o possible_a but_o easy_a to_o be_v practise_v as_o be_v most_o conformable_a to_o reason_n &_o duty_n 17._o for_o then_o a_o devout_a soul_n know_v how_o valuable_a &_o necessary_a a_o virtue_n humility_n be_v by_o which_o alone_o that_o most_o deadly_a poison_n of_o our_o soul_n pride_n be_v destroy_v 1._o she_o will_v become_v scarce_o able_a to_o see_v any_o thing_n in_o herself_o but_o what_o be_v true_o her_o own_o that_o be_v her_o defectuousnes_n &_o nothing_o nor_o any_o thing_n in_o other_o but_o what_o be_v god_n and_o thus_o do_v she_o can_v choose_v but_o humble_a herself_o under_o all_o other_o prefer_v all_o other_o before_o herself_o &_o this_o without_o fiction_n with_o all_o sincerity_n &_o simplicity_n 2._o she_o will_v never_o compare_v herself_o with_o other_o but_o to_o the_o intent_n to_o abase_v herself_o 3._o if_o there_o be_v in_o she_o any_o natural_a endowment_n want_v to_o other_o she_o will_v consider_v they_o as_o not_o her_o own_o but_o god_n commit_v to_o her_o trust_n to_o the_o end_n to_o trade_n with_o they_o for_o god_n glory_n only_o of_o which_o trust_n a_o severe_a account_n shall_v be_v require_v and_o be_v conscious_a of_o her_o negligence_n &_o ingatitude_n she_o will_v be_v so_o far_o from_o glorify_v herself_o for_o such_o endowment_n that_o she_o will_v rather_o esteem_v they_o happy_a that_o want_n they_o 4._o if_o she_o have_v any_o supernatural_a grace_n which_o other_o want_n yea_o or_o if_o other_o be_v guilty_a of_o many_o open_a sin_n she_o will_v consider_v that_o she_o may_v according_a to_o her_o demerit_n be_v deprive_v of_o they_o &_o other_o enrich_v with_o they_o who_o in_o all_o likelihood_n will_v make_v better_a use_n of_o they_o for_o she_o know_v by_o many_o woeful_a experiment_n the_o perverseness_n of_o her_o own_o heart_n but_o be_v utter_o ignorant_a of_o other_o &_o therefore_o can_v without_o breach_n of_o charity_n suspect_v that_o they_o will_v be_v so_o ingrateful_a 5._o she_o will_v not_o take_v notice_n of_o lesser_a imperfection_n in_o other_o yea_o not_o know_v their_o secret_a intention_n she_o will_v judge_v that_o those_o thing_n which_o seem_v to_o be_v imperfection_n may_v perhaps_o be_v meritorious_a action_n 6._o in_o a_o word_n consider_v that_o god_n have_v make_v she_o a_o judge_n of_o herself_o only_o to_o the_o end_n to_o condemn_v herself_o &_o of_o other_o only_o to_o excuse_v they_o &_o know_v that_o there_o can_v be_v no_o peril_n in_o judge_v if_o it_o be_v possible_a too_o hardly_o of_o one_o self_n but_o much_o in_o judge_v the_o worst_a of_o another_o in_o the_o small_a thing_n though_o other_o be_v never_o so_o wicked_a yet_o at_o least_o she_o will_v judge_v this_o that_o if_o god_n have_v afford_v they_o the_o light_n &_o help_n that_o she_o enjoy_v they_o will_v have_v be_v angel_n in_o purity_n compare_v with_o she_o &_o however_o that_o at_o least_o they_o be_v not_o guilty_a of_o such_o ingratitude_n as_o she_o be_v 18._o by_o such_o consideration_n as_o these_o a_o devout_a soul_n will_v fix_v in_o her_o understanding_n a_o belief_n of_o her_o own_o vileness_n &_o baseness_n for_o to_o make_v humility_n a_o virtue_n it_o be_v the_o will_n that_o must_v even_o compel_v the_o understanding_n to_o say_v i_o will_v believe_v myself_o to_o be_v inferior_a to_o all_o according_a as_o i_o find_v just_a cause_n by_o these_o consideration_n and_o the_o same_o will_n will_v upon_o occasion_n force_v practice_n suitable_a to_o such_o a_o belief_n it_o will_v make_v the_o soul_n afraid_a to_o seek_v thing_n please_v to_o she_o yea_o content_n with_o all_o hard_a usage_n as_o know_v she_o deserve_v far_o worse_o &_o aught_o to_o expect_v to_o be_v tread_v underfoot_o by_o all_o creature_n so_o that_o in_o love_n to_o justice_n &_o equality_n she_o will_v even_o desire_v &_o rejoice_v in_o all_o affront_n persecution_n &_o contempt_n or_o if_o certain_a circumstance_n as_o infirmity_n of_o body_n etc._n etc._n shall_v require_v and_o that_o she_o be_v necessitate_v to_o choose_v or_o desire_v any_o consolation_n she_o will_v accept_v they_o in_o the_o spirit_n of_o humility_n &_o mortification_n that_o be_v pure_o in_o obedience_n to_o the_o divine_a will_n &_o not_o at_o all_o for_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o nature_n be_v far_o from_o think_v herself_o worthy_a of_o any_o thing_n but_o want_n pain_n &_o contempt_n 19_o nowv_o a_o superior_a be_v not_o to_o be_v judge_v to_o offend_v against_o this_o degree_n of_o humility_n when_o he_o discover_v object_n reprehend_v or_o punish_v the_o fault_n of_o his_o subject_n for_o in_o so_o do_v he_o sustain_v the_o person_n of_o god_n to_o who_o alone_o it_o belong_v to_o exercise_v the_o office_n of_o a_o judge_n yet_o withal_o the_o superior_a ought_v not_o therefore_o to_o esteem_v himself_o better_a than_o the_o person_n reprehend_v for_o though_o perhaps_o in_o that_o one_o respect_v he_o can_v much_o condemn_v himself_o yet_o for_o many_o other_o fault_n which_o he_o see_v in_o himself_o &_o can_v see_v in_o other_o he_o may_v &_o aught_o to_o remain_v humble_v yea_o to_o be_v the_o more_o confound_v whensoever_o the_o duty_n of_o his_o place_n require_v of_o he_o to_o be_v a_o reprehend_a of_o other_o while_o himself_o do_v far_o more_o deserve_v reprehension_n 20._o when_o by_o serious_a practice_n of_o humiliation_n join_v with_o prayer_n a_o soul_n be_v come_v to_o a_o high_a degree_n of_o purity_n in_o spiritual_a exercise_n then_o be_v attain_v that_o more_o admirable_a kind_n of_o humility_n which_o regard_v god_n in_o which_o the_o soul_n contemplate_v his_o totality_n &_o illimited_a universality_n of_o be_v &_o thence_o reflect_v on_o her_o own_o nothing_o of_o which_o now_o she_o have_v a_o more_o perfect_a sight_n she_o most_o profound_o humble_v &_o annihilate_v herself_o before_o he_o 21._o and_o when_o prayer_n be_v come_v to_o perfection_n then_o will_v the_o soul_n also_o mount_v to_o the_o supreme_a degree_n of_o humility_n which_o regard_v god_n consider_v absolute_o in_o himself_o &_o without_o any_o express_a or_o distinct_a comparison_n with_o creature_n for_o hereby_o a_o soul_n fix_v her_o sight_n upon_o god_n as_o all_o in_o all_o &_o contemplate_v he_o in_o the_o darkness_n of_o incomprehensibility_n do_v not_o by_o any_o distinct_a act_n or_o reflection_n consider_v the_o vacuity_n &_o nothingnes_n of_o creature_n but_o real_o transcend_v &_o forget_v they_o so_o that_o to_o she_o they_o be_v in_o very_a deed_n as_o nothing_o because_o they_o be_v not_o the_o object_n which_o with_o her_o spirit_n she_o only_o see_v &_o with_o her_o affection_n only_a embrace_n
it_o be_v use_v as_o a_o mean_n to_o raise_v &_o better_v their_o attention_n to_o god_n yet_o so_o that_o it_o must_v always_o give_v place_n to_o internal_a prayer_n when_o they_o find_v themselves_o dispose_v for_o it_o 11._o but_o as_o for_o that_o vocal_a prayer_n either_o in_o public_a or_o private_a which_o be_v by_o the_o law_n of_o the_o church_n of_o obligation_n no_o manner_n of_o pretence_n of_o find_v more_o profit_n by_o internal_a exercise_n ought_v to_o be_v esteem_v a_o sufficient_a ground_n for_o any_o to_o neglect_v or_o disparage_v it_o for_o though_o some_o soul_n of_o the_o best_a disposition_n may_v perhaps_o more_o advance_v themselves_o towards_o perfection_n by_o internal_a exercise_n alone_o yet_o since_o general_o even_o in_o religion_n soul_n be_v so_o tepid_v &_o negligent_a that_o if_o they_o be_v leave_v to_o their_o own_o voluntary_a devotion_n they_o will_v scarce_o ever_o exercise_v either_o vocal_a or_o mental_a prayer_n therefore_o in_o as_o much_o as_o a_o manifest_a distinction_n can_v be_v make_v between_o the_o particular_a disposition_n of_o person_n it_o be_v requisite_a &_o necessary_a that_o all_o shall_v be_v oblige_v to_o a_o public_a external_a performance_n of_o divine_a service_n praise_v god_n with_o the_o tongue_n also_o which_o be_v for_o that_o end_n give_v we_o that_o so_o a_o order_n &_o decorum_n may_v be_v observe_v in_o god_n church_n to_o the_o end_n it_o may_v imitate_v the_o employment_n of_o angel_n &_o glorify_a saint_n in_o a_o solemn_a unite_v join_v of_o heart_n &_o tongue_n to_o glorify_v god_n this_o be_v necessary_a also_o for_o the_o edification_n &_o invitation_n of_o those_o who_o be_v not_o oblige_v to_o the_o office_n who_o perhaps_o will_v never_o think_v of_o god_n be_v they_o not_o encourage_v thereto_o by_o see_v good_a soul_n spend_v the_o great_a part_n of_o their_o time_n in_o such_o solemn_a &_o almost_o hourly_o pray_v to_o &_o praise_v god_n 12._o now_o whereas_o to_o all_o manner_n of_o prayer_n as_o have_v be_v say_v there_o be_v necessary_o require_v a_o attention_n of_o the_o mind_n without_o which_o it_o be_v not_o prayer_n we_o must_v know_v that_o there_o be_v several_a kind_n &_o degree_n of_o attention_n all_o of_o they_o good_a but_o yet_o one_o more_o perfect_a &_o profitable_a than_o another_o for._n 1._o there_o be_v a_o attention_n or_o express_v reflection_n on_o the_o word_n &_o sense_n of_o the_o sentence_n pronounce_v by_o the_o tongue_n or_o revolue_v in_o the_o mind_n now_o this_o attention_n be_v in_o vocal_a prayer_n necessary_o to_o vary_v &_o change_v according_a as_o sentence_n in_o the_o psalm_n &c_n &c_n do_v succeed_v one_o another_o can_v so_o powerful_o &_o efficacious_o fix_v the_o mind_n or_o affection_n on_o god_n because_o they_o be_v present_o to_o be_v recall_v to_o new_a consideration_n or_o succeed_v affection_n this_o be_v the_o low_a &_o most_o imperfect_a degree_n of_o attention_n of_o which_o all_o soul_n be_v in_o some_o measure_n capable_a &_o the_o more_o imperfect_a they_o be_v the_o less_o difficulty_n there_o be_v in_o yield_v it_o for_o soul_n that_o have_v good_a &_o establish_a affection_n to_o god_n can_v hardly_o quit_v a_o good_a affection_n by_o which_o they_o be_v unite_v to_o god_n &_o which_o they_o find_v gustfull_a &_o profitable_a for_o they_o to_o exchange_v it_o for_o a_o new_a one_o succeed_v in_o the_o office_n and_o if_o they_o shall_v it_o will_v be_v to_o their_o preiudiâ—e_n 13._o the_o second_o degree_n be_v that_o of_o soul_n indifferent_o well_o practise_v in_o internal_a prayer_n who_o come_v to_o the_o recite_v of_o the_o office_n &_o either_o bring_n with_o they_o or_o by_o occasion_n of_o such_o recite_v raise_v in_o themselves_o a_o efficacious_a affection_n to_o god_n do_v desire_n without_o variation_n to_o continue_v it_o with_o as_o profound_a a_o recollectednes_n as_o they_o may_v not_o at_o all_o hee_a whether_o it_o be_v suitable_a to_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o present_a passage_n which_o they_o pronounce_v this_o be_v a_o attention_n to_o god_n though_o not_o to_o the_o word_n and_o be_v far_o more_o beneficial_a than_o the_o former_a and_o therefore_o to_o oblige_v any_o soul_n to_o quit_v such_o a_o attention_n for_o the_o former_a will_v be_v both_o prejudicial_a &_o unreasonable_a for_o since_o all_o vocal_a prayer_n in_o scripture_n or_o otherwise_o be_v ordain_v only_o to_o this_o end_n to_o supplâ—_n &_o furnish_v the_o soul_n that_o needs_o with_o good_a matter_n of_o affection_n by_o which_o it_o may_v be_v unite_v to_o god_n a_o soul_n that_o have_v already_o attain_v to_o that_o end_n which_o be_v union_n as_o long_o as_o it_o last_v ought_v not_o to_o be_v separate_v therefrom_o &_o be_v oblige_v to_o seek_v a_o new_a mean_n till_o the_o virtue_n of_o the_o former_a be_v spend_v 14._o a_o three_o &_o most_o sublime_a degree_n of_o attention_n to_o the_o divine_a office_n be_v that_o whereby_o vocal_a prayer_n do_v become_v mental_a that_o be_v whereby_o soul_n most_o profound_o &_o with_o a_o perfect_a simplicity_n unite_v to_o god_n can_v yet_o without_o any_o prejudice_n to_o such_o union_n attend_v also_o to_o the_o sense_n &_o spirit_n of_o each_o passage_n that_o they_o pronounce_v yea_o thereby_o find_v their_o affection_n adhesion_n &_o union_n increase_v &_o more_o simplify_v this_o attention_n come_v not_o till_o a_o soul_n be_v arrive_v to_o perfect_a contemplation_n by_o mean_n of_o which_o the_o spirit_n be_v so_o habitual_o unite_v to_o god_n &_o beside_o the_o imagination_n so_o subdue_v to_o the_o spirit_n that_o it_o can_v rest_v upon_o any_o thing_n that_o will_v distract_v it_o 15._o happy_a be_v those_o soul_n of_o which_o god_n know_v the_o number_n be_v very_o small_a that_o have_v attain_v to_o this_o three_o degree_n the_o which_o must_v be_v ascend_v to_o by_o a_o careful_a practice_n of_o the_o two_o former_a in_o their_o order_n especirl_o of_o the_o second_o degree_n and_o therefore_o in_o recite_v of_o the_o office_n even_o the_o more_o imperfect_a soul_n may_v do_v well_o whensoever_o they_o find_v themselves_o in_o a_o good_a measure_n recollect_v to_o continue_v so_o as_o long_o as_o they_o well_o can_v preserve_v as_o much_o stability_n in_o their_o imagination_n as_o may_v be_v 16._o and_o the_o best_a mean_n to_o beget_v &_o increase_v such_o a_o recollect_v way_n of_o say_v the_o divine_a office_n be_v the_o practice_n of_o internal_a prayer_n either_o in_o meditation_n or_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n the_o only_a aim_n and_o end_v whereof_o be_v the_o procure_v a_o immovable_a attention_n &_o adhesion_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o god_n and_o this_o as_o to_o our_o present_a purpose_n may_v suffice_v concern_v vocal_a prayer_n chap._n iii_o §_o 1._o of_o internal_a prayer_n in_o general_a and_o principal_o of_o internal_a affective_a prayer_n §_o 2._o 3._o 4._o 5._o the_o excellency_n &_o necessity_n of_o affective_a prayer_n and_o that_o it_o be_v practise_v by_o the_o ancient_n &_o not_o discursive_a prayer_n or_o meditation_n §_o 6._o the_o great_a necessity_n of_o it_o in_o these_o day_n §_o 7._o 8._o the_o testimony_n of_o cardinal_n bellarmine_n to_o show_v that_o vocal_a prayer_n etc._n etc._n suffice_v not_o §_o 9_o 10._o 11._o etc._n etc._n five_o admirable_a virtue_n of_o internal_a affective_a prayer_n §_o 16._o 17._o a_o exhortation_n to_o constancy_n &_o courage_n in_o pursue_v the_o exercise_n of_o it_o 1._o internal_a or_o mental_a prayer_n which_o be_v simple_o and_o mere_o such_o and_z which_o we_o make_v the_o second_o member_n in_o the_o division_n of_o prayer_n in_o general_a if_o indeed_o it_o be_v a_o distinct_a kind_n and_o of_o which_o only_o we_o shall_v treat_v hereafter_o be_v either_o 1._o imperfect_a and_o acquire_v 2._o or_o perfect_a &_o that_o which_o be_v call_v proper_o infuse_v prayer_n the_o former_a be_v only_o a_o preparation_n &_o inferior_a disposition_n by_o which_o the_o soul_n be_v fit_v &_o make_v capable_a of_o the_o infusion_n of_o the_o other_o to_o wit_n the_o prayer_n of_o contemplation_n which_o be_v the_o end_n of_o all_o our_o spiritual_a &_o religious_a exercise_n i_o shall_v therefore_o in_o order_n treat_v of_o they_o both_o &_o of_o their_o several_a special_a degreeâ—_n begin_v with_o the_o low_a &_o thence_o ascend_v orderly_o till_o we_o come_v to_o the_o high_a the_o which_o will_v bring_v a_o soul_n to_o the_o state_n of_o perfection_n 2._o but_o before_o i_o come_v to_o deliver_v the_o special_a instruction_n pertinent_a to_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o several_a degree_n of_o internal_a prayer_n it_o will_v be_v very_o requisite_a by_o way_n of_o preparation_n &_o encouragement_n to_o set_v down_o the_o necessity_n &_o excellency_n of_o internal_a prayer_n in_o general_a i_o mean_v especial_o of_o
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
which_o be_v to_o be_v unite_v in_o will_n &_o affection_n to_o god_n only_o 5._o these_o therefore_o be_v two_o quality_n requisite_a in_o prayer_n 1._o earnestness_n or_o fervour_n &_o 2._o perseverance_n both_o which_o be_v likewise_o include_v in_o the_o term_n instantissima_fw-la give_v to_o prayer_n by_o our_o holy_a father_n imperfect_a soul_n will_v be_v apt_a to_o suspect_v ofttimes_o that_o their_o prayer_n be_v unefficacious_a as_o be_v deprive_v of_o these_o condition_n 1._o the_o former_a when_o they_o do_v not_o perceive_v a_o tenderness_n &_o melt_a devotion_n in_o sensitive_a nature_n 2._o and_o the_o late_a they_o will_v fear_v be_v want_v whensoever_o they_o find_v themselves_o though_o unwilling_o distract_v therefore_o to_o the_o end_n to_o prevent_v mistake_n &_o that_o a_o right_a judgement_n may_v be_v make_v of_o these_o two_o to_o wit_n sensible_a devotion_n &_o distraction_n i_o will_v treat_v of_o they_o both_o showing_z what_o good_a or_o ill_a effect_n may_v proceed_v from_o the_o former_a and_o what_o remedy_n may_v be_v apply_v to_o hinder_v any_o inconvenience_n from_o the_o latter_a 6._o there_o be_v a_o twofold_a sensible_a devotion_n 1._o the_o first_o be_v that_o which_o we_o now_o speak_v of_o which_o be_v find_v in_o good_a but_o imperfect_a soul_n &_o it_o begin_v in_o sensitive_a nature_n cause_v great_a tenderness_n there_o &_o from_o thence_o it_o mount_v up_o to_o the_o spirit_n produce_v good_a &_o melt_a affection_n to_o god_n &_o especial_o in_o discursive_a prayer_n to_o the_o humanity_n &_o suffering_n of_o our_o lord_n 2._o another_o sensible_a devotion_n there_o be_v of_o perfect_a soul_n the_o which_o begin_v in_o the_o spirit_n &_o abound_v there_o overflows_a &_o by_o communication_n descend_v into_o inferior_a sensitive_a nature_n cause_v like_o effect_n to_o the_o former_a now_o there_o be_v little_a need_n to_o give_v caution_n of_o instruction_n concern_v the_o use_n of_o this_o because_o perfect_a soul_n walk_v in_o a_o clear_a light_n &_o be_v establish_v in_o a_o generous_a love_n of_o the_o superior_a will_n towards_o god_n be_v not_o in_o danger_n to_o be_v transport_v with_o the_o please_a effect_n which_o it_o be_v apt_a to_o produce_v in_o inferior_a nature_n nor_o to_o fall_v into_o spiritual_a gluttony_n by_o which_o their_o affection_n may_v be_v withdraw_v from_o god_n &_o fix_v on_o such_o mean_a gift_n of_o he_o as_o these_o be_v that_o therefore_o which_o i_o shall_v here_o speak_v concern_v sensible_a devotion_n be_v to_o be_v apply_v unto_o that_o which_o be_v find_v in_o soul_n less_o perfect_a for_o for_o such_o only_a all_o these_o instruction_n be_v mean_v 7._o suâ—h_o soul_n than_o be_v to_o be_v inform_v that_o though_o sensible_a devotion_n be_v indeed_o at_o the_o first_o a_o good_a gift_n of_o god_n intend_v by_o he_o for_o their_o encouragement_n &_o advancement_n in_o his_o pure_a love_n as_o it_o be_v therefore_o not_o to_o be_v neglect_v so_o neither_o be_v it_o over_o high_o to_o be_v prise_v for_o as_o very_o good_a effect_n may_v flow_v from_o it_o be_v well_o &_o discreet_o use_v so_o on_o the_o contrary_a without_o such_o discretion_n it_o may_v prove_v very_o pernicious_a endanger_v to_o plunge_v they_o more_o deep_o in_o self-love_n &_o corrupt_a