permit_v thyself_o to_o be_v detain_v while_n in_o the_o entry_n for_o perhaps_o a_o short_a delay_n here_o will_v make_v thy_o progress_n afterward_o both_o more_o speedy_a and_o profitable_a 2._o this_o be_v to_o acquaint_v thou_o that_o the_o immaculate_a doctrine_n contain_v in_o this_o book_n though_o it_o never_o meet_v with_o any_o that_o oppose_v or_o so_o much_o as_o question_v the_o verity_n thereof_o speculative_o consider_v yet_o there_o have_v not_o want_v some_o that_o have_v judge_v they_o not_o fit_a to_o be_v thus_o free_o expose_v to_o thy_o view_v much_o doubt_v thou_o will_v prove_v such_o a_o one_o as_o will_v make_v a_o ill_a use_n and_o perverse_a advantage_n from_o they_o 3._o now_o the_o principal_a yea_o only_a point_n that_o give_v some_o this_o jealousy_n be_v that_o which_o thou_o will_v find_v in_o the_o second_o section_n of_o the_o first_o treatise_n where_o be_v treat_v touch_v divine_a illumination_n inspiration_n impulse_n and_o other_o secret_a operation_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n in_o the_o heart_n of_o internal_a liver_n concern_v which_o the_o constant_a teach_v of_o our_o venerable_a author_n in_o brief_a be_v this_o viz._n that_o the_o divine_a spirit_n by_o virtue_n of_o the_o say_v operation_n be_v to_o be_v acknowledge_v our_o only_a secure_a guide_n and_o master_n in_o these_o secret_a path_n of_o divine_a love_n discover_v in_o some_o measure_n in_o the_o follow_a treatise_n and_o consequent_o that_o the_o most_o essential_a universal_a duty_n to_o be_v aspire_v unto_o by_o every_o one_o that_o pretend_v a_o desire_n or_o intention_n to_o walk_v in_o the_o same_o path_n be_v to_o give_v up_o his_o soul_n and_o all_o its_o faculty_n to_o god_n internal_a guidance_n and_o direction_n only_o relinquish_a and_o renounce_v all_o other_o instructour_n and_o instruction_n as_o far_o as_o they_o be_v not_o subordinate_o cooperate_n with_o this_o our_o divine_a master_n for_o the_o receive_n of_o who_o celestial_a 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be_v so_o fundamental_a to_o all_o his_o other_o instruction_n concern_v prayer_n and_o mortification_n &c_n &c_n that_o the_o least_o weaken_v of_o its_o authority_n render_v all_o the_o rest_n unproffitable_a 5._o but_o little_a reason_n there_o be_v to_o fear_v that_o a_o doctrine_n which_o be_v the_o very_a soul_n of_o christianity_n can_v be_v shake_v by_o humane_a opposition_n or_o disparage_v by_o jealousy_n true_a it_o be_v notwithstanding_o that_o though_o this_o fundamental_a verity_n receive_v testimony_n abundant_o both_o from_o scripture_n and_o universal_a tradition_n though_o it_o be_v constant_o assert_v in_o the_o school_n and_o sprinkle_v every_o where_o in_o almost_o all_o mystic_a writer_n yet_o scarce_o have_v any_o one_o since_o the_o ancient_a father_n time_n especial_o s._n augustin_n so_o purposely_o large_o and_o earnest_o recommend_v it_o to_o practise_v and_o therefore_o no_o great_a wonder_n it_o be_v if_o such_o a_o way_n of_o deliver_v it_o have_v seem_v a_o novelty_n even_o to_o those_o that_o speculative_o and_o in_o theft_n acknowledge_v it_o to_o be_v the_o establish_a doctrine_n of_o the_o church_n and_o while_o they_o willing_o and_o with_o applause_n hear_v it_o assert_v daily_o in_o the_o school_n yet_o meet_v with_o it_o thus_o popular_o spread_v they_o be_v offend_v with_o it_o i_o mean_v with_o the_o communicate_v it_o to_o the_o use_n and_o practice_v of_o the_o unlearned_a 6._o now_o what_o be_v be_v that_o trouble_a they_o will_v appear_v from_o the_o only_a objection_n in_o the_o author_n life-time_n make_v against_o it_o which_o be_v indeed_o a_o mere_a jealousy_n lest_o this_o doctrine_n so_o deliver_v shall_v prejudice_n the_o authority_n of_o superior_n the_o which_o objection_n he_o answer_v to_o the_o full_a satisfaction_n of_o all_o that_o be_v interest_v in_o the_o matter_n the_o sum_n of_o which_o answer_n follow_v in_o the_o nine_o chapter_n of_o the_o second_o section_n of_o the_o first_o treatise_n and_o need_v not_o be_v here_o repeat_v 7._o but_o since_o his_o death_n and_o especial_o after_o that_o by_o a_o general_a unanimous_a agreement_n of_o all_o superior_n among_o we_o it_o have_v be_v ordain_v that_o the_o sum_n of_o the_o author_n spiritual_a doctrine_n shall_v for_o the_o good_a of_o soul_n aspire_v to_o contemplation_n be_v publish_v both_o the_o same_o objection_n have_v be_v renew_v and_o other_o moreover_o add_v thereto_o and_o all_o of_o they_o have_v rise_v from_o the_o like_a ground_n of_o jealousy_n not_o so_o much_o acknowledge_v to_o be_v rational_a by_o the_o obiectour_n themselves_o who_o ready_o subscribe_v to_o the_o doctrine_n as_o catholick_o true_a and_o holy_a as_o fear_v from_o other_o to_o wit_n partly_o from_o ordinary_a not_o learned_a catholic_n who_o it_o be_v suspect_v will_v be_v suspicious_a of_o a_o doctrine_n that_o will_v seem_v new_a and_o however_o unproper_a to_o they_o but_o principal_o from_o stranger_n &_o enemy_n to_o the_o church_n especial_o the_o frantic_a enthusiast_n of_o this_o age_n who_o as_o be_v fear_v will_v conceive_v their_o frenzy_n and_o disorder_n justify_v here_o 8._o these_o thing_n consider_v both_o zeal_n to_o truth_n duty_n to_o superior_n and_o charity_n to_o thou_o belove_a reader_n oblige_v i_o before_o all_o other_o thing_n to_o beseech_v thou_o to_o abstain_v from_o read_v the_o book_n unless_o it_o can_v be_v demonstrate_v beforehand_o that_o it_o be_v fit_a to_o come_v into_o thy_o hand_n that_o the_o suspect_a inconvenience_n and_o suspicion_n be_v evident_o groundless_a that_o it_o will_v be_v a_o great_a frenzy_n in_o the_o enthusiast_n of_o these_o day_n or_o in_o any_o seduce_v or_o seduce_a spirit_n to_o claim_v any_o right_n in_o this_o doctrine_n then_o that_o which_o all_o ready_a possess_v they_o and_o in_o a_o word_n that_o no_o objection_n either_o against_o the_o doctrine_n or_o publish_n of_o it_o either_o have_v or_o as_o we_o suppose_v can_v rational_o be_v devise_v to_o make_v we_o repent_v the_o print_n or_o thou_o the_o read_n of_o the_o follow_a book_n 9_o among_o the_o say_a objection_n this_o one_o be_v scarce_o worthy_a to_o find_v place_n which_o yet_o by_o some_o have_v be_v urge_v in_o general_a against_o the_o publish_n to_o all_o christian_n view_v instruction_n about_o prayer_n and_o mystical_a practice_n proper_a to_o a_o few_o contemplative_a person_n for_o who_o alone_o the_o author_n intend_v they_o without_o the_o least_o thought_n of_o have_v they_o communicate_v &_o expose_v so_o general_o especial_o consider_v that_o this_o treatise_n discourse_n of_o sublime_a mystic_a matter_n above_o the_o reach_n of_o vulgar_a capacity_n and_o also_o that_o whereas_o to_o such_o tender_a wellminded_n soul_n as_o those_o be_v for_o who_o the_o say_a treatise_n be_v mean_v just_a liberty_n &_o condescendence_n be_v allow_v in_o many_o case_n not_o to_o be_v permit_v to_o other_o that_o either_o in_o the_o world_n or_o else_o in_o a_o religious_a life_n do_v walk_v in_o other_o way_n these_o notwithstanding_o will_v be_v apt_a to_o their_o own_o prejudice_n to_o make_v use_n of_o such_o liberty_n 10._o but_o sure_o as_o it_o will_v be_v most_o unreasonable_a to_o forbid_v a_o physician_n to_o publish_v a_o book_n of_o remedy_n against_o some_o special_a disease_n for_o fear_v that_o some_o that_o be_v untouched_a of_o those_o disease_n or_o perhaps_o sick_a of_o the_o contrary_a shall_v hurt_v themselves_o with_o make_v use_n of_o medecine_n improper_a for_o they_o or_o molina_n the_o carthusian_n to_o publish_v his_o excellent_a instruction_n for_o priest_n least_o lay-person_n shall_v assume_v the_o privilege_n belong_v to_o that_o sublime_a call_v or_o aluarez_n de_fw-fr paz_n to_o print_v his_o volume_n about_o the_o duty_n &_o exercise_n of_o religious_a person_n because_o they_o be_v improper_a for_o secular_o so_o neither_o upon_o such_o ground_n ought_v these_o instruction_n be_v hinder_v from_o be_v public_a neither_o
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 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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
whatsoever_o thou_o see_v or_o feel_v in_o wardly_a that_o be_v not_o he_o will_v be_v unwellcome_a &_o painful_a to_o thou_o because_o it_o will_v stand_v in_o thy_o way_n to_o the_o see_v &_o seek_v of_o he_o who_o thou_o only_o desire_v 18._o but_o yet_o if_o there_o be_v any_o work_n or_o outward_a business_n which_o thou_o be_v oblige_v to_o do_v or_o that_o charity_n or_o present_a necessity_n require_v of_o thou_o either_o concern_v thyself_o or_o thy_o christian_a brother_n fail_v not_o to_o do_v it_o dispatch_v it_o as_o well_o &_o as_o soon_o as_o well_o thou_o can_v &_o let_v it_o not_o tarry_v long_o in_o thy_o thought_n for_o it_o will_v but_o hinder_v thou_o in_o thy_o principal_a business_n but_o if_o it_o be_v any_o other_o matter_n of_o no_o necessity_n or_o that_o concern_v thou_o not_o in_o particular_a trouble_v not_o thyself_o nor_o distract_v thy_o thought_n about_o it_o but_o rid_v it_o quick_o out_o of_o thy_o heart_n say_v still_o thus_o i_o be_o naught_v i_o can_n do_v naught_v i_o have_v naught_v and_o naught_v do_v i_o desire_v to_o have_v but_o only_a jesus_n and_o his_o love_n 19_o thou_o will_v be_v force_v as_o all_o other_o pilgrim_n be_v to_o take_v of_o time_n by_o the_o way_n refreshment_n meat_n &_o drink_v &_o sleep_n yea_o &_o sometime_o innocent_a recreation_n in_o all_o which_o thing_n use_v discretion_n &_o take_v heed_n of_o foolish_a scrupulosity_n about_o they_o fear_v not_o that_o they_o will_v be_v much_o a_o hindrance_n to_o thou_o for_o though_o they_o seem_v to_o stay_v thou_o for_o awhile_o they_o will_v further_o thou_o &_o give_v thou_o strength_n to_o walk_v on_o more_o courageous_o for_o a_o good_a long_a time_n after_o 20_o to_o conclude_v remember_v that_o thy_o principal_a aim_n &_o indeed_o only_a business_n be_v to_o knit_v thy_o thought_n to_o the_o desire_n of_o jesus_n to_o strengthen_v this_o desire_n daily_o by_o prayer_n &_o other_o spiritual_a working_n to_o the_o end_n it_o may_v never_o go_v out_o of_o thy_o heart_n and_o whatsoever_o thou_o find_v proper_a to_o increase_v that_o desire_n be_v it_o pray_v or_o read_v speak_v or_o be_v silent_a travail_v or_o repose_v make_v use_n of_o it_o for_o the_o time_n as_o long_o as_o thy_o soul_n find_v savour_n in_o it_o &_o as_o long_o as_o it_o increase_v this_o desire_n of_o have_v or_o enjoy_v nothing_o but_o the_o love_n of_o jesus_n &_o the_o bless_a sight_n of_o jesus_n in_o true_a peace_n in_o jerusalem_n and_o be_v assure_v that_o this_o good_a desire_n thus_o cherish_v &_o continual_o increase_v will_v bring_v thou_o safe_a unto_o the_o end_n of_o thy_o pilgrimage_n 21._o this_o be_v the_o substance_n of_o the_o parable_n of_o the_o spiritual_a pilgrim_n travail_v in_o the_o way_n of_o contemplation_n the_o which_o i_o have_v more_o large_o set_v down_o because_o by_o the_o contexture_n of_o it_o not_o only_o we_o see_v confirm_v what_o be_v already_o write_v before_o but_o also_o we_o have_v a_o draught_n &_o scheme_n represent_v according_a to_o which_o all_o the_o follow_a instruction_n will_v be_v conformable_o answerable_a the_o second_o section_n of_o the_o first_o treatise_n in_o which_o be_v declare_v &_o prove_v that_o god_n only_o by_o his_o holy_a inspiration_n be_v the_o guide_n &_o director_n in_o a_o internal_a contemplative_a life_n cap._n i._n §_o 1._o in_o internal_a contemplative_a way_n a_o guide_n be_v necessary_a &_o whly_a §_o 2._o 3._o 4._o all_o good_a christian_n have_v within_o their_o soul_n two_o internal_a guide_n 1._o the_o spirit_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n which_o be_v never_o whole_o expel_v 2._o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o these_o teach_v contrary_o &_o for_o contrary_a end_n §_o 5._o 6._o 7._o 8._o 9_o divine_a inspiration_n beyond_o the_o light_n of_o common_a grace_n be_v to_o be_v our_o light_n in_o internal_a way_n §_o 10._o 11._o in_o what_o special_a thing_n such_o inspiration_n do_v direct_v internal_a liver_n §_o 12._o 13._o they_o ordinary_o teach_v rather_o cessation_n &_o not-doing_a then_o much_o do_v §_o 14._o extraordinary_a inspiration_n illuminatious_a etc._n etc._n not_o pretend_v to_o 1._o have_v hitherto_o treat_v of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n in_o general_a the_o nature_n &_o end_n of_o it_o together_o with_o the_o necessary_a disposition_n require_v in_o soul_n that_o according_a to_o their_o vocation_n or_o profession_n be_v desirous_a to_o pursue_v the_o exercise_n belong_v thereto_o the_o next_o thing_n that_o in_o relation_n to_o the_o say_a state_n deserve_v our_o consideration_n be_v the_o guide_n who_o direction_n we_o may_v &_o aught_o to_o follow_v therein_o for_o certanly_a a_o guide_n must_v needs_o be_v have_v since_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o in_o our_o present_a state_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n we_o have_v no_o light_n so_o much_o as_o to_o discover_v that_o there_o be_v any_o such_o way_n &_o much_o less_o to_o direct_v &_o enable_v we_o to_o walk_v in_o path_n so_o much_o above_o yea_o so_o direct_o contrary_a to_o the_o design_n &_o interest_n of_o nature_n 2._o now_o since_o in_o every_o good_a faithful_a &_o true_a christian_a as_o truth_n &_o experience_n teach_v there_o be_v two_o internal_a light_n &_o teacher_n to_o wit_n 1._o the_o spirit_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n 2._o the_o divine_a spirit_n both_o which_o in_o all_o our_o deliberate_a action_n do_v offer_v themselves_o &_o even_o strive_v for_o mastery_n contend_v whether_o of_o they_o with_o the_o exclusion_n of_o the_o other_o shall_v lead_v we_o in_o the_o way_n proper_a &_o please_a to_o each_o the_o which_o way_n as_o also_o the_o end_n to_o which_o they_o conduct_v be_v direct_o contrary_a to_o one_o another_o for_o the_o spirit_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n only_o teach_v we_o such_o thing_n as_o be_v for_o the_o present_a please_a or_o profitable_a to_o our_o carnal_a desire_n or_o sensual_a &_o secular_a design_n but_o pernicious_a to_o the_o soul_n or_o spirit_n the_o which_o follow_a the_o light_n of_o nature_n run_v into_o endless_a error_n &_o labarinth_n all_o which_o lead_v we_o from_o god_n &_o true_a happiness_n unto_o eternal_a misery_n on_o the_o other_o side_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n discover_v unto_o we_o the_o folly_n &_o danger_n of_o follow_a so_o blind_a &_o pernicious_a a_o guide_n as_o nature_n be_v teach_v we_o that_o our_o happiness_n consist_v in_o forsake_v such_o a_o wander_v guide_n &_o tread_v path_n quite_o contrary_a in_o renounce_v present_a sensual_a pleasure_n &_o commodity_n so_o far_o as_o they_o be_v a_o hindrance_n yea_o not_o a_o advancement_n to_o our_o know_v of_o god_n &_o spiritual_a thing_n the_o which_o only_o must_v be_v the_o object_n of_o all_o our_o desire_n &_o endeavour_n &_o whereby_o only_o we_o shall_v arrive_v to_o eternal_a happiness_n &_o union_n with_o god_n 3._o beside_o these_o two_o guide_n we_o neither_o have_v nor_o can_v have_v any_o other_o within_o we_o &_o with_o both_o these_o good_a christian_n be_v continual_o attend_v whatsoever_o therefore_o be_v not_o the_o teach_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n be_v the_o suggestion_n of_o the_o false_a teacher_n who_o be_v his_o &_o our_o enemy_n the_o which_o take_v possession_n of_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n upon_o adam_n transgression_n who_o fault_n be_v the_o not_o attend_v to_o the_o teach_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n which_o then_o be_v the_o only_a internal_a teacher_n but_o instead_o thereof_o harken_v to_o the_o flatter_a tentation_n of_o his_o wife_n seduce_v by_o the_o devil_n and_o from_o adam_n this_o false_a light_n be_v communicate_v to_o all_o his_o posterity_n so_o as_o natural_o we_o have_v no_o other_o but_o the_o new_a heavenly_a teacher_n the_o holy_a spirit_n be_v free_o give_v we_o by_o mean_n of_o the_o divine_a word_n &_o sacrament_n it_o be_v a_o new_a divine_a principle_n imprint_v in_o our_o spirit_n raise_v they_o to_o god_n &_o continual_o solicit_v we_o to_o walk_v in_o his_o way_n 4._o our_o misery_n be_v that_o whereas_o by_o mortal_a sin_n the_o divine_a light_n be_v for_o the_o time_n whole_o extinguish_v so_o as_o to_o the_o produce_v any_o considerable_a good_a effect_n upon_o the_o will_n it_o be_v not_o so_o on_o the_o other_o side_n that_o by_o grace_n the_o false_a teacher_n shall_v be_v total_o expel_v or_o silence_v but_o it_o remain_v even_o in_o the_o most_o perfect_a &_o god_n know_v even_o the_o best_a be_v too_o much_o incline_v often_o to_o hearken_v to_o it_o those_o that_o be_v less_o perfect_a though_o in_o matter_n of_o necessary_a duty_n &_o obligation_n they_o follow_v the_o conduct_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n yet_o in_o lesser_a matter_n they_o for_o the_o most_o part_n be_v move_v with_o no_o other_o principle_n then_o that_o of_o corrupt_a nature_n by_o which_o they_o incur_v defect_n the_o which_o
25._o the_o general_a remedy_n against_o almost_o all_o difficulty_n be_v these_o two_o 1._o riddance_n 2._o patience_n the_o former_a consist_v in_o afford_v to_o the_o soul_n some_o ease_n &_o latitude_n as_o far_o as_o a_o good_a conscience_n will_v permit_v in_o such_o thing_n as_o be_v apt_a to_o perplex_v well-minded_n tender_a soul_n as_o confession_n say_v of_o the_o office_n obligation_n to_o the_o ordinance_n of_o the_o church_n &_o some_o kind_n of_o tentation_n in_o all_o which_o thing_n such_o soul_n be_v to_o be_v teach_v to_o neglect_v &_o transcend_v scrupulous_a nicety_n &_o they_o be_v likewise_o to_o be_v prudent_o free_v from_o the_o practice_n of_o coustumes_n not_o obligatory_a and_o this_o remedy_n be_v proper_a against_o scrupulosity_n disintangle_v the_o soul_n from_o many_o snare_n which_o otherwise_o will_v prove_v a_o great_a hindrance_n to_o she_o the_o other_o remedy_n of_o patience_n &_o abide_n be_v reasonable_a in_o case_n of_o aridity_n desolation_n &_o other_o such_o discouragement_n in_o a_o internal_a life_n in_o which_o case_n the_o devout_a soul_n be_v to_o be_v exhort_v to_o behave_v herself_o as_o well_o as_o she_o can_v &_o to_o be_v quiet_o resign_v for_o what_o with_o all_o her_o industry_n she_o can_v help_v above_o all_o thing_n she_o be_v to_o be_v hearten_v to_o pursue_v courageous_o her_o appoint_a recollection_n in_o despite_n of_o all_o such_o opposition_n raise_v by_o the_o devil_n or_o corrupt_a nature_n &_o permit_v by_o god_n for_o her_o good_a the_o which_o if_o she_o do_v she_o will_v either_o disperse_v these_o tentation_n or_o obtain_v a_o divine_a light_n to_o perceive_v that_o the_o way_n both_o most_o proper_a &_o most_o secure_a by_o which_o god_n purpose_v to_o lead_v she_o to_o perfection_n be_v the_o way_n of_o aridity_n &_o obscurity_n as_o b_o john_n de_fw-fr cruse_n teach_v in_o his_o treatise_n call_v mount_n carmel_n and_o when_o she_o once_o perceive_v this_o than_o they_o will_v not_o only_o be_v supportable_a but_o even_o acceptable_a to_o she_o however_o if_o a_o soul_n do_v know_v or_o can_v be_v persuade_v how_o much_o better_o it_o be_v for_o she_o to_o suffer_v a_o little_a bitterness_n arise_v from_o such_o difficulty_n or_o perplexity_n then_o to_o hasten_v for_o a_o remedy_n by_o seek_v help_n from_o other_o or_o by_o turn_v herself_o to_o unnecessary_a solace_n in_o creature_n and_o also_o with_o what_o confidence_n she_o may_v expect_v satisfaction_n from_o her_o internal_a master_n if_o she_o will_v serious_o by_o prayer_n seek_v to_o he_o she_o will_v save_v both_o herself_o &_o her_o director_n much_o trouble_n &_o inconvenience_n 26._o the_o instructor_n must_v use_v great_a wariness_n that_o he_o do_v not_o raise_v doubt_n &_o scruple_n in_o his_o scholar_n mind_n by_o move_a needle_n &_o indiscreet_a question_n or_o by_o impertinent_a discourse_n concern_v spiritual_a matter_n for_o thereby_o he_o may_v come_v to_o raise_v such_o doubt_n as_o himself_o shall_v not_o be_v able_a to_o resolve_v &_o to_o put_v they_o so_o far_o out_o of_o their_o way_n as_o perhaps_o they_o will_v never_o be_v able_a to_o find_v it_o again_o therefore_o in_o ordinary_a conversation_n it_o be_v more_o fit_a that_o the_o subject_n of_o