nature_n in_o which_o it_o be_v much_o immerse_v and_o so_o it_o will_v produce_v a_o effect_n direct_o contrary_a to_o that_o for_o which_o prayer_n be_v ordain_v a_o soul_n therefore_o be_v to_o separate_v that_o which_o be_v good_a &_o profitable_a in_o such_o devotion_n from_o that_o which_o be_v imperfect_a &_o dangerous_a renounce_v &_o mortify_v this_o latter_a &_o with_o discretion_n give_v way_n &_o make_v her_o profit_n of_o the_o other_o 8._o the_o special_a sign_n &_o effect_n of_o such_o sensible_a devotion_n be_v ofttimes_o very_o conspicuous_a in_o the_o alteration_n cause_v by_o it_o in_o corporal_a nature_n draw_v tear_n from_o the_o eye_n procure_v heat_n and_o reddnes_n in_o the_o face_n spring_v motion_n in_o the_o heart_n like_a to_o the_o leap_v of_o a_o fiâ—h_n in_o the_o water_n say_v harphius_n and_o in_o some_o it_o cause_v so_o perceivable_a a_o open_n and_o shut_v in_o the_o heart_n say_v he_o that_o it_o may_v be_v hear_v and_o from_o such_o unusual_a motion_n &_o agitation_n about_o the_o heart_n a_o windy_a vapour_n will_v now_o &_o then_o mount_v up_o to_o the_o head_n cause_v a_o prick_a pain_n there_o the_o which_o if_o the_o head_n be_v not_o strong_a may_v continue_v a_o good_a space_n yea_o if_o good_a care_n be_v not_o take_v to_o interrupt_v such_o impetuosity_n of_o the_o spirit_n the_o blood_n will_v first_o boil_v &_o afterward_o will_v grow_v thick_a and_o congealed_a incapable_a of_o motion_n and_o this_o once_o happen_v the_o inward_a sweetness_n former_o feel_v will_v be_v turn_v into_o sadness_n dejection_n and_o stupidity_n thence_o will_v follow_v complaint_n that_o the_o soul_n be_v forsake_v of_o god_n yea_o she_o will_v be_v in_o danger_n desperate_o to_o renounce_v all_o further_a seek_v of_o god_n and_o the_o more_o that_o she_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o recover_v her_o former_a sensible_a affection_n the_o far_a will_v she_o be_v from_o it_o &_o impatience_n for_o this_o will_v render_v she_o still_o more_o indispose_v more_o darken_v in_o the_o understanding_n &_o more_o stupefy_v in_o her_o affection_n 9_o now_o all_o these_o inconvenience_n proceed_v from_o self-love_n &_o a_o too_o gluttonous_a delectation_n in_o sensible_a sweetness_n the_o which_o if_o they_o be_v accompany_v with_o any_o extraordinary_a visit_n there_o will_v follow_v it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v yet_o far_o more_o dangerous_a effect_n in_o unprepared_a soul_n the_o which_o will_v probable_o take_v occasion_n from_o thence_o to_o nourish_v pride_n in_o themselves_o &_o a_o contempt_n of_o other_o 10._o to_o abate_v the_o too_o high_a esteem_n that_o unwary_a soul_n may_v have_v of_o this_o sensible_a fervour_n &_o devotion_n it_o may_v be_v observe_v that_o it_o be_v not_o always_o a_o sign_n of_o a_o good_a disposition_n or_o holiness_n in_o the_o soul_n for_o we_o read_v of_o several_a impious_a person_n that_o have_v enjoy_v it_o so_o history_n make_v mention_n of_o a_o certain_a wicked_a tyrant_n call_v william_n prince_n of_o juliers_n how_o at_o his_o devotion_n in_o the_o midnight_n of_o our_o lord_n natuity_n he_o twice_o or_o thrice_o feel_v so_o great_a a_o internal_a sweetness_n in_o divine_a visitation_n that_o he_o profess_v afterward_o that_o he_o will_v be_v content_a to_o purchase_v with_o the_o loss_n of_o half_a his_o dominion_n such_o another_o consolation_n yet_o after_o his_o death_n it_o be_v reveil_v to_o a_o certain_a holy_a person_n that_o he_o be_v in_o hell_n condemn_v to_o torment_n equal_a to_o those_o that_o that_o wicked_a persecute_v imperour_n maxentius_n suffer_v 11._o the_o root_n of_o such_o sensible_a sweetness_n be_v oftentimes_o a_o mere_a natural_a temper_n of_o body_n yea_o by_o god_n permission_n the_o devil_n also_o will_v be_v forward_o enough_o to_o raise_v &_o increase_v it_o in_o immortified_a self-willed_n soul_n know_v that_o they_o will_v make_v ill_a use_n of_o it_o either_o to_o the_o augment_v of_o their_o pride_n or_o to_o a_o presumptuous_a undertake_v of_o mortification_n above_o their_o strength_n by_o which_o in_o a_o short_a time_n their_o spirit_n will_v be_v so_o exhaust_v &_o their_o force_n enfeeble_v that_o they_o will_v become_v unable_a any_o more_o to_o correspond_v with_o divine_a grace_n even_o in_o duty_n necessary_o belong_v to_o their_o profession_n and_o when_o this_o happen_v than_o all_o sweetness_n of_o devotion_n cease_v &_o in_o place_n thereof_o succeed_v anguish_n scrupulosity_n pusillanimity_n &_o perhaps_o even_o desperation_n therefore_o wellminded_n soul_n be_v to_o take_v special_a care_n of_o prevent_v these_o effect_n of_o sensible_a devotion_n the_o which_o without_o great_a vigilance_n they_o be_v in_o danger_n to_o incur_v and_o thereupon_o harphius_n advise_v earnest_o such_o to_o moderate_v with_o discretion_n the_o violent_a impulse_n of_o their_o internal_a desire_n to_o god_n for_o say_v he_o if_o they_o shall_v always_o to_o the_o utmost_a extent_n of_o their_o ability_n pursue_v they_o they_o will_v find_v themselves_o in_o a_o short_a time_n quite_o exhaust_v &_o disable_v to_o perform_v even_o easy_a and_o more_o necessary_a obligation_n 12._o the_o true_a use_n &_o benefit_n therefore_o that_o imperfect_a soul_n ought_v to_o make_v of_o sensible_a devotion_n when_o god_n send_v it_o be_v this_o that_o without_o rest_v much_o on_o it_o or_o force_v themselves_o to_o continue_v it_o they_o shall_v make_v it_o a_o instrument_n to_o fortify_v &_o establish_v the_o solid_a true_a love_n &_o esteem_v of_o god_n in_o the_o superior_a soul_n &_o to_o confirm_v a_o unshake_a resolution_n in_o themselves_o never_o
to_o desist_v from_o seek_v he_o by_o the_o internal_a way_n of_o the_o spirit_n even_o in_o time_n of_o desertion_n &_o aridity_n 13._o and_o if_o they_o will_v make_v this_o use_n of_o it_o then_o from_o what_o cause_n soever_o it_o proceed_v yea_o though_o the_o devil_n himself_o help_v or_o change_v the_o body_n shall_v have_v cause_v it_o no_o harm_n can_v come_v unto_o they_o thereby_o for_o a_o soul_n be_v most_o secure_a while_o she_o neglect_v &_o disesteeme_v the_o effect_n of_o sensible_a devotion_n as_o far_o as_o they_o be_v please_v to_o sensitive_a nature_n &_o transcend_v it_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o exercise_v herself_o towards_o god_n quiet_o yet_o resolute_o in_o the_o superior_a will_n and_o by_o the_o like_a practice_n may_v a_o soul_n obtain_v the_o like_a security_n in_o all_o extraordinary_a doubtful_a case_n of_o vision_n ecstasy_n &c_n &c_n 14._o more_o particular_o for_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v tear_n which_o be_v usual_a effect_n of_o sensible_a devotion_n a_o soul_n must_v be_v wary_a that_o she_o give_v not_o free_a scope_n unto_o they_o what_o ever_o the_o object_n or_o cause_n be_v whether_o it_o be_v compassion_n to_o our_o lord_n suffering_n or_o contrition_n for_o her_o own_o sin_n &c_n &c_n in_o all_o case_n it_o be_v best_o to_o suppress_v they_o rather_o than_o to_o give_v they_o a_o free_a liberty_n to_o flow_v for_o otherwise_o beside_o the_o harm_n that_o may_v outward_o happen_v to_o the_o body_n by_o impair_n the_o health_n or_o weaken_v the_o head_n they_o will_v keep_v she_o still_o below_o in_o sensitive_a nature_n &_o immortification_n with_o little_a or_o no_o advancement_n towards_o the_o true_a love_n of_o god_n on_o the_o contrary_a they_o do_v hinder_v the_o elevation_n of_o the_o spirit_n by_o obscure_v the_o mind_n that_o it_o can_v discover_v her_o secret_a defect_n nor_o what_o will_v best_o keep_v she_o in_o her_o way_n let_v she_o therefore_o exercise_v these_o act_n in_o the_o superior_a soul_n &_o will_n from_o whence_o all_o merit_n come_v and_o by_o which_o they_o be_v perform_v with_o quietness_n &_o stillnes_n yet_o withal_o more_o efficacious_o then_o in_o sensitive_a nature_n 15._o the_o case_n be_v otherwise_o in_o perfect_a soul_n when_o god_n by_o a_o extraordinary_a grace_n bestow_v on_o they_o the_o gift_n of_o tear_n as_o to_o s._n arsenius_n who_o be_v say_v to_o have_v flow_v almost_o continual_o with_o they_o for_o in_o this_o case_n they_o do_v begin_v from_o the_o spirit_n who_o operation_n inferior_a nature_n do_v not_o at_o all_o hinder_a but_o rather_o promote_v in_o they_o and_o such_o tear_n flow_v tanquam_fw-la plwia_fw-la in_o vellus_fw-la like_o a_o shower_n of_o rain_n into_o a_o fleece_n of_o wool_n without_o the_o least_o disturbance_n &_o bitterness_n in_o inferior_a nature_n which_o be_v a_o grace_n very_o rare_o if_o at_o all_o grant_v to_o imperfect_a soul_n and_o therefore_o those_o upon_o who_o it_o be_v bestow_v may_v &_o no_o doubt_n will_v without_o any_o danger_n comply_v with_o it_o since_o it_o can_v flow_v from_o no_o other_o cause_n but_o god_n only_o &_o the_o effect_n of_o it_o will_v not_o be_v to_o depress_v the_o spirit_n but_o rather_o to_o draw_v sensitive_a nature_n upward_o into_o the_o spirit_n cause_v it_o likewise_o to_o concur_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o divine_a love_n so_o as_o that_o the_o soul_n may_v say_v with_o david_n cor_fw-la meum_fw-la &_o caro_fw-la mea_fw-la exult_v averunt_fw-la in_o deum_fw-la viwm_fw-la sensitive_a nature_n not_o only_o join_v with_o the_o spirit_n in_o serve_v &_o love_v of_o god_n but_o likewise_o find_v its_o contentment_n therein_o without_o the_o least_o prejudice_n to_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o way_n to_o attain_v to_o this_o solid_a &_o secure_a sensible_a fervour_n be_v by_o a_o discreet_a underualue_v &_o repress_v of_o that_o which_o be_v original_o &_o mere_o sensible_a 16._o now_o it_o will_v not_o be_v impertinent_a on_o this_o occasion_n to_o take_v notice_n of_o another_o sort_n of_o temper_n in_o prayer_n of_o a_o quite_o contrary_a nature_n in_o the_o which_o the_o inferior_a soul_n seem_v to_o have_v no_o part_n at_o all_o in_o the_o actuation_n of_o the_o spirit_n towards_o god_n yea_o be_v not_o only_o unactive_a but_o very_o repugnant_a unto_o they_o find_v a_o great_a deal_n of_o uneasine_n &_o pain_n in_o they_o so_o that_o the_o whole_a prayer_n seem_v to_o be_v make_v by_o the_o spirit_n the_o heart_n or_o sensitive_a appetite_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n find_v much_o bitterness_n in_o it_o and_o the_o imagination_n in_o a_o sort_n refuse_v to_o suggest_v necessary_a image_n thereto_o any_o further_a than_o as_o the_o superior_a soul_n by_o virtue_n of_o the_o dominion_n it_o have_v over_o it_o do_v even_o by_o mere_a force_n constrain_v it_o 17._o there_o be_v scarce_o any_o soul_n that_o give_v themselves_o to_o internal_a prayer_n but_o some_o time_n or_o other_o do_v find_v themselves_o in_o great_a indisposition_n thereto_o have_v great_a obscurity_n in_o the_o mind_n &_o great_a insensibility_n in_o the_o affection_n so_o that_o if_o imperfect_a soul_n be_v not_o well_o instruct_v &_o prepare_v they_o will_v be_v in_o danger_n in_o case_n that_o such_o contradiction_n in_o inferior_a nature_n continue_v long_o to_o be_v deject_a yea_o and_o perhaps_o deter_v from_o pursue_v prayer_n for_o they_o will_v be_v apt_a to_o think_v that_o their_o recollection_n be_v to_o no_o purpose_n at_o all_o since_o for_o as_o much_o as_o seem_v to_o they_o whatsoever_o they_o think_v or_o actuate_v towards_o god_n be_v mere_a loss_n of_o time_n and_o of_o no_o worth_a at_o all_o &_o therefore_o that_o it_o will_v be_v more_o profitable_a for_o they_o to_o employ_v their_o time_n some_o other_o way_n 18._o yea_o some_o soul_n there_o be_v conduct_v by_o almighty_a god_n by_o no_o other_o way_n but_o only_o by_o such_o prayer_n of_o aridity_n find_v no_o sensible_a contentment_n in_o any_o recollection_n but_o on_o the_o contrary_a continual_a pain_n &_o contradiction_n and_o yet_o by_o a_o privy_a grace_n &_o courage_n imprint_v deep_o in_o the_o spirit_n cease_v not_o for_o all_o that_o but_o resolute_o break_v through_o all_o difficulty_n and_o continue_v the_o best_a they_o can_v their_o internal_a exercise_n to_o the_o great_a advancement_n of_o their_o spirit_n 19_o it_o will_v indeed_o be_v very_o hard_a and_o moral_o impossible_a for_o any_o soul_n but_o such_o as_o have_v natural_o a_o good_a propension_n to_o introversion_n to_o continue_v constant_a to_o their_o recollection_n when_o aridity_n obscurity_n and_o desolation_n continue_v a_o long_a time_n for_o it_o be_v this_o propension_n alone_o assi_v by_o divine_a grace_n that_o hold_v they_o to_o their_o recollection_n &_o that_o enable_v they_o to_o bear_v themselves_o up_o in_o all_o their_o difficulty_n and_o tentation_n 20._o the_o cause_n of_o this_o aridity_n and_o indisposition_n to_o prayer_n ordinary_o speak_v for_o sometime_o god_n for_o the_o trial_n of_o his_o servant_n may_v &_o oft_o do_v send_v or_o permit_v such_o tentation_n to_o fall_v on_o they_o be_v principal_o a_o certain_a particular_a natural_a complexion_n of_o some_o &_o especial_o of_o those_o who_o by_o their_o corporal_a temper_n be_v most_o fit_v for_o the_o exercise_n of_o sensible_a affection_n for_o of_o all_o other_o such_o be_v most_o obnoxious_a to_o these_o aridity_n and_o obscurity_n because_o the_o humour_n and_o spirit_n of_o the_o body_n together_o with_o the_o change_n of_o weather_n &c_n &c_n have_v a_o far_o great_a influence_n upon_o these_o sensible_a affection_n then_o upon_o the_o mere_a operation_n either_o of_o the_o understanding_n or_o will_n which_o do_v not_o so_o much_o depend_v upon_o the_o body_n and_o therefore_o whensoever_o the_o say_v corporal_a disposition_n come_v by_o any_o accident_n to_o be_v alter_v such_o affectionate_a soul_n be_v apt_a to_o fall_v into_o these_o internal_a distress_n &_o be_v in_o such_o a_o afflict_a disconsolate_a condition_n they_o be_v not_o able_a to_o help_v themselves_o by_o any_o discourse_n to_o which_o ordinary_o they_o be_v indispose_v from_o this_o ground_n it_o be_v that_o devout_a woman_n who_o natural_o do_v more_o abound_v with_o sensible_a affection_n than_o man_n be_v more_o subject_a to_o be_v afflict_v &_o persecute_v with_o these_o aridity_n 21._o such_o discouragement_n do_v least_o appear_v in_o vocal_a prayer_n the_o which_o befit_v all_o kind_n of_o spirit_n &_o all_o sort_n of_o temper_n whether_o they_o discourse_v internal_o or_o not_o and_o whether_o they_o can_v produce_v internal_a act_n of_o the_o will_n upon_o conceive_a image_n or_o not_o for_o all_o these_o at_o all_o time_n and_o howsoever_o they_o be_v corporal_o dispose_v may_v make_v their_o profit_n more_o or_o less_o of_o vocal_a prayer_n 22._o the_o prayer_n of_o meditation_n likewise_o
in_o those_o for_o who_o it_o be_v proper_a be_v not_o usual_o much_o assault_v with_o such_o aridity_n except_o it_o be_v sometime_o towards_o the_o end_n of_o such_o prayer_n when_o soul_n will_v endeavour_v to_o draw_v good_a affection_n from_o a_o precedent_a motive_n consider_v by_o the_o understanding_n for_o then_o the_o heart_n may_v sometime_o prove_v barren_a or_o averse_a from_o such_o affection_n but_o however_o they_o that_o practise_v meditation_n may_v find_v some_o remedy_n by_o surcease_n the_o produce_v of_o affection_n &_o may_v either_o betake_v themselves_o to_o exercise_v mere_a act_n of_o the_o will_n which_o be_v not_o so_o affective_a or_o retire_v themselves_o to_o their_o internal_a discourse_n 23._o the_o pain_n &_o anguish_n that_o good_a soul_n suffer_v from_o these_o aridity_n be_v very_o grievous_a be_v a_o kind_n of_o continual_a martyrdom_n and_o therefore_o the_o merit_n of_o constancy_n in_o prayer_n notwithstanding_o such_o discouragment_n in_o nature_n be_v the_o great_a and_o soul_n to_o who_o god_n shall_v give_v such_o constancy_n will_v find_v their_o 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
be_v so_o far_o from_o receive_v any_o harm_n by_o they_o that_o she_o will_v by_o their_o mean_n increase_v in_o grace_n so_o that_o though_o she_o do_v not_o receive_v any_o extraordinary_a illumination_n nor_o any_o satisfaction_n to_o her_o natural_a will_n by_o such_o distract_a prayer_n yet_o do_v she_o get_v that_o for_o which_o such_o illumination_n &_o gust_n be_v give_v to_o wit_n a_o privy_a but_o effectual_a grace_n to_o adhere_v unto_o god_n &_o to_o resign_v herself_o to_o he_o in_o all_o his_o providence_n &_o permission_n concern_v she_o and_o grace_v get_v by_o such_o a_o afflict_a way_n of_o abnegation_n be_v far_o more_o secure_a &_o merit_v more_o at_o god_n hand_n then_o if_o it_o have_v come_v by_o lightsome_a &_o please_a consolation_n since_o this_o be_v a_o way_n by_o which_o corrupt_a nature_n be_v transcend_v self-love_n contradict_v &_o subdue_v even_o when_o it_o assault_v the_o soul_n most_o subtle_o &_o dangerous_o to_o wit_n by_o pretend_v that_o all_o sollicitude_n &_o anxious_a discouragement_n cause_v by_o distraction_n do_v flow_v from_o divine_a love_n &_o from_o a_o care_n of_o the_o soul_n progress_n in_o spirituality_n last_o this_o be_v a_o way_n by_o which_o charity_n &_o all_o divine_a virtue_n be_v deep_o root_v in_o the_o spirit_n be_v produce_v &_o establish_v there_o by_o the_o same_o mean_n that_o the_o devil_n use_v to_o hinder_v the_o production_n of_o they_o in_o negligent_a &_o tepid_a soul_n or_o to_o destroy_v they_o when_o they_o have_v be_v in_o some_o measure_n produce_v 9_o as_o for_o more_o particular_a advice_n expedient_n &_o sleight_n to_o be_v make_v use_n of_o in_o special_a case_n &_o circumstance_n none_o can_v teach_v but_o god_n only_o who_o by_o mean_n of_o experience_n &_o perseverance_n in_o prayer_n will_v undoubted_o give_v unto_o a_o soul_n light_n &_o grace_v sufficient_a 10._o to_o conclude_v therefore_o this_o point_n this_o difference_n may_v be_v observe_v between_o distraction_n in_o perfect_a soul_n from_o the_o same_o in_o the_o imperfect_a viz._n that_o in_o perfect_a soul_n distraction_n proceed_v only_o from_o some_o unwilling_a distemper_n in_o the_o cognoscitive_a faculty_n but_o in_o the_o imperfect_a they_o be_v rather_o from_o some_o degree_n of_o inordinate_a affection_n to_o the_o object_n of_o the_o distraction_n and_o therefore_o a_o well-aduanced_n soul_n have_v little_a difficulty_n in_o put_v they_o away_o as_o soon_o as_o she_o reflect_v upon_o they_o for_o without_o contend_v with_o they_o she_o can_v present_o unite_v herself_o with_o her_o superior_a will_n to_o god_n even_o while_o her_o know_v power_n be_v busy_a about_o impertinent_a object_n whereas_o imperfect_a soul_n in_o the_o inferior_a degree_n of_o prayer_n have_v as_o yet_o a_o express_a &_o perceptible_a use_n of_o the_o understanding_n &_o imagination_n can_v but_o receive_v some_o prejudice_n by_o distraction_n in_o as_o much_o as_o those_o faculty_n can_v at_o the_o same_o time_n be_v employ_v upon_o different_a object_n that_o have_v no_o subordination_n