discourse_n shall_v be_v some_o external_a &_o indifferent_a matter_n wherein_o the_o party_n be_v not_o much_o concern_v than_o such_o as_o regard_v the_o interiour_n experience_n show_v how_o much_o inconvenience_n do_v come_v to_o soul_n by_o the_o conversation_n of_o such_o as_o be_v great_a pretender_n to_o skill_n in_o spirituality_n &_o therefore_o out_o of_o vanity_n or_o a_o mistake_a charity_n be_v apt_a when_o there_o be_v no_o need_n to_o be_v offer_v instruction_n about_o spiritual_a matter_n 27._o some_o soul_n do_v see_v their_o way_n before_o they_o far_o better_a than_o other_o &_o therefore_o do_v move_v fewuer_o question_n the_o instructor_n therefore_o be_v to_o behave_v himself_o towards_o they_o all_o according_a to_o the_o quality_n &_o need_n of_o each_o spirit_n always_o remember_v that_o his_o office_n be_v not_o to_o teach_v his_o own_o way_n nor_o indeed_o any_o determinate_a way_n of_o prayer_n &c_n &c_n but_o to_o instruct_v his_o disciple_n how_o they_o may_v themselves_o find_v out_o the_o way_n proper_a for_o they_o by_o observe_v themselves_o what_o do_v good_a &_o what_o cause_v harm_n to_o their_o spirit_n in_o a_o word_n that_o he_o be_v only_a god_n usher_n &_o must_v lead_v soul_n in_o god_n way_n &_o not_o his_o own_o 28._o of_o all_o other_o spiritual_a person_n it_o concern_v woman_n especial_o to_o be_v very_o spare_v in_o consultation_n &_o when_o necessity_n require_v to_o be_v brief_a in_o deliver_v their_o difficulty_n for_o otherwise_o many_o inconvenience_n will_v follow_v as_o 1._o loss_n of_o time_n both_o to_o the_o disciple_n &_o instructor_n 2._o distraction_n far_o more_o hurtful_a than_o if_o they_o be_v busy_v about_o the_o most_o encombr_a employment_n of_o the_o community_n 3._o danger_n of_o multiply_v new_a perplexity_n by_o fear_v that_o they_o have_v not_o give_v a_o full_a &_o a_o right_a account_n of_o themselves_o &c_n &c_n beside_o one_o difficulty_n will_v be_v apt_a to_o beget_v a_o new_a one_o so_o that_o instead_o of_o seek_v peace_n by_o disburden_v of_o the_o conscience_n by_o their_o indiscretion_n they_o may_v come_v both_o to_o trouble_v the_o peace_n of_o their_o instructour_n &_o to_o plunge_v themselves_o in_o incurable_a perplexity_n &_o obscurity_n of_o mind_n 4._o great_a cause_n there_o be_v to_o fear_v that_o there_o may_v upon_o such_o occasion_n of_o unnecessary_a consultation_n ensue_v dangerous_a familiarity_n &_o freindships_n with_o such_o as_o may_v prove_v very_o unfit_a counselor_n thereupon_o s._n francis_n xaverius_n say_v that_o seldom_o be_v there_o so_o much_o good_a to_o be_v expect_v from_o the_o frequent_a treaty_n between_o person_n of_o different_a sex_n as_o there_o be_v peril_n in_o they_o to_o both_o 29._o this_o may_v suffice_v concern_v the_o quality_n &_o office_n of_o a_o external_a director_n as_o for_o more_o special_a duty_n belong_v to_o he_o in_o more_o particular_a case_n as_o scrupulosity_n mortification_n etc._n etc._n it_o shall_v be_v treat_v when_o we_o come_v to_o speak_v of_o such_o particular_a subject_n as_o likewise_o of_o the_o obligation_n of_o superior_n about_o the_o promote_a the_o spiritual_a good_a of_o their_o subject_n soul_n although_o they_o be_v not_o consult_v with_o in_o the_o nature_n of_o spiritual_a guide_n somewhat_o shall_v be_v say_v in_o the_o follow_a discourse_n concern_v the_o state_n of_o a_o religious_a profession_n cap._n iii_o §_o 1._o of_o read_v which_o be_v next_o to_o prayer_n §_o 2._o some_o book_n may_v be_v read_v for_o diversion_n §_o 3._o but_o spiritual_a book_n only_o for_o the_o soul_n profit_n §_o 4._o 5._o book_n proper_a for_o contemplative_n etc._n etc._n §_o 6._o not_o to_o stop_v in_o obscure_a place_n §_o 7._o not_o to_o practice_v direction_n but_o such_o as_o be_v suitable_a to_o the_o spirit_n §_o 9_o 10._o extraordinary_a practice_n of_o saint_n in_o mortification_n not_o to_o be_v imitate_v without_o great_a caution_n §_o 11_o why_o mystic_a author_n seem_v to_o write_v diverse_o §_o 12._o some_o author_n indiscreet_o require_v perfection_n at_o first_o §_o 13._o reading_n must_v give_v way_n to_o prayer_n §_o 14_o how_o mortification_n be_v to_o be_v practise_v in_o reading_n §_o 15._o 16._o divine_a inspiration_n to_o be_v observe_v in_o apply_v instruction_n and_o particular_o of_o those_o in_o this_o book_n §_o 17._o a_o soul_n follow_v god_n may_v without_o book_n or_o instructour_n be_v lead_v to_o perfect_a contemplation_n 1._o a_o second_o mean_v by_o which_o the_o divine_a spirit_n teach_v devout_a soul_n be_v the_o read_n of_o pious_a book_n and_o this_o exercise_n i_o esteem_v for_o worth_a &_o spiritual_a profit_n to_o be_v next_o unto_o prayer_n 2._o as_o for_o ordinary_o book_n as_o ecclesiastical_a story_n &c_n &c_n it_o may_v be_v permit_v to_o soul_n even_o in_o religion_n to_o read_v they_o for_o a_o innocent_a diversion_n &_o recreation_n so_o that_o be_v not_o the_o principal_a end_n but_o that_o the_o intention_n further_o be_v by_o such_o diversion_n to_o dispose_v a_o weary_a soul_n the_o better_a afterward_o to_o pursue_v her_o internal_a exercise_n and_o this_o permission_n now_o be_v the_o more_o reasonable_a since_o that_o in_o religious_a community_n of_o man_n bodily_a labour_n be_v almost_o out_o of_o date_n &_o in_o place_n thereof_o read_v &_o study_n have_v succeed_v as_o now_o the_o principal_a daily_a employment_n of_o keligious_a person_n who_o live_v much_o less_o abstract_v from_o the_o world_n be_v almost_o force_v to_o comply_v with_o the_o custom_n of_o the_o present_a time_n in_o which_o learning_n be_v so_o value_v &_o so_o
out_o of_o the_o motive_n of_o divine_a love_n &_o to_o the_o end_n to_o increase_v the_o say_a love_n in_o our_o soul_n especial_o the_o ordinary_a action_n &_o employment_n of_o a_o religious_a contemplative_a life_n and_o last_o since_o perfection_n in_o divine_a love_n can_v be_v attein_v by_o the_o simple_a exercise_n of_o charity_n in_o duty_n which_o be_v absolute_o necessary_a &_o without_o mortal_a sin_n can_v be_v omit_v the_o which_o duty_n do_v seldom_o occur_v but_o it_o be_v moreover_o requisite_a for_o that_o end_n to_o multiply_v frequent_o &_o daily_a exercise_n of_o the_o say_a love_n in_o office_n less_o necessary_a yea_o &_o to_o purify_v all_o our_o most_o ordinary_a action_n from_o the_o steine_v of_o self-love_n which_o adhere_v unto_o they_o hence_o i_o say_v appear_v the_o necessity_n of_o the_o influence_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n upon_o our_o action_n which_o be_v not_o of_o such_o obligation_n if_o we_o serious_o tend_v to_o the_o perfection_n of_o divine_a love_n in_o our_o soul_n 3._o to_o this_o purpose_n it_o be_v worth_a the_o observe_n how_o serious_o our_o holy_a father_n s._n benedict_n in_o force_n the_o necessity_n of_o harken_v to_o &_o obey_v the_o inspiration_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n our_o only_a supreme_a master_n make_v this_o the_o foundation_n of_o all_o religious_a duty_n in_o the_o prologue_n of_o his_o rule_n where_o he_o say_v that_o we_o must_v nunquam_fw-la discedere_fw-la ab_fw-la eius_fw-la magisterio_fw-la never_o depart_v from_o the_o institution_n &_o direction_n of_o god_n that_o we_o must_v have_v our_o eye_n open_a ad_fw-la deificum_fw-la lumen_fw-la to_o the_o divine_a light_n on_o which_o ground_n he_o call_v a_o monastery_n scholam_fw-la dominici_n seruitij_fw-la the_o school_n wherein_o god_n service_n be_v teach_v and_o officinam_fw-la artis_fw-la spiritualis_fw-la the_o workehouse_n wherein_o the_o art_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n be_v teach_v &_o practise_v namely_o because_o all_o thing_n all_o observance_n even_o those_o of_o the_o least_o moment_n in_o a_o religious_a life_n do_v tend_v to_o withdraw_v we_o from_o all_o other_o teacher_n &_o all_o other_o skill_n &_o to_o bring_v we_o to_o be_v deo_fw-la docibiles_fw-la teach_v by_o god_n only_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v that_o our_o say_a holy_a patriarch_n lay_v this_o as_o the_o foundation_n of_o all_o religious_a practice_n that_o they_o be_v do_v in_o virtue_n of_o prayer_n his_o word_n be_v inprimis_fw-la ut_fw-la quidquid_fw-la agendum_fw-la inchoas_fw-la bonum_fw-la à _fw-la deo_fw-la perfici_fw-la instantissima_fw-la oratione_fw-la deposcas_fw-la as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v in_o the_o first_o &_o principal_a place_n thou_o be_v to_o consider_v this_o to_o be_v the_o end_n why_o i_o invite_v thou_o to_o a_o abstract_a religious_a life_n that_o thou_o may_v thereby_o be_v bring_v to_o this_o happy_a &_o secure_a state_n as_o to_o be_v enable_v to_o obtain_v of_o god_n by_o most_o earnest_a assiduous_a prayer_n to_o give_v a_o blessing_n &_o perfection_n to_o every_o action_n that_o in_o a_o religious_a state_n thou_o shall_v apply_v thyself_o to_o now_o if_o according_a to_o our_o holy_a father_n principal_a intention_n prayer_n ought_v to_o prepare_v &_o accompany_v every_o action_n which_o we_o perform_v in_o religion_n then_o sure_o it_o will_v follow_v that_o they_o ought_v all_o of_o they_o to_o be_v perform_v with_o relation_n to_o god_n as_o upon_o his_o bid_n &_o for_o his_o love_n &_o glory_n 4._o moreover_o more_o particular_o concern_v divine_a inspiration_n our_o holy_a father_n make_v mention_n of_o several_a one_o in_o special_a as_o in_o the_o point_n of_o internal_a prayer_n though_o in_o common_a he_o ordeine_v that_o it_o shall_v be_v short_a in_o the_o 20._o chap._n of_o his_o rule_n yet_o so_o as_o that_o he_o leave_v it_o to_o the_o liberty_n of_o any_o one_o to_o prolong_v it_o ex_fw-la affectu_fw-la inspirationis_fw-la divinae_fw-la gratiae_fw-la by_o a_o invitation_n &_o enablement_n from_o a_o dâ—uine_a inspiration_n &_o grace_n and_o again_o concern_v abstinence_n as_o also_o the_o measure_n of_o allowance_n for_o meat_n &_o drink_v he_o profess_v that_o he_o have_v a_o scruple_n how_o to_o proportion_v it_o consider_v the_o variety_n of_o man_n temper_n &_o necessity_n but_o however_o though_o he_o be_v willing_a to_o allow_v what_o may_v be_v sufficient_a for_o the_o strong_a yet_o he_o leave_v every_o one_o in_o particular_a to_o the_o direction_n of_o grace_n say_v in_o the_o 40._o chap._n vnus_fw-la cuique_fw-la proprium_fw-la habet_fw-la donum_fw-la ex_fw-la deo_fw-la alius_fw-la sic_fw-la alius_fw-la verò_fw-la sic_fw-la that_o be_v every_o one_o have_v a_o peculiar_a gift_n of_o god_n one_o have_v this_o &_o another_o that_o quibus_fw-la autem_fw-la donat_fw-la deus_fw-la tolerantiam_fw-la abstinentiae_fw-la propriam_fw-la se_fw-la habituros_fw-la mercedem_fw-la sciant_fw-la that_o be_v those_o unto_o who_o god_n have_v give_v the_o strength_n to_o endure_v a_o spare_a abstinence_n let_v they_o be_v assure_v that_o so_o do_v god_n will_v give_v they_o a_o peculiar_a reward_n beside_o these_o several_a other_o passage_n may_v be_v produce_v out_o of_o our_o holy_a father_n rule_n to_o the_o same_o purpose_n 5._o now_o in_o this_o last_o passage_n there_o be_v a_o document_n that_o well_o deserve_v to_o be_v consider_v every_o one_o say_v he_o in_o s._n paul_n word_n have_v his_o proper_a peculiar_a gift_n in_o the_o matter_n of_o refection_n all_o good_a christian_n have_v the_o gift_n to_o avoid_v therein_o a_o mortal_o sinful_a excess_n but_o religious_a internal_a liver_n have_v moreover_o or_o may_v have_v a_o special_a gift_n to_o avoid_v even_o venial_a defect_n and_o the_o perfect_a to_o advance_v themselves_o thereby_o towards_o perfection_n yet_o from_o thence_o we_o can_v conclude_v that_o god_n have_v oblige_v himself_o to_o discover_v unto_o every_o one_o although_o seek_v it_o by_o prayer_n the_o exact_o true_a state_n &_o complexion_n of_o his_o body_n whence_o it_o follow_n that_o if_o he_o be_v mistake_v in_o that_o which_o he_o be_v not_o bind_v to_o know_v shall_v demand_v more_o or_o less_o sustenance_n than_o be_v absolute_o necessary_a it_o be_v no_o sin_n upon_o supposition_n that_o such_o desire_n do_v not_o proceed_v from_o a_o sensual_a affection_n to_o meat_n nor_o a_o faulty_a neglect_n of_o health_n but_o from_o the_o best_a light_n that_o reason_n can_v afford_v he_o to_o judge_v of_o his_o own_o necessity_n &_o from_o a_o intention_n to_o benefit_v his_o soul_n by_o a_o moderate_a refresh_n of_o nature_n and_o it_o be_v god_n will_n that_o we_o shall_v follow_v reason_n in_o all_o external_a thing_n in_o which_o god_n do_v not_o usual_o otherwise_o illuminate_v his_o servant_n though_o natural_a reason_n therefore_o may_v fail_v &_o be_v mistake_v yet_o the_o person_n do_v not_o offend_v but_o rather_o follow_v god_n by_o follow_a the_o light_n of_o his_o reason_n this_o be_v all_o the_o light_n in_o such_o case_n afford_v he_o so_o for_o example_n if_o a_o hermit_n be_v infirm_a and_o have_v none_o to_o consult_v with_o shall_v doubt_v whether_o it_o be_v unlawful_a for_o he_o to_o break_v a_o command_v fast_o and_o have_v by_o prayer_n desire_v god_n direction_n shall_v remain_v persuade_v thet_o it_o be_v and_o thereby_o shall_v prejudice_n his_o health_n by_o fast_v this_o will_v be_v no_o sin_n at_o all_o in_o he_o yea_o on_o the_o contrary_a it_o will_v be_v meritorious_a for_o he_o will_v fail_v indeed_o in_o that_o for_o which_o he_o have_v no_o light_n neither_o be_v light_n necessary_a to_o he_o to_o wit_n the_o exact_a knowledge_n of_o what_o have_v be_v requisite_a for_o corporal_a health_n but_o he_o will_v merit_v in_o that_o for_o which_o he_o have_v light_a to_o wit_n the_o advancement_n of_o his_o soul_n and_o ordinary_o speak_v the_o inspiration_n that_o god_n afford_v to_o the_o more_o perfect_a in_o such_o case_n be_v rather_o to_o abstain_v even_o from_o the_o more_o expedient_a commodity_n yea_o ofttimes_o to_o some_o prejudice_n of_o health_n for_o the_o great_a good_a of_o the_o soul_n because_o too_o anxious_a a_o solicitude_n for_o health_n be_v unbecoming_a a_o internal_a liver_n yea_o a_o robustious_a health_n uninterrupt_a be_v not_o convenient_a for_o such_o a_o one_o but_o leave_v this_o digression_n 6._o our_o holy_a father_n teach_v as_o himself_o have_v be_v teach_v for_o what_o other_o teacher_n have_v he_o from_o his_o infancy_n till_o the_o moment_n of_o his_o expiration_n but_o the_o divine_a spirit_n by_o who_o light_n &_o impulse_n alone_o he_o be_v direct_v into_o &_o in_o his_o solitude_n &_o afterward_o enable_v to_o direct_v all_o succeed_a age_n in_o a_o coenobiticall_a life_n to_o have_v recourse_n to_o the_o same_o teacher_n the_o like_a may_v be_v say_v of_o all_o the_o ancient_a hermit_n &_o anachoretes_n who_o can_v have_v no_o other_o instructor_n but_o god_n
of_o two_o most_o sublime_a contemplative_n thus_o therefore_o speak_v one_o of_o they_o in_o the_o conference_n cap._n 7._o finis_fw-la monachi_fw-la &_o totius_fw-la perfectionis_fw-la culmen_fw-la in_o orationis_fw-la consummatione_fw-la consistit_fw-la that_o be_v the_o end_n of_o a_o monastical_a profession_n and_o the_o supreme_a degree_n of_o all_o perfection_n consist_v in_o the_o perfection_n of_o prayer_n and_o in_o the_o ten_o confer_v cap._n 7._o another_o say_v hic_fw-la finis_fw-la totius_fw-la perfectionis_fw-la est_fw-la ut_fw-la eo_fw-la usque_fw-la extenuata_fw-la mens_fw-la ab_fw-la omni_fw-la situ_fw-la carnali_fw-la ad_fw-la spiritualia_fw-la quotidie_fw-la sublimetur_fw-la donec_fw-la omnis_fw-la eius_fw-la conuersatio_fw-la omnisque_fw-la volutatio_fw-la cordis_fw-la una_fw-la &_o iugis_fw-la efficiatur_fw-la oratio_fw-la that_o be_v this_o be_v the_o end_n of_o all_o perfection_n that_o the_o mind_n become_v so_o purify_v from_o all_o carnal_a defilement_n that_o it_o may_v be_v raise_v up_o daily_o to_o spiritual_a thing_n till_o its_o whole_a employment_n and_o every_o motion_n of_o the_o heart_n may_v become_v one_o uninterrupted_n prayer_n 11._o now_o what_o a_o kind_n of_o prayer_n this_o be_v that_o they_o aspire_v to_o how_o sublime_a in_o spirit_n though_o ofttimes_o join_v with_o their_o vocal_a prayer_n may_v appear_v from_o that_o description_n give_v of_o it_o by_o a_o holy_a hermit_n in_o these_o word_n in_o the_o 10._o confer_v cap._n 20._o ita_fw-la ad_fw-la illam_fw-la orationis_fw-la purissimam_fw-la perveniet_fw-la qualitatem_fw-la quae_fw-la non_fw-la solum_fw-la nullam_fw-la deitatis_fw-la effigiem_fw-la in_o sva_fw-la supplicatione_n miscebit_fw-la sed_fw-la nec_fw-la ullam_fw-la quidem_fw-la in_o se_fw-la memoriam_fw-la dicti_fw-la cuiusdam_fw-la vel_fw-la facti_fw-la speciem_fw-la seu_fw-la formam_fw-la characteris_fw-la admittet_fw-la that_o be_v thus_o by_o much_o practice_n the_o soul_n will_v arrive_v to_o that_o most_o sublime_a purity_n of_o praler_n wherein_o no_o image_n at_o all_o of_o the_o divinity_n be_v mingle_v and_o which_o will_v not_o admit_v the_o least_o memory_n nor_o a_o character_n or_o representation_n of_o anything_o either_o speak_v or_o do_v the_o strange_a subtlety_n &_o spirituality_n of_o which_o prayer_n consider_v there_o be_v apply_v unto_o it_o that_o say_v of_o s._n antony_n in_o the_o 9_o conf._n chap._n 31._o non_fw-fr est_fw-fr perfecta_fw-la oratio_fw-la in_fw-la qua_fw-la se_fw-la monachus_n vel_fw-la hoc_fw-la ipsum_fw-la quod_fw-la orat_fw-la intelligit_fw-la that_o be_v that_o prayer_n be_v not_o a_o perfect_a one_o unless_o the_o religious_a person_n that_o exercise_v it_o be_v not_o able_a to_o give_v a_o account_n of_o his_o own_o thought_n that_o pass_v in_o it_o or_o do_v not_o perceive_v that_o he_o pray_v 12._o what_o great_a advantage_n the_o ancient_a hermit_n &_o other_o religious_a person_n enjoy_v for_o the_o more_o certain_a and_o more_o speedy_a attain_n to_o this_o internal_a purity_n of_o prayer_n &_o wonderful_a cleanness_n of_o spirit_n the_o end_n of_o their_o profession_n how_o much_o more_o able_a their_o bodily_a complexion_n be_v to_o support_v that_o most_o rigorous_a solitude_n those_o long_a continue_a attention_n of_o mind_n &c_n &c_n and_o how_o much_o more_o efficacious_a herto_o be_v their_o manual_a labour_n beyond_o our_o employment_n in_o study_n and_o last_o how_o by_o such_o like_a mean_n they_o with_o the_o only_a exercise_n of_o vocal_a prayer_n attain_v to_o perfect_a contemplation_n shall_v be_v show_v more_o full_o when_o we_o come_v to_o the_o last_o treatise_n concern_v internal_a prayer_n 13._o in_o this_o place_n i_o will_v content_v myself_o with_o show_v that_o by_o the_o rule_n of_o our_o holy_a father_n s_o benedict_n all_o his_o disciple_n be_v oblige_v to_o propose_v to_o themselves_o no_o other_o end_n of_o their_o religious_a profession_n but_o only_o such_o purity_n both_o of_o soul_n and_o the_o operation_n of_o it_o in_o spiritual_a prayer_n so_o that_o how_o exact_a soever_o they_o be_v in_o outward_a observance_n unless_o they_o be_v refer_v unto_o and_o efficacious_a also_o for_o the_o produce_v of_o this_o internal_a purity_n in_o some_o reasonable_a measure_n they_o shall_v not_o be_v esteem_v by_o god_n to_o have_v comply_v with_o their_o vocation_n and_o profession_n 14._o to_o this_o purpose_n we_o may_v observe_v that_o it_o be_v from_o those_o ancient_a holy_a hermit_n &_o religious_a that_o our_o holy_a father_n borrow_v the_o great_a part_n of_o his_o rule_n and_o ordinance_n which_o in_o the_o conclusion_n he_o profess_v to_o be_v mean_v only_o by_o he_o as_o a_o disposition_n whereby_o we_o may_v be_v enable_v to_o imitate_v they_o in_o their_o most_o perfect_a internal_a practice_n it_o be_v from_o they_o that_o he_o borrow_n the_o phrase_n of_o oratio_fw-la pura_fw-la pure_a prayer_n in_o the_o 20._o chap._n the_o exercise_n whereof_o beside_o the_o recite_v of_o the_o office_n he_o appoint_v daily_o as_o appear_v both_o by_o the_o same_o chapter_n of_o the_o rule_n and_o also_o by_o the_o story_n relate_v by_o s._n gregory_n of_o one_o of_o his_o monk_n who_o the_o devil_n in_o the_o shape_n of_o a_o blackmore_n tempt_v out_o of_o the_o community_n in_o the_o time_n of_o such_o recollection_n by_o which_o may_v be_v perceive_v the_o great_a fruit_n and_o efficacy_n of_o such_o prayer_n for_o the_o devil_n can_v be_v content_v he_o shall_v be_v present_a at_o the_o office_n because_o during_o that_o exercise_n he_o can_v more_o easy_o distract_v his_o mind_n but_o know_v the_o force_n of_o internal_a prayer_n how_o recollective_a it_o be_v and_o what_o light_n it_o afford_v to_o discover_v the_o inward_a defect_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o to_o obtain_v grace_n to_o correct_v they_o his_o principal_a aim_n be_v to_o withdraw_v he_o from_o so_o profitable_a a_o exercise_n and_o therefore_o to_o countermine_v the_o devil_n malice_n our_o holy_a father_n think_v it_o worth_a a_o journey_n express_o to_o cure_v the_o infirmity_n and_o prevent_v the_o danger_n of_o one_o of_o his_o seduce_a monk_n 15._o for_o this_o end_v it_o be_v that_o our_o holy_a father_n in_o the_o 58._o c._n ordeine_n superior_n in_o the_o examination_n of_o the_o spirit_n &_o disposition_n of_o newcomer_n that_o they_o shall_v most_o especial_o have_v a_o eye_n to_o this_o most_o necessary_a condition_n si_fw-la deum_fw-la veer_fw-la quaerit_fw-la if_o he_o be_v such_o a_o one_o as_o true_o seek_v god_n and_o more_o particulary_a si_fw-la sollicitùs_fw-la est_fw-la ad_fw-la opus_fw-la dei_fw-la if_o he_o have_v a_o solicitous_a care_n due_o to_o perform_v the_o work_n of_o god_n which_o he_o interpret_v to_o be_v prayer_n and_o this_o so_o principal_a a_o work_n that_o he_o ordeine_n that_o nihil_fw-la operi_fw-la dei_fw-la praeponatur_fw-la nothing_o must_v be_v prefer_v before_o it_o 16._o for_o the_o advance_v of_o this_o prayer_n that_o it_o may_v become_v such_o as_o be_v suitable_a to_o a_o contemplative_a state_n all_o other_o exterior_a observance_n be_v appoint_v 1._o by_o the_o 12._o degree_n of_o humility_n by_o frequent_a prostration_n acknowledge_v of_o secret_a imperfection_n etc._n etc._n pride_n selfelove_n &_o all_o other_o our_o corrupt_a affection_n hinder_v our_o union_n in_o spirit_n with_o god_n be_v subdue_v &_o expel_v and_o as_o our_o holy_a father_n say_v at_o the_o end_n of_o the_o last_o degree_n that_o perfect_a charity_n which_o most_o immediate_o unite_v the_o soul_n to_o god_n be_v produce_v in_o the_o soul_n 2._o by_o perfect_a obedience_n self_n judgement_n &_o self_n will_v be_v abate_v 3._o by_o fast_n watch_n &_o other_o austerity_n sensuality_n be_v mortify_v 4._o by_o religious_a poverty_n all_o distract_n care_v about_o temporal_a thing_n be_v expel_v 5._o and_o for_o the_o gain_n of_o a_o habitual_a state_n of_o recollectednes_n and_o introversion_n so_o great_a silence_n and_o solitude_n be_v so_o rigorous_o enjoin_v and_o practise_v all_o object_n of_o sensual_a affection_n remove_v all_o conversation_n with_o the_o world_n all_o relate_n or_o harken_v to_o news_n severe_o prohibit_v all_o this_o sure_o for_o no_o other_o end_n but_o that_o soul_n may_v be_v bring_v to_o a_o fit_a disposition_n to_o imitate_v those_o solitary_a and_o devout_a saint_n propose_v by_o our_o holy_a father_n for_o our_o example_n in_o their_o continual_a conversation_n with_o god_n attend_v to_o his_o divine_a inspiration_n and_o uninterrupted_n union_n of_o spirit_n with_o he_o by_o pure_a spiritual_a contemplation_n 17._o therefore_o though_o our_o holy_a lawgiver_n do_v not_o in_o his_o rule_n give_v his_o disciple_n any_o special_a instruction_n for_o order_v their_o interiour_n spiritual_a prayer_n touch_v such_o matter_n refer_v they_o to_o the_o inspiration_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n as_o himself_o say_v as_o likewise_o to_o the_o advice_n of_o the_o ancient_a father_n and_o hermit_n profess_v contemplation_n yet_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o his_o principal_a design_n be_v to_o dispose_v his_o disciple_n by_o his_o ordinance_n to_o
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
splendour_n see_v in_o the_o eye_n and_o countenance_n of_o god_n saint_n betoken_v a_o inward_a purity_n likewise_o elevation_n of_o the_o body_n ability_n to_o walk_v on_o the_o water_n or_o to_o pass_v through_o door_n whilst_o they_o be_v shut_v and_o other_o such_o like_a resemble_v the_o quality_n of_o glorify_a body_n now_o though_o the_o devil_n can_v counterfeit_v these_o yet_o they_o be_v seldom_o give_v by_o god_n but_o he_o withal_o give_v a_o assurance_n that_o they_o be_v from_o he_o 5._o a_o second_o sort_n of_o sensible_a grace_n more_o sublime_a than_o the_o former_a be_v such_o as_o be_v by_o god_n commucate_v to_o the_o internal_a sense_n especial_o the_o imagination_n in_o fuse_v supernatural_a image_n into_o it_o by_o which_o god_n sometime_o make_v know_v his_o will_n either_o immediate_o or_o by_o the_o disposition_n of_o angel_n so_o as_o the_o person_n will_v perceive_v word_n imaginative_o speak_v or_o think_v they_o see_v a_o angel_n or_o saint_n as_o if_o such_o word_n have_v indeed_o be_v speak_v and_o those_o object_n represent_v real_o to_o the_o outward_a sense_n for_o such_o be_v the_o nature_n of_o the_o imagination_n that_o it_o can_v after_o its_o manner_n exercise_v all_o the_o function_n of_o the_o outward_a sense_n 6._o of_o such_o supernatural_a inaction_n of_o god_n upon_o the_o soul_n by_o mean_n of_o the_o internal_a sense_n the_o most_o notable_a effect_n be_v rapt_n or_o ecstasy_n likewise_o internal_a vision_n and_o apparition_n the_o which_o go_v together_o sometime_o and_o sometime_o be_v separate_v 7._o now_o a_o rapture_n or_o ecstasy_n be_v a_o elevation_n of_o the_o soul_n cause_v by_o god_n by_o which_o the_o person_n be_v bereave_v of_o the_o use_n of_o the_o outward_a sense_n by_o reason_n that_o the_o soul_n in_o her_o internal_a operations_n cleave_v whole_o to_o supernatural_a thing_n &_o the_o imagination_n be_v enuiron_v with_o light_n vision_n etc._n etc._n and_o all_o this_o be_v do_v to_o the_o end_n that_o the_o person_n may_v internal_o know_v &_o see_v what_o be_v god_n pleasure_n to_o reveile_v unto_o he_o for_o the_o good_a either_o of_o himself_o or_o any_o other_o 8._o my_o purpose_n be_v not_o to_o treat_v nice_o of_o these_o matter_n for_o which_o the_o reader_n be_v refer_v to_o joannes_n a_o jesu-maria_n a_o discalced_a carmelite_n who_o treat_v of_o they_o with_o great_a exactness_n i_o will_v content_v myself_o with_o insist_v 1._o on_o the_o way_n of_o discern_v true_a vision_n rapture_n &c_n &c_n from_o false_a 2._o and_o afford_v instruction_n how_o a_o soul_n ought_v to_o behave_v herself_o about_o they_o 9_o now_o for_o a_o preparation_n to_o the_o follow_a rule_n of_o discern_a i_o will_v lay_v these_o ground_n 1._o that_o the_o devil_n can_v immediate_o operate_v either_o on_o the_o understanding_n or_o will_n but_o only_o by_o imprint_v new_a or_o dispose_v the_o image_n already_o in_o the_o fancy_n or_o by_o move_v the_o sensitive_a appetite_n 2._o by_o consequence_n if_o the_o light_v imprint_v in_o the_o understanding_n by_o mean_n of_o rapt_n vision_n etc._n etc._n do_v direct_v to_o real_a good_a as_o to_o the_o love_n of_o god_n humility_n &c_n &c_n &_o that_o the_o will_n entertain_v these_o good_a affection_n â—â—aâ—_n soul_n may_v prudent_o and_o rational_o ascribe_v the_o cause_n to_o god_n 10._o the_o rule_n of_o discern_a deliver_v by_o both_o ancient_a and_o modern_a holy_a author_n be_v these_o which_o follow_v the_o first_o when_o the_o will_n be_v move_v without_o the_o ordinary_a precedent_n action_n of_o the_o understanding_n or_o imagination_n and_o also_o in_o the_o same_o instant_n a_o certain_a new_a light_n be_v communicate_v to_o the_o mind_n a_o soul_n may_v be_v confident_a that_o it_o come_v from_o the_o divine_a spirit_n 11._o the_o second_o rule_n good_a observation_n be_v to_o be_v make_v whether_o the_o person_n be_v christianly_o dispose_v not_o much_o sway_v by_o curiosity_n or_o pride_n not_o addict_v to_o melancholy_a &c_n &c_n whether_o by_o such_o favour_n they_o be_v not_o invite_v to_o say_v or_o do_v some_o thing_n contrary_a to_o catholic_n truth_n peace_n obedience_n honesty_n puriâ—y_n humility_n &c_n &c_n and_o according_o soul_n be_v to_o judge_v from_o what_o principle_n they_o flow_v 12._o the_o three_o rule_n divine_a spiritual_a union_n vision_n etc._n etc._n be_v ordinary_o of_o short_a continuance_n 13._o the_o four_o rule_n apparition_n of_o good_a spirit_n although_o in_o the_o beginning_n they_o cause_v a_o tremble_a and_o amazement_n yet_o in_o the_o end_n the_o soul_n receive_v courage_n and_o comfort_n find_v herself_o illuminate_v inflame_v with_o devotion_n and_o in_o great_a peace_n whereas_o when_o the_o devil_n grow_n familiar_a with_o any_o though_o he_o appear_v in_o never_o so_o fearful_a and_o horrible_a shape_n the_o person_n be_v not_o affright_v and_o he_o leave_v they_o as_o he_o find_v they_o 14._o the_o five_o rule_n it_o be_v ordinary_o the_o mark_n of_o a_o good_a spirit_n 1._o when_o he_o effectual_o show_v that_o his_o power_n accompany_v his_o will_n as_o when_o upon_o his_o say_n fear_v not_o the_o person_n present_o become_v quiet_a 2._o when_o his_o word_n be_v clear_a intelligible_a and_o so_o delighfull_a that_o the_o soul_n do_v diligent_o observe_v and_o remember_v the_o pronunciation_n of_o every_o word_n and_o syllable_n 3._o when_o the_o person_n think_v himself_o oblige_v to_o attend_v to_o what_o be_v say_v 4._o when_o the_o soul_n conceive_v much_o more_o by_o those_o holy_a and_o divine_a word_n then_o in_o themselves_o they_o signify_v 5._o when_o there_o remain_v in_o the_o soul_n a_o assurance_n that_o what_o be_v say_v shall_v certain_o be_v effect_v etc._n etc._n all_o these_o be_v sign_n of_o a_o good_a spirit_n say_v s._n teresa_n 15._o the_o six_o rule_n the_o receive_n of_o any_o extraordinary_a outward_a favour_n or_o gift_n as_o rose_n ring_n jewel_n etc._n etc._n be_v much_o to_o be_v suspect_v unless_o such_o thing_n happen_v to_o soul_n of_o a_o long_a continue_a sanctity_n and_o that_o they_o be_v rather_o miraculous_o reveyl_v after_o their_o death_n then_o diwlge_v during_o their_o life_n the_o like_a judgement_n be_v to_o be_v make_v of_o outward_a character_n imprint_v on_o body_n as_o the_o name_n of_o jesus_n mark_v of_o our_o lord_n wound_v etc._n etc._n 16._o the_o seven_o rule_n when_o soul_n after_o the_o practice_n of_o long_a and_o severe_a austerity_n come_v to_o enjoy_v much_o peace_n and_o contentment_n both_o external_a and_o internal_a especial_o if_o such_o favour_n be_v overmuch_o in_o sense_n and_o not_o great_o relish_v of_o the_o spirit_n or_o if_o they_o be_v never_o so_o little_a undecent_a &c_n &c_n it_o be_v much_o to_o be_v fear_v that_o the_o devil_n have_v a_o great_a influence_n upon_o such_o a_o change_n and_o therefore_o such_o person_n ought_v to_o persevere_v in_o fear_n and_o penance_n not_o trust_v upon_o their_o good_a work_n pass_v but_o humble_o beseech_v god_n to_o preserve_v they_o from_o the_o enemy_n illusion_n 17._o the_o eight_o rule_n ecstasy_n that_o do_v not_o produce_v considerable_a profit_n either_o to_o the_o person_n themselves_o or_o other_o deserve_v to_o be_v suspect_v and_o when_o any_o mark_n of_o their_o approach_a be_v perceive_v the_o person_n ought_v to_o divert_v their_o mind_n some_o other_o way_n 18._o the_o nine_o rule_n the_o appearance_n of_o object_n how_o beautiful_a and_o celestial_a soever_o ought_v not_o sudden_o to_o be_v vvell-comed_a nor_o affection_n to_o be_v place_v upon_o they_o for_o the_o devil_n have_v be_v permit_v to_o take_v on_o he_o the_o shape_n even_o of_o our_o bless_a lord_n himself_o and_o if_o in_o such_o visitation_n the_o person_n feel_v any_o impure_a motion_n or_o fall_v into_o undecent_a posture_n etc._n etc._n whatsoever_o reluctance_n they_o make_v against_o they_o they_o ought_v to_o judge_v that_o they_o proceed_v from_o a_o ill_a principle_n yet_o if_o a_o soul_n be_v surprise_v with_o any_o seem_o glorious_a false_a apparition_n shall_v either_o afford_v veneration_n or_o unfitting_a affection_n thereto_o she_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v much_o deject_a for_o what_o be_v past_a since_o the_o error_n commit_v be_v only_o material_a 19_o the_o ten_o rule_n it_o be_v very_o suspicious_a to_o see_v a_o soul_n that_o be_v very_o young_a in_o a_o spiritual_a course_n or_o that_o be_v not_o of_o extraordinary_a purity_n to_o fall_v into_o rapt_n etc._n etc._n for_o great_a mortification_n with_o prayer_n be_v requisite_a to_o make_v a_o soul_n ripe_a for_o the_o divine_a inaction_n 20._o the_o eleaventh_o rule_n it_o be_v no_o proof_n at_o all_o of_o the_o want_n of_o grace_n and_o charity_n in_o person_n to_o be_v trouble_v with_o diabolical_a apparition_n &c_n &c_n if_o thereby_o there_o be_v wrought_v in_o they_o no_o other_o ill_a effect_n beside_o
·_o sancta_fw-la sophia_n ·_o or_o direction_n for_o the_o prayer_n of_o contemplation_n etc._n etc._n extract_v out_o of_o more_o than_o xl._n treatise_n write_v by_o the_o late_a ven._n father_n f._n augustin_n baker_n a_o monk_n of_o the_o english_a congregation_n of_o the_o holy_a order_n of_o s._n benedict_n and_o methodical_o digest_v by_o the_o r._n f._n serenus_n cressy_n of_o the_o same_o order_n and_o congregation_n and_o print_v at_o the_o charge_n of_o his_o convent_n of_o s._n gregory_n in_o douai_n vol._n i._n at_o douai_n by_o john_n patte_n '_o and_o thomas_n fievet_n anno_fw-la d._n m.dc.lvii_o to_o our_o most_o r._n father_z laurence_n reyner_n precedent_n general_n of_o our_o h._n congregation_n of_o the_o order_n of_o s._n benedict_n and_o to_o all_o our_o vv._n rr._n ff_n superior_n in_o the_o same_o vv._n rr._n ff_n such_o be_v the_o distemper_n of_o this_o age_n that_o only_o good_a book_n and_o such_o as_o be_v most_o proper_a to_o cure_v in_o the_o very_a root_n its_o disorder_n do_v stand_v in_o need_n of_o protection_n you_o can_v in_o justice_n as_o it_o seem_v to_o i_o refuse_v you_o to_o this_o the_o compose_n and_o publish_v whereof_o at_o this_o time_n be_v a_o effect_n of_o your_o v._n r._n paternities_n order_n and_o command_n now_o those_o very_a command_n with_o so_o much_o advice_n and_o zeal_n unanimous_o make_v be_v a_o very_a strong_a proof_n that_o this_o book_n for_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v the_o substantial_a doctrine_n therein_o contain_v be_v such_o a_o one_o so_o perfect_o good_a &_o medicinal_a as_o that_o i_o need_v not_o doubt_v and_o indeed_o shall_v be_v sorry_a it_o shall_v have_v any_o other_o faâ—e_o than_o the_o hatred_n of_o all_o those_o that_o love_n darkness_n more_o than_o light_n as_o for_o whatsoever_o fault_n may_v have_v happen_v through_o my_o want_n of_o skill_n in_o the_o compile_n i_o do_v not_o desire_v such_o patron_n to_o they_o yet_o true_o there_o have_v not_o be_v want_v all_o the_o diligence_n and_o care_n that_o i_o be_v capable_a of_o to_o provide_v that_o so_o excellent_a instruction_n shall_v not_o be_v too_o much_o disparage_v by_o the_o second_o copy_n and_o new_a fashion_n and_o dress_v upon_o they_o the_o pain_n herein_o take_v will_v appear_v to_o be_v not_o very_o ordinary_a to_o any_o one_o that_o shall_v consider_v hâ—w_o difficult_a a_o matter_n it_o be_v out_o of_o such_o a_o world_n of_o treatise_n write_v upon_o particular_a subject_n for_o the_o special_a necessity_n and_o use_n of_o certain_a devout_a person_n without_o any_o â—ye_z or_o design_n in_o the_o author_n of_o afford_v material_n for_o a_o entire_a body_n of_o spirituality_n to_o frame_v such_o a_o body_n not_o at_o all_o defective_a and_o with_o pâ—râ—s_v not_o unproportionable_a now_o i_o must_v confess_v that_o though_o conscience_n alone_o and_o duty_n to_o your_o vv._n rr._n paternities_n will_v have_v have_v sufficient_a influence_n on_o i_o to_o prevent_v negligence_n yet_o i_o have_v moreover_o one_o motive_n beside_o to_o heighten_v my_o diligence_n which_o be_v gratitude_n for_o to_o the_o admiration_n and_o love_n of_o these_o excellent_a instruction_n i_o owe_v not_o only_o the_o hasten_v of_o my_o reconciliation_n 〈◊〉_d the_o catholic_n church_n as_o on_o this_o very_a day_n be_v the_o viâ—â—ile_n of_o the_o feast_n of_o s._n m._n magdalen_n in_o the_o office_n of_o the_o h._n inquisition_n at_o rome_n but_o also_o the_o happiness_n of_o be_v a_o member_n through_o unworthy_a of_o your_o holy_a congregation_n it_o may_v notwithstanding_o fall_v out_o that_o with_o all_o my_o endeavour_n i_o may_v fail_v of_o give_v satisfaction_n in_o the_o point_n of_o art_n but_o that_o i_o have_v not_o be_v want_v in_o the_o principal_a condition_n of_o faithfullnes_n beside_o the_o testimony_n of_o my_o own_o conscience_n i_o have_v that_o also_o of_o person_n learned_a and_o pious_a to_o whâ—m_o the_o write_n of_o the_o venerable_a author_n have_v be_v perfect_o know_v and_o familiar_a iâ—_n will_v doubtless_o seem_v strange_a to_o other_o but_o not_o to_o your_o paternity_n v._n r._n f._n precedent_n that_o so_o perfect_a instruction_n for_o contemplation_n shall_v proceed_v from_o one_o that_o have_v spenâ—_n 〈◊〉_d his_o whole_a life_n in_o the_o laborious_a employment_n of_o the_o apostolic_a mission_n but_o your_o v._n r._n paternity_n by_o experience_n know_v that_o those_o who_o sincere_o give_v themselves_o to_o seeâ—e_v almighty_a god_n by_o pure_a spiritual_a prayer_n what_o ever_o their_o employment_n be_v will_v without_o any_o prejudice_n to_o they_o never_o want_n opportunity_n to_o meet_v and_o converse_v with_o he_o in_o solitude_n now_o from_o such_o conversation_n it_o be_v that_o there_o do_v proceed_v from_o the_o father_n of_o light_n such_o illustration_n as_o not_o only_o give_v a_o splendour_n to_o the_o person_n themselves_o but_o by_o reflection_n also_o serve_v to_o guide_v other_o the_o solitude_n that_o our_o venerable_a author_n enjoy_v be_v by_o his_o own_o election_n among_o friend_n penitent_n and_o disciple_n but_o god_n holy_a spirit_n lead_v your_o v._n r._n paternity_n into_o a_o desert_n far_o more_o suit_n of_o horror_n indeed_o but_o withal_o far_o more_o instructive_a a_o solitude_n of_o prison_n and_o dungeon_n among_o enemy_n to_o religion_n and_o humanity_n where_o yet_o by_o the_o light_n and_o force_v not_o only_o of_o your_o learning_n but_o also_o your_o devotion_n &c_n &c_n you_o can_v found_v church_n of_o convert_v a_o more_o sufficient_a and_o proper_a patron_n therefore_o and_o judge_n can_v not_o be_v find_v than_o your_o v._o r._n paternity_n of_o instruction_n of_o this_o nature_n so_o that_o from_o you_o it_o be_v that_o all_o other_o your_o religious_a subject_n receive_v they_o will_v through_o god_n grace_n daily_o with_o their_o increase_a fervour_n by_o their_o good_a practice_n and_o example_n recommend_v they_o to_o other_o abroad_o also_o vv._n rr._n ff_n from_o my_o cell_n in_o the_o convent_n of_o s._n gregory_n in_o douai_n this_o 21._o of_o july_n 1657._o your_o vv._n rr._n pp_n in_o all_o duty_n and_o service_n in_o our_o lord_n br._n serenus_n cressy_n nos_fw-la fr._n laurentius_n reyner_n congregation_n anglicanae_n ordinis_fw-la s._n benedicti_fw-la praeses_fw-la generalis_fw-la visis_fw-la testimonijs_fw-la &_o approbationibus_fw-la rr._n pp_n congregationis_fw-la nostrae_fw-la benedicti_fw-la stapletoni_n s._n theologiae_n doctoris_fw-la &_o definitoris_fw-la dictae_fw-la congregationis_fw-la etc._n etc._n &_o leandri_fw-la à _fw-la s._n augustino_n s._n theologiae_n professoris_fw-la etc._n etc._n quibus_fw-la cura_fw-la examinandi_fw-la librum_fw-la quendam_fw-la spiritualem_fw-la anglicè_fw-la scriptum_n cvi_fw-la titulus_fw-la sancta_fw-la sophia_n or_o direction_n etc._n etc._n à _fw-la nobis_fw-la demandata_fw-la fuerat_fw-la ad_fw-la dei_fw-la honorem_fw-la &_o gloriam_fw-la ecclesiae_fw-la sanctae_fw-la catholicae_fw-la bonum_fw-la animarumque_fw-la uti_fw-la speramus_fw-la in_fw-la sancto_fw-la dei_fw-la amore_fw-la profectum_fw-la notabilem_fw-la ut_fw-la dictus_fw-la libre_fw-la praeli_fw-la beneficio_fw-la mundo_fw-la publicetur_fw-la per_fw-la praesentes_fw-la licentiam_fw-la damus_fw-la in_o cujus_fw-la rei_fw-la testimonium_fw-la his_fw-la subscripsimus_fw-la &_o sigillum_fw-la nostrum_fw-la apposuimus_fw-la parisijs_fw-la in_o monasterio_n nostro_fw-la s._n edmundi_fw-la regis_fw-la &_o martyris_fw-la in_o suburbijs_fw-la d._n jacobi_fw-la maij._fw-la 4._o an._n d._n 1657._o fr._n laurentius_n reyner_n praeses_fw-la qui_fw-la supra_fw-la licet_fw-la indignus_fw-la de_fw-fr mandato_n r._n adm._n p._n praesidis_fw-la locus_fw-la sigilli_fw-la fr._n augustinus_n constable_n secretarius_n legi_fw-la diligenter_n librum_fw-la cvi_fw-la titulus_fw-la sancta_fw-la sophia_n or_o direction_n &c_n &c_n anglicè_fw-la scriptum_fw-la in_fw-la eoque_fw-la nihil_fw-la reperi_fw-la quod_fw-la orthodoxae_fw-la fidei_fw-la aut_fw-la bonis_fw-la moribus_fw-la adversetur_fw-la testor_fw-la etiam_fw-la nihil_fw-la in_o hoc_fw-la libro_fw-la contineri_fw-la praeter_fw-la regulas_fw-la &_o praecepta_fw-la ad_fw-la aquavitae_fw-la contemplativae_fw-la perfectionem_fw-la ducentia_fw-la ea_fw-la verò_fw-la tantâ_fw-la doctrinae_fw-la soliditate_fw-la perspicuitate_fw-la tamque_fw-la insigni_fw-la methodo_fw-la tractari_fw-la ut_fw-la non_fw-la solum_fw-la pijssimi_fw-la authoris_fw-la sanctitas_fw-la &_o in_o conductu_fw-la animarum_fw-la ad_fw-la perfectionis_fw-la apicem_fw-la peritia_fw-la nec_fw-la non_fw-la ipsius_fw-la collectoris_fw-la diligentia_fw-la &_o stili_fw-la nitor_fw-la abundè_fw-la comprobentur_fw-la verùm_fw-la etiam_fw-la summo_fw-la cum_fw-la perfectioris_fw-la aquavitae_fw-la studiosorum_fw-la fructu_fw-la in_o lucem_fw-la emittendum_fw-la nullo_n modo_fw-la dubitem_fw-la in_o super_fw-la authoris_fw-la mentem_fw-la videtur_fw-la adeo_fw-la assecutus_fw-la praefatus_fw-la collector_n ut_fw-la qui_fw-la in_o authoris_fw-la doctrinâ_fw-la sunt_fw-la versati_fw-la genuinum_fw-la illius_fw-la foecum_fw-la necessariò_fw-la agnoscere_fw-la debeant_fw-la datum_n in_o monasterio_n nostro_fw-la s._n gregorij_fw-la duaci_fw-la 21._o ap._n 1657._o f._n benedictus_fw-la stapleton_n sac_n the._n doctor_n perlegi_fw-la librum_fw-la cvi_fw-la titulus_fw-la sancta_fw-la sophia_n etc._n etc._n anglicè_fw-la scriptum_fw-la testorque_fw-la in_o eo_fw-la nihil_fw-la reperiri_fw-la quod_fw-la orthodoxae_fw-la fideiaut_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