or_o relation_n to_o one_o another_o 11._o there_o remain_v a_o three_o condition_n or_o quality_n which_o i_o say_v be_v necessary_a to_o true_a internal_a affective_a prayer_n to_o wit_n the_o divine_a inspiration_n from_o which_o if_o it_o do_v not_o proceed_v it_o be_v of_o little_a efficacy_n or_o merit_n now_o though_o in_o the_o general_a division_n of_o internal_a prayer_n i_o seem_v to_o appropriate_v the_o title_n of_o infuse_v prayer_n to_o the_o prayer_n of_o perfect_a contemplation_n the_o meaning_n thereof_o be_v that_o such_o prayer_n be_v mere_o infuse_v the_o soul_n by_o any_o deliberate_a preparation_n or_o election_n not_o dispose_v herself_o thereto_o whereas_o in_o the_o inferior_a degree_n there_o be_v necessary_a both_o a_o precedent_n and_o concomitant_a industry_n in_o the_o soul_n to_o make_v choice_n of_o matter_n for_o prayer_n &_o to_o force_v herself_o to_o produce_v affection_n correspondent_a to_o the_o say_a matter_n by_o reason_n that_o as_o yet_o god_n holy_a spirit_n be_v not_o so_o abound_v &_o operative_a in_o the_o soul_n as_o to_o impel_v she_o to_o pray_v or_o rather_o breathe_v forâ—h_a prayer_n in_o and_o by_o she_o but_o in_o all_o case_n that_o be_v most_o true_a whiâ—h_o s._n bernard_n say_v tepida_fw-la est_fw-la oratio_fw-la quam_fw-la non_fw-la praevenit_fw-la inspiratio_fw-la that_o be_v that_o prayer_n be_v a_o repide_a prayer_n which_o be_v not_o prevent_v by_o divine_a inspiration_n and_o s._n augustin_n bene_fw-la orare_fw-la deum_fw-la gratia_fw-la spiritall_n est_fw-la that_o be_v it_o be_v a_o special_a grace_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n to_o be_v able_a to_o pray_v aright_o 12._o now_o the_o ground_n of_o the_o necessity_n of_o a_o divine_a inspiration_n herto_o be_v express_v in_o that_o say_n of_o s._n paul_n quid_fw-la oremus_fw-la sicut_fw-la oportet_fw-la nescimus_fw-la etc._n etc._n we_o know_v not_o how_o to_o pray_v as_o we_o ought_v and_o therefore_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n help_v our_o infirmity_n yea_o say_v he_o the_o spirit_n itself_o make_v request_n in_o we_o &_o for_o we_o &_o this_o oft_o with_o groan_n which_o can_v be_v express_v &_o which_o the_o soul_n itself_o can_v conceive_v it_o be_v this_o inspiration_n only_o which_o give_v a_o supernaturality_n to_o our_o prayer_n &_o make_v they_o fit_a to_o be_v hear_v &_o grant_v by_o god_n 13._o but_o of_o this_o subject_n much_o have_v already_o be_v say_v &_o more_o will_v follow_v when_o we_o treat_v of_o the_o several_a degree_n of_o prayer_n especial_o the_o perfect_a prayer_n of_o aspiration_n where_o we_o shall_v show_v how_o these_o inspiration_n be_v attemper_v according_a to_o the_o natural_a good_a propension_n of_o soul_n so_o that_o those_o which_o be_v natural_o incline_v to_o introversion_n be_v usual_o move_v by_o god_n to_o seek_v he_o by_o pure_a spiritual_a operation_n without_o image_n or_o motive_n yet_o this_o by_o degree_n according_a to_o the_o state_n of_o the_o soul_n where_o also_o i_o will_v show_v how_o necessary_a liberty_n of_o spirit_n &_o a_o freedom_n from_o nice_a method_n &_o rule_n of_o prayer_n be_v to_o dispose_v the_o soul_n for_o these_o divine_a inspiration_n and_o therefore_o i_o will_v forbear_v any_o further_a enlarge_n of_o myself_o on_o this_o point_n in_o this_o place_n 14._o now_o a_o due_a consideration_n of_o these_o excellency_n &_o most_o heavenly_a effect_n of_o internal_a affective_a prayer_n ought_v to_o give_v we_o a_o suitable_a esteem_n &_o value_v of_o it_o above_o any_o other_o employment_n whatsoever_o a_o experience_n hereof_o it_o be_v that_o make_v a_o ancient_a hermit_n call_v jacob_n in_o theodoret._n de_fw-fr vit_fw-fr pp_n resolute_o to_o persist_v in_o refuse_v to_o interrupt_v his_o appoint_a prayer_n or_o to_o delay_v the_o time_n of_o it_o for_o any_o other_o business_n on_o civility_n in_o visit_n whatsoever_o he_o command_v all_o to_o depart_v when_o the_o hour_n be_v come_v say_v i_o come_v not_o to_o this_o solitude_n to_o benefit_v other_o man_n soul_n but_o to_o purify_v my_o own_o by_o prayer_n chap._n vii_o §_o 1._o internal_a affective_a prayer_n of_o contemplation_n have_v always_o be_v entertain_v at_o first_o with_o jealousy_n and_o rigour_n §_o 2._o 3._o 4._o a_o illustrious_a example_n in_o the_o person_n of_o the_o late_a r._n fa_o baltazar_n aluarez_n of_o the_o society_n of_o jesus_n §_o 5._o 6._o 7._o a_o account_v require_v &_o give_v by_o he_o to_o his_o general_n touch_v his_o prayer_n of_o contemplation_n the_o order_n &_o manner_n of_o god_n guidance_n of_o he_o thereto_o &_o therein_o and_o the_o excellency_n of_o that_o prayer_n declare_v §_o 16._o 17._o etc._n etc._n the_o substance_n of_o a_o discourse_n write_v by_o he_o in_o answer_n to_o seven_o objection_n make_v against_o internal_a prayer_n of_o contemplation_n §_o 30._o the_o success_n of_o this_o tempest_n 1._o it_o be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v a_o just_a prejudice_n against_o this_o most_o excellent_a of_o god_n gift_n internal_a prayer_n of_o the_o will_n that_o it_o be_v rather_o a_o proof_n of_o the_o more_o than_o ordinary_a eminency_n of_o it_o that_o it_o have_v always_o find_v some_o even_o among_o the_o learned_a and_o ofttimes_o among_o such_o as_o have_v be_v the_o most_o strict_a &_o severe_a about_o religious_a observance_n that_o have_v &_o do_v oppose_v it_o god_n forbid_v that_o this_o shall_v always_o be_v impute_v either_o to_o malice_n envy_v &c_n &c_n but_o rather_o to_o want_v of_o experience_n in_o the_o mysterious_a way_n by_o which_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n ofttimes_o conduct_n his_o special_a servant_n it_o be_v well_o know_v what_o calumny_n &_o persecution_n suso_n s._n teresa_n b._n john_n de_fw-fr cruse_n etc._n etc._n find_v when_o god_n enlighten_v they_o &_o move_v they_o to_o communicate_v to_o the_o world_n this_o heavenly_a light_n all_o which_o
other_o or_o force_v herself_o to_o continue_v meditation_n she_o will_v make_v no_o progress_n at_o all_o yea_o on_o the_o contrary_a the_o extreme_a painefullnes_n of_o invent_v motive_n now_o unnecessary_a and_o tie_v herself_o to_o method_n and_o prescribe_a form_n will_v be_v to_o she_o so_o distractive_a so_o void_a of_o all_o taste_n and_o comfort_n and_o so_o insupportable_a that_o not_o be_v suffer_v to_o follow_v god_n invitation_n call_v to_o a_o exercise_n of_o the_o will_n she_o will_v be_v in_o danger_n to_o give_v quite_o over_o all_o internal_a prayer_n whereas_o by_o pursue_v god_n call_v she_o will_v every_o day_n get_v light_a to_o discover_v more_o and_o more_o her_o secret_a inward_a defect_n and_o grace_n to_o mortify_v and_o amend_v they_o and_o such_o her_o mortification_n be_v exercise_v rather_o by_o transcend_v &_o forget_v the_o object_n of_o her_o inordinate_a affection_n than_o a_o direct_a combat_v against_o they_o and_o this_o state_n of_o prayer_n do_v proper_o answer_n to_o that_o which_o be_v common_o call_v the_o illuminative_a way_n because_o iâ—_n it_o the_o soul_n with_o little_a reflection_n on_o herself_o or_o heâ—_n own_o obscurity_n by_o reason_n of_o sin_n &c_n &c_n tend_v direct_o and_o immediate_o to_o god_n by_o who_o she_o be_v enlighten_v and_o adorn_v with_o all_o virtue_n and_o grace_n 12._o in_o the_o three_o place_n a_o soul_n after_o a_o long_a exercise_n in_o force_a affection_n of_o the_o will_n to_o god_n represent_v to_o the_o understanding_n by_o image_n far_o more_o subtle_a and_o spiritual_a then_o former_o yea_o endeavour_v to_o contemplate_v he_o in_o the_o darkness_n and_o obscurity_n of_o a_o blind_a and_o naked_a faith_n void_a of_o all_o distinct_a and_o express_a image_n will_v by_o little_a and_o little_o grow_v so_o well_o dispose_v to_o he_o that_o she_o will_v have_v less_o need_n of_o force_v herself_o to_o produce_v good_a affection_n to_o he_o or_o of_o prescribe_v to_o herself_o determinate_a form_n of_o act_n or_o affection_n on_o the_o contrary_a divine_a love_n will_v become_v so_o firm_o establish_v in_o the_o soul_n so_o whole_o and_o only_o fill_v and_o possess_v it_o that_o it_o will_v become_v as_o it_o be_v a_o new_a soul_n unto_o the_o soul_n as_o constant_o breathe_v forth_o feruorous_a act_n of_o love_n and_o as_o natural_o almost_o as_o the_o lung_n do_v send_v forth_o breath_n 13._o and_o here_o begin_v the_o state_n of_o pure_a contemplation_n the_o end_n of_o all_o exercise_n of_o a_o internal_a life_n in_o this_o bless_a state_n the_o actuation_n and_o aspiration_n be_v so_o pure_a &_o spiritual_a that_o the_o soul_n herself_o often_o time_n be_v not_o able_a to_o give_v a_o account_n what_o she_o do_v and_o no_o wonder_n since_o they_o do_v not_o proceed_v from_o any_o forethought_a or_o election_n of_o her_o own_o but_o be_v suggest_v to_o she_o by_o the_o divine_a spirit_n entire_o possess_v she_o and_o although_o in_o these_o most_o sublime_a and_o blind_a elevation_n of_o the_o will_v the_o imagination_n and_o understanding_n with_o their_o image_n be_v not_o absolute_o exclude_v yet_o so_o unperceptible_a be_v their_o operation_n that_o it_o be_v no_o wonder_n if_o many_o mystical_a writer_n speak_v according_a to_o what_o they_o feel_v and_o experience_v in_o themselves_o have_v say_v that_o in_o pure_a contemplation_n the_o will_n without_o the_o understanding_n be_v only_o operative_a as_o for_o the_o mortification_n proper_a to_o this_o state_n they_o be_v as_o unexpressible_a as_o the_o prayer_n indeed_o prayer_n and_o mortification_n seem_v to_o be_v now_o become_v the_o same_o thing_n for_o the_o light_n in_o which_o the_o soul_n walk_v be_v so_o clear_a and_o wonderful_a that_o the_o small_a imperfection_n be_v clear_o discover_v and_o by_o prayer_n alone_o mortify_v prayer_n be_v the_o whole_a business_n of_o the_o life_n interrupt_v by_o sleep_n only_o and_o not_o alway_v then_o neither_o true_a it_o be_v that_o by_o other_o necessity_n of_o corporal_a nature_n refection_n study_v conversation_n or_o business_n it_o may_v be_v depress_v a_o little_a from_o the_o height_n in_o which_o it_o be_v when_o the_o soul_n set_v itself_o to_o attend_v to_o god_n only_o but_o still_o it_o continue_v with_o efficacy_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o all_o those_o avocation_n and_o this_o be_v true_o and_o proper_o that_o which_o mystic_n do_v style_v the_o vnitive_a way_n because_o herein_o the_o soul_n be_v in_o a_o continual_a union_n in_o spirit_n with_o god_n have_v transcend_v all_o creature_n and_o herself_o too_o the_o which_o be_v become_v as_o it_o be_v amnihilate_v &_o god_n be_v all_o in_o all_o 14._o there_o be_v no_o state_n of_o spirituality_n beyond_o this_o but_o yet_o this_o state_n may_v infinite_o increase_v in_o degree_n of_o purity_n the_o operation_n of_o the_o soul_n grow_v more_o and_o more_o spiritual_a intime_fw-la and_o divine_a without_o all_o limitation_n in_o this_o state_n it_o be_v that_o the_o soul_n be_v prepare_v for_o divine_a inaction_n passive_a union_n and_o grace_n most_o admirable_a and_o most_o efficacious_a to_o purify_v she_o as_o perfect_o as_o in_o the_o condition_n of_o this_o life_n she_o be_v capable_a now_o it_o be_v that_o god_n provide_v for_o soul_n dear_o belove_v by_o he_o trial_n and_o desolation_n incomprehensible_a to_o the_o unexperienced_a lead_v they_o from_o light_n to_o darkness_n and_o from_o thence_o to_o light_v again_o in_o all_o which_o change_v the_o soul_n keep_v herself_o in_o the_o same_o equality_n and_o tranquillity_n as_o know_v that_o by_o they_o all_o she_o approach_v near_a and_o near_o to_o god_n plunge_v herself_o more_o and_o more_o profound_o in_o he_o a_o soul_n that_o be_v come_v to_o this_o state_n be_v above_o all_o instructour_n and_o instruction_n a_o divine_a light_n be_v her_o guide_n in_o all_o manner_n of_o thing_n in_o a_o word_n it_o be_v not_o she_o that_o now_o life_n but_o christ_n and_o his_o holy_a spirit_n that_o live_v reign_v and_o operate_v in_o she_o 15._o these_o be_v the_o three_o state_n of_o a_o spiritual_a contemplative_a life_n distinguish_v according_a to_o the_o three_o state_n or_o degree_n of_o internal_a prayer_n as_o for_o vocal_a prayer_n it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v esteem_v a_o peculiar_a degree_n of_o prayer_n but_o it_o may_v and_o do_v accompany_v all_o these_o state_n without_o any_o change_n in_o the_o substance_n of_o the_o prayer_n though_o with_o very_o great_a variety_n in_o the_o actuation_n of_o the_o soul_n during_o its_o exercise_n for_o while_o the_o soul_n be_v in_o the_o imperfect_a degree_n of_o meditation_n she_o perform_v her_o vocal_a prayer_n with_o the_o use_n of_o grosser_n image_n and_o much_o distractednes_n but_o be_v arrive_v to_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o will_n she_o recite_v they_o with_o less_o multiplicity_n and_o some_o good_a measure_n of_o recollection_n and_o be_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o aspiration_n her_o vocal_a prayer_n become_v likewise_o aspirative_a and_o vnitive_a not_o at_o all_o distract_n she_o but_o rather_o drive_v her_o more_o profound_o and_o intime_o into_o god_n 16._o now_o god_n be_v both_o the_o principle_n and_o object_n of_o all_o our_o internal_a exercise_n be_v after_o several_a way_n represent_v to_o the_o mind_n in_o they_o for_o 1._o in_o meditation_n the_o soul_n as_o yet_o much_o immerse_v in_o sense_n be_v force_v to_o make_v use_n of_o a_o distinct_a grosser_n image_n by_o which_o to_o apprehend_v he_o as_o the_o humanity_n of_o our_o lord_n and_o the_o mystery_n belong_v thereto_o and_o sometime_o such_o attribute_n of_o the_o divinity_n as_o be_v most_o obvious_a and_o easy_a to_o be_v conceive_v and_o which_o do_v produce_v more_o sensible_a motion_n in_o our_o imperfect_a soul_n as_o his_o justice_n mercy_n power_n etc._n etc._n 2._o but_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o act_n of_o the_o will_n the_o understand_a endeavour_n to_o apprehend_v god_n in_o the_o obscure_a notion_n of_o faith_n and_o when_o she_o be_v sometime_o force_v to_o make_v use_n of_o more_o particular_a sensible_a image_n the_o mind_n after_o a_o short_a reflection_n on_o they_o give_v place_n to_o the_o recollect_v actuation_n of_o the_o will_v alone_o 3._o but_o be_v arrive_v to_o aspiration_n which_o be_v active_a contemplatian_n the_o soul_n make_v use_v of_o no_o particular_a express_a image_n at_o all_o but_o content_v herself_o with_o the_o only_a general_a obscure_a notion_n of_o god_n which_o faith_n teach_v she_o 17._o now_o though_o it_o may_v seem_v that_o the_o most_o perfect_a have_v no_o great_a advantage_n in_o this_o regard_n over_o the_o more_o imperfect_a since_o all_o that_o be_v endue_v with_o ordinary_a knowledge_n do_v sufficient_o believe_v and_o be_v assure_v that_o god_n be_v infinite_a and_o incomprehensible_a can_v be_v true_o represent_v by_o any_o particular_a image_n and_o
§_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
able_a to_o heave_v up_o herself_o unto_o god_n in_o darkness_n and_o vacancy_n of_o image_n and_o be_v likewise_o a_o spiritual_a faculty_n be_v exempt_v from_o the_o devil_n influence_n who_o have_v great_a dominion_n over_o our_o corporeal_a power_n to_o suggest_v representation_n etc._n etc._n for_o these_o reason_n it_o be_v good_a to_o make_v the_o discourse_v part_n of_o meditation_n as_o short_a as_o may_v be_v so_o as_o that_o if_o the_o mere_a reflection_n on_o a_o mystery_n will_v suffice_v to_o produce_v a_o good_a affection_n the_o person_n be_v to_o restrain_v the_o imagination_n 11._o to_o conclude_v the_o great_a and_o inexplicable_a variety_n that_o be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o the_o disposition_n of_o soul_n be_v consider_v and_o likewise_o the_o great_a inconvenience_n that_o necessary_o follow_n a_o misapplication_n of_o spirit_n to_o exercise_n improper_a for_o they_o the_o sad_a condition_n of_o those_o good_a soul_n can_v sufficient_o be_v bewail_v who_o by_o their_o profession_n be_v as_o it_o be_v imprison_v in_o a_o solitary_a religious_a life_n and_o be_v natural_o unapt_a for_o discourse_n be_v yet_o kepd_v all_o their_o life_n in_o meditation_n repeat_v over_o and_o over_o again_o the_o same_o toilsome_a method_n without_o any_o progress_n in_o spirit_n to_o their_o great_a anguish_n and_o disquietness_n and_o this_o misery_n be_v much_o great_a in_o religious_a woman_n who_o have_v no_o diversion_n of_o study_n or_o employment_n can_v possible_o find_v exercise_n for_o their_o imagination_n and_o therefore_o see_v great_a defect_n and_o unsatisfaction_n in_o themselves_o and_o not_o know_v the_o only_a cure_n of_o they_o which_o be_v by_o ascend_v to_o the_o internal_a exercise_n of_o the_o will_n their_o imperfection_n increase_v and_o their_o anguish_n proportionable_o without_o any_o know_a mean_n to_o amend_v they_o chap._n iii_o §_o 11._o how_o a_o soul_n be_v to_o exercise_n meditation_n §_o 2._o 3._o 4._o etc._n etc._n what_o inconvenient_a practice_n &_o method_n therein_o be_v to_o be_v avoid_v §_o 9_o 10._o etc._n etc._n what_o order_n be_v positive_o to_o be_v observe_v §_o 15._o the_o ground_n of_o those_o advice_n §_o 16._o 17._o etc._n etc._n further_n special_a instruction_n to_o the_o same_o purpose_n §_o 23._o a_o particular_a way_n of_o meditation_n in_o blosius_n 1._o intend_v now_o to_o set_v down_o more_o particular_a instruction_n and_o advice_n how_o and_o in_o what_o manner_n a_o soul_n by_o her_o choice_n or_o profession_n aspire_v to_o contemplation_n ought_v in_o order_n thereto_o to_o practice_v the_o low_a &_o most_o imperfect_a degree_n of_o internal_a prayer_n which_o be_v meditation_n i_o will_v first_o show_v such_o a_o beginner_n what_o he_o be_v not_o to_o do_v that_o be_v what_o practice_n and_o order_n he_o be_v to_o avoid_v 2._o and_o next_o how_o he_o be_v to_o behave_v himself_o in_o the_o exercise_n thereof_o 2._o as_o to_o the_o former_a therefore_o i_o shall_v be_v so_o far_o from_o commend_v that_o i_o will_v scarce_o permit_v soul_n live_v a_o contemplative_a life_n as_o all_o enclose_a religious_a woman_n do_v etc._n etc._n to_o be_v strict_o oblige_v to_o a_o prescribe_a method_n in_o meditation_n or_o to_o those_o many_o and_o nice_a rule_n which_o be_v ordain_v by_o some_o modern_a author_n as_o 1._o that_o a_o soul_n shall_v put_v herself_o in_o the_o divine_a presence_n 2._o that_o she_o shall_v make_v act_n of_o contrition_n 3._o that_o she_o shall_v select_v point_n of_o meditation_n 4._o that_o she_o shall_v consider_v they_o in_o such_o a_o order_n with_o such_o frame_n of_o representation_n of_o the_o person_n time_n place_n posture_n etc._n etc._n 5._o that_o thence_o she_o shall_v draw_v motive_n of_o good_a affection_n 6._o that_o thereupon_o she_o shall_v draw_v petition_n 7._o that_o afterward_o