love_n speread_v abroad_o in_o our_o heart_n by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n as_o s._n augustin_n say_v to_o this_o verity_n give_v evident_a witness_v those_o expression_n of_o the_o church_n in_o her_o public_a devotion_n da_fw-la domine_fw-la famulis_fw-la tuis_fw-la ut_fw-la quae_fw-la à _fw-la te_fw-la iussa_fw-la agnonimus_fw-la implere_fw-la caelesti_fw-la inspiratione_n valeamus_fw-la that_o be_v grant_v o_o lord_n unto_o thy_o servant_n that_o those_o thing_n which_o we_o acknowledge_v to_o have_v be_v command_v by_o thou_o we_o may_v by_o thy_o heavenly_a inspiration_n accomplish_v and_o again_o auge_n populi_fw-la tui_fw-la vota_fw-la placatus_fw-la quia_fw-la in_o nullo_n fidelium_fw-la nisi_fw-la ex_fw-la tua_fw-la inspiratione_n proveniunt_fw-la quarumlibet_fw-la incrementa_fw-la virtutum_fw-la that_o be_v increase_v in_o mercy_n o_o lord_n the_o desire_n of_o thy_o servant_n for_o not_o the_o least_o progress_n in_o any_o virtue_n can_v be_v make_v by_o any_o of_o thy_o faithful_a servant_n by_o any_o other_o mean_n but_o only_o by_o thy_o divine_a inspiration_n 24._o the_o second_o ground_n be_v consequent_a on_o the_o former_a viz._n that_o since_o such_o absolute_a necessity_n there_o be_v of_o divine_a inspiration_n the_o necessity_n oblige_v we_o to_o correspond_v unto_o they_o be_v and_o must_v needs_o be_v equal_a for_o from_o no_o other_o root_n but_o the_o neglect_n of_o this_o obligation_n do_v or_o can_v proceed_v all_o our_o mischief_n the_o guilt_n of_o such_o neglect_n be_v so_o much_o the_o great_a inasmuch_o as_o the_o gift_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n imprint_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o his_o servant_n be_v of_o such_o a_o active_a nature_n that_o be_v it_o not_o that_o the_o spirit_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n cherish_v by_o we_o do_v deafen_v its_o call_n and_o weaken_v its_o efficacy_n it_o will_v continual_o be_v waken_v by_o every_o occasion_n incite_v we_o to_o love_n god_n only_o and_o to_o raise_v up_o our_o soul_n to_o he_o now_o by_o such_o neglect_n we_o be_v say_v in_o holy_a scripture_n to_o contristate_v the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o by_o oft_o contristate_v he_o we_o shall_v in_o the_o end_n come_v to_o quench_v he_o and_o the_o just_a indignation_n of_o god_n against_o such_o negligent_a despiser_n of_o his_o holy_a inspiration_n and_o call_n be_v powerful_o express_v in_o those_o word_n of_o his_o proverb_n 1.24_o quia_fw-la vocaviâ—_n &_o renuistis_fw-la &c._n &c._n because_o i_o have_v call_v and_o you_o refuse_v i_o stretch_v forth_o my_o hand_n and_o there_o be_v none_o that_o regard_v i_o also_o will_v laugh_v at_o your_o destruction_n and_o i_o will_v mock_v when_o that_o which_o you_o do_v fear_n shall_v happen_v unto_o you_o etc._n etc._n then_o shall_v they_o call_v on_o i_o and_o i_o will_v not_o hear_v they_o shall_v rise_v early_o and_o they_o shall_v not_o findâ—_n i_o now_o though_o it_o be_v not_o indeed_o a_o mortal_a sin_n to_o resist_v the_o motion_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n incite_v we_o to_o action_n which_o be_v not_o of_o essential_a obligation_n yet_o so_o do_v we_o do_v contristate_v god_n spirit_n and_o more_o indispose_v ourselves_o afterward_o to_o observe_v and_o follow_v its_o direction_n and_o mortal_a sin_n be_v seldom_o rush_v into_o upon_o the_o sudden_a they_o begin_v with_o lesser_a resistance_n by_o which_o the_o mind_n be_v more_o obscure_v and_o less_o capable_a to_o obey_v it_o in_o great_a matter_n but_o as_o for_o perfect_a soul_n they_o be_v in_o continual_a attendance_n and_o obedience_n thereto_o be_v in_o continual_a prayer_n or_o in_o good_a work_n and_o exercise_n begin_v and_o perform_v in_o virtue_n of_o prayer_n and_o also_o accompany_v by_o prayer_n 25._o the_o three_o preparatory_a ground_n follow_v which_o be_v this_o that_o since_o these_o so_o necessary_a internal_a inspiration_n must_v necessary_o be_v hearken_v to_o and_o correspond_v with_o and_o since_o there_o may_v be_v false_a suggestion_n either_o of_o the_o devil_n or_o our_o corrupt_a nature_n which_o may_v counterfeit_v and_o subtle_o pretend_v to_o a_o divine_a original_a therefore_o it_o be_v necessary_a that_o some_o possible_a yea_o satisfactory_a mean_n shall_v be_v afford_v how_o to_o distinguish_v between_o true_a and_o false_a inspiration_n for_o otherwise_o we_o shall_v have_v a_o impossible_a obligation_n to_o obey_v we_o know_v not_o who_o nor_o what_o we_o shall_v be_v in_o as_o much_o danger_n to_o be_v actuate_v by_o the_o devil_n and_o use_v as_o instrument_n of_o his_o illusion_n as_o of_o the_o save_a influx_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n and_o consequent_o shall_v not_o be_v able_a to_o distinguish_v the_o way_n between_o heaven_n &_o hell_n 26._o neither_o will_v it_o suffice_v to_o say_v that_o we_o do_v sufficient_o perform_v god_n will_n when_o we_o perform_v the_o command_n of_o god_n express_v clear_o in_o scripture_n likewise_o the_o precept_n of_o the_o church_n and_o of_o all_o our_o lawful_a superior_n for_o neither_o will_n the_o do_v of_o these_o thing_n without_o a_o interior_a insluxe_n of_o grace_n avail_v we_o since_o the_o devil_n can_v be_v content_a yea_o will_v suggest_v the_o exercise_n of_o the_o great_a virtue_n to_o heart_n that_o he_o know_n will_v intend_v only_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o natural_a pride_n or_o the_o interest_n of_o self-love_n in_o they_o and_o beside_o neither_o can_v any_o of_o these_o external_a rule_n extend_v to_o all_o our_o action_n so_o as_o to_o regulate_v they_o in_o order_n to_o contemplation_n and_o perfection_n 27._o the_o four_o and_o last_o ground_n to_o be_v premise_v be_v this_o that_o since_o it_o be_v necessary_a to_o be_v enable_v to_o distinguish_v the_o true_a inspiration_n of_o god_n from_o the_o false_a suggestion_n of_o our_o enemy_n the_o only_a mean_n imaginable_a that_o can_v be_v proper_a natural_a and_o efficacious_a to_o obtain_v such_o a_o supernatural_a light_n to_o discern_v god_n will_n in_o all_o thing_n be_v pure_a spiritual_a prayer_n exercise_v by_o a_o soul_n live_v a_o abstract_a internal_a recollect_v life_n spend_v in_o a_o continual_a attendance_n on_o god_n etc._n etc._n 28._o this_o be_v a_o way_n suitable_a to_o reason_n conformable_a to_o scripture_n and_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o holy_a father_n &_o deliver_v both_o by_o ancient_n and_o modern_a mystic_a author_n as_o may_v copious_o be_v demonstrrt_v if_o there_o be_v any_o cause_n to_o think_v that_o to_o pray_v perfect_o and_o by_o prayer_n to_o obtain_v divine_a grace_n be_v suspicious_a exercise_n to_o any_o in_o a_o word_n this_o be_v a_o way_n the_o which_o practise_v according_a to_o the_o instruction_n here_o deliver_v all_o manner_n of_o good_a and_o no_o possible_a inconvenience_n can_v flow_v from_o it_o 29._o here_o be_v no_o pretend_v to_o now_o or_o strange_a revelation_n no_o walk_v in_o mirabilibus_fw-la super_fw-la se_fw-la no_o zealous_a seditious_a reformation_n nor_o the_o least_o prejudice_n do_v or_o intend_v to_o peace_n unity_n humility_n obedience_n or_o any_o other_o divine_a virtue_n yea_o on_o the_o contrary_a all_o these_o heavenly_a grace_n be_v hereby_o not_o only_o fortify_v and_o increase_v but_o by_o no_o other_o mean_n can_v be_v perfect_o obtain_v 30._o and_o indeed_o since_o in_o a_o world_n of_o passage_n in_o holy_a scripture_n we_o find_v ourselves_o oblige_v to_o a_o double_a duty_n the_o one_o whereof_o perhaps_o in_o popular_a judgment_n seem_v to_o entrench_v upon_o the_o other_o and_o yet_o neither_o of_o they_o be_v in_o due_a place_n and_o circumstance_n to_o be_v omit_v namely_o obedience_n both_o to_o god_n holy_a spirit_n inward_o direct_v and_o also_o to_o superior_n outward_o command_v by_o what_o other_o way_n can_v we_o reconcile_v such_o seem_o different_a and_o as_o it_o may_v fall_v out_o contrary_a precept_n but_o by_o join_v this_o doctrine_n to_o that_o concern_v outward_a obedience_n which_o be_v here_o do_v &_o do_v without_o the_o least_o prejudice_n to_o either_o yea_o manifest_o to_o the_o advantage_n of_o both_o in_o their_o due_a circumstance_n if_o then_o for_o any_o outward_a carnal_a respect_n we_o shall_v conceal_v or_o discountenance_v this_o most_o necessary_a duty_n of_o follow_a the_o inspiration_n of_o god_n we_o shall_v efface_v the_o proper_a character_n of_o god_n servant_n who_o be_v say_v to_o be_v such_o as_o be_v lead_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o that_o by_o the_o unction_n be_v teach_v in_o all_o thing_n again_o if_o on_o pretence_n of_o follow_v inspiration_n and_o internal_a light_n which_o can_v be_v so_o absolute_o certain_a we_o shall_v transgress_v the_o most_o evident_a cercaine_n command_v of_o lawful_a superior_n which_o be_v therefore_o god_n also_o there_o will_v quick_o follow_v a_o end_n of_o all_o order_n peace_n and_o government_n what_o other_o mean_a therefore_o be_v leave_v to_o comply_v with_o both_o these_o but_o to_o obey_v god_n both_o way_n that_o be_v command_v most_o certain_o when_o
his_o will_n be_v reveal_v by_o superior_n &_o also_o very_o secure_o when_o in_o other_o internal_a thing_n or_o which_o tend_v to_o perfection_n without_o the_o least_o wrong_a yea_o to_o the_o great_a advantage_n of_o superior_n he_o do_v communicate_v his_o light_n and_o direction_n to_o we_o so_o as_o that_o say_n of_o the_o apostle_n with_o which_o they_o silence_v the_o whole_a jewish_a sanedrim_n namely_o that_o god_n be_v rather_o to_o be_v obey_v then_o man_n command_v contrary_a to_o god_n hold_v only_o when_o it_o can_v evident_o be_v demonstrate_v as_o the_o apostle_n than_o do_v by_o miracle_n that_o such_o a_o command_n do_v indeed_o come_v from_o god_n or_o that_o the_o thing_n command_v by_o man_n be_v certain_o unlawful_a 31._o these_o thing_n consider_v in_o all_o reason_n we_o ought_v to_o be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v deter_v from_o publish_v such_o instruction_n as_o these_o because_o forsooth_o the_o frantic_a spirit_n of_o this_o age_n do_v false_o make_v pretend_v inspiration_n the_o cause_n and_o ground_n of_o all_o the_o misery_n and_o mischief_n of_o late_a happen_v in_o our_o nation_n etc._n etc._n that_o for_o this_o very_a reason_n and_o motive_n every_o one_o ought_v to_o publish_v such_o wholesome_a doctrine_n the_o which_o be_v the_o only_a possible_a mean_n to_o undeceive_v they_o for_o what_o other_o way_n do_v there_o remain_v to_o convince_v they_o of_o their_o error_n and_o seduction_n dangerous_a to_o all_o mankind_n but_o most_o certain_o pernicious_a to_o their_o own_o soul_n shall_v we_o tell_v they_o that_o there_o be_v no_o inspiration_n at_o all_o we_o shall_v in_o so_o do_v betray_v christian_a religion_n shall_v we_o say_v though_o there_o be_v inspiration_n yet_o they_o be_v never_o to_o be_v mark_v never_o obey_v nor_o comply_v withal_o beside_o the_o ridiculous_a falseness_n of_o the_o assertion_n which_o will_v expose_v we_o to_o their_o most_o just_a contempt_n and_o hatred_n they_o will_v overwhelm_v we_o with_o unanswerable_a text_n of_o scripture_n and_o passage_n of_o holy_a father_n what_o other_o thing_n than_o can_v be_v do_v but_o that_o acknowledge_v both_o there_o be_v inspiration_n and_o that_o we_o be_v oblige_v to_o correspond_v unto_o they_o we_o shall_v inform_v those_o unhappy_a soul_n how_o to_o dispose_v themselves_o so_o as_o to_o be_v out_o of_o danger_n of_o diabolical_a illusion_n and_o to_o be_v in_o a_o capacity_n of_o receive_v inspiration_n true_o divine_a as_o likewise_o with_o what_o caution_n and_o prudence_n but_o withal_o what_o fidelity_n they_o ought_v to_o comply_v with_o they_o but_o especial_o we_o ought_v to_o demonstrate_v and_o inculcate_v this_o fundamental_a verity_n that_o the_o general_a and_o most_o certain_a precept_n of_o humility_n obedience_n unity_n and_o peace_n must_v never_o receive_v any_o prejudice_n by_o any_o pretend_a inspiration_n or_o illumination_n since_o those_o which_o be_v true_o from_o god_n do_v establish_v and_o increase_v all_o these_o virtue_n yea_o that_o the_o externall_n order_n authority_n and_o subordination_n establish_v by_o god_n in_o his_o church_n by_o which_o alone_o it_o become_v one_o body_n and_o not_o a_o monstrous_a heap_n of_o unlike_a unproportionable_a member_n fight_v and_o devour_v one_o another_o must_v be_v the_o rule_n by_o which_o to_o examine_v and_o judge_n to_o pronounce_v sentence_n for_o or_o against_o all_o manner_n of_o inspiration_n 32._o therefore_o instead_o of_o a_o humane_a fruitless_a policy_n of_o hide_v such_o divine_a fundamental_a practical_a truth_n as_o these_o let_v we_o sincere_o faithful_o and_o plentiful_o teach_v they_o and_o though_o it_o can_v never_o be_v prevent_v but_o that_o the_o devil_n will_v suggest_v to_o proud_a ambitious_a covetous_a or_o sensual_a spirit_n to_o draw_v poison_n from_o the_o most_o perfect_a doctrine_n of_o catholic_n religion_n yet_o then_o at_o least_o he_o and_o they_o will_v be_v the_o less_o able_a to_o seduce_v wellmeaning_n soul_n to_o join_v with_o they_o yea_o by_o god_n grace_n and_o benediction_n upon_o his_o truth_n faithful_o teach_v they_o will_v loose_v many_o such_o already_o seduce_v when_o all_o their_o pretend_a light_n be_v confront_v before_o the_o sun_n of_o divine_a verity_n and_o holiness_n will_v either_o vanish_v quite_o away_o or_o manifest_o discover_v themselves_o to_o be_v the_o sulphurous_a gloomy_a light_n of_o such_o wander_v fall_v star_n as_o be_v mention_v by_o s._n jude_n to_o who_o the_o tempest_n of_o darkness_n be_v reserve_v for_o ever_o 33._o o_o therefore_o that_o it_o be_v god_n bless_a will_n that_o they_o will_v be_v persuade_v to_o examine_v themselves_o &_o their_o instinct_n by_o such_o character_n such_o sign_n so_o manifest_o christian_n hoâ—y_n perfect_a and_o secure_a as_o be_v here_o contain_v in_o this_o treatise_n and_o according_o judge_v of_o their_o and_o our_o inspiration_n in_o the_o first_o place_n here_o the_o only_a proper_a disposition_n towards_o the_o receive_n of_o supernatural_a irradiation_n from_o god_n holy_a spirit_n be_v a_o abstraction_n of_o life_n a_o sequestration_n from_o all_o business_n that_o concern_v other_o and_o a_o attendance_n to_o god_n alone_o in_o the_o depth_n of_o the_o spirit_n whereas_o their_o light_n come_v never_o more_o frequent_o then_o when_o either_o be_v alone_o they_o yield_v to_o discontent_a unquiet_a passion_n and_o murmur_n about_o the_o behaviour_n and_o action_n of_o other_o or_o when_o in_o close_a meeting_n and_o conspiracy_n they_o vent_v such_o passion_n by_o inuective_n against_o the_o governor_n of_o the_o church_n or_o state_n 2._o the_o light_n here_o desire_v and_o pray_v for_o be_v such_o as_o do_v expel_v all_o image_n of_o creature_n and_o do_v calm_a all_o manner_n of_o passion_n to_o the_o end_n that_o the_o soul_n be_v in_o a_o vacuity_n may_v be_v more_o capable_a of_o receive_v and_o entertain_v god_n in_o the_o pure_a fund_z of_o the_o spirit_n whereas_o their_o light_n fill_v they_o with_o all_o tumultuous_a disquiet_v image_n and_o phantasm_n concern_v the_o suppose_a miscarriage_n of_o all_o other_o but_o themselves_o and_o not_o only_o heighten_v their_o passion_n but_o urge_v they_o to_o most_o terrible_a desolate_v effect_n 3._o the_o prayer_n here_o acknowledge_v to_o be_v the_o most_o effectual_a instrument_n to_o procure_v divine_a light_n be_v a_o pure_a recollect_v intime_fw-la prayer_n of_o the_o spirit_n whereas_o the_o prayer_n that_o they_o glory_n in_o be_v only_o a_o acquire_v ability_n and_o sleight_n to_o talk_v earnest_o to_o god_n before_o other_o &_o oft_o thereby_o to_o communicate_v their_o passion_n &_o discontent_n to_o their_o brethren_n 4._o here_o be_v no_o new_a speculative_a verity_n or_o revelation_n of_o mystery_n pretend_v no_o private_a new-found-out_a interpretation_n of_o scripture_n brag_v of_o whereas_o among_o they_o every_o day_n produce_v a_o new_a fancy_n which_o must_v gather_v new_a company_n 5._o here_o the_o establish_a order_n of_o god_n church_n &_o the_o unity_n essential_a thereto_o be_v not_o prejudice_v yea_o the_o inspiration_n expect_v and_o obtain_v by_o pure_a internal_a prayer_n do_v more_o firm_o and_o unalterable_o fix_v soul_n under_o this_o obedience_n and_o to_o this_o order_n and_o unity_n insomuch_o as_o whatsoever_o pretend_a light_n do_v endanger_v the_o dissolve_v of_o unity_n or_o do_v cross_v lawful_a authority_n or_o shall_v be_v reject_v by_o it_o they_o be_v present_o suspect_v and_o extinguish_v whereas_o those_o man_n light_n teach_v they_o nothing_o so_o much_o as_o to_o contemn_v &_o oppose_v all_o external_a authority_n and_o to_o dissipate_v unity_n disperse_v the_o body_n of_o christianity_n into_o innumerable_a sect_n and_o conventicle_n 6._o our_o light_n teach_v we_o to_o attend_v only_o to_o god_n and_o our_o own_o soul_n and_o never_o to_o interest_n ourselves_o in_o any_o care_n or_o employment_n about_o other_o till_o evident_o god_n inspiration_n force_v we_o and_o external_a authority_n oblige_v we_o thereto_o whereas_o their_o light_n render_v they_o incapable_a of_o solitude_n and_o thrust_v they_o abroad_o to_o be_v reformer_n of_o other_o be_v themselves_o impatient_a of_o all_o reformation_n and_o contradiction_n 7._o our_o light_n make_v we_o to_o fear_v and_o avoid_v all_o supereminence_n and_o judicature_n all_o sensual_a pleasure_n desire_n of_o wealth_n honour_n etc._n etc._n whereas_o their_o light_n engage_v they_o violent_o &_o deep_o in_o all_o these_o carnal_a and_o secular_a way_n and_o for_o the_o attain_n to_o these_o in_o tumult_n sedition_n bloush_v and_o war_n in_o a_o word_n in_o all_o manner_n of_o action_n and_o design_n most_o contrary_a to_o the_o spirit_n of_o christianity_n 8._o and_o last_o our_o light_n if_o they_o shall_v chance_v sometime_o to_o be_v mistake_v by_o we_o no_o harm_n at_o all_o will_v accrue_n to_o other_o and_o not_o any_o eonsiderable_a prejudice_n to_o ourselves_o because_o as_o have_v be_v say_v the_o matter_n
the_o compass_v a_o design_n so_o heavenly_a qualify_a they_o not_o only_o with_o good_a natural_a propension_n to_o those_o internal_a way_n of_o love_n lead_v to_o this_o end_n but_o also_o call_v they_o to_o a_o state_n of_o life_n abstract_v from_o the_o world_n the_o vanity_n &_o sollioitude_n of_o it_o and_o withal_o supernatural_a light_n to_o direct_v they_o in_o the_o secret_a path_n of_o this_o love_n and_o last_o strong_a resolution_n and_o perseverance_n with_o courage_n to_o break_v through_o all_o discouragement_n difficulty_n persecution_n aridity_n &_o whatsoever_o opposition_n shall_v be_v make_v against_o they_o either_o from_o concupiscence_n within_o or_o the_o world_n without_o or_o the_o devil_n join_v with_o both_o against_o a_o design_n of_o all_o other_o most_o hurtful_a to_o he_o &_o most_o destructive_a to_o his_o pretension_n 11._o and_o for_o a_o yet_o further_o and_o great_a encouragement_n unto_o they_o to_o embrace_v &_o prosecute_v so_o glorious_a a_o design_n they_o may_v take_v notice_n that_o beside_o this_o hitherto_o describe_v happy_a union_n of_o a_o contemplative_a soul_n with_o god_n by_o perfect_a charity_n in_o the_o which_o the_o soul_n herself_o active_o concur_v not_o only_o as_o to_o the_o fruition_n but_o also_o in_o the_o dispose_n herself_o immediate_o thereto_o there_o be_v other_o union_n entire_o supernatural_a not_o at_o all_o procure_v or_o so_o much_o as_o intend_v by_o the_o soul_n herself_o but_o gracious_o &_o free_o confer_v by_o god_n upon_o some_o soul_n in_o the_o which_o he_o after_o a_o wonderful_a and_o inconceiveable_a manner_n afford_v they_o interior_a illumination_n and_o touch_n yet_o far_o more_o efficacious_a and_o divine_a in_o all_o which_o the_o soul_n be_v a_o mere_a patient_n and_o only_o suffer_v god_n to_o work_v his_o divine_a pleasure_n in_o she_o be_v neither_o able_a to_o further_o nor_o hinder_v it_o the_o which_o union_n though_o they_o last_v but_o even_o as_o it_o be_v a_o moment_n of_o time_n yet_o do_v more_o illuminate_v and_o purify_v the_o soul_n than_o many_o year_n spend_v in_o active_a exercise_n of_o spiritual_a prayer_n or_o mortification_n can_v do_v cap._n iu._n §_o 1._o 2._o 3._o 4._o a_o strong_a resolution_n necessary_a in_o the_o beginning_n §_o 5._o 6._o 7._o 8._o 9_o consider_v first_o the_o length_n and_o tediousness_n of_o the_o way_n to_o perfection_n in_o mortification_n §_o 10._o 11._o and_o also_o many_o degree_n of_o prayer_n to_o be_v pass_v §_o 12._o therefore_o it_o be_v seldom_o attein_v &_o not_o till_o a_o decline_a age._n §_o 13._o except_o by_o god_n extraordinary_a favour_n to_o a_o few_o §_o 14._o yet_o old_a &_o young_a aught_o to_o enter_v into_o the_o way_n §_o 15._o a_o motive_n to_o resolution_n be_v the_o difficulty_n in_o the_o way_n §_o 16._o and_o those_o both_o from_o with_o out_o and_z within_z 1._o the_o end_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n therefore_o be_v so_o supereminent_o noble_a and_o divine_a that_o beatify_v soul_n do_v prosecute_v the_o same_o and_o no_o other_o in_o heaven_n with_o this_o only_a difference_n that_o the_o same_o beatify_a object_n which_o be_v now_o obscure_o see_v by_o faith_n and_o imperfect_o embrace_v by_o love_n shall_v hereafter_o be_v see_v clear_o and_o perfect_o enjoy_v the_o primary_n and_o most_o general_a duty_n require_v in_o soul_n which_o by_o god_n vocation_n do_v walk_v in_o the_o way_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v to_o admire_v love_n and_o long_o after_o this_o union_n and_o to_o fix_v a_o immovable_a resolution_n through_o god_n grace_n &_o assistance_n to_o attempt_v and_o persevere_v in_o the_o prosecution_n of_o so_o glorious_a a_o design_n indespight_n of_o all_o opposition_n through_o light_n &_o darkness_n through_o consolation_n &_o desolation_n etc._n etc._n as_o esteem_v it_o to_o be_v cheap_o purchase_v though_o with_o the_o loss_n of_o all_o comfort_n that_o nature_n can_v find_v or_o expect_v in_o creature_n 2._o the_o fix_v of_o such_o a_o courageous_a resolution_n be_v of_o so_o main_a importance_n &_o necessity_n that_o if_o it_o shall_v happen_v to_o fail_v or_o yield_v to_o any_o though_o the_o feirce_v tentation_n that_o may_v occur_v and_o be_v to_o be_v expect_v so_o as_o not_o to_o be_v reassume_v the_o whole_a design_n will_v be_v ruin_v and_o therefore_o devout_a soul_n be_v oftentimes_o to_o renew_v such_o a_o resolution_n and_o especial_o when_o any_o difficulty_n present_v itself_o and_o for_o that_o purpose_n they_o will_v oft_o be_v put_v in_o mind_n thereof_o in_o these_o follow_a instruction_n 3._o it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v esteem_v loftiness_n presumption_n or_o pride_n to_o tend_v to_o so_o sublime_a a_o end_n but_o it_o be_v a_o good_a and_o laudable_a ambition_n and_o most_o acceptable_a to_o god_n yea_o the_o root_n of_o it_o be_v true_a solid_a humility_n join_v with_o the_o love_n of_o god_n for_o it_o proceed_v from_o a_o vile_a esteem_n and_o some_o degree_n of_o a_o holy_a hatred_n of_o ourselves_o from_o who_o we_o desire_v to_o fly_v and_o a_o just_a esteem_n obedience_n and_o love_n of_o god_n to_o who_o only_o we_o desire_v to_o adhere_v &_o be_v inseparable_o unite_v 4._o happy_a therefore_o be_v the_o soul_n that_o find_v in_o herself_o a_o habitual_a thirst_n &_o longing_n after_o this_o union_n if_o she_o will_v seek_v to_o assuage_v it_o by_o continual_a approach_n to_o this_o fountain_n of_o live_a water_n labour_v thereto_o with_o daily_a externall_n &_o internal_a working_n the_o very_a tendance_n to_o this_o union_n in_o which_o our_o whole_a essential_a happiness_n consist_v have_v in_o it_o some_o degree_n of_o happiness_n and_o be_v a_o imperfect_a union_n dispose_v to_o a_o perfect_a one_o for_o by_o such_o internal_a tendance_n &_o aspire_v we_o get_v by_o little_a &_o little_o out_o of_o nature_n into_o god_n and_o that_o with_o out_o such_o a_o interior_a tendance_n &_o desire_v no_o exterior_a sufferance_n or_o observance_n will_v imprint_v any_o true_a virtue_n in_o the_o soul_n or_o bring_v she_o near_o to_o god_n we_o see_v in_o the_o example_n of_o suso_n who_o for_o the_o first_o five_o year_n of_o a_o religious_a profession_n find_v no_o satisfaction_n in_o soul_n at_o all_o notwthstanding_n all_o his_o care_n &_o exactness_n in_o exterior_a regular_a observance_n and_o mortification_n he_o perceive_v plain_o that_o still_o he_o want_v some_o thing_n but_o what_o that_o be_v he_o can_v not_o tell_v till_o god_n be_v please_v to_o discover_v it_o to_o he_o and_o put_v he_o in_o the_o way_n to_o attain_v to_o his_o desire_n which_o be_v in_o spirit_n to_o tend_v continual_o to_o this_o union_n with_o out_o which_o all_o his_o austerity_n and_o observance_n serve_v little_a or_o nothing_o as_o proceed_v principal_o from_o self_n love_n selfe-iudgment_n &_o the_o satisfy_n of_o nature_n even_o by_o cross_v it_o 4._o let_v nothing_o therefore_o deter_v a_o welminded_a soul_n from_o persevere_v with_o fervour_n in_o this_o firm_a resolution_n no_o not_o the_o sight_n of_o her_o daily_a defect_n imperfection_n or_o sin_n or_o remorse_n for_o they_o but_o rather_o let_v she_o increase_v in_o courage_n even_o from_o her_o fall_n and_o from_o the_o experience_n of_o she_o own_o impotency_n let_v she_o be_v incite_v to_o run_v more_o earnest_o &_o adhere_v more_o firm_o unto_o god_n by_o who_o she_o will_v be_v enable_v to_o do_v all_o thing_n and_o conquer_v all_o resistance_n 5._o now_o to_o the_o end_n that_o all_o sincerity_n may_v be_v use_v in_o the_o delivery_n of_o these_o instruction_n and_o that_o all_o vain_a compliance_n &_o flattery_n may_v be_v avoid_v the_o devout_a soul_n be_v to_o be_v inform_v that_o the_o way_n to_o perfection_n be_v 1._o both_o a_o very_o long_o tedious_a way_n and_o 2._o withal_o there_o be_v to_o be_v expect_v in_o it_o many_o grievous_a painful_a &_o bitter_a tentation_n and_o cross_n to_o corrupt_a nature_n as_o be_v a_o way_n that_o whole_o and_o universal_o contradict_v &_o destroy_v all_o the_o vain_a case_n contentment_n interest_n and_o design_n of_o nature_n teach_v a_o soul_n to_o die_v unto_o self-love_n selfe-iudgment_n and_o all_o propriety_n and_o to_o raise_v herself_o out_o of_o nature_n seek_v to_o live_v in_o a_o region_n exalt_v above_o nature_n to_o wit_n the_o region_n of_o the_o spirit_n into_o which_o be_v once_o come_v she_o will_v find_v nothing_o but_o light_n and_o peace_n and_o joy_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n the_o which_o difficulty_n consider_v instead_o of_o be_v discourage_v she_o will_v if_o she_o be_v true_o touch_v with_o god_n spirit_n rather_o increase_v her_o fervour_n &_o courage_n to_o pursue_v a_o design_n so_o noble_a &_o divine_a for_o which_o alone_o she_o be_v create_v especial_o 3._o consider_v the_o infinite_a danger_n of_o a_o negligent_a tepide_fw-la and_o spiritual_o slothful_a life_n
though_o in_o themselves_o venial_a yet_o do_v much_o obscure_v the_o divine_a light_n &_o weaken_v its_o efficacy_n yea_o even_o in_o those_o thing_n wherein_o such_o imperfect_a soul_n do_v for_o the_o substance_n of_o the_o action_n &_o its_o essentials_n follow_v the_o direction_n of_o god_n spirit_n yet_o by_o mix_v of_o sensual_a interest_n &_o end_n suggest_v by_o the_o false_a teacher_n they_o do_v diminish_v its_o lustre_n beauty_n &_o value_v and_o so_o subtle_a be_v the_o spirit_n of_o nature_n that_o it_o oft_o make_v its_o false_a suggestion_n pass_v for_o divine_a inspiration_n &_o seldom_o miss_v the_o insinuate_a its_o poison_n in_o some_o degree_n either_o into_o the_o beginning_n or_o continuation_n of_o our_o best_a action_n 5._o from_o these_o unquestionable_a ground_n thus_o true_o lay_v it_o follow_v evident_o that_o in_o all_o good_a action_n &_o especial_o in_o the_o internal_a way_n of_o the_o spirit_n which_o conduct_v to_o contemplation_n &_o perfection_n god_n alone_o be_v our_o only_a master_n &_o director_n &_o creature_n when_v he_o be_v please_v to_o use_v they_o be_v only_o his_o instrument_n so_o that_o all_o other_o teacher_n whatsoever_o whether_o the_o light_n of_o reason_n or_o external_a directour_n or_o rule_v prescribe_v in_o book_n &c_n &c_n be_v no_o further_o nor_o otherwise_o to_o be_v follow_v or_o hearken_v to_o then_o as_o they_o be_v subordinate_a &_o conformable_a to_o the_o internal_a direction_n &_o inspiration_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n or_o as_o god_n invite_v instruct_v &_o move_v we_o to_o have_v recourse_n unto_o they_o by_o they_o to_o be_v inform_v in_o his_o will_n &_o by_o he_o enable_v to_o perform_v it_o and_o that_o if_o they_o be_v make_v use_n of_o any_o other_o way_n they_o will_v certain_o mislead_v us._n 5._o this_o be_v by_o all_o mystical_a writer_n acknowledge_v so_o fundamental_a a_o truth_n that_o without_o acknowledge_v it_o &_o work_v according_a to_o it_o it_o be_v in_o vain_a to_o enter_v into_o the_o exercise_n of_o a_o internal_a contemplative_a life_n so_o that_o to_o say_v as_o too_o common_o it_o be_v say_v by_o author_n who_o pretend_v to_o be_v spiritual_a but_o have_v no_o taste_n of_o these_o mystic_a matter_n take_v all_o your_o instruction_n from_o without_o from_o externall_n teacher_n or_o book_n be_v all_o one_o as_o to_o say_v have_v nothing_o at_o all_o to_o do_v with_o the_o way_n of_o contemplation_n which_o can_v be_v teach_v by_o no_o other_o but_o god_n or_o by_o those_o who_o god_n special_o instruct_v &_o appoint_v determinate_o for_o the_o disciple_n present_a exigence_n so_o that_o it_o be_v god_n only_o that_o internal_o teach_v both_o the_o teacher_n &_o disciple_n &_o his_o inspiration_n be_v the_o only_a lesson_n for_o both_o all_o our_o light_n therefore_o be_v from_o divine_a illumination_n &_o all_o our_o strength_n as_o to_o these_o thing_n be_v from_o the_o divine_a operation_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n on_o our_o will_n &_o affection_n 7._o now_o to_o the_o end_n that_o this_o so_o important_a a_o verity_n may_v more_o distinct_o be_v declare_v &_o more_o firm_o imprint_v in_o the_o mind_n of_o all_o those_o that_o desire_v to_o be_v god_n scholar_n in_o the_o internal_a way_n of_o his_o divine_a love_n they_o be_v to_o take_v notice_n that_o the_o inspiration_n which_o be_v here_o acknowledge_v to_o be_v the_o only_a safe_a rule_n of_o all_o our_o action_n though_o of_o the_o same_o nature_n yet_o do_v extend_v further_o &_o to_o more_o &_o other_o particular_a object_n than_o the_o divine_a light_n or_o grace_n by_o which_o good_a christian_n live_v common_a life_n in_o the_o world_n be_v lead_v extend_v to_o yea_o then_o it_o do_v even_o in_o those_o that_o seek_v perfection_n by_o the_o exercise_n of_o a_o active_a life_n 8._o the_o light_n &_o virtue_n of_o common_a grace_n afford_v general_o to_o all_o good_a christian_n that_o serious_o endeavour_v to_o save_v their_o soul_n such_o internal_a illumination_n &_o motion_n as_o be_v sufficient_a to_o direct_v they_o for_o the_o resist_n of_o any_o sinful_a tentation_n or_o to_o perform_v any_o necessary_a act_n of_o virtue_n in_o circumstance_n wherein_o they_o be_v oblige_v though_o this_o direction_n be_v oft_o obey_v with_o many_o circumstantial_a defect_n and_o their_o action_n be_v so_o far_o &_o no_o further_o meritorious_a &_o please_a to_o god_n then_o as_o they_o proceed_v from_o such_o internal_a grace_n or_o inspiration_n but_o as_o for_o other_o action_n which_o in_o their_o own_o nature_n be_v not_o absolute_o of_o necessary_a obligation_n the_o which_o notwithstanding_o may_v be_v make_v instrumental_a to_o the_o advance_v &_o perfect_v of_o holiness_n in_o their_o soul_n such_o as_o be_v the_o ordinary_a &_o usual_o esteem_v indifferent_a action_n of_o their_o life_n to_o a_o due_a improovement_n of_o such_o action_n they_o have_v neither_o the_o light_n nor_o the_o strength_n or_o very_o seldom_o by_o reason_n that_o they_o live_v distract_v life_n not_o use_v such_o solitude_n &_o recollection_n as_o be_v necessary_a for_o the_o dispose_n of_o soul_n to_o the_o receive_v such_o a_o extraordinary_a light_n &_o virtue_n and_o as_o for_o those_o that_o tend_v to_o perfection_n by_o active_a exercise_n even_o the_o more_o perfect_a although_o they_o attain_v thereby_o a_o far_o great_a measure_n of_o light_n &_o grace_n by_o which_o they_o perform_v their_o necessary_a duty_n of_o holiness_n more_o perfect_o &_o with_o a_o more_o pure_a intention_n &_o likeewise_o make_v far_o great_a benefit_n for_o their_o advancement_n by_o action_n &_o occurrence_n more_o indifferent_a yet_o they_o also_o for_o want_n of_o habitual_a introversion_n &_o recollectednes_n of_o mind_n do_v pass_v over_o without_o benefit_n the_o great_a part_n of_o their_o ordinary_a action_n 9_o but_o as_o for_o contemplative_a liver_n those_o i_o mean_v that_o have_v make_v a_o sufficient_a progress_n towards_o perfection_n beside_o the_o common_a grace_n light_n or_o inspiration_n necessary_a for_o a_o due_a performance_n of_o essential_a duty_n the_o which_o they_o enjoy_v in_o a_o far_o more_o sublime_a manner_n &_o degree_n so_o as_o to_o purify_v their_o action_n from_o a_o world_n of_o secret_a impurity_n &_o subtle_a mixture_n of_o the_o interest_n &_o end_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n invisible_a to_o all_o other_o soul_n beside_o this_o light_n i_o say_v which_o be_v presuppose_v &_o prerequire_v they_o walk_v in_o a_o continual_a supernatural_a light_n &_o be_v guide_v by_o assiduous_a inspiration_n in_o regard_n of_o their_o most_o ordinary_a &_o in_o themselves_o indifferent_a action_n &_o occurrence_n in_o all_o which_o they_o clear_o see_v how_o they_o be_v to_o be_v have_v themselves_o so_o as_o to_o do_v will_n of_o god_n &_o by_o they_o also_o to_o improove_v themselves_o in_o the_o divine_a love_n the_o which_o extraordinary_a light_n be_v communicate_v unto_o they_o only_o by_o virtue_n of_o their_o almost_o continual_a recollectednes_n introversion_n &_o attention_n to_o god_n in_o their_o spirit_n 11._o more_o particular_o by_o this_o internal_a divine_a light_n a_o internal_a liver_n be_v or_o may_v be_v direct_v 1._o in_o the_o manner_n &_o circumstance_n when_o where_o &_o how_o any_o virtue_n may_v most_o proffitable_o &_o perfect_o be_v exercise_v for_o as_o for_o the_o substantial_a act_n of_o such_o a_o virtue_n &_o the_o necessary_a oblige_a circumstance_n in_o which_o it_o can_v with_o out_o mortal_a sin_n be_v omit_v the_o light_n of_o common_a sanctify_a grace_n will_v suffice_v to_o direct_v 2._o in_o the_o manner_n frequency_n length_n change_n &_o other_o circumstance_n of_o internal_a prayer_n 3._o in_o action_n or_o omission_n which_o absolute_o consider_v may_v seem_v in_o themselves_o indifferent_a &_o at_o the_o present_a there_o may_v be_v as_o to_o ordinary_a light_n a_o uncertainty_n whether_o the_o do_v or_o omission_n be_v the_o more_o perfect_a this_o be_v discover_v to_o the_o soul_n by_o these_o supernatural_a inspiration_n &_o light_n such_o action_n or_o omission_n be_v for_o example_n read_v study_v of_o such_o or_o such_o matter_n walk_v converse_v stay_v in_o or_o quit_v solitude_n in_o one_o cell_n take_v a_o journey_n undertake_v or_o refuse_v a_o employment_n accept_v or_o refuse_v inuitation_n &c_n &c_n in_o all_o which_o thing_n well-minded_a soul_n by_o solitude_n &_o introversion_n dispose_v themselves_o will_v not_o fail_v to_o have_v a_o supernatural_a light_n &_o impulse_n communicate_v to_o they_o which_o will_v enable_v they_o to_o make_v choice_n of_o that_o side_n of_o the_o doubt_n which_o if_o they_o correspond_v thereto_o will_v most_o advance_v they_o in_o spirit_n &_o suit_n with_o the_o divine_a will_n whereas_o without_o such_o light_n general_o soul_n be_v direct_v by_o a_o obscure_a light_n &_o impulse_n of_o nature_n &_o carnal_a end_n or_o interest_n without_o
the_o least_o benefit_n of_o their_o spirit_n yea_o to_o their_o great_a distraction_n &_o dissipation_n 12._o general_o &_o ordinary_o speak_v when_o there_o be_v propose_v the_o do_v or_o not_o do_v of_o any_o external_a work_n &_o that_o both_o of_o they_o be_v in_o themselves_o lawful_a the_o divine_a inspiration_n in_o contemplative_a soul_n move_v to_o the_o not-doing_a because_o the_o abstain_v from_o much_o external_a work_v &_o the_o increase_n in_o internal_a solitude_n of_o spirit_n be_v more_o suitable_a to_o their_o present_a state_n &_o to_o that_o abstraction_n of_o life_n which_o they_o profess_v except_o when_o the_o do_v may_v prove_v a_o more_o beneficial_a mortification_n to_o self-love_n or_o other_o inordinate_a affection_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n 13._o the_o special_a point_n &_o matter_n of_o omission_n which_o among_o other_o be_v usual_o the_o object_n of_o such_o divine_a call_n &_o inspiration_n may_v be_v such_o as_o these_o viz._n 1._o to_o eschew_v unnecessary_a though_o permit_v conversation_n &_o correspondence_n with_o other_o either_o by_o speak_v or_o writing_n 2._o to_o be_v very_o wary_a &_o spare_v in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o tongue_n 3._o not_o sollicitous_o to_o avoid_v occasion_n of_o mortification_n or_o affliction_n 4._o to_o avoid_v the_o encombr_n ourselves_o with_o business_n not_o pertain_v to_o us._n 5._o to_o fly_v honour_n office_n care_v over_o other_o &_o the_o like_a 6._o not_o to_o crave_v this_o or_o that_o unnecessary_a thing_n or_o commodity_n but_o to_o be_v content_a with_o out_o they_o 7._o not_o to_o question_v or_o expostulate_v why_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v say_v or_o do_v but_o to_o hold_v patience_n &_o to_o let_v thing_n be_v as_o they_o be_v 8._o not_o to_o complain_v of_o or_o accuse_v any_o 9_o in_o case_n of_o supportable_a &_o not_o harmful_a oppression_n to_o abstain_v from_o appeal_n to_o high_a superior_n 10._o to_o avoid_v the_o voluntary_a cause_v or_o procure_v a_o change_n in_o our_o present_a condition_n employment_n place_n etc._n etc._n 11._o to_o quiet_a &_o compose_v all_o manner_n of_o passion_n rise_v in_o the_o heart_n &_o all_o trouble_n in_o mind_n &_o to_o preserve_v the_o soul_n in_o peace_n tranquillity_n &_o cheerfullnes_n in_o god_n service_n 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