she_o shall_v make_v purpose_n 8._o that_o thereto_o she_o shall_v adjoine_v thanksgiving_n 9_o morevoer_n that_o she_o shall_v have_v a_o list_n of_o imperfection_n or_o fault_n commit_v the_o day_n &c_n &c_n before_o and_o make_v expunction_n of_o fault_n amend_v 10._o that_o in_o conclusion_n she_o shall_v make_v a_o examen_fw-la how_o her_o meditation_n have_v be_v perform_v to_o the_o end_n she_o may_v give_v a_o account_n thereof_o to_o her_o spiritual_a director_n etc._n etc._n 3._o it_o be_v far_o from_o my_o intention_n to_o speak_v against_o the_o use_n of_o such_o method_n and_o order_n among_o those_o where_o they_o be_v first_o invent_v &_o be_v still_o practise_v for_o they_o may_v well_o enough_o agree_v with_o their_o institute_n which_o be_v far_o more_o active_a than_o contemplative_a but_o among_o solitary_a contemplative_a spirit_n such_o order_n be_v indeed_o a_o disorder_n and_o a_o nice_a observance_n of_o such_o ceremonious_a method_n will_v be_v more_o distractive_a and_o painful_a than_o the_o simple_a exercise_n itself_o and_o particular_o the_o expectation_n that_o a_o account_n be_v to_o be_v give_v of_o one_o thought_n during_o meditation_n will_v afford_v more_o business_n to_o a_o soul_n than_o the_o mystery_n on_o which_o she_o meditate_v so_o that_o she_o will_v be_v more_o solicitous_a to_o give_v satisfaction_n to_o her_o director_n then_o to_o perform_v her_o duty_n to_o god_n and_o therefore_o s._n theresa_n with_o just_a reason_n complain_v against_o those_o directour_n which_o fetter_v and_o encumber_v their_o disciple_n mind_n with_o order_n and_o rule_n which_o require_v more_o attention_n than_o the_o matter_n of_o the_o prayer_n itself_o 4._o how_o to_o meditate_v proffitable_o though_o not_o curious_o be_v quick_o and_o without_o much_o difficulty_n learn_v by_o such_o as_o be_v fit_a for_o it_o but_o to_o observe_v all_o the_o say_a prescript_n be_v both_o difficult_a incombr_v and_o unproffitable_a be_v indeed_o little_o better_a than_o a_o mispending_a of_o the_o time_n i_o mean_v for_o soul_n tend_v to_o contemplation_n 5._o moreover_o in_o meditation_n i_o will_v not_o tie_v the_o will_n that_o it_o shall_v not_o go_v beside_o or_o beyond_o the_o understanding_n on_o the_o contrary_a my_o advice_n and_o request_n be_v that_o the_o will_n so_o it_o be_v carry_v towards_o god_n shall_v be_v suffer_v to_o go_v as_o far_o as_o it_o can_v and_o that_o scope_n shall_v be_v give_v to_o any_o good_a affection_n not_o care_v whether_o such_o affection_n be_v pertinent_a to_o the_o present_a subject_n to_o be_v consider_v on_o at_o that_o time_n upon_o condition_n that_o the_o soul_n find_v that_o she_o bestow_v herself_o more_o efficacious_o on_o god_n by_o such_o affection_n then_o by_o those_o which_o will_v proper_o flow_v from_o the_o present_a motive_n consider_v 6._o neither_o will_v i_o that_o when_o a_o soul_n have_v choose_v one_o point_n or_o mystery_n to_o meditate_v on_o she_o shall_v strict_o oblige_v herself_o to_o proceed_v on_o with_o it_o but_o that_o if_o without_o a_o voluntary_a rove_a and_o seek_v any_o other_o shall_v offer_v itself_o to_o the_o mind_n more_o grateful_a and_o more_o gustfull_a to_o the_o soul_n she_o shall_v entertain_v the_o latter_a hold_v herself_o to_o it_o as_o long_o as_o the_o virtue_n of_o it_o well_o last_v and_o it_o cease_v then_o lâ—t_v she_o return_v to_o the_o first_o propose_v subject_n and_o the_o like_a liberty_n i_o recommend_v in_o the_o follow_a exercise_n of_o immediate_a act_n whensoever_o any_o act_n or_o good_a affection_n be_v suggest_v to_o the_o mind_n beside_o those_o which_o the_o soul_n find_v in_o her_o paper_n propose_v for_o the_o present_a recollection_n 7._o notwithstanding_o in_o case_n that_o the_o new_a matter_n or_o affection_n occur_v by_o such_o as_o that_o it_o do_v feed_v some_o over-abounding_a humour_n or_o passion_n in_o the_o soul_n as_o fear_v even_o of_o god_n himself_o tenderness_n shed_v of_o tear_n scrupulosity_n or_o deiectednes_n of_o spirit_n etc._n etc._n i_o will_v by_o no_o mean_n permit_v a_o soul_n to_o entertain_v her_o mind_n with_o such_o matter_n because_o she_o will_v thereby_o only_o plunge_v herself_o more_o deep_o into_o nature_n and_o immortification_n and_o not_o at_o all_o purify_v her_o inordinate_a affection_n such_o soul_n even_o in_o the_o beginning_n ought_v not_o to_o choose_v such_o matter_n for_o their_o prayer_n and_o much_o less_o ought_v they_o to_o be_v permit_v to_o quit_v other_o good_a matter_n for_o that_o this_o advice_n extend_v likewise_o to_o the_o exercise_n of_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n for_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v the_o matter_n of_o they_o 8._o now_o such_o freedom_n of_o spirit_n and_o permission_n to_o change_v the_o present_a matter_n or_o affection_n be_v to_o be_v suppose_v to_o be_v allow_v only_o when_o the_o say_a change_n proceed_v not_o out_o of_o sloth_n inconstancy_n a_o vain_a please_a of_o the_o fancy_n or_o affection_n but_o out_o of_o a_o judicious_a election_n or_o from_o a_o interior_a invitation_n the_o
which_o most_o probable_o be_v from_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n hereto_o therefore_o may_v be_v apply_v that_o say_n of_o s._n bernard_n modus_fw-la diligendi_fw-la deum_fw-la est_fw-la diligere_fw-la sine_fw-la modo_fw-la that_o be_v the_o measure_n and_o manner_n of_o love_v of_o god_n be_v to_o love_v he_o unmeasurable_o and_o free_o without_o a_o prescribe_a manner_n 9_o in_o the_o next_o place_n have_v show_v what_o encumbrance_n a_o soul_n be_v to_o avoid_v in_o her_o exercise_n of_o meditation_n i_o will_v proceed_v to_o declare_v positive_o and_o direct_o how_o i_o will_v advise_v she_o to_o behave_v herself_o therein_o 10._o let_v a_o soul_n that_o begin_v mental_a prayer_n with_o the_o exercise_n of_o meditation_n make_v choice_n of_o some_o good_a book_n of_o that_o subject_n as_o fuluius_n androtius_n granatensis_n or_o the_o abridgement_n of_o puentes_n meditation_n which_o i_o will_v especial_o recommend_v 11._o let_v she_o begin_v with_o the_o matter_n of_o the_o purgative_n way_n as_o concern_v sin_n death_n the_o final_a judgement_n hell_n or_o the_o like_a and_o let_v she_o abide_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o that_o way_n till_o she_o find_v in_o herself_o a_o aversion_n from_o sin_n &_o that_o much_o of_o the_o fear_n and_o remorse_n that_o be_v former_o in_o she_o be_v depose_v so_o that_o she_o be_v come_v to_o have_v some_o good_a measure_n of_o confidence_n in_o god_n when_o she_o find_v these_o effect_n in_o she_o let_v she_o without_o regard_v whether_o she_o have_v run_v over_o all_o the_o exercise_n and_o matter_n in_o her_o book_n belong_v to_o the_o purgative_n way_n pass_v to_o the_o exercise_n of_o meditation_n which_o respect_v the_o illuminative_a way_n as_o they_o call_v it_o that_o be_v to_o such_o who_o matter_n or_o argument_n be_v some_o mystery_n of_o faith_n touch_v our_o lord_n life_n passion_n etc._n etc._n and_o which_o be_v apt_a to_o beget_v and_o increase_v humility_n patience_n and_o other_o virtue_n in_o she_o 12._o be_v enter_v into_o the_o illuminative_a way_n let_v she_o in_o like_a manner_n abide_v in_o the_o exercise_n thereof_o till_o she_o find_v herself_o apt_a for_o resignation_n love_n and_o other_o affection_n of_o the_o vnitive_a way_n to_o the_o exercise_n of_o which_o let_v she_o thereupon_o apply_v herself_o 13._o it_o may_v happen_v that_o a_o soul_n that_o be_v due_o &_o in_o right_a order_n come_v into_o the_o illuminative_a &_o vnitive_a way_n as_o those_o way_n be_v distinguish_v by_o the_o master_n of_o meditation_n &_o after_o some_o time_n spend_v in_o the_o exercise_n proper_a to_o those_o way_n may_v afterward_o find_v herself_o call_v back_o to_o the_o purgative_n as_o after_o the_o commit_n of_o some_o fault_n extraordinary_a or_o during_o some_o unusual_a tentation_n etc._n etc._n in_o which_o case_n she_o be_v to_o yield_v thereto_o &_o abide_v in_o those_o inferior_a exercise_n as_o long_o as_o she_o find_v they_o proper_a &_o profitable_a for_o she_o which_o be_v not_o like_a to_o be_v very_o long_o 14._o in_o like_a manner_n while_o she_o be_v in_o the_o purgative_n way_n if_o act_n of_o resignation_n love_n etc._n etc._n and_o much_o more_o if_o aspiration_n shall_v offer_v themselves_o to_o she_o as_o some_o time_n they_o may_v let_v she_o by_o all_o mean_n correspond_v unto_o they_o as_o long_o as_o they_o be_v relish_v to_o she_o neglect_v &_o forbear_v in_o the_o mean_a time_n to_o consider_v motive_n or_o to_o produce_v inferior_a act_n of_o contrition_n fear_v etc._n etc._n belong_v to_o the_o purgative_n way_n 15._o the_o ground_n of_o the_o reasonableness_n &_o necessity_n of_o these_o advice_n be_v this_o because_o the_o matter_n &_o manner_n of_o prayer_n be_v to_o be_v prescribe_v &_o order_v according_a to_o the_o temper_n &_o disposition_n of_o soul_n &_o not_o the_o method_n of_o book_n and_o therefore_o soul_n be_v to_o be_v apply_v to_o such_o a_o manner_n of_o prayer_n as_o god_n call_v they_o to_o &_o be_v likely_a to_o subdue_v inordinate_a affection_n in_o they_o therefore_o scrupulous_a &_o fearful_a soul_n even_o in_o the_o beginning_n eat_v to_o be_v forbid_v the_o exercise_n of_o terror_n etc._n etc._n which_o belong_v to_o the_o purgative_n way_n and_o they_o be_v to_o be_v apply_v to_o such_o exercise_n as_o be_v apt_a to_o produce_v love_n confidence_n in_o god_n etc._n etc._n 16._o for_o some_o short_a space_n before_o a_o soul_n begin_v her_o exercise_n of_o meditation_n let_v she_o look_v upon_o the_o book_n and_o therein_o peruse_v the_o point_n that_o she_o intend_v to_o meditate_v on_o or_o rather_o indeed_o those_o point_n be_v to_o be_v think_v upon_o and_o provide_v before_o hand_n that_o be_v overnight_n for_o the_o morning-meditation_n and_o after_o dinner_n for_o the_o evening_n so_o do_v she_o will_v be_v less_o to_o seek_v about_o they_o &_o better_o employ_v the_o time_n appoint_v for_o her_o exercise_n 17._o let_v she_o not_o trust_v her_o memory_n for_o the_o point_n that_o she_o be_v to_o meditate_v on_o but_o have_v the_o book_n ready_a that_o she_o may_v look_v on_o it_o as_o she_o shall_v have_v need_n and_o let_v she_o take_v one_o point_n after_o another_o as_o they_o lie_v in_o the_o book_n or_o as_o she_o shall_v have_v determine_v before_o when_o she_o prepare_v for_o the_o succeed_a recollection_n 18._o in_o her_o meditate_v on_o each_o point_n let_v she_o behave_v herself_o after_o this_o manner_n 1._o with_o her_o memory_n and_o understanding_n let_v she_o think_v on_o the_o matter_n of_o that_o point_n 2._o out_o of_o which_o let_v she_o draw_v a_o reason_n or_o motive_n by_o which_o the_o will_n may_v be_v incline_v some_o way_n or_o other_o towards_o god_n 3._o and_o thereupon_o let_v she_o produce_v a_o act_n of_o the_o will_v as_o of_o humiliation_n adoration_n resignation_n contrition_n etc._n etc._n abide_v in_o such_o application_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o god_n as_o long_o as_o the_o will_n have_v life_n and_o activity_n for_o it_o or_o as_o long_o as_o she_o shall_v be_v able_a to_o do_v it_o 4._o the_o which_o fail_v and_o grow_v to_o be_v disgustful_a let_v she_o proceed_v to_o the_o next_o point_n therein_o behave_v herself_o likewise_o after_o the_o same_o manner_n so_o proceed_v in_o order_n to_o the_o other_o follow_a till_o she_o have_v spend_v a_o competent_a time_n in_o her_o recollection_n 19_o now_o i_o conceive_v a_o competent_a time_n for_o one_o recollection_n spend_v in_o meditation_n to_o be_v a_o hour_n or_o very_o little_a less_o whereas_o for_o the_o exercise_n of_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_v a_o lesser_a space_n will_v suffice_v and_o the_o reason_n of_o the_o difference_n be_v 1._o because_o in_o this_o latter_a exercise_n more_o act_n of_o the_o will_v wherein_o all_o good_a do_v consist_v be_v produce_v then_o in_o meditation_n 2._o and_o beside_o the_o exercise_n of_o act_n be_v more_o dry_a and_o wearisome_a except_o in_o some_o few_o that_o abound_v in_o sensible_a affection_n then_o be_v meditation_n to_o soul_n fit_a for_o it_o 20._o during_o meditation_n let_v the_o soul_n neglect_v the_o too_o common_a practice_n in_o which_o meditation_n be_v make_v rather_o a_o study_n and_o speculation_n than_o a_o exercise_n of_o the_o spirit_n spend_v no_o more_o time_n in_o invent_v motive_n and_o in_o internal_a discourse_n then_o shall_v be_v necessary_a to_o move_v the_o will_n to_o good_a affection_n but_o as_o for_o such_o affection_n let_v she_o abide_v in_o they_o as_o long_o as_o she_o can_v for_o therein_o consist_v all_o the_o profit_n and_o if_o upon_o one_o consideration_n or_o motive_n she_o can_v produce_v many_o act_n of_o the_o will_n let_v she_o not_o fail_v to_o do_v so_o and_o to_o continue_v in_o each_o act_n as_o long_o as_o she_o find_v that_o she_o be_v enable_v it_o be_v no_o matter_n though_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n the_o understanding_n shall_v lie_v quiet_a as_o it_o be_v a_o sleep_n and_o without_o exercise_n 21._o indeed_o in_o soul_n which_o have_v a_o effectual_a call_n to_o a_o internal_a life_n their_o meditation_n will_v have_v little_a study_n or_o speculation_n in_o they_o for_o after_o a_o short_a and_o quick_a reflection_n on_o the_o matter_n mystery_n or_o motive_n they_o will_v forthwith_o produce_v act_n of_o the_o will_n and_o their_o consideration_n of_o the_o matter_n be_v not_o so_o much_o by_o way_n of_o reason_v or_o infer_v as_o a_o simple_a call_n to_o mind_n or_o think_v on_o a_o subject_n out_o of_o which_o the_o will_n may_v produce_v some_o act_n or_o other_o answerable_a to_o the_o point_v reflect_v on_o by_o the_o understanding_n and_o this_o sort_n of_o meditate_v be_v proper_a for_o many_o ignorant_a person_n especial_o woman_n which_o have_v not_o the_o gift_n of_o internal_a discourse_v 22._o a_o soul_n that_o practice_n meditation_n will_v find_v
contemplative_n to_o who_o a_o due_a observance_n of_o the_o choir_n be_v both_o far_o more_o proper_a and_o efficacious_a to_o all_o end_v pretend_v to_o by_o such_o exercise_n than_o they_o be_v yea_o moreover_o great_a harm_n may_v come_v to_o soul_n profess_v contemplation_n by_o they_o for_o so_o great_a attention_n such_o a_o exact_a performance_n of_o nice_a observance_n and_o such_o a_o captivity_n of_o spirit_n be_v require_v that_o when_o all_o be_v pass_v soul_n thereby_o ofttimes_o become_v disable_v to_o continue_v the_o internal_a prayer_n proper_a for_o they_o or_o to_o comply_v with_o many_o regular_a duty_n to_o these_o we_o may_v add_v the_o great_a inconvenience_n which_o may_v come_v from_o strict_a examan_n of_o conscience_n repetition_n of_o general_n confession_n etc._n etc._n very_o prejudicial_a to_o tender_a soul_n 7._o therefore_o as_o touch_v contemplative_a person_n who_o live_v perhaps_o under_o the_o conduct_n of_o those_o that_o be_v whole_o devote_a to_o the_o active_a way_n shall_v be_v oblige_v to_o such_o retirement_n and_o therein_o to_o exercise_n very_o unsuitable_a to_o their_o state_n my_o advice_n to_o they_o be_v that_o they_o shall_v keep_v themselves_o in_o as_o much_o stillnes_n of_o mind_n as_o may_v be_v and_o have_v receive_v instruction_n for_o their_o prayer_n let_v they_o in_o practice_n give_v as_o much_o scope_n as_o they_o well_o can_v to_o their_o good_a affection_n not_o much_o trouble_v themselves_o whether_o the_o say_v affection_n be_v proper_a to_o the_o matter_n propose_v for_o meditation_n or_o no_o nor_o distract_n themselves_o with_o reflection_n upon_o their_o prayer_n to_o the_o end_n to_o give_v a_o account_n of_o it_o to_o other_o let_v they_o likewise_o endeavour_v to_o preserve_v all_o due_a liberty_n in_o spirit_n in_o their_o examination_n and_o confession_n therein_o proceed_v no_o further_a than_o may_v consist_v with_o their_o spiritual_a profit_n and_o by_o all_o mean_n avoid_v such_o particular_n as_o be_v likely_a to_o nourish_v fear_n and_o scrupulosity_n or_o to_o disturb_v the_o peace_n of_o their_o mind_n 8._o and_o as_o for_o secular_a liver_n to_o who_o indeed_o the_o say_a retraite_n according_a to_o custom_n undertake_v at_o set_a time_n may_v prove_v of_o admirable_a profit_n and_o benefit_n to_o the_o end_n the_o virtue_n of_o they_o may_v not_o quick_o expire_v they_o ought_v to_o be_v careful_a afterward_o to_o make_v good_a use_n of_o the_o light_n receive_v in_o they_o and_o to_o put_v in_o execution_n the_o good_a purpose_n make_v during_o such_o retirement_n for_o they_o must_v not_o expect_v by_o a_o few_o day_n solitude_n and_o prayer_n to_o get_v a_o habit_n of_o sanctity_n but_o only_o a_o transient_a good_a passion_n and_o disposition_n thereto_o which_o without_o future_a care_n to_o cherish_v and_o increase_v it_o will_v quick_o vanish_v and_o their_o fervour_n will_v be_v cool_v 9_o moreover_o perceive_v evident_o by_o this_o experience_n the_o good_a effect_n of_o mental_a prayer_n they_o ought_v to_o resolve_v the_o best_a they_o can_v to_o allow_v some_o reasonable_a time_n to_o the_o prosecution_n of_o it_o when_o they_o return_v to_o their_o secular_a vocation_n use_v likewise_o as_o much_o abstraction_n as_o their_o state_n of_o life_n will_v permit_v otherwise_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v they_o will_v not_o only_o return_v to_o all_o their_o former_a defectuousnes_n &_o sin_n but_o will_v moreover_o thereto_o add_v the_o guilt_n of_o ingratitude_n to_o god_n that_o so_o effectual_o call_v they_o from_o sin_n and_o their_o follow_a sin_n will_v be_v sin_n against_o clear_a light_n 10._o certain_a it_o be_v that_o if_o soul_n shall_v so_o rely_v upon_o the_o repeat_v such_o retirement_n and_o new_a take_n of_o the_o same_o practice_n of_o meditation_n etc._n etc._n as_o by_o they_o to_o make_v amends_o toties_fw-la quoties_fw-la for_o all_o fault_n past_a they_o will_v be_v in_o great_a danger_n to_o find_v themselves_o deceive_v for_o though_o in_o itself_o it_o be_v very_o good_a to_o seek_v all_o good_a mean_n to_o procure_v remorse_n and_o contrition_n for_o past_a sin_n yet_o if_o a_o soul_n upon_o a_o consideration_n that_o she_o have_v such_o a_o special_a remedy_n in_o a_o readiness_n shall_v neglect_v the_o care_n &_o watchfullnes_n over_o herself_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v &_o not_o without_o just_a ground_n that_o that_o which_o she_o take_v for_o contrition_n will_v prove_v to_o be_v no_o more_o than_o a_o natural_a remorse_n for_o it_o be_v not_o likely_a that_o god_n will_v shower_n down_o his_o grace_n upon_o a_o soul_n so_o corrupt_v in_o her_o intention_n chap._n v._n §_o 1._o a_o change_n from_o meditation_n to_o a_o prayer_n of_o the_o will_n be_v necessary_a in_o a_o internal_a life_n §_o 2._o it_o be_v otherwise_o in_o active_a liver_n §_o 3._o a_o soul_n of_o a_o contemplative_a profession_n when_o to_o leave_v operate_n with_o the_o understanding_n §_o 4._o exercise_n of_o the_o will_v more_o perfect_a than_o those_o of_o the_o understanding_n §_o 5._o whether_o meditation_n on_o the_o passion_n may_v be_v leave_v §_o 6._o 7._o 8._o etc._n etc._n reason_n to_o prove_v the_o affirmative_a §_o 12._o 13._o etc._n etc._n advice_n show_v when_o a_o change_n of_o prayer_n be_v seasonable_a §_o 18._o 19_o more_o particular_a sign_n show_v the_o proper_a time_n of_o a_o change_n §_o 20._o the_o wonderful_a variety_n of_o change_n in_o a_o internal_a life_n 1._o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o a_o soul_n that_o lead_v a_o abstract_a life_n and_o diligent_o pursue_v internal_a prayer_n to_o fix_v continual_o in_o meditation_n or_o to_o rest_v in_o any_o degree_n of_o affective_a prayer_n because_o the_o nature_n of_o such_o intellectual_a &_o spiritual_a operation_n be_v to_o become_v more_o and_o more_o pure_a abstract_a &_o universal_a and_o to_o carry_v the_o will_n and_o affection_n of_o the_o soul_n still_o high_o and_o further_o into_o god_n the_o activity_n of_o the_o imagination_n &_o understanding_n continual_o abate_v &_o the_o activity_n of_o the_o will_v continual_o increase_v and_o get_v ground_n upon_o the_o understanding_n till_o at_o last_o all_o its_o operation_n become_v so_o quiet_v and_o silence_v that_o they_o cease_v or_o at_o least_o become_v unperceptible_a 2._o a_o soul_n therefore_o be_v thus_o invite_v and_o dispose_v to_o approach_v continual_o near_a and_o near_o unto_o god_n if_o she_o be_v either_o by_o she_o own_o or_o other_o ignorance_n so_o fetter_v with_o custom_n or_o rule_n that_o she_o be_v deprive_v of_o due_a liberty_n of_o spirit_n to_o correspond_v to_o such_o a_o invitation_n and_o to_o quit_v inferior_a exercise_n she_o will_v find_v no_o profit_n at_o all_o by_o her_o prayer_n but_o on_o the_o contrary_a extreme_a pain_n which_o will_v endanger_v to_o force_v she_o to_o relinquish_v her_o recollection_n 3._o it_o be_v otherwise_o with_o those_o who_o profession_n be_v to_o live_v active_a distract_a life_n though_o they_o do_v serious_o aspire_v to_o the_o perfection_n answerable_a to_o that_o state_n for_o such_o may_v continue_v all_o their_o life_n in_o meditation_n and_o follow_v the_o method_n of_o it_o because_o what_o they_o lose_v by_o their_o distraction_n they_o may_v recover_v by_o their_o follow_a meditation_n the_o good_a image_n use_v therein_o expelling_a the_o vain_a image_n contract_v in_o their_o externall_n employment_n true_a it_o be_v that_o to_o such_o person_n meditation_n will_v grow_v more_o and_o more_o pure_a and_o more_o in_o spirit_n yet_o never_o so_o as_o to_o exclude_v a_o direct_a use_n of_o the_o imagination_n 4._o when_o a_o contemplative_a soul_n therefore_o have_v for_o some_o reasonable_a time_n practise_v meditation_n and_o come_v to_o perceive_v that_o a_o further_a exercise_n thereof_o be_v become_v dry_a and_o ungrateful_a to_o her_o spirit_n cause_v great_a disgust_n and_o little_a or_o no_o profit_n she_o ought_v then_o to_o forbear_v meditation_n and_o to_o betake_v herself_o to_o the_o exercise_n of_o immediate_a act_n which_o she_o will_v then_o doubtless_o perform_v with_o great_a gust_n and_o facility_n to_o her_o notable_a profit_n in_o spirit_n 5._o it_o be_v a_o great_a mistake_n in_o some_o writer_n who_o think_v the_o exercise_n of_o the_o will_v to_o be_v mean_a and_o base_a in_o comparison_n of_o inuentive_a meditation_n and_o curious_a speculation_n of_o divine_a mystery_n in_o as_o much_o as_o none_o but_o elevate_v spirit_n can_v perform_v this_o whereas_o the_o most_o ignorant_a and_o simple_a person_n can_v exercise_v act_n or_o affection_n of_o the_o will_n on_o the_o contrary_a it_o be_v most_o certain_a that_o no_o act_n of_o the_o understanding_n as_o speculation_n consideration_n deduction_n of_o conclusion_n &c._n &c._n in_o matter_n pertain_v to_o god_n be_v of_o themselves_o of_o any_o virtue_n to_o give_v true_a perfection_n to_o a_o soul_n further_o than_o as_o they_o do_v excite_v
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
and_o profitable_a recollection_n and_o therefore_o such_o elegant_a and_o sprightly_a expression_n as_o be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o many_o place_n of_o s._n augustins_n confession_n soliloquy_n &c_n &c_n or_o in_o s._n bernard_n s._n teresas_n exclamation_n &c_n &c_n though_o they_o be_v more_o full_a of_o life_n and_o more_o apt_a to_o inflame_v affection_n be_v read_v out_o of_o time_n of_o recollection_n yet_o they_o be_v not_o so_o proper_a to_o be_v use_v in_o the_o recollection_n because_o the_o pleasingnes_n and_o exquisiteness_n of_o the_o expression_n give_v too_o much_o exercise_v and_o contentment_n to_o the_o fancy_n and_o by_o that_o mean_n distract_v and_o enfeeble_v the_o actuation_n of_o the_o will._n this_o i_o say_v hold_v most_o general_o true_a yet_o if_o soul_n do_v find_v their_o profit_n more_o by_o the_o use_n of_o they_o let_v they_o in_o god_n name_n make_v choice_n of_o such_o 18._o the_o more_o impetuous_a that_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o will_n be_v in_o this_o exercise_n immediate_a act_n &_o the_o more_o still_o quiet_a peaceable_a and_o profound_a that_o they_o be_v so_o there_o be_v no_o wilful_a negligence_n the_o more_o effectual_a and_o profitable_a be_v they_o and_o the_o more_o efficacious_a to_o still_o passion_n as_o also_o to_o compose_v and_o settle_v the_o imagination_n 19_o there_o may_v come_v much_o harm_n to_o a_o soul_n by_o cessation_n from_o internal_a work_n and_o from_o all_o tendance_n to_o god_n in_o her_o recollection_n if_o so_o be_v the_o motive_n of_o such_o cessation_n be_v a_o desire_n and_o expectation_n to_o hear_v god_n speak_v after_o any_o unusual_a manner_n within_o she_o and_o tell_v she_o some_o new_a thing_n or_o other_o for_o by_o give_v way_n to_o such_o a_o foolish_a presumption_n she_o will_v deserve_v and_o pu_fw-fr herself_n in_o a_o disposition_n to_o receive_v diabolical_a suggestion_n or_o at_o least_o vain_o to_o conceive_v and_o interpret_v she_o own_o imagination_n to_o be_v internal_a speaking_n of_o god_n and_o this_o may_v prove_v very_o perilous_a if_o a_o soul_n give_v credit_n to_o such_o fancy_n as_o probable_o such_o soul_n will_n but_o they_o ought_v to_o consider_v that_o if_o god_n pleasure_n be_v such_o as_o to_o communicate_v his_o will_n internal_o after_o a_o extraordinary_a manner_n he_o will_v speak_v and_o work_v whether_o the_o soul_n will_v or_o no_o and_o whether_o she_o will_v or_o no_o she_o must_v hear_v and_o suffer_v and_o therefore_o let_v she_o abstain_v from_o such_o indiscreet_a invitation_n or_o expect_v such_o divine_a conversation_n let_v she_o continue_v quiet_o her_o exercise_n and_o not_o cease_v till_o god_n force_v she_o to_o cease_v they_o 20._o the_o custom_n practise_v by_o some_o spiritual_a directour_n of_o require_v from_o all_o their_o disciple_n a_o account_n of_o their_o internal_a prayer_n former_o judge_v to_o be_v inconvenient_a as_o cause_v distraction_n and_o too_o frequent_a reflection_n with_o solicitude_n upon_o their_o present_a actuation_n to_o the_o end_v they_o may_v remember_v they_o &_o so_o be_v able_a to_o relate_v they_o the_o say_a custom_n i_o say_v be_v moreover_o beside_o this_o inconvenience_n &_o uselesnes_n of_o extreme_a difficulty_n in_o this_o exercise_n the_o which_o be_v simple_a &_o plain_a act_v only_o or_o chief_o by_o the_o will_n can_v well_o be_v explicate_v inasmuch_o as_o the_o act_n leave_v scarce_o any_o sensible_a impression_n in_o the_o memory_n and_o last_o they_o be_v exercise_v direct_o to_o god_n without_o any_o reflection_n now_o it_o be_v by_o the_o mean_n of_o reflection_n that_o a_o soul_n take_v noude_a of_o and_o remember_v her_o actuation_n 21._o where_o there_o be_v a_o good_a propension_n in_o the_o interiour_n to_o introversion_n a_o act_n produce_v by_o the_o will_n to_o god_n be_v not_o only_o much_o more_o prompt_a facile_a &_o profound_a but_o also_o far_o more_o efficacious_a than_o any_o other_o without_o such_o a_o propension_n can_v be_v though_o the_o party_n be_v never_o so_o learned_a &_o employ_v never_o so_o much_o the_o faculty_n of_o reason_v yet_o do_v i_o not_o deny_v but_o that_o even_a soul_n of_o the_o great_a propension_n may_v sometime_o find_v themselves_o oblige_v to_o make_v use_n of_o some_o meditation_n but_o unless_o their_o director_n mislead_v &_o wrong_v they_o they_o will_v not_o tarry_v long_o therein_o but_o will_v present_o break_v forth_o copious_o into_o good_a affection_n chap._n ii_o §_o 1._o 2._o 3._o &c_n &c_n touch_v certain_a form_n of_o immediate_a act_n &c_n &c_n adjoin_v to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o book_n &_o how_o they_o be_v to_o be_v use_v §_o 15._o 16._o &c_n &c_n great_a variety_n of_o act_n there_o be_v some_o direct_v to_o the_o pure_a divinity_n some_o to_o our_o lord_n humanity_n some_o to_o saint_n some_o to_o the_o soul_n herself_o &c_n &c_n &_o what_o use_n be_v to_o be_v make_v of_o they_o §_o 24._o 25._o 26._o to_o what_o soul_n one_o form_n of_o exercise_n without_o variety_n may_v be_v proper_a §_o 27._o of_o exercise_v upon_o the_o pater_fw-la noster_fw-la the_o excellency_n thereof_o §_o 28._o 29._o soul_n be_v not_o to_o bind_v themselves_o to_o certain_a form_n §_o 30._o 31._o 32._o what_o use_n be_v to_o be_v make_v of_o the_o usual_a read_n in_o preparation_n to_o recollection_n §_o 33._o 34._o &c_n &c_n how_o soul_n that_o can_v make_v use_n of_o image_n be_v to_o behave_v themselves_o §_o 37._o 38._o what_o order_n be_v to_o be_v observe_v in_o the_o change_n of_o acts._n §_o 41._o soul_n must_v not_o bind_v themselves_o to_o these_o or_o any_o set_v form_n of_o exercise_n but_o they_o must_v choose_v for_o themselves_o 1._o at_o the_o end_n of_o this_o book_n i_o have_v adjoin_v a_o collection_n of_o several_a pattern_n of_o exercise_n by_o act_n of_o the_o will_n &_o holy_a affection_n for_o the_o use_n &_o practice_v of_o those_o who_o either_o in_o the_o world_n or_o in_o religion_n god_n shall_v call_v to_o a_o internal_a life_n of_o contemplation_n i_o do_v not_o not_o conceive_v any_o necessity_n to_o annexe_v any_o exercise_n of_o meditation_n partly_o because_o it_o be_v not_o my_o design_n to_o treat_v of_o that_o degree_n of_o prayer_n but_o only_a pass_o &_o in_o order_n to_o affective_a prayer_n to_o which_o it_o be_v but_o a_o remote_a preparation_n and_o beside_o there_o be_v pattern_n of_o such_o exercise_n abundant_o obvious_a to_o every_o one_o the_o which_o may_v suffice_v any_o internal_a liver_n be_v practise_v according_a to_o the_o instruction_n here_o former_o give_v and_o as_o for_o the_o supreme_a degree_n of_o affective_a contemplative_a prayer_n to_o wit_n perfect_a aspiration_n i_o have_v content_v myself_o with_o select_v a_o few_o which_o be_v add_v in_o the_o conclusion_n rather_o to_o show_v to_o imperfect_a soul_n the_o form_n &_o manner_n of_o they_o then_o for_o the_o use_n of_o perfect_a soul_n ripe_a for_o the_o exercise_n of_o they_o for_o such_o be_v conduct_v immediate_o &_o entire_o by_o a_o divine_a light_n &_o have_v no_o need_n of_o humane_a prescription_n neither_o indeed_o can_v they_o proffitable_o make_v use_v of_o any_o other_o affection_n then_o only_o such_o as_o god_n holy_a spirit_n shall_v suggest_v to_o they_o 2._o as_o touch_v therefore_o the_o foresay_a exercise_n of_o force_a immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n &_o affection_n i_o have_v compile_v a_o sufficient_a variety_n of_o they_o proper_a for_o all_o state_n &_o disposition_n of_o soul_n as_o act_n of_o remorse_n fear_v contrition_n &c._n &c._n which_o belong_v to_o the_o purgative_n way_n and_o likewise_o act_v of_o adoration_n glorification_n humiliation_n resignation_n &_o love_n which_o belong_v to_o the_o illuminative_a &_o vnitive_a way_n i_o have_v moreover_o make_v some_o distinct_a exercise_n of_o affection_n more_o proper_a for_o some_o soul_n then_o be_v those_o which_o i_o call_v act_n of_o the_o will._n beside_o i_o have_v set_v down_o most_o copious_o pattern_n of_o simple_a act_n of_o resignation_n as_o be_v general_o the_o most_o useful_a &_o proper_a for_o most_o soul_n and_o last_o several_a exercise_n there_o be_v mix_v &_o interlace_v partly_o with_o act_n &_o partly_o with_o affection_n &_o those_o not_o of_o one_o but_o several_a kind_n because_o many_o soul_n there_o be_v that_o can_v content_v themselves_o with_o be_v tie_v to_o any_o one_o kind_a of_o determinate_a exercise_n and_o therefore_o my_o desire_n be_v to_o comply_v with_o all_o temper_n to_o the_o end_n that_o every_o one_o may_v find_v a_o exercise_n proper_a &_o profitable_a for_o he_o or_o at_o least_o may_v be_v put_v in_o the_o way_n how_o to_o fâ—ame_v for_o himself_o such_o a_o one_o 3._o a_o soul_n that_o after_o a_o sufficient_a time_n diligent_o spend_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o meditation_n be_v mature_o call_v &_o conduct_v by_o god_n
to_o the_o exercise_n of_o immediate_a act_n may_v &_o indeed_o ought_v at_o the_o first_o to_o take_v for_o the_o subject_n of_o her_o recollection_n those_o act_n which_o belong_v to_o the_o vnitive_a way_n to_o wit_n act_n of_o divine_a love_n resignation_n etc._n etc._n but_o the_o case_n be_v otherwise_o with_o a_o soul_n that_o be_v find_v utter_o unfit_a for_o meditation_n and_o consequent_o must_v necessary_o begin_v a_o spiritual_a course_n with_o the_o prayer_n of_o immediate_n acts._n for_o for_o such_o a_o soul_n ordinary_o speak_v it_o will_v be_v expedient_a that_o at_o the_o beginning_n she_o take_v for_o the_o matter_n of_o her_o act_n such_o as_o be_v proper_a for_o the_o purgative_n way_n as_o act_n of_o contrition_n fear_v of_o judgement_n hell_n etc._n etc._n and_o this_o advice_n be_v conformable_a to_o the_o direction_n of_o blosius_n in_o the_o x._o &_o xi_o chapter_n of_o his_o institution_n 4._o now_o for_o the_o use_n of_o the_o say_a exercise_n of_o immediate_a act_n &_o affection_n i_o will_v advise_v a_o soul_n that_o be_v well_o dispose_v &_o resolve_v to_o practice_v they_o that_o at_o the_o first_o she_o will_v rather_o use_v they_o mental_o because_o it_o be_v less_o distractive_a &_o more_o recollective_a unless_o by_o experience_n she_o find_v that_o the_o use_v they_o vocal_o do_v most_o relish_n with_o her_o spirit_n and_o as_o in_o some_o disposition_n it_o may_v cause_v a_o more_o intime_fw-la and_o perfect_a recollection_n 5._o whereas_o every_o exercise_n consist_v of_o about_o ten_o clause_n of_o act_n or_o affection_n let_v she_o not_o tie_v herself_o precise_o to_o that_o number_n in_o any_o recollection_n but_o if_o one_o exercise_n will_v not_o serve_v let_v she_o borrow_v from_o the_o next_o follow_a and_o again_o if_o one_o be_v too_o much_o for_o one_o time_n let_v she_o use_v as_o many_o of_o those_o act_n in_o order_n as_o they_o lie_v as_o will_v suffice_v for_o the_o time_n &_o no_o more_o and_o in_o the_o next_o recollection_n let_v she_o begin_v where_o she_o last_o end_v 6._o a_o devout_a soul_n will_v find_v that_o by_o diligent_a practice_n in_o progress_n of_o time_n the_o number_n of_o act_n or_o affection_n to_o be_v exercise_v in_o each_o recollection_n will_v come_v to_o diminish_v so_o that_o whereas_o at_o the_o beginning_n perhaps_o ten_o act_n will_v scare_v suffice_v for_o one_o recollection_n afterward_o five_o or_o three_o yea_o it_o may_v be_v one_o will_v ofttimes_o be_v sufficient_a 7._o let_v she_o general_o observe_v the_o order_n and_o sequel_n of_o the_o say_a act_n contain_v in_o the_o exercise_n proper_a for_o she_o beginning_n and_o prosecute_n they_o as_o they_o lie_v for_o otherwise_o she_o will_v spend_v the_o precious_a time_n allot_v for_o prayer_n in_o look_v here_o and_o there_o for_o somewhat_o that_o may_v be_v please_v to_o her_o fancy_n or_o humour_n &_o yet_o in_o the_o end_n perhaps_o not_o content_v herself_o or_o at_o the_o least_o the_o satisfaction_n that_o she_o may_v come_v to_o find_v will_v scarce_o countervail_v the_o distraction_n incur_v and_o time_n lose_v and_o again_o it_o be_v a_o ill_a custom_n of_o some_o to_o take_v at_o random_n the_o act_n or_o affection_n on_o which_o they_o will_v exercise_v themselves_o open_v the_o book_n and_o at_o adventure_n make_v use_n of_o what_o their_o eye_n first_o light_n on_o 8._o yet_o let_v she_o not_o tie_v herself_o so_o rigorous_o &_o superstitious_o to_o any_o of_o the_o say_a act_n but_o that_o if_o without_o search_v there_o shall_v be_v offer_v to_o her_o any_o other_o kind_n of_o act_n or_o affection_n be_v it_o resignation_n love_n or_o aspiration_n &_o which_o may_v be_v gustfull_a to_o she_o let_v she_o entertain_v it_o &_o therein_o abide_v as_o long_o as_o the_o relish_n of_o it_o last_v and_o that_o cease_v let_v she_o return_v to_o prosecute_v the_o act_n of_o the_o present_a exercise_n 9_o yet_o one_o special_a case_n there_o be_v in_o which_o a_o soul_n ought_v by_o no_o mean_n to_o oblige_v herself_o to_o any_o order_n prescribe_v in_o the_o say_a exercise_n and_o that_o be_v when_o she_o find_v that_o fear_n or_o scrupulosity_n do_v over_o much_o abound_v in_o she_o cause_v unquietnes_n dejection_n and_o want_n of_o confidence_n in_o god_n in_o which_o caâ—â—_n let_v she_o by_o all_o mean_n omit_v such_o exercise_n or_o act_n as_o be_v apt_a to_o raise_v or_o feed_v such_o passion_n in_o she_o and_o instead_o of_o they_o let_v she_o apply_v herself_o to_o exercise_n of_o hope_n love_n and_o joy_n in_o god_n which_o ought_v to_o be_v cherish_v in_o she_o 10._o yea_o soul_n that_o be_v of_o such_o a_o disposition_n ought_v even_o in_o the_o beginning_n after_o their_o first_o conversion_n not_o to_o dwell_v long_o upon_o the_o exercise_n that_o concern_v remorse_n for_o sin_n or_o other_o matter_n of_o fear_n as_o death_n judgement_n and_o hell_n but_o rather_o to_o fix_v upon_o affection_n contrary_a to_o their_o present_a disposition_n and_o in_o case_n of_o new_a fault_n commit_v let_v their_o contrition_n or_o detestation_n of_o sin_n be_v rather_o exercise_v in_o a_o generality_n or_o virtual_o in_o act_n of_o conversion_n to_o god_n then_o particular_o direct_o and_o express_o and_o let_v they_o not_o be_v scrupulous_a herein_o out_o of_o a_o opinion_n that_o at_o such_o time_n god_n expect_v painful_a remorse_n from_o they_o or_o earnest_a expression_n of_o detestation_n of_o their_o sin_n for_o such_o detestation_n be_v sufficient_o involue_v in_o a_o act_n of_o direct_a love_n to_o god_n which_o contain_v much_o perfection_n beside_o such_o act_n therefore_o be_v more_o beneficial_a to_o she_o be_v consequent_o more_o acceptable_a