be_v that_o this_o be_v the_o very_a cause_n why_o not_o only_o the_o spirit_n of_o contemplation_n but_o even_o the_o knowledge_n almost_o of_o it_o be_v again_o lose_v in_o many_o contemplative_a order_n notwithstanding_o so_o few_o year_n be_v past_a since_o it_o be_v reviue_v by_o those_o eminent_a light_n s._n teresa_n b._n john_n de_fw-fr cruse_n barbanzon_n etc._n etc._n 9_o i_o may_v true_o say_v that_o neither_o natural_a indgment_n learning_n nor_o experience_n all_o together_o be_v absolute_o sufficient_a to_o qualify_v a_o person_n for_o the_o employment_n of_o guide_a soul_n in_o all_o case_n in_o the_o internal_a way_n of_o the_o spirit_n but_o very_o oft_o a_o actual_a supernatural_a illumination_n will_v moreover_o be_v requisite_a &_o necessary_a though_o true_a it_o be_v that_o experience_a person_n have_v great_a advantage_n beyond_o what_o wit_n or_o learning_n can_v afford_v and_o such_o for_o matter_n beyond_o their_o experience_n no_o doubt_n will_v often_o remit_v soul_n to_o god_n &_o their_o own_o observation_n the_o which_o be_v a_o quality_n &_o office_n not_o to_o be_v expect_v from_o person_n that_o bring_v no_o better_a endowment_n with_o they_o to_o the_o manage_n of_o contemplative_a soul_n but_o only_a subtlety_n of_o wit_n &_o learning_n or_o experience_n in_o a_o quite_o different_a &_o much_o inferior_a exercise_n of_o prayer_n such_o experience_n be_v as_o i_o say_v rather_o a_o disadvantage_n for_o such_o will_v resolve_v all_o case_n &_o though_o the_o direction_n they_o give_v must_v needs_o be_v improper_a yet_o they_o will_v be_v very_o absolute_a in_o require_v obedience_n whereas_o a_o person_n experience_v in_o the_o same_o internal_a way_n be_v humble_a withal_o for_o else_o say_v auila_n he_o also_o will_v probable_o be_v faulty_a too_o though_o he_o be_v not_o in_o all_o case_n able_a to_o give_v a_o resolute_a judgement_n yet_o find_v his_o own_o deficiency_n he_o will_v make_v a_o doubt_n of_o the_o matter_n &_o therpon_o out_o of_o humility_n will_v not_o scorn_v but_o rather_o be_v desirous_a to_o consult_v &_o take_v advice_n from_o other_o more_o able_a to_o resolve_v 10._o herpon_o it_o be_v that_o s._n teresa_n as_o it_o be_v record_v in_o her_o life_n much_o complain_v of_o the_o hurt_n that_o such_o resolute_a &_o in_o sufficient_a teacher_n do_v to_o she_o &_o will_v do_v to_o other_o and_o thaulerus_n worthy_o style_v a_o illuminate_v doctor_n profess_v of_o himself_o in_o a_o certain_a sermon_n that_o unless_o he_o be_v special_o illuminate_v by_o god_n for_o the_o solution_n of_o a_o doubt_n propose_v to_o he_o he_o will_v remit_v the_o party_n to_o god_n himself_o to_o be_v instruct_v in_o prayer_n what_o to_o do_v and_o let_v not_o such_o a_o one_o doubt_v say_v he_o but_o that_o god_n will_v be_v his_o faithful_a counsellor_n moreover_o he_o find_v great_a fault_n with_o those_o arrogant_a person_n that_o reprehend_v soul_n for_o suffer_v themselves_o to_o be_v guide_v by_o the_o instinct_n &_o internal_a light_n &_o motion_n proceed_v from_o god_n spirit_n &_o for_o their_o call_v such_o by_o the_o title_n of_o new_a spirit_n or_o pretender_n to_o extraordinary_a illumination_n whereas_o say_v he_o those_o that_o take_v all_o their_o instruction_n from_o person_n &_o book_n will_v with_o very_o small_a success_n pursue_v the_o way_n of_o the_o spirit_n 11._o it_o be_v a_o miserable_a thing_n to_o see_v how_o this_o employment_n of_o direct_v soul_n which_o above_o all_o other_o be_v most_o difficult_a &_o exceed_v even_o the_o ability_n of_o a_o angel_n yet_o out_o of_o a_o ambitious_a humour_n be_v invade_v by_o person_n whole_o unfit_a for_o it_o &_o that_o without_o any_o vocation_n from_o god_n voluntary_o undertake_v it_o so_o that_o no_o marvel_n it_o be_v if_o so_o little_a good_a come_v from_o such_o intruder_n not_o one_o of_o a_o thousand_o say_v auila_n be_v capable_a of_o so_o sublime_a a_o task_n nay_o say_v the_o holy_a bishop_n of_o geneva_n not_o one_o often_o thousand_o and_o most_o certain_a it_o be_v that_o those_o who_o so_o free_o offer_v themselves_o to_o so_o divine_a a_o employment_n do_v thereby_o show_v themselves_o to_o want_n the_o most_o necessary_a qualification_n to_o wit_n humility_n &_o a_o true_a knowledge_n of_o its_o difficulty_n &_o therefore_o their_o direction_n be_v most_o to_o be_v suspect_v 12._o hereupon_o thaulerus_n say_v that_o a_o soul_n intend_v perfection_n ought_v to_o seek_v out_o a_o experience_a servant_n of_o god_n though_o it_o cost_v she_o a_o journey_n of_o many_o german_a mile_n but_o say_v he_o if_o such_o a_o friend_n can_v be_v find_v then_o will_v a_o simple_a confessarius_fw-la serve_v though_o never_o so_o ignorant_a for_o even_o by_o such_o man_n do_v the_o holy_a ghost_n speak_v by_o reason_n of_o their_o office_n so_o that_o they_o may_v secure_o be_v submit_v to_o &_o obey_v even_o in_o thing_n which_o they_o do_v not_o well_o understand_v 13._o if_o a_o soul_n that_o be_v fearful_a &_o scrupulous_a be_v to_o choose_v a_o director_n she_o ought_v to_o avoid_v one_o of_o the_o like_a temper_n for_o passion_n which_o blind_v the_o seeker_n will_v also_o blind_v the_o director_n &_o so_o the_o blind_a will_v lead_v the_o blind_a 14._o it_o be_v not_o necessary_a that_o the_o person_n consult_v with_o about_o difficulty_n concern_v internal_a prayer_n shall_v be_v learn_v or_o in_o holy_a order_n except_o doubt_n concern_v matter_n of_o faith_n of_o case_n of_o conscience_n intervene_v for_o though_o lay-person_n &_o woman_n be_v not_o allow_v by_o the_o church_n to_o preach_v public_o yet_o be_v they_o not_o forbid_v to_o give_v private_a instruction_n in_o matter_n of_o that_o nature_n to_o any_o that_o shall_v have_v recourse_n to_o they_o and_o of_o the_o good_a success_n of_o such_o instructour_n we_o have_v diverse_a example_n as_o in_o the_o lay_v man_n that_o convert_v thâ—ulerus_n a_o learned_a doctor_n &_o a_o religious_a man_n and_o likewise_o in_o s._n catherine_n of_o sienna_n s._n teresa_n &c_n &c_n and_o in_o a_o well_o govern_v monastery_n of_o woman_n where_o a_o good_a course_n of_o internal_a prayer_n approve_v by_o superior_n and_o learned_a divine_n be_v once_o well_o settle_v it_o be_v very_o expedient_a that_o instruction_n concern_v it_o shall_v rather_o come_v from_o superior_n within_o because_o otherwise_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o frequent_a change_n of_o directour_n perhaps_o of_o contrary_a spirit_n &_o many_o of_o they_o little_o practise_v in_o such_o prayer_n soul_n will_v be_v govern_v uncertain_o &_o be_v in_o danger_n to_o be_v put_v out_o of_o their_o way_n 15._o though_o it_o seem_v evident_o more_o reasonable_a &_o more_o proportionable_a to_o the_o spirit_n of_o person_n profess_v a_o religious_a state_n to_o be_v conduct_v by_o other_o of_o the_o s_o ne_fw-fr profession_n caeteris_fw-la paribus_fw-la then_o by_o such_o as_o be_v stranger_n thereto_o yet_o scarce_o any_o directour_n can_v be_v find_v more_o improper_a for_o such_o suppose_v that_o they_o tend_v to_o contemplation_n then_o be_v religious_a guide_n of_o active_a spirit_n that_o know_v no_o further_o of_o prayer_n than_o meditation_n &_o that_o show_v more_o zeal_n for_o a_o exact_a observance_n of_o ceremony_n or_o a_o multiply_a of_o external_a voluntary_a austerity_n the_o which_o of_o themselves_o &_o unless_o they_o be_v guide_v by_o god_n spirit_n have_v no_o special_a influence_n on_o the_o spirit_n but_o only_o serve_v either_o for_o a_o outward_a show_v of_o rigour_n or_o for_o keep_v soul_n from_o mispending_a the_o time_n then_o for_o the_o more_o essential_a internal_a duty_n of_o prayer_n solitude_n of_o spirit_n interiour_n mortification_n &c_n &c_n much_o more_o profitable_a to_o such_o soul_n will_v be_v a_o director_n though_o not_o of_o any_o religious_a profession_n that_o will_v impose_v on_o soul_n only_o such_o austerity_n as_o be_v essential_o necessary_a to_o a_o internal_a life_n such_o as_o be_v perfect_a abstraction_n silence_n solitude_n convenient_a abstinence_n &c_n &c_n and_o for_o other_o matter_n not_o much_o necessary_a nor_o much_o effectual_a leave_v they_o in_o a_o due_a moderate_a liberty_n of_o spirit_n especial_o such_o as_o will_v not_o impose_v on_o they_o any_o form_n of_o mental_a prayer_n however_o like_v or_o practise_v by_o themselves_o but_o for_o such_o matter_n rathet_n leave_v they_o to_o the_o conduct_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n &_o that_o will_v not_o torture_v they_o with_o painful_a iterate_v coustumary_a confession_n &c_n &c_n 16._o and_o whereas_o it_o will_v be_v perhaps_o object_v that_o probable_o such_o directour_n be_v stranger_n as_o to_o the_o special_a distinctive_a spirit_n of_o such_o a_o order_n or_o community_n may_v endanger_v in_o their_o disciple_n a_o loss_n of_o the_o say_a spirit_n i_o must_v profess_v that_o i_o understand_v not_o what_o be_v mean_v by_o
spiritual_a author_n intend_v to_o recommend_v certain_a duty_n necessary_a to_o be_v practise_v for_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v the_o substance_n of_o the_o duty_n as_o a_o entire_a selfe-abnegation_a purity_n of_o intention_n etc._n etc._n they_o do_v urge_v the_o say_v duty_n in_o the_o great_a perfection_n universal_o upon_o all_o &_o with_o such_o phrase_n of_o absolute_a necessity_n as_o if_o upon_o any_o defect_n in_o practise_v that_o virtue_n so_o by_o they_o extend_v to_o the_o full_a to_o the_o end_n to_o prevent_v all_o the_o most_o secret_a way_n &_o shift_n in_o which_o nature_n be_v apt_a to_o seek_v she_o own_o satisfaction_n all_o the_o whole_a design_n of_o a_o internal_a life_n be_v ruin_v they_o do_v by_o this_o overmuch_o exactness_n &_o care_n instead_o of_o exciting_a the_o courage_n of_o their_o reader_n to_o the_o serious_a practice_n of_o so_o necessary_a a_o duty_n quite_o dishearten_v they_o yea_o perhaps_o they_o make_v they_o suspect_v the_o state_n of_o their_o soul_n who_o be_v conscious_a of_o their_o present_a infirmity_n &_o imperfection_n lose_v all_o heart_n to_o adventure_v upon_o a_o attempt_n so_o unproportionable_a to_o their_o weak_a ability_n whereas_o if_o instruction_n have_v be_v temper_v with_o regard_n to_o the_o capacity_n of_o each_o practiser_n they_o will_v have_v go_v on_o with_o courage_n &_o good_a success_n 13._o voluntary_a reading_n must_v give_v place_n to_o prayer_n whensoever_o the_o soul_n find_v herself_o invite_v thereto_o 14._o the_o virtue_n of_o mortification_n may_v &_o sometime_o aught_o to_o be_v practise_v in_o read_v in_o this_o manner_n when_o any_o book_n or_o subject_n be_v very_o gustfull_a to_o a_o soul_n she_o must_v be_v watchful_a over_o herself_o not_o to_o power_n herself_o whole_o upon_o it_o with_o a_o intemperate_a greediness_n nor_o to_o let_v curiosity_n or_o delight_n too_o much_o possess_v she_o but_o let_v she_o now_o &_o then_o stop_v the_o pursuit_n of_o read_v lift_v up_o her_o mind_n by_o interruption_n to_o god_n &_o afterward_o continue_v at_o least_o in_o a_o virtual_a attention_n to_o he_o so_o mortify_v &_o qualify_a the_o impetuosity_n of_o nature_n and_o by_o no_o mean_n let_v she_o give_v way_n to_o a_o unwillingnes_n to_o quit_v read_v for_o perform_v her_o appoint_a recollection_n or_o other_o exercise_n of_o obligation_n 15._o to_o conclude_v whosoever_o in_o read_v etc._n etc._n do_v not_o chief_o observe_v his_o own_o spirit_n &_o divine_a call_n &_o make_v not_o the_o book_n say_n &_o example_n of_o other_o to_o serve_v the_o say_a spirit_n &_o call_v but_o on_o the_o contrary_n make_v the_o divine_a inspiration_n subject_a to_o book_n &c_n &c_n it_o be_v better_o for_o he_o never_o to_o read_v such_o book_n or_o receive_v humane_a instruction_n but_o that_o he_o shall_v cleave_v only_o to_o god_n who_o in_o case_n of_o necessity_n will_v most_o assure_o supply_v all_o other_o want_v &_o defect_n 16._o and_o the_o same_o liberty_n that_o i_o have_v recommend_v to_o soul_n in_o the_o read_n of_o other_o book_n i_o advise_v they_o to_o use_v in_o these_o instruction_n also_o that_o be_v to_o apply_v to_o their_o own_o practice_n only_o such_o direction_n as_o their_o spiritual_a instructor_n and_o their_o own_o experience_n &_o reason_n enlighten_v by_o grace_n shall_v show_v they_o to_o be_v proper_a for_o they_o indeed_o in_o all_o this_o book_n i_o know_v scarce_o any_o one_o advice_n which_o i_o can_v confident_o say_v to_o be_v proper_o belong_v to_o all_o soul_n that_o lead_v a_o internal_a life_n general_o except_o this_o that_o they_o who_o aspire_v to_o perfection_n in_o contemplation_n must_v not_o content_v themselves_o nor_o rest_n final_o in_o any_o inferior_a degree_n of_o prayer_n but_o follow_v the_o divine_a light_n &_o invitation_n without_o oblige_v themselves_o to_o any_o form_n or_o method_n they_o must_v from_o the_o low_a degree_n of_o internal_a prayer_n which_o be_v ordinary_o meditation_n proceed_v to_o a_o more_o sublime_a prayer_n of_o immediate_a affection_n &_o act_n of_o the_o will_n &_o from_o thence_o ascend_v to_o the_o infuse_v prayer_n of_o aspiration_n 17._o yea_o i_o dare_v with_o all_o confidence_n pronounce_v that_o if_o all_o spiritual_a book_n in_o the_o world_n be_v lose_v &_o there_o be_v no_o external_a directour_n at_o all_o yet_o if_o a_o soul_n sufficient_o instruct_v in_o the_o essential_a ground_n of_o catholic_n faith_n that_o have_v a_o natural_a aptness_n though_o otherwise_o never_o so_o simple_a &_o unlearned_a be_v only_o thus_o far_o well_o instruct_v at_o first_o will_v prosecute_v prayer_n &_o abstraction_n of_o life_n &_o will_v resigned_o undergo_v such_o necessary_a mortification_n as_o god_n shall_v provide_v for_o she_o observe_v god_n &_o his_o call_v exterior_o &_o interior_o &_o so_o forsake_v herself_o &_o propose_v almighty_a god_n his_o will_n love_n &_o honour_n for_o her_o final_a intention_n the_o which_o she_o will_v certain_o do_v if_o she_o attend_v unto_o his_o inspiration_n such_o a_o soul_n will_v walk_v clear_o in_o perfect_a light_n &_o with_o all_o possible_a security_n &_o will_v not_o fail_v in_o due_a time_n to_o arrive_v at_o perfect_a contemplation_n these_o be_v the_o two_o external_a mean_n by_o which_o god_n teach_v soul_n discover_v to_o they_o his_o will_n to_o wit_n instructour_n and_o book_n and_o to_o these_o we_o may_v add_v another_o to_o wit_n law_n &_o precept_n of_o superior_n for_o god_n teach_v we_o also_o this_o way_n &_o never_o command_v contrary_o but_o of_o these_o we_o shall_v speak_v hereafter_o cap._n iu._n §_o 1._o of_o the_o 3._o &_o most_o principal_a way_n by_o which_o god_n teach_v internal_a liver_n viz._n immediate_a divine_a inspiration_n the_o order_n of_o particular_a consideration_n followingt_fw-fr â—ouching_a they_o §_o 2._o first_o of_o the_o necessity_n of_o they_o &_o the_o ground_n of_o such_o necessity_n §_o 3._o 4._o 5._o 6._o the_o say_a necessity_n prove_v by_o the_o testimony_n of_o s._n benedict_n in_o his_o rule_n etc._n etc._n as_o also_o by_o his_o example_n §_o 7._o a_o further_a demonstration_n of_o the_o say_a necessity_n 1._o the_o three_o foremention_v &_o of_o all_o other_o the_o most_o principal_a mean_n by_o which_o god_n instruct_v &_o direct_v internal_a liver_n in_o the_o secret_a path_n of_o his_o divine_a love_n &_o upon_o which_o do_v depend_v the_o two_o former_a be_v interiour_n illumination_n &_o inspiration_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n who_o be_v to_o be_v acknowledge_v the_o only_a supreme_a master_n concern_v which_o inspiration_n it_o have_v already_o be_v show_v in_o general_n what_o they_o be_v how_o distinguish_v from_o the_o light_n &_o motion_n of_o common_a grace_n &_o what_o be_v the_o object_n about_o which_o principal_o they_o be_v exercise_v etc._n etc._n i_o will_v now_o treat_v more_o particular_o of_o they_o in_o this_o follow_a order_n viz._n 1._o there_o shall_v be_v further_a show_v the_o necessity_n of_o they_o 2._o that_o soul_n be_v oblige_v to_o dispose_v themselves_o for_o the_o receive_n of_o they_o &_o how_o this_o be_v to_o be_v do_v to_o wit_n by_o remove_v the_o impediment_n 3._o how_o god_n communicate_v to_o the_o soul_n his_o light_n &_o grace_n for_o her_o instru&ion_n instru&ion_n instru&ion_n &_o direction_n 4._o that_o it_o be_v not_o hard_a to_o discern_v they_o &_o very_o secure_a to_o rely_v upon_o they_o 5._o that_o by_o the_o use_n of_o they_o no_o prejudice_n at_o all_o come_v to_o ecclesiastical_a or_o religious_a obedience_n 2._o touch_v the_o first_o point_n to_o wit_n the_o necessity_n of_o they_o in_o a_o internal_a contemplative_a life_n there_o be_v none_o that_o will_v deny_v or_o doubt_v but_o that_o divine_a inspiration_n be_v necessary_a for_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v the_o proper_a &_o essential_a action_n of_o christian_a virtue_n the_o which_o receive_v all_o their_o meritoriousnes_n from_o the_o say_a inspiration_n but_o some_o there_o be_v that_o will_v not_o allow_v the_o same_o necessity_n of_o expect_v inspiration_n &_o call_v for_o action_n or_o omission_n of_o themselves_o indifferent_a or_o of_o less_o moment_n but_o sure_o since_o it_o be_v general_o agree_v upon_o by_o divine_n follow_v s._n augustin_n s._n thomas_n etc._n etc._n that_o there_o be_v no_o action_n do_v in_o particular_a circumstance_n which_o be_v simple_o to_o be_v esteem_v indifferent_a but_o since_o they_o must_v have_v some_o end_n if_o the_o end_n be_v good_a they_o be_v to_o be_v esteem_v good_a &_o if_o evil_a they_o be_v evil_a however_o universal_o consider_v they_o be_v in_o their_o own_o nature_n indifferent_a because_o according_a to_o the_o intention_n &_o end_n wherewith_n they_o be_v do_v they_o may_v be_v good_a or_o evil_n again_o since_o there_o be_v no_o action_n so_o inconsiderable_a but_o may_v yea_o ought_v to_o be_v perform_v
&_o have_v no_o other_o employment_n during_o their_o rigorous_a solitude_n &_o silence_n but_o to_o attend_v to_o their_o internal_a teacher_n &_o put_v in_o execution_n his_o inspiration_n in_o all_o their_o action_n both_o internal_a &_o external_a to_o this_o purpose_n say_v a_o holy_a hermit_n in_o cassian_n that_o as_o it_o be_v by_o god_n inspiration_n that_o we_o begin_v when_o we_o enter_v into_o religion_n so_o likewise_o magisterio_fw-la &_o illuminatione_fw-la dei_fw-la ad_fw-la perfectionem_fw-la pervenimus_fw-la by_o the_o discipline_n instruction_n &_o illumination_n of_o god_n we_o attain_v to_o perfection_n another_o say_v that_o a_o soul_n can_v do_v no_o good_a at_o all_o unless_o she_o be_v quotidianâ_fw-la domini_fw-la illuminatione_fw-la illustrata_fw-la enlighten_v by_o a_o daily_a illumination_n from_o god_n these_o be_v expression_n that_o our_o holy_a father_n himself_o use_v &_o it_o seem_v borrow_v they_o from_o the_o same_o author_n and_o for_o this_o reason_n it_o be_v that_o in_o his_o rule_n he_o content_v himself_o with_o ordain_v prescription_n for_o the_o exterior_a only_o because_o he_o know_v that_o the_o interiour_n can_v only_o be_v direct_v by_o god_n but_o withal_o his_o ordination_n be_v such_o as_o we_o may_v see_v his_o intention_n and_o only_a design_n be_v by_o they_o to_o dispose_v soul_n to_o be_v capable_a of_o observe_v &_o follow_a the_o inspiration_n &_o inward_a instruction_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n without_o which_o all_o exterior_a observance_n will_v never_o bring_v we_o to_o perfection_n such_o be_v very_o rigorous_a solitude_n &_o abstraction_n from_o all_o intercourse_n either_o with_o the_o business_n or_o news_n of_o the_o world_n almost_o continual_a silence_n but_o when_o we_o speak_v to_o god_n etc._n etc._n and_o withal_o in_o several_a place_n of_o his_o rule_n he_o signify_v by_o the_o way_n that_o the_o reformation_n of_o the_o spirit_n ought_v to_o be_v the_o principal_a aim_n of_o a_o religious_a soul_n so_o that_o in_o the_o conclusion_n of_o the_o rule_n have_v regard_n to_o the_o externall_n observance_n express_o command_v therein_o as_o a_o preparation_n to_o the_o perfection_n to_o be_v learn_v out_o of_o the_o live_v and_o conference_n of_o the_o father_n he_o profess_v with_o great_a humility_n but_o with_o great_a truth_n also_o that_o his_o intention_n thereby_o be_v that_o those_o which_o observe_v it_o be_v enable_v to_o declare_v in_o some_o sort_n honestatem_fw-la morum_fw-la aut_fw-la initium_fw-la conversationis_fw-la eos_fw-la habere_fw-la that_o they_o have_v attein_v to_o a_o laudable_a exterior_a carriage_n &_o the_o beginning_n of_o a_o holy_a religious_a conversation_n but_o say_v he_o whosoever_o shall_v tend_v to_o perfection_n sunt_fw-la doctrinae_fw-la sanctorum_fw-la patrum_fw-la as_o if_o he_o have_v say_v he_o must_v according_a to_o the_o teach_n of_o the_o holy_a father_n attend_v unto_o the_o divine_a master_n by_o exercise_v according_a to_o his_o instruction_n that_o pure_a sublime_a prayer_n etc._n etc._n which_o they_o practise_v &_o discover_v and_o suitable_a herto_o s._n francis_n likewise_o in_o his_o rule_n advise_v his_o disciple_n thus_o attendant_z fratres_fw-la quod_fw-la super_fw-la omne_fw-la desiderare_fw-la debent_fw-la habere_fw-la spiritum_fw-la domini_fw-la &_o sanctam_fw-la eius_fw-la operationem_fw-la that_o be_v the_o religious_a brethren_n must_v attentive_o mark_v that_o above_o all_o other_o thing_n they_o ought_v to_o desire_v to_o have_v the_o spirit_n of_o our_o lord_n &_o his_o holy_a operation_n in_o their_o soul_n 7._o to_o conclude_v