to_o god_n 11._o a_o soul_n have_v pitch_v upon_o any_o act_n or_o affection_n contain_v in_o the_o say_a exercise_n let_v she_o tarry_v as_o long_o upon_o each_o of_o they_o without_o pass_v to_o a_o other_o as_o her_o gust_n unto_o such_o a_o affection_n last_v and_o as_o she_o find_v profit_n to_o her_o spirit_n by_o it_o 12._o whensoever_o in_o any_o clause_n there_o be_v contain_v matter_n of_o several_a desire_n or_o affection_n let_v she_o in_o she_o mind_n and_o exercise_v separate_v they_o and_o rest_n upon_o each_o of_o they_o several_o for_o by_o this_o mean_v the_o say_v exercise_n will_v last_v long_o and_o yield_v more_o profit_n 13._o after_o that_o all_o the_o exercise_n appoint_v for_o she_o have_v be_v pass_v over_o let_v she_o repeat_v and_o pursue_v they_o again_o and_o again_o unless_o she_o do_v find_v herself_o draw_v by_o god_n to_o some_o other_o exercise_n more_o perfect_a as_o be_v that_o of_o aspiration_n and_o indeed_o whensoever_o in_o her_o exercise_n during_o her_o recollection_n she_o do_v find_v herself_o move_v to_o perfect_a aspiration_n elevation_n of_o the_o will_v &c_n &c_n or_o else_o to_o produce_v some_o other_o act_n as_o of_o resignation_n &c_n &c_n upon_o occasion_n of_o some_o present_a cross_n to_o be_v sustain_v let_v she_o not_o fail_v to_o correspond_v to_o such_o a_o invitation_n 14._o those_o that_o can_v find_v no_o profit_n or_o relish_n by_o any_o of_o these_o prescribe_a exercise_n or_o the_o like_a may_v conclude_v that_o they_o be_v not_o as_o yet_o ripe_a for_o they_o and_o that_o therefore_o they_o be_v to_o continue_v in_o discursive_a prayer_n till_o it_o lose_v its_o relish_n and_o that_o they_o begin_v to_o find_v gust_n in_o affection_n 15._o the_o act_n and_o affection_n in_o the_o follow_a exercise_n be_v for_o the_o most_o part_n direct_v to_o god_n himself_o or_o the_o pure_a divinity_n as_o if_o they_o be_v internal_a conversation_n with_o god_n the_o which_o be_v perfect_a introversion_n and_o of_o all_o active_a assume_v exercise_n be_v the_o most_o profitable_a 16._o but_o withal_o such_o actuation_n be_v ofttimes_o very_o painful_a by_o reason_n that_o such_o introversion_n be_v exercise_v without_o the_o help_n of_o grosser_n image_n the_o which_o have_v some_o kind_n of_o recreate_v diversion_n in_o they_o and_o when_o such_o image_n do_v offer_v themselves_o the_o soul_n tend_v to_o the_o naked_a divinity_n tarry_v not_o in_o they_o but_o transcend_v or_o reject_v they_o and_o if_o her_o mind_n find_v no_o gust_n in_o a_o object_n so_o perfect_o spiritual_a become_v willing_a to_o ease_v itself_o by_o fasten_v upon_o some_o other_o good_a but_o inferior_a object_n she_o be_v by_o some_o writer_n teach_v to_o withdraw_v her_o attention_n from_o any_o thing_n but_o god_n the_o which_o violence_n and_o self_n contradiction_n can_v be_v without_o much_o pain_n in_o so_o much_o that_o soul_n become_v thereby_o sometime_o so_o tire_v with_o such_o introversion_n and_o find_v so_o great_a difficulty_n in_o seek_v the_o divine_a presence_n so_o above_o the_o course_n of_o nature_n that_o they_o lose_v all_o comfort_n
be_v to_o be_v admit_v for_o that_o purpose_n for_o as_o s._n bernard_n say_v as_o man_n be_v not_o make_v for_o the_o woman_n but_o the_o woman_n for_o man_n so_o spiritual_a exercise_n be_v not_o make_v for_o corporal_a but_o corporal_n for_o spiritual_a 34._o notwithstanding_o there_o be_v beyond_o this_o a_o perfection_n to_o be_v recommend_v to_o the_o imitation_n of_o such_o internal_a liver_n who_o grace_n &_o fervour_n have_v render_v they_o in_o a_o capacity_n of_o aspire_v to_o it_o the_o which_o the_o same_o s._n bernard_n have_v both_o by_o his_o instruction_n &_o admirable_a example_n deliver_v hypocrates_n say_v he_o do_v teach_v to_o save_v life_n in_o this_o world_n but_o christ_n &_o his_o apostle_n do_v teach_v to_o loose_v life_n he_o that_o will_v save_v his_o life_n shall_v loose_v it_o now_o which_o of_o these_o two_o master_n doâ—_n you_o choose_v to_o follow_v true_o that_o religious_a man_n plain_o show_n who_o he_o choose_v for_o his_o master_n who_o say_v this_o meat_n be_v ill_a for_o the_o eye_n that_o for_o the_o head_n the_o other_o for_o the_o stomach_n &c_n &c_n now_o such_o niceness_n as_o this_o the_o holy_a father_n so_o earnest_o protest_v against_o as_o almost_o to_o deny_v the_o use_n of_o physic_n to_o be_v lawful_a the_o only_a proper_a medicinal_a remedy_n for_o religious_a person_n be_v abstinence_n yea_o it_o be_v observe_v that_o he_o purposely_o make_v choice_n of_o unwholesome_a place_n to_o build_v his_o monastery_n in_o as_o be_v desirous_a that_o his_o religious_a shall_v rather_o be_v infirm_a then_o robustious_a 35._o however_o in_o the_o choice_n &_o use_n of_o diet_n or_o physic_n every_o one_o must_v follow_v that_o divine_a light_n of_o discretion_n which_o god_n give_v they_o always_o avoid_v superfluity_n &_o sometime_o content_v themselves_o with_o the_o want_n even_o of_o necessary_n they_o must_v account_v themselves_o oblige_v to_o continue_v the_o practice_n of_o the_o same_o internal_a duty_n though_o after_o another_o manner_n increase_v the_o mortification_n of_o the_o will_v which_o be_v a_o mortification_n far_o more_o pure_a &_o perfect_a though_o they_o be_v force_v to_o allow_v a_o little_a more_o to_o the_o body_n their_o mind_n be_v to_o be_v set_v upon_o the_o benefit_n which_o sickness_n bring_v with_o it_o &_o to_o use_v all_o endeavour_n to_o possess_v themselves_o of_o they_o consider_v 1._o that_o they_o have_v a_o continual_a occasion_n of_o exercise_v patience_n &_o resignation_n the_o great_a blessing_n that_o a_o soul_n be_v capable_a of_o 2._o that_o they_o have_v opportunity_n for_o more_o free_a pure_a &_o less_o distract_a recollection_n so_o that_o their_o prayer_n &_o mortification_n do_v inseparable_o attend_v one_o another_o 3._o in_o a_o word_n they_o be_v now_o in_o such_o a_o state_n by_o which_o the_o great_a saint_n have_v more_o sure_o &_o more_o speedy_o advance_v themselves_o to_o perfection_n then_o by_o many_o year_n voluntary_a external_a &_o corporal_a labour_n &_o austerity_n 36._o thaulerus_n have_v a_o say_n that_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o dear_a &_o most_o perfect_a servant_n of_o god_n be_v to_o have_v their_o soul_n full_a of_o the_o divine_a love_n &_o their_o body_n full_a of_o pain_n and_o that_o when_o they_o feel_v no_o pain_n nor_o other_o affliction_n they_o great_o apprehend_v lest_o god_n have_v forget_v they_o but_o their_o comfort_n return_v when_o god_n visit_v ihem_n with_o any_o corporal_a or_o worldly_a affliction_n then_o they_o even_o feel_v that_o it_o stand_v well_o with_o they_o for_o than_o they_o be_v in_o a_o state_n that_o of_o all_o other_o do_v best_a dispose_n for_o the_o divine_a union_n 37._o the_o suffering_n of_o our_o lord_n be_v never_o be_v perfect_o understand_v by_o read_v or_o meditate_v as_o when_o devout_a soul_n themselves_o taste_v of_o the_o like_a then_o they_o see_v and_o comfortable_o taste_v his_o love_n to_o they_o if_o their_o pain_n be_v supportable_a they_o do_v invite_v they_o to_o unite_v themselves_o to_o god_n by_o express_a act_n of_o resignation_n but_o if_o they_o be_v so_o excessive_a that_o they_o become_v incapable_a of_o make_v express_v formal_a prayer_n than_o the_o very_o suffer_v of_o those_o pain_n with_o patience_n &_o peace_n of_o mind_n be_v a_o most_o sublime_a and_o efficacious_a prayer_n then_o be_v the_o proper_a season_n for_o those_o gemitus_fw-la inenarrabiles_fw-la those_o groan_n which_o can_v be_v utter_v which_o as_o s._n paul_n say_v the_o holy_a spirit_n suggest_v to_o suffer_v humble_a &_o devout_a soul_n 38._o and_o here_o by_o the_o way_n i_o will_v recommend_v to_o those_o charitable_a person_n that_o do_v attend_v on_o the_o sick_a a_o care_n to_o behave_v themselves_o as_o become_v they_o in_o those_o mortification_n that_o attend_v such_o a_o office_n that_o they_o will_v bear_v with_o the_o passionate_a humour_n of_o their_o patient_n &_o not_o judge_v they_o for_o small_a excess_n that_o they_o will_v free_o &_o charitable_o administer_v what_o shall_v be_v requisite_a to_o their_o present_a state_n be_v assure_v that_o god_n will_v never_o be_v want_v to_o those_o that_o have_v leave_v all_o for_o he_o &_o now_o depend_v only_o upon_o he_o he_o will_v rather_o enrich_v they_o more_o for_o their_o charity_n then_o suffer_v they_o to_o be_v endamage_v by_o it_o it_o may_v be_v it_o be_v for_o the_o sick_a patient_n sake_n that_o the_o healthful_a enjoy_v a_o comfortable_a subsistence_n let_v they_o herein_o imitate_v the_o tenderness_n of_o our_o holy_a father_n to_o the_o sick_a &_o his_o care_n likewise_o to_o admonish_v their_o attendant_n of_o their_o duty_n in_o the_o 36._o chapter_n of_o his_o rule_n 39_o but_o above_o all_o thing_n a_o devout_a soul_n ought_v to_o judge_v that_o god_n have_v send_v she_o the_o most_o profitable_a trial_n of_o sickness_n not_o to_o the_o end_n to_o discharge_v she_o of_o her_o daily_a recollection_n but_o rather_o that_o she_o may_v pursue_v they_o after_o a_o more_o efficacious_a manner_n probably_n she_o will_v not_o be_v able_a to_o observe_v exact_o her_o former_a appoint_a time_n of_o prayer_n as_o also_o through_o disturbance_n of_o humour_n &_o spirit_n she_o will_v find_v great_a distraction_n yet_o if_o lift_v up_o her_o spirit_n as_o well_o as_o she_o can_v she_o offer_v both_o her_o pain_n &_o distraction_n to_o god_n &_o withal_o if_o in_o time_n out_o of_o prayer_n she_o be_v watchful_a over_o herself_o not_o to_o give_v way_n either_o to_o the_o inordinate_a appetite_n or_o impatience_n of_o nature_n but_o to_o be_v in_o a_o continual_a state_n of_o resignation_n she_o will_v have_v little_a reason_n to_o complain_v of_o the_o imperfection_n of_o her_o prayer_n 40._o a_o soul_n can_v have_v no_o excuse_n for_o neglect_v this_o most_o necessary_a duty_n of_o prayer_n the_o time_n of_o which_o may_v more_o secure_o be_v observe_v in_o sickness_n then_o in_o health_n for_o who_o will_v trouble_v or_o interrupt_v such_o a_o one_o against_o his_o will_n or_o who_o will_v not_o permit_v he_o to_o be_v alone_o or_o to_o rest_v whensoever_o he_o have_v no_o mind_n to_o continue_v conversation_n however_o if_o the_o devout_a soul_n shall_v stand_v in_o need_n she_o may_v &_o aught_o to_o use_v all_o lawful_a foresight_n industry_n excuse_n &_o sleight_n that_o may_v be_v to_o prevent_v the_o be_v hinder_v or_o interrupt_v 41._o now_o because_o physic_v inward_o take_v do_v much_o encumber_v the_o stomach_n &_o indispose_v for_o prayer_n therefore_o i_o will_v advise_v the_o sick_a person_n 1._o not_o to_o be_v forward_o to_o seek_v or_o accept_v of_o all_o receipt_n that_o friend_n &_o visitant_n be_v apt_a to_o prescribe_v 2._o when_o he_o be_v to_o take_v physic_n whether_o in_o the_o morning_n or_o evening_n so_o to_o order_v his_o time_n as_o not_o to_o take_v it_o till_o he_o have_v perform_v his_o appoint_a recollection_n 3._o not_o to_o receive_v physic_n no_o nor_o repast_n oft_o or_o more_o than_o shall_v be_v necessary_a not_o too_o much_o neglect_v the_o body_n but_o yet_o be_v careful_a rather_o to_o attend_v to_o the_o necessity_n of_o the_o spirit_n let_v our_o patient_n therefore_o stout_o resist_v the_o invitation_n &_o tenderness_n of_o friend_n that_o be_v apt_a to_o urge_v he_o to_o eat_v more_o or_o often_o than_o shall_v be_v needful_a and_o whatsoever_o he_o shall_v receive_v let_v he_o take_v it_o in_o the_o name_n of_o god_n &_o for_o his_o sake_n neither_o with_o avidity_n if_o it_o be_v please_v to_o nature_n nor_o with_o murmur_v if_o displease_v 42_o it_o will_v be_v exceed_o difficult_a during_o pain_n or_o any_o great_a infirmity_n to_o use_v discursive_a meditation_n the_o exercise_n of_o act_n of_o the_o will_v &_o much_o more_o of_o aspiration_n be_v a_o far_o more_o proper_a prayer_n in_o such_o a_o case_n therefore_o
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
mortification_n than_o other_o that_o consume_v their_o strength_n &_o spirit_n with_o intolerable_a fasting_n chain_n discipline_n &c_n &c_n for_o as_o cassian_n say_v in_o the_o preface_n to_o his_o institution_n si_fw-la rationabilis_fw-la possibilium_fw-la mensura_fw-la seruetur_fw-la eadem_fw-la obseruantiae_fw-la perfectio_fw-la est_fw-la etiam_fw-la in_o impari_fw-la facultate_fw-la that_o be_v if_o a_o reasonable_a discreet_a measure_n of_o austerity_n that_o ordinary_o be_v not_o above_o our_o power_n be_v observe_v there_o will_v be_v the_o same_o perfection_n of_o observance_n where_o the_o external_a ability_n be_v unequal_a 13._o in_o the_o next_o place_n there_o be_v great_a use_n of_o discretion_n in_o sensible_a devotion_n by_o which_o say_v harphius_n some_o soul_n be_v so_o far_o carry_v away_o so_o besot_v with_o self-love_n &_o self-will_n in_o the_o use_n of_o it_o that_o no_o advice_n from_o the_o most_o experience_a will_v avayle_v to_o moderate_v they_o till_o it_o be_v too_o late_o to_o amend_v &_o till_o they_o find_v themselves_o unable_a to_o support_v any_o serious_a application_n to_o exercise_n of_o the_o spirit_n nevertheless_o say_v he_o have_v thus_o by_o their_o indiscretion_n bring_v on_o themselves_o this_o inconvenience_n they_o may_v for_o all_o that_o merit_n much_o if_o with_o humility_n patience_n &_o resignation_n they_o will_v accept_v of_o such_o their_o infirmity_n 14._o we_o ought_v therefore_o much_o rather_o to_o mortify_v such_o sensible_a fervour_n then_o use_v force_v to_o increase_v it_o apply_v hereto_o that_o say_v of_o the_o wiseman_n proverb_n 25._o have_v thou_o find_v honey_n eat_v of_o it_o what_o may_v be_v sufficient_a for_o thou_o lest_o thou_o be_v fill_v &_o vomit_v it_o up_o 15._o all_o the_o merit_n that_o be_v in_o sensible_a devotion_n consist_v in_o the_o concurrence_n of_o the_o superior_a will_n to_o those_o act_n without_o which_o it_o will_v not_o help_v to_o raise_v the_o soul_n out_o of_o her_o natural_a state_n yea_o the_o more_o she_o be_v visit_v &_o even_o bathe_v in_o such_o sensible_a consolation_n except_o she_o use_v mortification_n about_o they_o &_o be_v wary_a not_o to_o rest_v in_o they_o but_o turn_v they_o to_o the_o produce_v of_o more_o efficacious_a act_n in_o the_o superior_a will_n the_o more_o strong_a will_v she_o grow_v in_o self-love_n &_o more_o defile_v with_o a_o kind_n of_o spiritual_a lust_n unless_o soul_n therefore_o do_v grow_v more_o humble_a thereby_o it_o be_v a_o sign_n of_o danger_n to_o be_v pervert_v by_o it_o and_o quite_o to_o loose_v the_o end_n for_o which_o god_n give_v it_o 16._o yet_o soul_n during_o their_o imperfect_a state_n be_v not_o violent_o to_o strain_v themselves_o to_o work_v pure_o in_o spirit_n but_o moderate_o to_o use_v sensible_a devotion_n when_o god_n send_v it_o as_o a_o mean_n to_o advance_v they_o in_o spirit_n neither_o ought_v they_o on_o the_o other_o side_n to_o be_v so_o carry_v away_o with_o a_o like_n &_o gluttonous_a affection_n to_o it_o which_o indeed_o afford_v delicacy_n more_o agreeable_a to_o nature_n then_o any_o sensible_a satisfaction_n as_o for_o it_o to_o omit_v other_o duty_n belong_v to_o their_o state_n &_o which_o god_n will_v have_v they_o to_o do_v 17._o thirdâ—y_o as_o touch_v the_o exercise_n of_o meditation_n how_o far_o discretion_n be_v to_o be_v use_v in_o it_o have_v hene_n sufficient_o declare_v when_o we_o treat_v of_o it_o indeed_o soul_n during_o that_o exercise_n be_v to_o be_v direct_v rather_o by_o the_o discretion_n of_o other_o than_o their_o own_o &_o this_o both_o in_o judge_v whether_o they_o be_v fit_a for_o it_o how_o long_o they_o be_v to_o continue_v in_o it_o the_o rule_n whereof_o must_v not_o be_v custom_n but_o experience_n of_o profit_n &_o what_o proportion_n of_o time_n they_o be_v to_o allow_v unto_o the_o understanding_n &_o will_n to_o operate_v in_o it_o for_o that_o exercise_n do_v not_o afford_v supernatural_a light_n enough_o to_o enable_v a_o soul_n to_o be_v she_o own_o guide_n 18._o four_o for_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v the_o exercise_n of_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n a_o soul_n that_o out_o of_o ripeness_n get_v by_o sufficient_a practice_n of_o meditation_n be_v arrive_v thereto_o will_v have_v light_a &_o discretion_n sufficient_a to_o judge_v what_o act_n be_v most_o proper_a for_o she_o what_o time_n be_v to_o be_v spend_v in_o each_o recollection_n when_o &_o what_o pause_n shall_v be_v necessary_a &_o when_o she_o be_v to_o change_v it_o for_o a_o high_a 19_o a_o principal_a point_n of_o discretion_n in_o this_o exercise_n be_v not_o to_o be_v carry_v away_o with_o the_o example_n of_o some_o saint_n in_o former_a time_n who_o can_v remain_v almost_o continual_o in_o some_o mental_a actuation_n to_o god_n without_o give_v way_n to_o a_o extravagant_a thought_n by_o which_o mean_n they_o be_v almost_o continual_o in_o internal_a combatting_n a_o indiscreet_a imitation_n of_o such_o example_n as_o likewise_o a_o too_o violent_a produce_v of_o act_n upon_o one_o another_o will_v so_o oppress_v ordinary_a spirit_n that_o it_o will_v put_v they_o into_o a_o incapacity_n of_o ever_o be_v able_a to_o pray_v for_o the_o future_a 20._o they_o who_o do_v not_o use_v set_v recollection_n may_v &_o ought_v frequent_o to_o force_v themselves_o to_o interiour_n act_v towards_o god_n yea_o as_o oft_o as_o they_o please_v not_o much_o regard_v the_o season_n of_o the_o day_n as_o whether_o it_o be_v after_o refection_n or_o before_o sleep_n and_o when_o they_o have_v do_v all_o their_o progress_n will_v be_v but_o small_a for_o want_n of_o more_o prolong_v and_o continue_a exercise_n 21._o last_o discretion_n and_o mortification_n likewise_o be_v to_o be_v use_v also_o even_o in_o those_o exercise_n to_o which_o we_o be_v invite_v and_o enable_v by_o god_n himself_o such_o be_v the_o exercise_n of_o aspiration_n and_o elevation_n of_o the_o spirit_n the_o usual_a time_n therefore_o of_o set_v recollection_n be_v to_o be_v expect_v for_o they_o do_v so_o weaken_v and_o consume_v corporal_a nature_n that_o if_o soul_n shall_v give_v way_n unto_o they_o as_o oft_o as_o they_o think_v themselves_o enable_v which_o be_v indeed_o almost_o continual_o so_o perfect_o be_v they_o dispose_v to_o god_n they_o will_v utter_o disable_v themselves_o to_o do_v any_o service_n to_o god_n for_o the_o future_a 22._o to_o this_o purpose_n harphius_n relate_v a_o account_n that_o one_o brother_n rogerius_n a_o devout_a franciscan_a give_v of_o himself_o say_v that_o a_o hundred_o time_n in_o a_o matin_n he_o be_v in_o spirit_n draw_v upward_o to_o a_o more_o high_a knowledge_n of_o divine_a secret_n all_o which_o tract_v he_o forcible_o resist_v be_v assure_v that_o if_o he_o have_v give_v his_o soul_n free_a scope_n to_o fix_v the_o eye_n of_o the_o understanding_n upon_o those_o object_n so_o represent_v to_o he_o he_o shall_v have_v be_v so_o plunge_v in_o the_o abyss_n of_o the_o divine_a incomprehensibility_n and_o so_o whole_o drive_v out_o of_o himself_o that_o he_o shall_v never_o have_v be_v able_a to_o have_v retire_v himself_o alive_a from_o such_o a_o contemplation_n but_o there_o be_v little_a peril_n of_o indiscretion_n in_o soul_n so_o high_o elevate_v and_o so_o whole_o in_o god_n hand_n who_o may_v do_v with_o soul_n and_o body_n what_o he_o please_v 23._o the_o same_o harphius_n describe_v the_o state_n of_o some_o other_o soul_n not_o so_o sublime_o elevate_v who_o yet_o be_v so_o languish_v in_o their_o love_n to_o god_n and_o in_o such_o a_o impatient_a ardour_n &_o thirst_n after_o he_o that_o it_o make_v the_o body_n to_o faint_v and_o quite_o wither_v away_o and_o therefore_o he_o call_v they_o martyr_n of_o love._n now_o by_o this_o languish_a love_n i_o conceive_v be_v understand_v a_o love_n much_o in_o sensuality_n though_o the_o object_n thereof_o be_v god_n and_o it_o be_v exercise_v about_o the_o heart_n much_o after_o the_o same_o manner_n that_o a_o violent_a but_o chaste_a love_n be_v oft_o exercise_v between_o absent_a person_n of_o different_a sex_n so_o that_o i_o take_v it_o to_o be_v the_o high_a degree_n of_o sensible_a devotion_n now_o though_o harphius_n say_v that_o such_o martyr_n of_o love_n die_v corporal_o through_o the_o extremity_n of_o passion_n do_v immediate_o pass_v into_o heaven_n have_v be_v already_o purify_v in_o the_o purgatory_n &_o fire_n of_o love_n notwitstanding_n although_o no_o doubt_n such_o soul_n die_v in_o a_o most_o secure_a estate_n yet_o it_o may_v be_v they_o will_v not_o escape_v some_o degree_n of_o purgatory_n for_o their_o indiscreet_a yield_n to_o the_o impulse_n of_o nature_n in_o the_o exercise_v of_o this_o love_n which_o though_o true_o divine_a be_v yet_o far_o less_o perfect_a than_o that_o pure_a love_n which_o in_o perfect_a contemplation_n be_v exercise_v in_o
the_o intellectual_a soul_n without_o any_o sensible_a change_n or_o redundance_n to_o the_o body_n for_o the_o tree_n of_o love_n be_v in_o no_o sort_n to_o be_v pluck_v up_o by_o the_o root_n as_o long_o as_o there_o be_v any_o hope_n that_o it_o may_v be_v in_o a_o disposition_n or_o capacity_n to_o bring_v forth_o more_o fruit_n chap._n vii_o §_o 1._o 2._o touch_v a_o special_a sort_n of_o internal_a prayer_n prescribe_v by_o antonio_n roias_n a_o spanish_a priest_n with_o approbation_n give_v to_o it_o §_o 3._o 4._o the_o order_n for_o preparation_n to_o the_o say_a prayer_n of_o internal_a silence_n §_o 5._o 6._o etc._n etc._n how_o the_o say_a prayer_n itself_o be_v to_o be_v exercise_v §_o 11._o 12._o the_o great_a advantage_n and_o benefit_n of_o the_o prayer_n of_o internal_a silence_n §_o 13._o this_o prayer_n may_v become_v proper_a for_o most_o soul_n §_o 14._o a_o soul_n be_v not_o to_o be_v oblige_v to_o use_v the_o same_o preparation_n prescribe_v §_o 15._o it_o be_v commend_v by_o the_o author_n both_o to_o beginner_n &_o proficient_n yet_o with_o some_o caution_n §_o 16._o this_o prayer_n be_v inferior_a to_o s._n teresas_n prayer_n of_o quietness_n §_o 17._o of_o the_o phrase_n by_o which_o the_o soul_n be_v say_v herein_o to_o be_v aux_n escouttes_n §_o 18._o this_o prayer_n be_v far_o from_o the_o mere_a cessation_n or_o idleness_n of_o the_o illuminati_fw-la §_o 19_o 20._o a_o transition_n to_o the_o follow_a discourse_n of_o contemplation_n with_o a_o serious_a exhortation_n of_o s._n teresa_n to_o aspire_v courageous_o thereto_o 1._o before_o we_o proceed_v to_o the_o supreme_a degree_n of_o prayer_n which_o be_v pure_a contemplation_n it_o may_v be_v convenient_a as_o it_o be_v also_o pertinent_a enough_o to_o insert_v here_o as_o a_o appendix_n to_o these_o instruction_n concern_v the_o prayer_n of_o force_a act_n of_o the_o will_n a_o certain_a exercise_n of_o internal_a prayer_n pertain_v to_o this_o same_o degree_n though_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o soul_n behaviour_n much_o differ_v it_o be_v a_o prayer_n of_o internal_a silence_n quietness_n &_o repose_n in_o which_o there_o be_v no_o meditation_n at_o all_o nor_o no_o act_n of_o the_o will_v express_o &_o direct_o frame_v be_v rather_o a_o kind_n of_o virtual_a &_o habitual_a attention_n to_o god_n than_o a_o formal_a &_o direct_a tendance_n to_o he_o yet_o be_v this_o a_o far_o inferior_a degree_n of_o prayer_n then_o be_v that_o prayer_n of_o quietness_n which_o s._n teresa_n speak_v of_o &_o experience_v which_o be_v indeed_o supernatural_a contemplation_n 2._o the_o first_o that_o publish_v a_o treatise_n purposely_o of_o this_o kind_n of_o prayer_n be_v antonio_z de_fw-fr roias_n a_o devout_a spanish_a priest_n &_o doctor_n in_o a_o book_n call_v the_o life_n of_o the_o spirit_n approve_a which_o large_a eulogy_n by_o no_o less_o than_o nime_fw-mi eminent_a doctor_n bishop_n or_o inquisitour_n so_o that_o there_o can_v be_v no_o reasonable_a ground_n to_o doubt_v of_o the_o lawfullnes_n convenience_n &_o security_n of_o it_o it_o have_v moreover_o be_v translate_v &_o publish_v in_o french_a &_o recommend_v by_o several_a other_o doctor_n 3._o now_o the_o order_n that_o the_o author_n advise_v a_o devout_a soul_n to_o observe_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o this_o prayer_n of_o internal_a silence_n both_o in_o regard_n of_o preparation_n thereto_o &_o actual_a exercise_n of_o it_o be_v as_o follow_v 4._o in_o the_o first_o place_n for_o preparation_n 1._o the_o soul_n be_v to_o examine_v &_o purify_v her_o conscience_n with_o a_o prudent_a diligent_a search_n 2._o she_o be_v to_o endeavour_v serious_o &_o cordial_o to_o make_v a_o act_n of_o contrition_n for_o her_o sin_n from_o a_o consideration_n of_o god_n goodness_n love_n &_o mercy_n etc._n etc._n 3._o she_o be_v to_o frame_v a_o act_n of_o pure_a &_o entire_a resignation_n of_o herself_o into_o god_n hand_n with_o reference_n to_o the_o present_a exercise_n of_o a_o silent_a recollection_n determine_v to_o perform_v it_o pure_o for_o god_n glory_n renounce_v all_o inferior_a private_a interest_n &_o contentment_n &c_n &c_n 4._o she_o may_v if_o need_v be_v meditate_v a_o little_a upon_o one_o of_o the_o mystery_n concern_v the_o incarnation_n &_o passion_n etc._n etc._n of_o our_o lord_n also_o mix_v certain_a eiaculatory_a prayer_n 5._o she_o be_v to_o make_v a_o firm_a act_n of_o faith_n &_o acknowledgement_n of_o god_n presence_n in_o the_o centre_n of_o the_o soul_n before_o who_o she_o intend_v to_o place_v herself_o with_o most_o profound_a reverence_n humility_n &_o love_n 5._o in_o consequence_n to_o these_o preparation_n in_o the_o which_o she_o be_v to_o continue_v till_o she_o find_v herself_o dispose_v to_o quit_v all_o such_o express_a &_o direct_a act_n or_o affection_n and_o have_v a_o implicit_a assurance_n by_o a_o bare_a &_o obscure_a faith_n that_o god_n who_o be_v incomprehensible_a universal_a goodness_n be_v indeed_o present_a to_o &_o in_o she_o all_o that_o remain_v for_o she_o then_o to_o do_v be_v with_o all_o humility_n &_o love_n to_o continue_v in_o his_o presence_n in_o the_o quality_n of_o a_o petitioner_n but_o such_o a_o one_o as_o make_v no_o special_a direct_a request_n but_o content_v herself_o to_o appear_v before_o he_o with_o all_o her_o want_v &_o necessity_n best_a &_o indeed_o only_o know_v to_o he_o who_o therefore_o need_v not_o her_o information_n so_o that_o she_o with_o a_o silent_a attention_n regard_v god_n only_o reject_v all_o manner_n of_o image_n of_o all_o object_n whatsoever_o &_o with_o the_o will_v she_o frame_v no_o particular_a request_n nor_o any_o express_a act_n towards_o god_n but_o remain_v in_o a_o entire_a silence_n both_o of_o tongue_n &_o thought_n the_o virtue_n of_o the_o precedent_n direct_a act_n remain_v in_o she_o with_o a_o sweere_a tacit_a consent_v of_o love_n in_o the_o will_n permit_v god_n to_o take_v a_o entire_a possession_n of_o the_o soul_n as_o of_o a_o temple_n whole_o belong_v and_o consecrate_v to_o he_o in_o the_o which_o he_o be_v already_o present_a 6._o in_o this_o state_n the_o soul_n behave_v herself_o much_o after_o the_o manner_n of_o a_o humble_a faithful_a &_o love_a subject_n that_o out_o of_o duty_n &_o with_o most_o entire_a affection_n &_o respect_n approach_n to_o the_o presence_n of_o his_o sovereign_n at_o his_o first_o access_n he_o use_v such_o profound_a reverence_n &_o protestation_n of_o duty_n &_o fidelity_n as_o be_v befit_v but_o that_o be_v do_v he_o remain_v silent_a and_o immovable_a in_o his_o presence_n yet_o with_o the_o same_o respect_n &_o reverence_n that_o he_o first_o enter_v and_o know_v that_o his_o prince_n only_o ought_v to_o dispose_v of_o his_o fortune_n &_o state_n &_o that_o he_o be_v both_o most_o wise_a to_o judge_v what_o favour_n may_v become_v the_o one_o to_o give_v &_o the_o other_o to_o receive_v &_o withal_o that_o he_o have_v a_o love_n &_o magnificence_n to_o advance_v he_o beyond_o his_o desert_n he_o make_v no_o particular_a request_n at_o all_o now_o the_o reverence_n that_o he_o show_v he_o be_v not_o by_o make_v any_o express_a reflection_n or_o inward_a say_n the_o king_n be_v here_o to_o who_o i_o owe_v all_o duty_n love_n &_o obedience_n for_o know_v he_o to_o be_v present_a there_o be_v no_o need_n of_o renew_v either_o speech_n or_o thought_n that_o he_o be_v so_o and_o real_o exhibit_v all_o manner_n of_o respect_n to_o he_o it_o will_v be_v to_o no_o purpose_n to_o make_v either_o internal_a or_o external_a profession_n of_o it_o he_o be_v in_o a_o readiness_n to_o hear_v &_o execute_v any_o command_n &_o till_o he_o be_v inform_v by_o the_o king_n how_o he_o ought_v to_o perform_v his_o will_n &_o service_n he_o be_v not_o forward_o to_o voluntary_a undertake_n so_o do_v the_o soul_n according_a to_o the_o instruction_n of_o roias_n behave_v herself_o in_o god_n presence_n not_o renew_v but_o only_o persevere_v in_o the_o virtue_n of_o those_o direct_a act_n of_o faith_n love_n duty_n &c_n &c_n which_o she_o frame_v in_o the_o beginning_n if_o be_v in_o this_o vacancy_n &_o internal_a silence_n god_n spirit_n shall_v suggest_v unto_o she_o any_o pure_a affection_n she_o be_v attentive_a &_o ready_a to_o entertain_v &_o quiet_o exercise_v they_o &_o present_o return_v to_o her_o silence_n 7._o if_o during_o this_o silence_n the_o soul_n find_v any_o aridity_n obscurity_n or_o insensiblenes_n in_o inferior_a nature_n &c_n &c_n those_o thing_n do_v not_o interrupt_v she_o persevere_v in_o her_o silence_n &_o virtual_a exercise_n of_o faith_n oblation_n &_o resignation_n join_v with_o a_o quiet_a attention_n to_o his_o will_n &_o inspiration_n yet_o if_o indeed_o she_o shall_v forget_v herself_o &_o that_o either_o wander_v thought_n or_o sensual_a affection_n shall_v press_v
second_o in_o those_o immediate_a act_n and_o affection_n in_o which_o there_o be_v no_o image_n of_o creature_n involue_v but_o which_o respect_n god_n immediate_o he_o be_v represent_v by_o some_o distinct_a image_n or_o express_v notion_n in_o the_o mind_n as_o by_o some_o special_a attribute_n perfection_n name_n similitude_n etc._n etc._n but_o a_o soul_n after_o a_o long_a practice_n of_o internal_a abstraction_n &_o renounce_v of_o all_o representation_n of_o god_n content_v herself_o with_o such_o a_o confuse_a notion_n of_o he_o as_o may_v be_v apprehend_v by_o a_o obscure_a general_a faith_n that_o be_v to_o say_v not_o simple_o &_o absolute_o with_o no_o kind_n of_o image_n at_o all_o for_o that_o be_v suppose_v inconsistent_a with_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o soul_n while_o it_o be_v in_o a_o mortal_a body_n but_o not_o with_o a_o distinct_a formal_a choose_v particular_a image_n for_o all_o such_o offering_n themselves_o be_v reject_v by_o perfect_a soul_n so_o that_o if_o they_o be_v to_o give_v a_o account_n of_o what_o they_o conceive_v in_o their_o mind_n when_o they_o intend_v to_o think_v of_o god_n all_o that_o they_o can_v say_v will_v be_v god_n be_v nothing_o of_o all_o that_o i_o can_v say_v or_o think_v but_o a_o be_v infinite_o beyond_o it_o &_o absolute_o incomprehensible_a by_o a_o create_a understanding_n he_o be_v what_o he_o be_v and_o what_o himself_o only_o perfect_o know_v and_o so_o i_o believe_v he_o to_o be_v &_o as_o such_o i_o adore_v and_o love_v he_o only_o i_o renounce_v all_o pretend_v to_o a_o distinct_a know_v of_o he_o and_o content_v myself_o with_o such_o a_o blind_a believe_v now_o though_o imperfect_a soul_n also_o especial_o such_o as_o be_v learn_v do_v acknowledge_v this_o negative_a apprehension_n of_o god_n to_o be_v only_o true_o proper_a &_o perfect_a yet_o by_o reason_n that_o gross_a image_n be_v not_o yet_o chase_v out_o of_o their_o mind_n they_o can_v in_o their_o internal_a operation_n proceed_v constant_o according_a to_o such_o a_o acknowledgement_n such_o a_o obscure_a negative_a object_n will_v not_o ordinary_o move_v their_o affection_n whereas_o no_o other_o but_o such_o a_o object_n will_v move_v the_o affection_n of_o perfect_a soul_n 7._o three_o proper_a aspiration_n in_o perfect_a soul_n have_v no_o precedent_a discourse_n at_o all_o as_o act_n have_v at_o least_o virtual_o neither_o do_v the_o will_n in_o aspiration_n intend_v to_o employ_v or_o make_v use_n of_o the_o understanding_n for_o they_o be_v sudden_a elevation_n of_o the_o will_n without_o any_o previous_a motive_n or_o consideration_n 8._o four_o immediate_a act_n be_v not_o only_o produce_v with_o deliberation_n and_o choice_n but_o ordinary_o with_o some_o degree_n of_o force_n use_v upon_o the_o will_n but_o aspiration_n proceed_v from_o a_o interior_a impulse_n indeliberat_o and_o as_o it_o be_v natural_o flow_v from_o the_o soul_n and_o thereby_o they_o show_v that_o there_o be_v in_o the_o interiour_n a_o secret_a supernatural_a direct_v principle_n to_o wit_n god_n holy_a spirit_n alone_o teach_v and_o move_v the_o soul_n to_o breath_n forth_o these_o aspiration_n not_o only_o in_o set_v recollection_n but_o almost_o continual_o now_o this_o do_v not_o infer_v that_o the_o holy_a spirit_n be_v not_o also_o the_o principle_n of_o all_o other_o good_a act_n &_o affection_n of_o the_o will_n for_o none_o of_o they_o have_v any_o true_a good_a in_o they_o further_o than_o they_o proceed_v from_o this_o divine_a principle_n but_o in_o they_o the_o will_n do_v previous_o and_o forcible_o raise_v up_o itself_o to_o the_o produce_v they_o in_o which_o likewise_o much_o of_o nature_n be_v mix_v and_o so_o the_o holy_a spirit_n be_v not_o so_o complete_o and_o perfect_o the_o fountain_n of_o they_o as_o he_o be_v of_o aspiration_n 9_o five_o in_o case_n that_o a_o soul_n who_o constant_a exercise_n as_o yet_o be_v but_o immediate_a act_n or_o meditation_n do_v sometime_o mere_o by_o a_o internal_a impulse_n produce_v such_o indeliberate_a aspiration_n yet_o they_o be_v neither_o so_o pure_a &_o subtle_a neither_o will_v they_o continue_v any_o considerable_a time_n but_o the_o present_a inuâ—_fw-la 〈…〉_o â—g_z pass_v the_o soul_n must_v be_v content_a to_o return_v to_o her_o inferior_a exercise_n or_o if_o she_o will_v needs_o force_v herself_o to_o continue_v they_o her_o recollection_n will_v become_v dry_a insipid_a and_o without_o any_o profit_n at_o all_o 10._o last_o aspiration_n when_o they_o be_v a_o soul_n usual_a exercise_n do_v proceed_v from_o a_o more_o habitual_o perfect_a ground_n and_o therefore_o be_v far_o more_o efficacious_a &_o noble_a then_o immediate_a act_n and_o moreover_o there_o be_v no_o violence_n at_o all_o use_v in_o they_o they_o be_v much_o more_o frequent_o &_o continued_o produce_v and_o consequent_o do_v procure_v more_o new_a grace_n and_o merit_n and_o do_v far_o more_o increase_v the_o habit_n of_o charity_n 11._o no_o man_n can_v limit_n the_o time_n how_o long_a soul_n be_v to_o continue_v in_o inferior_a exercise_n before_o they_o will_v be_v enable_v and_o make_v ripe_a for_o so_o sublime_a a_o prayer_n and_o therefore_o there_o be_v no_o rely_v upon_o the_o instruction_n practice_n or_o example_n of_o any_o all_o depend_v 1._o upon_o the_o industry_n or_o diligence_n of_o soul_n in_o prayer_n and_o mortification_n 2._o some_o what_o upon_o their_o special_a temper_n and_o disposition_n 3._o likewise_o upon_o the_o advantage_n that_o they_o may_v have_v from_o solitude_n and_o abstraction_n of_o life_n 4._o but_o principal_o upon_o the_o free_a grace_n and_o good_a pleasure_n of_o god_n who_o may_v and_o do_v by_o ordinary_a or_o extraordinary_a mean_n call_v and_o enable_v soul_n to_o aspiration_n some_o soon_o an_o some_o late_a 12._o in_o pass_v from_o the_o exercise_n of_o act_n to_o aspiration_n there_o be_v as_o to_o the_o manner_n of_o the_o cessation_n of_o force_a act_n great_a variety_n in_o soul_n for_o some_o will_v have_v their_o morning_n recollection_n to_o be_v sudden_o and_o entire_o change_v from_o force_a act_n to_o aspiration_n and_o also_o the_o ability_n for_o a_o long_a continuance_n increase_v whereas_o the_o evening_n recollection_n will_v be_v little_o alter_v in_o other_o soul_n and_o this_o be_v most_o ordinary_a their_o exercise_v of_o act_n will_v grow_v by_o degree_n more_o and_o more_o aspirative_a and_o this_o will_v happen_v sometime_o in_o the_o beginning_n sometime_o in_o the_o middle_n and_o sometime_o in_o the_o conclusion_n of_o their_o recollection_n and_o thus_o they_o in_o their_o recollection_n will_v get_v more_o and_o more_o ground_n upon_o act_n diminish_v both_o the_o frequency_n and_o constraint_n or_o difficulty_n of_o they_o and_o increase_a aspiration_n till_o in_o progress_n they_o become_v whole_o aspirative_a 13._o some_o soul_n who_o exercise_n be_v act_n mix_v with_o aspiration_n at_o their_o first_o come_v to_o their_o recollection_n yea_o &_o till_o they_o have_v for_o some_o reasonable_a space_n exercise_v themselves_o may_v happen_v to_o find_v themselves_o in_o perfect_a distraction_n in_o which_o case_n if_o they_o be_v call_v away_o by_o occasion_n of_o business_n of_o no_o great_a solicitude_n they_o may_v find_v much_o profit_n by_o such_o interruption_n &_o be_v dispose_v thereby_o to_o return_v with_o much_o eagerness_n to_o their_o recollection_n and_o with_o a_o enablement_n to_o exercise_v aspiration_n yea_o sometime_o they_o will_v find_v themselves_o enable_v to_o exercise_v they_o during_o such_o employment_n their_o spirit_n be_v refresh_v by_o mean_n of_o such_o pause_n and_o distance_n cause_v by_o the_o say_a interruption_n and_o experience_n will_v teach_v they_o that_o it_o will_v be_v needful_a sometime_o to_o break_v of_o the_o course_n of_o their_o present_a internal_a prayer_n for_o some_o little_a space_n after_o which_o they_o will_v find_v themselves_o better_a dispose_v for_o more_o frequent_a and_o efficacious_a aspiration_n 14._o but_o as_o for_o imperfect_a soul_n this_o must_v be_v no_o rule_n for_o they_o for_o they_o must_v not_o by_o reason_n of_o distraction_n interrupt_v their_o mental_a prayer_n or_o at_o least_o very_a seldom_o but_o must_v with_o discreet_a violence_n force_v themselves_o to_o begin_v with_o a_o serious_a recollection_n by_o that_o mean_n drive_v away_o or_o at_o least_o abate_v their_o present_a distraction_n 15._o when_o the_o exercise_n be_v become_v whole_o aspiration_n all_o the_o change_n that_o will_v happen_v afterward_o will_v not_o be_v in_o the_o substance_n of_o the_o exercise_n but_o only_o in_o the_o degree_n of_o purity_n subtlety_n and_o spirituallnesse_n of_o those_o aspiration_n for_o there_o be_v no_o active_a exercise_n more_o sublime_a 16._o a_o soul_n may_v come_v to_o that_o state_n that_o she_o may_v constant_o breathe_v forth_o aspiration_n &_o yet_o sufficient_o to_o the_o discharge_n of_o her_o obligation_n either_o