either_o it_o must_v be_v grant_v that_o perfection_n may_v be_v attein_v mere_o by_o avoid_v mortal_a sin_n &_o do_v such_o action_n of_o virtue_n as_o be_v absolute_o necessary_a to_o all_o christian_n which_o to_o say_v be_v manifest_o foolish_a &_o false_a and_o likewise_o that_o action_n more_o indifferent_a &_o not_o so_o universal_o oblige_v such_o as_o be_v certain_a more_o profitable_a manner_n of_o prayer_n external_a religious_a observance_n refection_n conversation_n with_o our_o brethren_n etc._n etc._n can_v be_v render_v capable_a of_o a_o holy_a intention_n &_o of_o advance_v we_o in_o the_o divine_a love_n which_o be_v against_o experience_n and_o moreover_o that_o without_o internal_a grace_n actual_o operate_a which_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o divine_a illumination_n &_o impulse_n these_o ordinary_a inferior_a action_n may_v be_v exalt_v to_o produce_v that_o effect_n which_o the_o great_a necessary_a virtue_n can_v not_o produce_v which_o to_o say_v be_v impiety_n or_o it_o must_v be_v grant_v that_o the_o teach_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n be_v the_o only_a principal_a necessary_a cause_n by_o who_o virtue_n we_o be_v inform_v &_o enable_v to_o improove_v &_o make_v use_n of_o these_o action_n for_o the_o attain_v of_o so_o sublime_a a_o end_n as_o perfection_n in_o contemplation_n be_v &_o without_o which_o it_o be_v impossible_a to_o be_v attein_v and_o indeed_o so_o impossible_a to_o be_v bring_v under_o external_a rule_n &_o so_o secret_a &_o undiscoverable_a be_v the_o internal_a disposition_n of_o soul_n &_o their_o operation_n that_o they_o can_v be_v clear_o perceive_v nor_o consequent_o order_v but_o by_o he_o to_o who_o alone_o our_o figmentum_fw-la our_o heart_n &_o all_o the_o secret_a inclination_n &_o motion_n of_o they_o be_v naked_a &_o transparent_a cap._n v._n §_o 1._o all_o internal_a liver_n oblige_v to_o attend_v to_o god_n inspiration_n §_o 2._o therefore_o the_o impediment_n to_o this_o duty_n be_v to_o be_v remove_v which_o be_v two_o first_o distract_n image_n which_o be_v expel_v by_o abstraction_n of_o life_n §_o 3._o the_o 2_o impediment_n be_v unruly_a passion_n which_o be_v calm_v by_o mortification_n &_o peace_n of_o mind_n §_o 4._o 5._o the_o end_n why_o a_o religious_a state_n especial_o of_o s._n benedict_v institution_n be_v undertake_v be_v the_o removal_n of_o these_o inpediment_n §_o 6._o 7._o 8._o 9_o a_o three_o more_o special_a impediment_n to_o wit_n want_v of_o due_a liberty_n of_o spirit_n to_o follow_v god_n direction_n cause_v by_o voluntary_a burden_n &_o coustume_n assume_v several_a such_o be_v exemplify_v in_o 1._o the_o necessity_n of_o a_o divine_a internal_a teacher_n be_v establish_v there_o follow_v from_o thence_o a_o equal_a necessity_n for_o all_o those_o who_o profession_n oblige_v they_o to_o walk_v in_o those_o way_n towards_o the_o sublime_a end_n propose_v to_o attend_v unto_o &_o obey_v this_o only_a most_o necessary_a master_n and_o because_o each_o one_o have_v in_o his_o heart_n a_o false_a teacher_n that_o always_o urge_v we_o to_o hearken_v to_o his_o perverse_a teach_n &_o to_o neglect_v the_o divine_a teacher_n therefore_o the_o way_n to_o become_v a_o diligent_a &_o obedient_a disciple_n to_o god_n holy_a spirit_n will_v be_v 1._o to_o neglect_v contradict_v &_o as_o much_o as_o lie_v in_o we_o to_o silence_v the_o teach_n &_o suggestion_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n 2._o and_o second_o to_o be_v attentive_a to_o the_o voice_n of_o god_n spirit_n in_o our_o soul_n 2._o for_o the_o first_o there_o be_v two_o general_a impediment_n that_o nature_n lay_v in_o our_o way_n to_o hinder_v we_o from_o attend_v to_o god_n the_o first_o be_v distract_n image_n the_o second_o unquiet_a passion_n now_o the_o remedy_n against_o the_o former_a be_v abstraction_n of_o life_n a_o not_o engage_v ourselves_o in_o business_n that_o belong_v not_o unto_o we_o the_o mortify_n of_o the_o curiosity_n of_o know_v or_o hear_v strange_a or_o new_a thing_n not_o pertinent_a to_o our_o profession_n the_o temper_n of_o our_o tongue_n from_o vain_a unproffitable_a conversation_n the_o reduce_v our_o thought_n as_o much_o as_o may_v be_v from_o multiplicity_n to_o unity_n by_o fix_v they_o continual_o on_o the_o divine_a love_n which_o be_v that_o unum_fw-la necessarium_fw-la &c_n &c_n 3._o again_o the_o only_a proper_a remedy_n against_o the_o other_o impediment_n to_o wit_n unquiet_a passion_n be_v first_o mortification_n of_o all_o inordinate_a affection_n to_o creature_n of_o all_o vain_a encombr_v freindships_n all_o factious_a partiality_n all_o thoughtful_a provision_n for_o the_o content_v of_o our_o sensual_a desire_n but_o especial_o of_o that_o most_o dangerous_a because_o most_o in_o time_n &_o spiritual_a thirst_n of_o knowledge_n unnecessary_a &_o of_o all_o ambition_n to_o get_v victory_n or_o glory_n by_o dispute_v writing_n &c_n &c_n as_o likewise_o of_o all_o anger_n impatience_n melancholy_a fear_n scrupulosity_n &c_n &c_n and_o second_o a_o studious_a care_n to_o preserve_v our_o soul_n in_o all_o the_o peace_n tranquillity_n &_o cheerfullnes_n possible_a not_o suffer_v any_o passion_n to_o be_v raise_v in_o our_o mind_n during_o our_o imperfect_a state_n no_o not_o although_o they_o shall_v be_v direct_v upon_o good_a &_o holy_a object_n because_o they_o will_v obscure_v &_o disorder_v our_o spirit_n and_o therefore_o we_o must_v avoid_v all_o violence_n &_o impetuous_a
hastiness_n in_o perform_v our_o best_a &_o most_o necessary_a duty_n the_o which_o be_v discharge_v most_o efficacious_o &_o pure_o when_o they_o be_v do_v with_o the_o great_a stillnes_n calmness_n clearness_n of_o mind_n &_o resignation_n it_o be_v sufficient_a in_o this_o place_n only_o to_o touch_v pass_o upon_o these_o impediment_n because_o in_o the_o follow_a treatise_n we_o shall_v have_v occasion_n to_o treat_v more_o large_o &_o purposely_o of_o they_o 4._o now_o to_o what_o end_n do_v we_o come_v into_o religion_n but_o only_o to_o avoid_v all_o these_o impediment_n in_o the_o world_n which_o withdraw_v we_o from_o attend_v to_o god_n &_o follow_v his_o divine_a guidance_n in_o this_o very_a point_n lie_v the_o difference_n between_o a_o secular_a &_o a_o religious_a state_n that_o a_o secular_a person_n secular_o mind_v by_o reason_n of_o the_o noise_n tumult_n &_o unavoidable_a distra&ions_n distra&ions_n distra&ions_n sollicitude_n &_o tentation_n which_o be_v in_o the_o world_n can_v without_o much_o ado_n find_v leisure_n to_o attend_v unto_o god_n &_o the_o gain_n of_o his_o love_n even_o for_o a_o few_o minute_n every_o day_n or_o little_a often_o than_o the_o law_n of_o the_o church_n necessary_o oblige_v he_o and_o all_o the_o direction_n that_o he_o be_v capable_a of_o in_o god_n service_n must_v come_v from_o without_o for_o by_o reason_n that_o his_o soul_n be_v so_o fill_v with_o image_n vain_a or_o sinful_a &_o so_o agitate_a with_o impetuous_a affection_n &_o design_n he_o can_v recollect_v himself_o to_o hear_v god_n speak_v in_o he_o whereas_o a_o religious_a person_n profess_v his_o only_a business_n to_o be_v attend_v to_o god_n internal_a voice_n for_o which_o purpose_n he_o renounce_v all_o these_o impediment_n &_o distraction_n 5._o and_o sure_o in_o a_o special_a manner_n the_o disciple_n of_o s._n benedict_n if_o they_o will_v cast_v a_o serious_a eye_n upon_o the_o frame_n of_o their_o rule_n they_o will_v find_v that_o as_o it_o be_v very_o moderate_a &_o prudent_o condescend_v in_o all_o matter_n of_o outward_a corporal_a austerity_n afflict_v to_o nature_n but_o not_o immediate_o helpful_a to_o the_o spirit_n so_o on_o the_o contrary_a it_o be_v very_o rigorous_a in_o the_o exact_v of_o silence_n solitude_n a_o renounce_v all_o proprietary_a solicitude_n for_o corporal_a necessity_n &_o all_o other_o mortification_n which_o will_v hinder_v the_o dissipate_v of_o our_o spirit_n &_o thought_n &_o indispose_v the_o soul_n to_o recollection_n &_o attention_n to_o god_n but_o special_o prayer_n which_o he_o call_v opus_fw-la dei_fw-la to_o which_o all_o other_o work_n &_o observance_n be_v to_o give_v place_n be_v most_o serious_o &_o incessant_o enjoin_v by_o the_o practice_n whereof_o we_o do_v above_o all_o other_o exercise_n transcend_v grosser_n &_o sensible_a image_n in_o the_o understanding_n &_o subdue_v unruly_a passion_n in_o the_o heart_n so_o that_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o our_o holy_a father_n principal_a care_n in_o all_o the_o observance_n enjoin_v by_o he_o be_v to_o free_v his_o disciple_n from_o these_o two_o general_a &_o most_o powerful_a hindrance_n to_o introversion_n &_o a_o continual_a attention_n to_o &_o conversation_n which_o god_n the_o which_o may_v most_o proper_o be_v call_v the_o spirit_n of_o s._n benedict_v rule_n 6._o there_o be_v moreover_o one_o special_a impediment_n to_o the_o observe_v &_o obey_v of_o divine_a inspiration_n which_o be_v not_o to_o be_v omit_v &_o the_o rather_o because_o it_o be_v less_o take_v notice_n of_o in_o ordinary_a spiritual_a writer_n this_o impediment_n consist_v in_o this_o that_o many_o soul_n do_v indiscreet_o prejudice_n yea_o oft_o take_v away_o quite_o that_o indifference_n &_o liberty_n of_o spirit_n which_o be_v necessary_a to_o all_o that_o will_v serious_o follow_v the_o divine_a guidance_n in_o all_o the_o way_n that_o they_o then_o be_v lead_v by_o it_o for_o it_o be_v foolish_a to_o prescribe_v unto_o god_n the_o way_n in_o which_o we_o will_v have_v he_o to_o lead_v we_o this_o be_v to_o oblige_v god_n to_o follow_v our_o way_n &_o to_o do_v our_o will_n &_o not_o we_o to_o perform_v he_o and_o this_o be_v do_v by_o those_o who_o obstinate_o adhere_v to_o preconceiu_n d_o opinion_n &_o fore-practised_n coustume_n whatsoever_o they_o be_v for_o though_o such_o coustume_n in_o themselves_o and_o to_o other_o soul_n may_v be_v never_o so_o good_a &_o profitable_a yea_o tho_o former_o even_o to_o those_o person_n themselves_o they_o have_v be_v never_o so_o proper_a &_o beneficial_a yet_o this_o be_v only_o while_o they_o be_v in_o such_o a_o state_n &_o degree_n of_o spirituality_n the_o which_o state_n alter_v as_o in_o progress_n it_o needs_o must_v then_o that_o which_o be_v former_o proper_a &_o conformable_a to_o the_o divine_a will_n &_o inspiration_n will_v become_v improper_a inconvenient_a &_o contrary_a to_o the_o present_a internal_a guidance_n of_o god_n 7._o this_o impediment_n must_v necessary_o be_v remove_v &_o devout_a soul_n must_v continual_o keep_v themselves_o in_o a_o free_a indifferency_n &_o suppleness_n of_o spirit_n for_o otherwise_o they_o will_v become_v in_o many_o case_n &_o circumstance_n indispose_v to_o believe_v &_o incapable_a to_o execute_v that_o which_o god_n holy_a spirit_n shall_v dictate_v unto_o they_o yea_o they_o will_v oft_o contristate_v &_o endanger_v to_o extinguish_v the_o say_a spirit_n in_o they_o by_o a_o obstinate_a do_v of_o the_o contrary_a to_o what_o it_o move_v unto_o 8._o the_o reasonableness_n &_o necessity_n of_o this_o advice_n may_v be_v show_v by_o this_o example_n it_o may_v have_v be_v good_a &_o profitable_a for_o a_o soul_n when_o she_o enter_v into_o a_o internal_a life_n to_o appoint_v unto_o herself_o certain_a voluntary_a devotion_n &_o vocal_a prayer_n &c_n &c_n or_o afterward_o to_o select_v certain_a peculiar_a subject_n of_o meditation_n as_o the_o quatuor_fw-la novissima_fw-la the_o mystery_n of_o the_o passion_n &c_n &c_n or_o to_o prescribe_v unto_o herself_o certain_a time_n for_o some_o good_a external_a or_o internal_a practice_n or_o to_o make_v frequent_a examination_n of_o conscience_n confession_n &c_n &c_n all_o these_o thing_n be_v good_a whilst_o the_o soul_n find_v profit_n by_o they_o &_o so_o long_o they_o be_v to_o be_v continue_v but_o if_o god_n shall_v call_v she_o to_o a_o high_a exercise_n &_o to_o a_o more_o pure_a efficacious_a prayer_n so_o that_o she_o begin_v to_o loose_v all_o gust_n in_o her_o former_a exercise_n the_o which_o do_v not_o only_o abridge_v she_o of_o the_o time_n necessary_a for_o she_o more_o perfect_a recollection_n but_o likewise_o dull_a the_o spirit_n &_o indispose_v it_o for_o such_o prayer_n &_o other_o more_o beneficial_a practice_n to_o which_o she_o be_v by_o a_o new_o clear_a divine_a light_n direct_v or_o invite_v &_o by_o divine_a grace_n enable_v in_o this_o case_n pertinacious_o to_o adhere_v to_o former_a coustume_n because_o she_o find_v they_o commend_v in_o book_n &c_n &c_n or_o because_o she_o do_v former_o reap_v profit_n by_o they_o this_o be_v to_o entangle_v fetter_v &_o captivate_v the_o spirit_n to_o renounce_v the_o divine_a guidance_n &_o to_o obstruct_v all_o way_n of_o advamcement_n in_o the_o path_n of_o contemplation_n the_o soul_n therefore_o in_o such_o or_o the_o like_a case_n must_v necessary_o use_v some_o violence_n upon_o herself_o to_o recover_v a_o true_a &_o most_o needful_a indifferency_n &_o liberty_n of_o spirit_n that_o so_o she_o may_v free_o follow_v god_n whithersoever_o he_o shall_v by_o his_o inspiration_n invite_v she_o be_v assure_v that_o she_o shall_v never_o by_o he_o be_v persuade_v or_o tempt_v to_o do_v any_o thing_n contrary_a or_o prejudicial_a to_o her_o duty_n obedience_n to_o lawful_a authority_n or_o any_o other_o necessary_a obligation_n 9_o this_o instruction_n reach_v very_o far_o yea_o so_o far_o that_o even_o learned_a man_n yea_o some_o that_o pass_v for_o spiritual_a if_o they_o be_v unexperienced_a in_o the_o true_a internal_a way_n of_o god_n spirit_n lead_v to_o contemplation_n will_v perhaps_o mislike_v the_o freedom_n which_o in_o many_o case_n must_v &_o have_v be_v allow_v by_o the_o best_a &_o most_o sublime_a mystic_a author_n to_o soul_n of_o some_o peculiar_a disposition_n &_o in_o certain_a circumstance_n and_o as_o for_o unlearned_a person_n they_o will_v be_v in_o danger_n almost_o to_o be_v scandalize_v 10._o the_o special_a point_n therefore_o by_o which_o liberty_n of_o spirit_n be_v in_o many_o soul_n much_o abridge_v to_o their_o great_a hindrance_n be_v these_o which_o follow_v viz._n 1._o confession_n of_o certain_a venial_a sin_n 2._o coustumary_a solicitous_a examination_n of_o conscience_n 3._o in_o compliance_n with_o coustume_n to_o confess_v both_o often_o &_o likewise_o such_o imperfection_n as_o it_o be_v better_a for_o the_o soul_n not_o to_o mention_v
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
any_o other_o word_n seasonable_o speak_v or_o any_o object_n occur_v with_o due_a circumstance_n do_v incite_v we_o to_o lift_v up_o our_o soul_n to_o god_n by_o prayer_n to_o perform_v some_o act_n of_o charity_n to_o mortify_v some_o inordinate_a affection_n etc._n etc._n yea_o sometime_o from_o a_o desperate_a sinful_a state_n to_o convert_v our_o soul_n to_o god_n and_o thus_o do_v we_o as_o s._n paul_n exhort_v timothy_n do_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d raise_v &_o blow_v into_o a_o flame_n the_o grace_n which_o before_o lay_v in_o our_o heart_n like_o coal_n of_o fire_n smother_v in_o the_o ash_n and_o if_o this_o be_v frequent_o do_v that_o grace_n which_o at_o the_o first_o impart_v be_v but_o weak_a &_o need_v strong_a endeavour_n to_o excite_v it_o become_v far_o more_o active_a &_o more_o easy_a to_o be_v excite_v so_o that_o upon_o any_o the_o least_o occasion_n offer_v it_o be_v ready_a to_o bestir_v itself_o &_o disperse_v its_o odour_n &_o virtue_n till_o at_o last_o it_o get_v so_o perfect_a a_o dominion_n in_o perfect_a soul_n that_o it_o quite_o subdue_v the_o contrary_a principle_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n and_o be_v scarce_o ever_o idle_a but_o the_o least_o hint_n be_v give_v it_o turn_v the_o soul_n present_o to_o god_n &_o keep_v it_o almost_o continual_o fix_v on_o he_o in_o so_o much_o as_o those_o thing_n which_o former_o have_v no_o effect_n at_o all_o upon_o they_o now_o present_o &_o even_o violent_o inflame_v they_o 5._o yea_o in_o some_o supereminent_o perfect_a soul_n this_o gift_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n come_v to_o be_v so_o vigorous_a that_o it_o subdue_v even_o reason_n itself_o &_o lead_v it_o captive_a after_o itself_o push_v the_o soul_n to_o heroical_a action_n without_o any_o precedent_a act_n of_o reason_n or_o the_o least_o deliberation_n though_o in_o the_o act_n the_o soul_n by_o consent_v merit_n thus_o we_o read_v of_o the_o ancient_a martyr_n how_o they_o by_o a_o impetuous_a impulse_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n rush_v before_o the_o persecute_v judge_n to_o confess_v the_o name_n of_o christ_n yea_o s._n apollonia_n cast_v herself_o into_o the_o fire_n the_o love_n of_o christ_n burn_v in_o their_o heart_n &_o constrein_v they_o as_o s._n paul_n say_v from_o the_o like_a efficacy_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n proceed_v that_o spiritual_a gift_n of_o prayer_n by_o which_o the_o holy_a primitive_a christian_n in_o their_o public_a meeting_n conceive_v &_o pour_v forth_o prayer_n without_o any_o concurrence_n thereto_o of_o their_o own_o invention_n god_n spirit_n itself_o in_o s._n paul_n expression_n pray_v in_o they_o and_o in_o this_o sense_n principal_o it_o be_v that_o i_o suppose_v the_o school_n do_v understand_v the_o gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n although_o most_o certain_a it_o be_v that_o all_o holy_a action_n internal_a or_o external_a be_v effect_n of_o the_o same_o spirit_n though_o in_o a_o less_o degree_n 6._o this_o fundamental_a grace_n therefore_o be_v that_o talon_n or_o stock_n that_o have_v god_n image_n on_o it_o &_o not_o caesar_n which_o god_n bestow_v upon_o every_o one_o in_o baptism_n etc._n etc._n to_o trade_n with_o all_o the_o which_o till_o the_o will_n cooperate_v with_o the_o actual_a aid_n of_o god_n be_v as_o it_o be_v wrap_v in_o a_o napkin_n &_o hide_v under_o ground_n but_o be_v well_o manage_v multiply_v into_o many_o talent_n this_o be_v that_o very_a small_a but_o divine_a seed_n of_o which_o the_o evangelist_n speak_v which_o be_v cast_v in_o our_o heart_n by_o labour_n &_o cultivation_n produce_v many_o &_o precious_a fruit_n this_o be_v that_o fermentum_fw-la leaven_n which_o be_v enclose_v in_o the_o three_o faculty_n of_o our_o soul_n as_o in_o three_o measure_n of_o meal_n do_v disperse_v its_o virtue_n through_o the_o whole_a mass_n 7._o now_o to_o the_o end_n i_o may_v approach_v more_o close_o to_o the_o present_a matter_n we_o may_v further_o consider_v that_o as_o by_o the_o exercise_n of_o moral_a philosophical_a virtue_n there_o be_v ingenerate_v &_o daily_o increase_v by_o perseverance_n in_o the_o same_o exercise_n that_o most_o noble_a universal_a virtue_n of_o moral_a prudence_n which_o no_o study_n or_o speculative_a learning_n how_o great_a soever_o can_v have_v produce_v the_o which_o prudence_n as_o the_o philosopher_n say_v be_v a_o skill_n most_o proper_o conversant_a about_o particular_a act_n not_o general_a notion_n or_o definition_n of_o thing_n and_o enlighten_v the_o soul_n to_o judge_v &_o determine_v in_o which_o circumstance_n &_o with_o what_o concur_v quality_n a_o action_n of_o virtue_n ought_v and_o may_v with_o the_o best_a advantage_n and_o perfection_n be_v exercise_v so_o that_o by_o the_o help_n of_o this_o virtue_n of_o prudence_n when_o it_o be_v arrive_v to_o a_o excel_a degree_n a_o virtuous_a person_n will_v never_o omit_v a_o due_a occasion_n to_o practice_v virtue_n nor_o will_v he_o ever_o do_v it_o unreasonable_o and_o undiscreet_o for_o then_o it_o will_v not_o be_v virtue_n and_o when_o he_o exercise_v it_o he_o will_v not_o be_v deficient_a in_o any_o thing_n requisite_a to_o give_v a_o lustre_n thereto_o the_o very_a same_o in_o a_o due_a proportion_n be_v see_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o divine_a virtue_n or_o charity_n for_o by_o a_o constant_a practice_n thereof_o not_o only_a charity_n itself_o be_v exalt_v multiply_v and_o increase_v but_o there_o be_v likewise_o kindle_v in_o the_o soul_n by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n a_o light_n of_o spiritual_a prudence_n far_o more_o clear_a and_o more_o certain_a to_o conduct_v we_o in_o the_o divine_a way_n then_o moral_a prudence_n be_v in_o the_o way_n of_o moral_a honesty_n the_o which_o divine_a light_n have_v this_o great_a advantage_n above_o prudence_n that_o whereas_o moral_a wisdom_n can_v only_o teach_v