work_n read_v harken_v to_o a_o lesson_n recite_v say_v or_o hear_v mass_n communicate_v &c_n &c_n neither_o be_v there_o any_o negligence_n or_o irreverence_n commit_v by_o so_o do_v for_o by_o no_o operation_n so_o much_o as_o by_o aspiration_n do_v a_o soul_n enjoy_v a_o sublime_a and_o perfect_a union_n in_o spirit_n with_o god_n which_o be_v the_o end_n of_o all_o exercise_n and_o duty_n and_o this_o be_v the_o meaning_n of_o that_o say_n of_o mystic_n in_o god_n nothing_o be_v neglect_v yea_o some_o of_o they_o do_v affirm_v that_o there_o may_v be_v soul_n so_o perfect_a that_o even_o amid_o the_o noise_n and_o disorder_n of_o a_o camp_n they_o may_v without_o neglect_v their_o present_a duty_n there_o most_o efficacious_o exercise_v themselves_o in_o aspiration_n to_o god_n 17._o now_o the_o reason_n why_o aspiration_n be_v less_o hinder_v by_o external_a business_n then_o be_v meditation_n or_o immediate_a act_n be_v because_o in_o aspiration_n the_o understanding_n be_v scarce_o at_o all_o employ_v &_o therefore_o may_v well_o enough_o attend_v to_o other_o business_n and_o moreover_o the_o will_n abound_v &_o even_o overflow_a with_o divine_a love_n will_v not_o find_v herself_o interress_v in_o affection_n &_o consequent_o not_o distract_v by_o such_o employment_n 18._o there_o be_v great_a variety_n in_o the_o manner_n of_o produce_v aspiration_n for_o first_o some_o be_v pure_o mental_a be_v certain_a indeliberate_a quick_a elevation_n and_o springing_n up_o of_o the_o spirit_n to_o godward_a as_o sparkle_n of_o fire_n fly_v from_o a_o burn_a coal_n which_o be_v the_o expression_n of_o the_o author_n of_o the_o cloud_n of_o unknowing_a and_o of_o these_o some_o be_v more_o gross_a &_o imaginative_a especial_o in_o beginner_n &_o therefore_o not_o difficult_a to_o be_v express_v other_o in_o more_o perfect_a soul_n that_o be_v come_v to_o a_o high_a degree_n of_o spiritual_a abstraction_n grow_v more_o subtle_a &_o intellectual_a in_o so_o much_o as_o ofttimes_o the_o person_n himself_o can_v express_v what_o pass_v in_o his_o spirit_n which_o be_v indeed_o nothing_o but_o a_o blind_a &_o almost_o imperceptible_a elevation_n of_o the_o will_v exercise_v in_o the_o summity_n of_o the_o spirit_n as_o it_o happen_v ofttimes_o in_o the_o great_a desolation_n now_o this_o growth_n of_o immateriality_n in_o aspiration_n be_v not_o easy_o perceptible_a though_o it_o be_v real_a &_o certain_a as_o we_o know_v that_o corn_n grow_v though_o we_o can_v perceive_v its_o grow_a and_o indeed_o it_o be_v no_o great_a matter_n whether_o we_o observe_v such_o degree_n or_o no_o yea_o the_o examination_n thereof_o be_v better_o neglect_v 19_o again_o other_o aspiration_n be_v moreover_o external_o express_v by_o the_o tongue_n and_o in_o such_o expression_n sometime_o there_o be_v a_o proper_a sense_n and_o meaning_n as_o deus_fw-la meus_fw-la &_o omne_fw-la which_o be_v s._n francis_n his_o aspiration_n or_o noverim_fw-la te_fw-la &_o noverim_fw-la i_o which_o be_v s._n augustins_n and_o in_o these_o sometime_o a_o soul_n do_v abide_v a_o good_a space_n iterate_v again_o and_o again_o the_o same_o aspiration_n sometime_o she_o do_v vary_v always_o procede_v according_a to_o her_o interior_a impulse_n from_o god_n holy_a spirit_n other_o aspiration_n have_v no_o sense_n at_o all_o as_o be_v those_o practise_v by_o br._n massaeus_n a_o disciple_n of_o s._n francis_n who_o when_o he_o be_v full_a of_o interior_a affection_n can_v usual_o cry_v out_o nothing_o but_o v.u.u._n such_o unusual_a aspiration_n as_o these_o do_v show_v a_o great_a excess_n of_o interior_a fervour_n which_o burst_v out_o force_v the_o soul_n not_o able_a to_o contain_v itself_o nor_o yet_o to_o find_v out_o word_n by_o which_o to_o express_v her_o affection_n to_o power_n forth_o itself_o after_o such_o a_o unsignificant_a manner_n 20._o moreover_o aspiration_n &_o forcible_a elevation_n of_o the_o will_v there_o be_v which_o be_v signify_v not_o by_o the_o tongue_n but_o by_o some_o extraordinary_a action_n of_o the_o body_n as_o clap_v of_o hand_n leap_v &c_n &c_n to_o this_o purpose_n we_o have_v a_o example_n of_o another_o disciple_n of_o s._n francis_n call_v br._n bernard_n who_o out_o of_o a_o inward_a boil_a fervour_n be_v force_v to_o run_v over_o mountain_n &_o rocky_a place_n be_v agitate_a with_o a_o kind_n of_o holy_a frenzy_n in_o such_o case_n as_o these_o tear_n be_v very_o rare_a god_n holy_a spirit_n not_o usual_o move_v thereto_o because_o they_o will_v then_o flow_v unmeasurable_o to_o the_o great_a prejudice_n of_o corporal_a health_n 21._o now_o such_o action_n &_o motion_n though_o they_o may_v be_v yield_v to_o sometime_o when_o one_o be_v alone_o yet_o in_o company_n they_o be_v to_o be_v suppress_v to_o which_o purpose_n blosius_n give_v this_o good_a instruction_n out_o of_o thaulerus_n that_o albeit_o these_o thing_n be_v good_a as_o flow_a from_o a_o divine_a principle_n yet_o they_o be_v not_o the_o thing_n principal_o to_o be_v commend_v for_o these_o union_n of_o the_o spirit_n with_o god_n to_o which_o corporal_a nature_n concurre_v be_v not_o to_o be_v equal_v to_o that_o most_o perfect_a union_n which_o some_o soul_n do_v experience_n in_o pure_a spirit_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v observable_a that_o such_o violent_a agitation_n do_v chief_o befall_v such_o soul_n as_o have_v have_v their_o exercise_n much_o in_o sensible_a devotion_n as_o woman_n &_o devout_a ignorant_a man_n and_o on_o the_o same_o ground_n such_o be_v more_o dispose_v to_o rapt_n ecstasy_n etc._n etc._n 22._o last_o to_o these_o several_a expression_n of_o aspiration_n may_v be_v add_v that_o of_o say_v the_o divine_a office_n or_o other_o vocal_a prayer_n aspirative_o which_o be_v a_o far_o great_a proof_n of_o sublime_a contemplation_n than_o any_o of_o these_o unusual_a motion_n &c_n &c_n this_o be_v the_o contemplation_n of_o many_o of_o the_o ancient_a hermit_n &_o be_v no_o doubt_n of_o some_o in_o these_o day_n as_o a_o certain_a spiritual_a writer_n say_v of_o himself_o that_o be_v in_o the_o constant_a exercise_n of_o aspiration_n use_v daily_o two_o recollection_n consist_v of_o they_o on_o a_o time_n he_o find_v himself_o invite_v to_o produce_v they_o vocal_o and_o thereupon_o he_o take_v in_o hand_n the_o say_n of_o our_o lady_n office_n choose_v that_o because_o he_o can_v say_v it_o perfect_o without-booke_n he_o repeat_v it_o nine_o or_o ten_o time_n a_o day_n with_o a_o perfect_a attention_n of_o spirit_n the_o which_o mental_a attention_n or_o operation_n be_v in_o effect_n but_o aspiration_n take_v the_o word_n as_o here_o we_o do_v in_o a_o large_a sense_n and_o so_o for_o a_o few_o day_n as_o long_o as_o that_o invitation_n and_o enablement_n last_v he_o use_v no_o other_o internal_a exercise_n find_v great_a benefit_n by_o this_o but_o that_o invitation_n cease_v he_o find_v himself_o again_o oblige_v to_o return_v to_o mere_a mental_a aspiration_n 23._o i_o will_v conclude_v this_o point_n with_o set_v down_o some_o of_o the_o great_a and_o inestimable_a benefit_n that_o accrue_v to_o soul_n by_o this_o sublime_a exercise_n as_o first_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o interior_a sense_n and_o sensitive_a faculty_n the_o dominion_n that_o the_o superior_a soul_n have_v over_o they_o be_v now_o become_v very_o great_a for_o in_o as_o much_o as_o it_o be_v god_n that_o help_v move_v and_o direct_v soul_n in_o their_o operation_n during_o this_o exercise_n of_o aspiration_n the_o heart_n also_o be_v estrange_v from_o the_o love_n of_o creature_n and_o replenish_v with_o divine_a love_n distractive_a thought_n &_o image_n of_o creature_n either_o do_v not_o press_v into_o the_o mind_n or_o if_o they_o do_v yet_o they_o pass_v no_o far_o then_o into_o the_o imagination_n or_o if_o the_o understanding_n do_v sometime_o busy_v itself_o with_o they_o yet_o they_o do_v scarce_o or_o not_o at_o all_o touch_n or_o affect_v the_o will_n the_o which_o be_v not_o by_o such_o extravagant_a thought_n interrupt_v or_o divert_v in_o her_o pursuit_n of_o aspiration_n and_o blind_a elevation_n whereas_o in_o immediate_a force_a act_n great_a force_n be_v to_o be_v use_v against_o such_o distraction_n which_o do_v not_o only_o busy_v the_o understanding_n but_o likewise_o more_o or_o less_o withdraw_v the_o will_n from_o god_n 24._o second_o in_o regard_n of_o sensible_a devotion_n though_o the_o devil_n may_v have_v great_a influence_n upon_o it_o in_o meditation_n or_o even_o sometime_o in_o immediate_a affection_n and_o act_n seek_v thereby_o to_o seduce_v soul_n to_o extravagance_n and_o a_o spiritual_a gluttony_n it_o be_v otherwise_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o aspiration_n which_o be_v so_o much_o elevate_v above_o the_o imagination_n and_o sensitive_a nature_n that_o here_o he_o have_v no_o advantage_n give_v he_o for_o such_o deceit_n and_o if_o during_o that_o sensible_a devotion_n
of_o the_o understanding_n 2._o of_o the_o will_n and_o 3._o the_o sensitive_a faculty_n likewise_o 10._o first_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o understanding_n there_o be_v thereby_o a_o divine_a light_n communicate_v not_o reveal_v or_o discover_v any_o new_a verity_n but_o afford_v a_o most_o firm_a clear_a assurance_n and_o experimental_a perception_n of_o those_o verity_n of_o catholic_n religion_n which_o be_v the_o object_n of_o our_o faith_n the_o which_o assurance_n the_o soul_n perceive_v to_o be_v divine_o communicate_v to_o she_o 11._o o_o happy_a evidence_n of_o our_o catholic_n belief_n no_o thanks_n to_o they_o that_o believe_v after_o such_o sight_n which_o be_v more_o evident_a than_o any_o thing_n we_o see_v with_o our_o corporal_a eye_n sure_o the_o first_o knowledge_n and_o assurance_n that_o the_o primitive_a christian_n have_v of_o the_o mystery_n of_o our_o religion_n come_v by_o such_o contemplation_n communicate_v to_o the_o apostle_n &c._n &c._n as_o s._n paul_n witness_n of_o himself_o for_o one_o who_o see_v and_o even_o feel_v the_o truth_n of_o what_o they_o preach_v and_o deliver_v by_o tradition_n to_o other_o 12._o such_o contemplation_n as_o this_o make_v s._n teresa_n so_o confident_a in_o the_o point_n of_o her_o belief_n that_o it_o seem_v to_o she_o that_o she_o be_v able_a to_o dispute_v with_o and_o confound_v all_o the_o heretic_n in_o the_o world_n but_o yet_o therein_o she_o may_v perhaps_o be_v deceive_v if_o that_o god_n do_v not_o further_o enable_v she_o then_o by_o such_o contemplation_n only_o for_o though_o they_o serve_v to_o establish_v most_o firm_o her_o own_o belief_n yet_o will_v they_o not_o suffice_v to_o enable_v she_o to_o dispute_v with_o and_o convince_v other_o because_o neither_o can_v she_o intelligible_o enough_o express_v what_o she_o have_v see_v and_o if_o she_o can_v yet_o will_v not_o all_o believe_v she_o nor_o be_v they_o rational_o oblige_v to_o do_v so_o and_o therefore_o doubtless_o she_o will_v never_o have_v undertake_v of_o her_o own_o accord_n without_o a_o special_a motion_n and_o invitation_n from_o god_n to_o have_v enter_v into_o any_o such_o dispute_n indeed_o if_o god_n have_v urge_v she_o thereto_o then_o doubtless_o he_o will_v have_v give_v she_o a_o especial_a assistance_n and_o force_n 13._o a_o soul_n that_o be_v new_o awaken_v as_o it_o be_v from_o such_o a_o contemplation_n or_o union_n come_v to_o read_v the_o holy_a scripture_n or_o any_o spiritual_a book_n will_v pierce_v far_o more_o deep_o into_o the_o verity_n contain_v in_o they_o &_o will_v see_v clear_a light_n and_o feel_v far_o more_o perfect_a taste_n of_o the_o divine_a truth_n therein_o then_o ever_o before_o so_o that_o all_o the_o knowledge_n that_o she_o former_o have_v will_v seem_v unto_o her_o mere_a darkness_n and_o a_o knowledge_n of_o the_o outward_a letter_n only_o whereas_o now_o she_o penetrate_v into_o the_o internal_a spirit_n of_o the_o write_n 14._o in_o the_o next_o place_n the_o change_n that_o be_v make_v by_o this_o supernatural_a union_n with_o regard_n to_o the_o will_n &_o affection_n be_v equal_o admirable_a in_o so_o much_o as_o many_o year_n spend_v in_o mortification_n &_o other_o internal_a exercise_n will_v not_o so_o purify_v the_o soul_n as_o a_o few_o minute_n pass_v in_o such_o a_o divine_a inaction_n here_o it_o be_v indeed_o that_o a_o soul_n perfect_o feel_v she_o own_o nothing_o and_o god_n totality_n &_o thereby_o be_v strange_o advance_v in_o humility_n &_o the_o divine_a love._n for_o be_v so_o immediate_o unite_v to_o god_n so_o illustrate_v with_o his_o heavenly_a light_n &_o inflame_v with_o his_o love_n all_o creature_n &_o herself_n above_o all_o be_v become_v as_o nothing_o yea_o perfect_o odious_a to_o she_o beside_o there_o be_v many_o secret_a defect_n in_o a_o soul_n so_o subtle_a &_o intime_fw-la that_o they_o can_v neither_o he_o cure_v nor_o so_o much_o as_o discover_v but_o by_o a_o passive_a union_n in_o so_o much_o as_o hereby_o the_o soul_n be_v advance_v to_o perfection_n in_o a_o manner_n &_o degree_n not_o to_o be_v imagine_v far_o more_o efficacious_o then_o by_o all_o the_o former_a action_n of_o her_o life_n put_v together_o so_o that_o the_o follow_a aspiration_n &_o elevation_n of_o the_o spirit_n become_v far_o more_o pure_a &_o efficacious_a then_o before_o and_o indeed_o be_v it_o not_o for_o such_o good_a fruit_n &_o effect_n upon_o the_o will_n such_o passive_a union_n will_v be_v little_o profitable_a unto_o the_o soul_n for_o our_o merit_n consist_v in_o our_o own_o free_a act_n produce_v in_o virtue_n of_o divine_a grace_n assist_v we_o &_o not_o in_o the_o operation_n simple_o wherein_o god_n be_v only_a agent_n &_o we_o patient_n 15._o in_o the_o three_o place_n these_o supernatural_a union_n be_v of_o that_o virtue_n that_o they_o do_v whole_o subdue_v the_o imagination_n &_o other_o internal_a sense_n to_o the_o superior_a soul_n so_o that_o they_o can_v as_o they_o listen_v wander_v to_o &_o fro_o but_o be_v reduce_v to_o such_o a_o happy_a servitude_n to_o the_o spirit_n that_o without_o any_o stress_n or_o violence_n they_o be_v bring_v to_o attend_v it_o in_o all_o its_o employment_n &_o occasion_n or_o if_o the_o imagination_n do_v sometime_o wander_v yet_o it_o never_o fasten_v itself_o with_o delight_n on_o any_o external_a perish_a object_n by_o reason_n that_o self-love_n be_v in_o a_o sort_n extinguish_v in_o the_o soul_n so_o that_o it_o may_v easy_o be_v reduce_v or_o howsoever_o by_o its_o wander_n it_o do_v not_o hinder_v or_o interrupt_v the_o operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n 16._o moreover_o it_o be_v observe_v by_o mystic_n that_o soul_n which_o former_o during_o the_o precedent_n less_o perfect_a exercise_n be_v of_o quite_o different_a even_o contrary_a disposition_n &_o natural_a complexion_n after_o such_o supernatural_a union_n do_v come_v to_o a_o very_a near_o resemblance_n to_o one_o a_o other_o as_o we_o see_v that_o several_a way_n or_o path_n which_o from_o far_o distant_a place_n lead_v to_o a_o city_n the_o near_o they_o approach_v to_o the_o city_n the_o near_a also_o do_v they_o come_v to_o one_o a_o other_o &_o at_o last_o fall_n into_o &_o make_v one_o common_a high_a way_n and_o the_o reason_n hereof_o be_v because_o nature_n &_o its_o particular_a affection_n &_o inclination_n be_v now_o so_o wear_v &_o even_o burn_v out_o by_o the_o fire_n of_o divine_a love_n &_o grace_n that_o it_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n that_o be_v the_o only_a principle_n of_o all_o their_o action_n the_o which_o therefore_o must_v needs_o be_v uniform_a &_o like_a to_o one_o another_o 17._o it_o will_v be_v no_o wonder_n if_o these_o thing_n here_o speak_v of_o a_o supernatural_a passive_a union_n shall_v seem_v incredible_a or_o perhaps_o to_o be_v but_o dream_n of_o extravagant_a or_o melancholic_a spirit_n not_o only_o to_o those_o that_o be_v stranger_n from_o the_o catholic_a faith_n but_o those_o catholic_n also_o that_o be_v unexperienced_a in_o internal_a way_n yet_o if_o they_o will_v consider_v that_o all_o this_o have_v be_v deliver_v by_o the_o testimony_n of_o most_o devout_a humble_a &_o spiritual_o prudent_a person_n some_o of_o they_o very_o learn_v also_o who_o profess_v to_o write_v nothing_o but_o what_o themselves_o have_v have_v experience_n of_o and_o this_o by_o a_o internal_a command_n of_o god_n spirit_n &_o for_o the_o edification_n of_o other_o they_o will_v perhaps_o judge_v more_o wary_o of_o these_o thing_n and_o withal_o consider_v that_o out_o of_o the_o catholic_n church_n no_o such_o divine_a grace_n and_o communication_n be_v ever_o hear_v of_o they_o will_v however_o reap_v this_o benefit_n by_o they_o if_o not_o to_o dispose_v themselves_o the_o best_a they_o can_v for_o the_o enjoy_v they_o at_o least_o they_o will_v abhor_v all_o novelty_n in_o doctrine_n &_o continue_v unshake_a and_o obedient_a child_n to_o the_o church_n chap._n v._n §_o 1._o 2._o 3._o of_o the_o great_a desolation_n usual_o follow_v a_o intellectual_a passive_a union_n §_o 4._o 5._o etc._n etc._n a_o description_n of_o the_o nature_n &_o woeful_a bitterness_n of_o this_o desolation_n §_o 8._o how_o a_o devout_a soul_n do_v or_o aught_o to_o behave_v herself_o therein_o §_o 9_o the_o great_a benefit_n and_o fruit_n proceed_v from_o this_o desertion_n well_o undergo_v 1._o a_o soul_n have_v once_o experience_v such_o extraordinary_a divine_a favour_n will_v be_v apt_a to_o say_v with_o the_o psalmist_n non_fw-la movebor_fw-la in_o aeternum_fw-la i_o shall_v never_o be_v move_v thou_o lord_n of_o thy_o goodness_n have_v make_v my_o hill_n so_o strong_a but_o if_o she_o think_v so_o she_o will_v find_v herself_o strange_o deceive_v for_o as_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o a_o spiritual_a life_n consist_v of_o perpetual_a change_n of_o elevation_n and_o