the_o exercise_n of_o virtue_n in_o those_o occasion_n which_o do_v not_o every_o day_n happen_v in_o which_o such_o virtue_n ought_v to_o be_v exercise_v neglect_v to_o give_v any_o rule_n to_o lesser_a indifferent_a action_n this_o divine_a light_n which_o teach_v we_o to_o love_v nothing_o at_o all_o but_o god_n account_v no_o action_n at_o all_o in_o particular_a indifferent_a but_o teach_v we_o to_o direct_v all_o to_o the_o service_n and_o love_n of_o god_n and_o can_v discern_v how_o one_o may_v concur_v thereto_o more_o than_o another_o and_o according_o choose_v the_o best_a 8._o now_o the_o reason_n why_o by_o the_o exercise_n of_o charity_n alone_o and_o not_o by_o any_o study_n or_o speculative_a consideration_n this_o divine_a light_n can_v be_v kindle_v be_v because_o the_o blindness_n and_o darkness_n which_o be_v natural_o in_o our_o understanding_n come_v principal_o from_o the_o perverse_a deordination_n which_o self-love_n cause_v in_o our_o will_n by_o mean_n of_o which_o we_o will_v not_o suffer_v the_o understanding_n to_o see_v what_o it_o do_v see_v for_o even_o when_o by_o the_o light_n of_o faith_n we_o be_v in_o general_n instruct_v in_o the_o office_n and_o rule_n of_o virtue_n and_o piety_n yet_o in_o many_o particular_n self-love_n adhere_v to_o that_o side_n which_o we_o ought_v to_o refuse_v will_v either_o forbid_v and_o hinder_v the_o understanding_n from_o consider_v what_o be_v evil_a or_o defectuous_a in_o it_o or_o if_o there_o be_v any_o the_o least_o ground_n of_o doubt_n it_o will_v cast_v such_o fair_a gloss_n on_o it_o and_o so_o seduce_v the_o understanding_n to_o find_v out_o motive_n and_o pretence_n for_o the_o prefer_v thereof_o that_o in_o fine_a the_o light_n itself_o which_o be_v in_o the_o understanding_n will_v mislead_v us._n but_o when_o by_o perfect_a divine_a charity_n all_o these_o distorsion_n of_o the_o will_n be_v rectify_v and_o that_o all_o the_o subtle_a insinuation_n false_a pretext_n close_a interest_n and_o design_n of_o self-love_n be_v discover_v and_o banish_v than_o the_o mind_n behold_v all_o thing_n with_o a_o clear_a light_n and_o propose_v god_n as_o the_o end_n of_o all_o action_n whatsoever_o it_o see_v where_o god_n be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o they_o and_o may_v best_o be_v serve_v and_o obâ—ved_v by_o they_o then_o the_o will_n be_v so_o far_o from_o clowâ—â—â—g_n or_o cast_v mist_n before_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o understanding_n that_o if_o there_o be_v any_o before_o it_o alone_a dispell_n they_o for_o it_o be_v only_o the_o now-sanctified_n fervent_a will_n that_o draw_v the_o soul_n in_o all_o its_o faculty_n from_o all_o other_o inferior_a seduce_a object_n and_o carry_v they_o in_o its_o own_o stream_n and_o swift_a course_n towards_o god_n it_o will_v not_o suffer_v the_o soul_n to_o choose_v any_o thing_n but_o what_o be_v good_a yea_o the_o best_a of_o all_o because_o god_n will_v have_v that_o to_o be_v choose_v alone_o according_a therefore_o to_o the_o measure_n of_o charity_n so_o be_v our_o measure_n of_o
divine_a light_n if_o charity_n be_v but_o warm_a and_o imperfect_a our_o light_n in_o particular_n be_v obscure_a and_o can_v show_v we_o only_o such_o thing_n as_o be_v necessary_o to_o be_v practise_v under_o the_o penalty_n of_o be_v separate_v from_o god_n the_o object_n of_o charity_n but_o if_o charity_n be_v inflame_v how_o great_a be_v the_o light_n which_o that_o heavenly_a fire_n cast_v not_o a_o step_n we_o set_v forward_o but_o we_o see_v the_o way_n perfect_o before_o we_o and_o can_v avoid_v all_o the_o uneven_n rough_a miry_a or_o crooked_a step_n in_o it_o and_o so_o run_v apace_o without_o stumble_v delay_a or_o decline_v so_o approach_v daily_o near_a and_o near_o to_o the_o end_n of_o our_o heavenly_a race_n 9_o moreover_o this_o divine_a light_n be_v either_o a_o habitual_a permanent_a light_n or_o actual_a and_o transitory_a the_o permanent_a light_n be_v the_o virtue_n of_o spiritual_a discretion_n without_o which_o the_o action_n that_o to_o the_o world_n give_v the_o great_a lustre_n be_v of_o little_a or_o no_o profit_n such_o as_o be_v great_a voluntary_a austerity_n perform_v of_o solemn_a office_n almes-giving_a etc._n etc._n all_o which_o unless_o they_o come_v from_o the_o principle_n of_o true_a charity_n and_o be_v design_v for_o the_o increase_n and_o deep_a root_n thereof_o in_o the_o spirit_n be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v of_o any_o worth_a that_o they_o do_v rather_o prejudice_n and_o diminish_v that_o virtue_n both_o these_o condition_n be_v requisite_a to_o make_v a_o action_n perfect_a and_o acceptable_a to_o god_n it_o must_v both_o proceed_v from_o he_o and_o also_o be_v direct_v to_o he_o he_o must_v not_o only_o be_v the_o end_n but_o the_o principle_n also_o it_o be_v not_o therefore_o sufficient_a to_o a_o soul_n especial_o if_o she_o serious_o tend_v to_o perfection_n in_o contemplation_n that_o the_o action_n which_o she_o do_v now_o be_v in_o itself_o good_a and_o direct_v to_o a_o good_a end_n unless_o her_o divine_a light_n inform_v she_o that_o in_o the_o present_a circumstance_n it_o be_v god_n will_n that_o she_o shall_v perform_v that_o determinate_a action_n rather_o than_o another_o perhaps_o in_o itself_o and_o in_o other_o circumstance_n better_o than_o it_o for_o as_o thaulerus_n say_v god_n will_v reward_v no_o action_n but_o his_o own_o that_o be_v such_o as_o he_o give_v order_n and_o commission_n for_o 10._o this_o be_v a_o most_o certain_a truth_n what_o a_o world_n of_o action_n in_o themselves_o of_o no_o ill_a aspect_n be_v there_o do_v by_o imperfect_a extroverted_a soul_n which_o have_v no_o other_o fountain_n principle_n or_o light_n from_o which_o they_o be_v at_o first_o derive_v but_o the_o light_n of_o humane_a reason_n they_o will_v find_v at_o god_n hand_n no_o acceptance_n at_o all_o such_o soul_n lose_v all_o benefitt_a by_o all_o their_o do_n but_o those_o which_o be_v of_o absolute_a necessity_n and_o by_o many_o of_o those_o likewise_o nay_o how_o many_o be_v there_o which_o be_v drive_v to_o some_o action_n by_o a_o violent_a unlawful_a passion_n for_o or_o against_o some_o person_n yet_o because_o before_o the_o action_n be_v end_v they_o can_v cozen_v themselves_o with_o propose_v some_o good_a end_n do_v therefore_o think_v themselves_o excuse_v whereas_o such_o a_o propose_v of_o a_o good_a end_n to_o a_o action_n begin_v only_o from_o corrupt_a nature_n rather_o aggravate_v the_o fault_n by_o add_v hypocrisy_n to_o it_o the_o which_o themselves_o may_v easy_o discover_v if_o they_o will_v at_o the_o same_o time_n consider_v that_o such_o action_n will_v have_v be_v forbear_v &_o the_o contrary_n do_v if_o the_o object_n and_o person_n have_v be_v change_v how_o small_a a_o proportion_n of_o this_o spiritual_a light_n have_v such_o soul_n 11._o this_o permanent_a light_n of_o supernatural_a discretion_n inform_v the_o soul_n general_o in_o all_o thing_n efficacious_a to_o her_o advancement_n towards_o contemplation_n it_o teach_v she_o in_o religious_a observance_n culpable_o to_o neglect_v none_o and_o to_o perform_v they_o with_o a_o pure_a intention_n for_o her_o spiritual_a good_a in_o mortification_n to_o support_v the_o necessary_a one_o willing_o and_o proffitable_o and_o assume_v only_o such_o voluntary_a one_o as_o god_n direct_v she_o to_o therein_o consider_v the_o infirmity_n of_o the_o body_n as_o well_o as_o the_o fervour_n of_o the_o will_n least_o by_o overburden_v nature_n unnecessary_o she_o be_v render_v unable_a to_o bear_v even_o those_o which_o be_v of_o obligation_n in_o prayer_n it_o teach_v the_o soul_n what_o degreâ—_n be_v proper_a for_o she_o and_o how_o long_o she_o be_v to_o continue_v in_o it_o without_o change_n till_o god_n invite_v she_o to_o a_o high_a and_o then_o ready_o to_o accept_v of_o his_o invitation_n likewise_o what_o proportion_n of_o time_n be_v requisite_a to_o be_v spend_v in_o prayer_n so_o as_o to_o make_v a_o discreet_a and_o sufficient_a progress_n therein_o it_o teach_v she_o to_o suspect_v sensible_a devotion_n and_o not_o to_o glut_v herself_o with_o the_o honey_n of_o it_o nor_o to_o follow_v it_o too_o fast_o to_o design_n of_o seem_a perfection_n &_o extraordinary_a task_n which_o when_o such_o devotion_n end_n will_v be_v burdensome_a and_o harmful_a in_o a_o word_n it_o teach_v the_o soul_n that_o duâ—â—_n moderation_n in_o all_o thing_n which_o make_v they_o laudable_a and_o meritorious_a 12._o now_o whereas_o i_o have_v call_v this_o a_o permanent_a and_o habitual_a light_n it_o be_v to_o be_v observe_v that_o as_o it_o be_v habitual_a only_o it_o do_v not_o direct_v because_o unless_o it_o be_v in_o action_n it_o be_v as_o it_o be_v veil_v over_o until_o that_o god_n by_o some_o occasion_n administer_v do_v move_v the_o soul_n to_o reflect_v and_o consult_v he_o and_o herupon_o the_o light_n be_v unveil_v and_o shine_v forth_o give_v direction_n in_o the_o present_a action_n or_o necessity_n so_o that_o it_o be_v god_n or_o the_o gift_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n very_o predominant_a in_o such_o soul_n that_o be_v their_o actual_a director_n 13._o there_o be_v none_o that_o have_v a_o good_a will_n and_o seek_v god_n in_o sincerity_n of_o heart_n but_o be_v capable_a of_o such_o a_o guidance_n by_o the_o light_n communicate_v to_o soul_n by_o the_o holy_a spirit_n so_o that_o the_o duty_n of_o attend_v to_o and_o obey_v it_o have_v place_n not_o only_o in_o a_o contemplative_a but_o also_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o a_o devout_a active_a life_n for_o doubtless_o such_o likewise_o have_v a_o supernatural_a light_n answerable_a to_o their_o state_n by_o which_o they_o be_v enable_v to_o perform_v their_o action_n with_o much_o purity_n of_o intention_n 14._o notwithstanding_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o degree_n of_o purity_n of_o intention_n the_o do_n of_o contemplative_a soul_n do_v much_o excel_v those_o of_o active_a liver_n by_o reason_n of_o the_o deep_a entry_n that_o they_o make_v into_o their_o interior_a in_o their_o more_o profound_a pure_a and_o imageles_a recollection_n by_o which_o they_o discover_v the_o depth_n of_o their_o most_o secret_a intention_n and_o according_o purify_v they_o from_o whatsoever_o be_v amiss_o in_o they_o beside_o they_o according_a to_o their_o state_n deal_v in_o fewer_n exterior_a distractive_a employment_n do_v both_o keep_v themselves_o in_o a_o better_a disposition_n to_o attend_v to_o the_o voice_n of_o their_o internal_a teacher_n &_o also_o contract_v fewer_n blemish_n and_o those_o that_o they_o do_v contract_n they_o do_v more_o easy_o discern_v and_o rectify_v last_o be_v exercise_v for_o the_o most_o part_n in_o internal_a operation_n their_o continual_a task_n be_v to_o cleanse_v the_o very_a fountain_n which_o be_v the_o spirit_n itself_o the_o seat_n of_o divine_a light_n and_o grace_n 15._o in_o a_o contemplative_a life_n likewise_o according_a to_o the_o degree_n of_o proficiency_n so_o be_v the_o attendance_n unto_o and_o the_o performance_n of_o the_o divine_a inspiration_n for_o to_o perfect_a soul_n the_o divine_a voice_n and_o light_n be_v in_o a_o manner_n a_o continual_a guide_n and_o they_o have_v a_o continual_a correspondence_n with_o it_o even_o in_o their_o most_o ordinary_a small_a action_n whereas_o the_o imperfect_a receive_v it_o seldom_o for_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v the_o purify_n and_o supernaturalize_v their_o ordinary_a action_n except_o in_o their_o recollection_n yea_o perhaps_o only_o when_o they_o be_v in_o the_o height_n of_o their_o exercise_n and_o the_o like_a may_v be_v say_v of_o devout_a soul_n in_o a_o active_a life_n and_o they_o do_v at_o other_o time_n put_v in_o execution_n the_o direction_n receive_v in_o prayer_n by_o virtue_n of_o the_o light_n remain_v in_o their_o mind_n but_o as_o for_o other_o action_n for_o which_o they_o have_v receive_v no_o light_n at_o all_o in_o prayer_n those_o they_o perform_v with_o
shall_v be_v pure_a and_o internal_a in_o spirit_n will_v be_v turn_v into_o a_o distract_n meditation_n upon_o a_o external_a affair_n and_o so_o the_o mind_n come_v to_o be_v fill_v with_o sensible_a image_n and_o passion_n perhaps_o will_v be_v raise_v 2._o because_o by_o so_o do_v we_o incur_v the_o danger_n of_o be_v seduce_v by_o mistake_v our_o own_o imagination_n or_o perhaps_o natural_a inclination_n for_o the_o divine_a light_n and_o motion_n whereas_o such_o divine_a light_n be_v most_o effectual_o and_o secure_o yea_o and_o seldom_o otherwise_o obtain_v then_o when_o the_o imagination_n be_v quiet_a and_o the_o soul_n in_o a_o profound_a recollection_n in_o spirit_n 3._o because_o such_o discourse_n in_o time_n of_o prayer_n be_v nothing_o less_o than_o prayer_n be_v little_o more_o than_o humane_a consideration_n and_o examination_n of_o the_o matter_n the_o which_o if_o at_o all_o aught_o to_o be_v dispatch_v before_o prayer_n 7._o let_v not_o the_o soul_n therefore_o that_o be_v desirous_a by_o prayer_n to_o obtain_v light_n from_o god_n in_o a_o doubtful_a matter_n for_o that_o end_n alter_v any_o thing_n in_o the_o order_n and_o manner_n of_o her_o accustom_a recollection_n but_o let_v she_o pursue_v they_o as_o she_o be_v wont_v before_o only_o it_o may_v be_v permit_v she_o secret_o and_o brief_o to_o wish_v that_o god_n will_v teach_v she_o his_o will_n about_o the_o say_a difficulty_n 8._o but_o let_v she_o be_v sure_a to_o take_v great_a care_n she_o do_v not_o give_v way_n to_o any_o hope_n or_o desire_v that_o god_n shall_v reveile_v his_o will_n unto_o she_o by_o any_o extraordinary_a way_n as_o by_o the_o ministry_n of_o angel_n strange_a revelation_n voice_n etc._n etc._n for_o as_o nothing_o but_o pride_n can_v ordinary_o nourish_v such_o foolish_a hope_n or_o desire_n so_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v that_o if_o such_o desire_n shall_v be_v grant_v it_o will_v be_v to_o her_o prejudice_n and_o will_v increase_v that_o pride_n from_o whence_o they_o flow_v 9_o now_o there_o be_v two_o ordinary_a way_n by_o which_o god_n intimate_v his_o will_n to_o his_o servant_n that_o with_o humble_a &_o resign_v prayer_n address_v themselves_o unto_o he_o the_o first_o be_v by_o clear_v of_o the_o understanding_n thereto_o add_v a_o supernatural_a light_n by_o which_o natural_a reason_n come_v to_o see_v something_o that_o it_o see_v not_o before_o or_o at_o least_o do_v not_o esteem_v before_o so_o considerable_a for_o by_o this_o new_a light_n of_o supernatural_a discretion_n such_o obscurity_n as_o do_v before_o hinder_v reason_n from_o discern_a truth_n be_v remove_v the_o which_o obscurity_n be_v general_o cause_v by_o sensible_a image_n which_o have_v prepossess_v themselves_o of_o the_o fancy_n or_o by_o interest_n of_o nature_n which_o have_v engage_v the_o affection_n by_o both_o which_o reason_n be_v precipitate_v to_o hasten_v a_o judgement_n and_o election_n before_o she_o have_v consider_v mature_o and_o without_o partiality_n all_o circumstance_n fit_a to_o be_v consider_v in_o a_o action_n so_o that_o reason_n want_v this_o supernatural_a light_n kindle_v by_o charity_n determine_v itself_o to_o choose_v that_o part_n to_o which_o passion_n incline_v 10._o now_o since_o there_o be_v no_o mean_n so_o efficacious_a to_o free_v the_o soul_n from_o both_o these_o impediment_n as_o pure_a spiritual_a prayer_n in_o which_o the_o soul_n transcend_v all_o gross_a sensible_a image_n and_o withal_o contradict_v and_o renounce_v all_o motion_n and_o interest_n of_o nature_n we_o may_v secure_o rely_v upon_o the_o light_n and_o dictamen_fw-la which_o be_v suggest_v by_o our_o understanding_n so_o clear_v purify_v &_o free_v from_o all_o noise_n &_o distraction_n from_o the_o sensible_a faculty_n and_o appetite_n and_o this_o be_v the_o best_a and_o safe_a light_n that_o man_n can_v have_v we_o may_v &_o must_v acknowledge_v it_o to_o be_v supernatural_a because_o it_o illuminate_v we_o in_o supernatural_a thing_n discover_v the_o proportion_n between_o the_o present_a action_n and_o our_o supernatural_a end_n and_o extinguish_v the_o light_n of_o carnal_a reason_n by_o which_o the_o thing_n which_o be_v of_o god_n be_v either_o not_o see_v at_o all_o or_o esteem_v foolishness_n it_o be_v therefore_o to_o be_v accept_v as_o the_o very_a light_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n a_o light_n that_o can_v be_v obtain_v by_o study_n not_o instill_v into_o another_o by_o the_o most_o spiritual_a person_n in_o the_o world_n yea_o moreover_o it_o be_v a_o light_n that_o exceed_v the_o efficacy_n of_o the_o ordinary_a light_n of_o faith_n which_o be_v permanent_o in_o we_o by_o which_o we_o be_v only_o illuminate_v to_o preceive_v in_o a_o general_a manner_n supernatural_a object_n and_o the_o mean_n lead_v to_o they_o whereas_o by_o this_o lamp_n new_o kindle_v in_o our_o understanding_n by_o prayer_n and_o charity_n we_o clear_o discern_v in_o each_o particular_a action_n and_o circumstance_n in_o what_o manner_n and_o how_o far_o they_o have_v relation_n and_o efficacy_n to_o dispose_v we_o to_o a_o perfect_a union_n by_o love_n with_o god_n 11._o if_o a_o soul_n before_o her_o recollection_n have_v advise_v and_o consider_v of_o the_o difficulty_n and_o that_o afterward_o upon_o her_o prayer_n she_o do_v find_v herself_o incline_v to_o what_o before_o she_o consult_v with_o her_o own_o reason_n or_o with_o any_o other_o counsellor_n have_v judge_v to_o be_v the_o best_a i_o shall_v esteem_v it_o now_o to_o be_v a_o divine_a inspiration_n not_o for_o the_o former_a debating_n sake_n but_o for_o the_o subsequent_a confirmation_n of_o it_o in_o virtue_n of_o recollection_n the_o second_o way_n by_o which_o god_n do_v immediate_o signify_v his_o will_n to_o the_o intellective_a soul_n in_o virtue_n of_o prayer_n be_v by_o imprint_v a_o blind_a reasonles_a motion_n into_o the_o superior_a will_n give_v it_o a_o weight_n and_o propension_n to_o one_o side_n of_o the_o doubt_n rather_o than_o to_o the_o other_o without_o represent_v actual_o and_o at_o the_o present_a to_o the_o understanding_n any_o special_a motive_n or_o reason_n sufficient_a to_o determine_v the_o will_n this_o also_o come_v in_o virtue_n of_o spiritual_a prayer_n may_v confident_o be_v esteem_v the_o work_n of_o god_n since_o no_o creature_n can_v immediate_o move_v the_o superior_a will_n 13._o pertinent_o herto_o we_o read_v that_o the_o holy_a abbot_n nisteron_fw-gr who_o be_v a_o familiar_a friend_n of_o s._n anthony_n be_v ask_v by_o one_o what_o kind_n of_o work_n he_o will_v advise_v he_o to_o exercise_v for_o the_o good_a and_o advancement_n of_o his_o soul_n answer_v god_n only_o know_v what_o be_v good_a for_o thou_o to_o do_v and_o therefore_o look_v what_o thou_o find_v that_o thy_o soul_n according_a to_o god_n will_v have_v thou_o to_o do_v that_o do_v thou_o 14._o certain_o if_o ever_o god_n will_v show_v that_o he_o stand_v to_o his_o promise_n of_o grant_v the_o petition_n of_o his_o child_n in_o all_o thing_n which_o they_o ask_v according_a to_o his_o will_n this_o promise_n be_v in_o no_o case_n so_o infallible_o make_v good_a as_o when_o a_o sincere_a humble-minded_n soul_n be_v urge_v mere_o out_o of_o spiritual_a necessity_n do_v with_o all_o resignation_n beg_v at_o his_o hand_n the_o light_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n for_o resolution_n of_o difficulty_n that_o concern_v she_o pure_o in_o order_n to_o his_o service_n and_o honour_n and_o for_o the_o perfect_a she_o in_o his_o divine_a love._n when_o can_v a_o soul_n be_v say_v to_o ask_v according_a to_o god_n will_v but_o when_o withdraw_v herself_o from_o all_o interest_n of_o nature_n and_o fix_v her_o eye_n and_o heart_n upon_o god_n only_o she_o make_v her_o request_n know_v unto_o he_o 15._o the_o doctrine_n here_o deliver_v and_o particular_o touch_v this_o reasonles_a and_o indeliberate_a move_n of_o the_o will_n to_o good_a be_v excellent_o and_o full_o confirm_v by_o s._n thomas_n part_n 1._o q._n 1._o a._n 5._o where_o to_o the_o three_o objection_n make_v against_o his_o position_n that_o the_o doctrine_n of_o scholastic_a divinity_n be_v sapientia_fw-la wisdom_n the_o which_o objection_n be_v thus_o conceive_v this_o doctrine_n be_v attien_v by_o study_n but_o wisdom_n be_v have_v by_o infusion_n and_o thereupon_a it_o be_v reckon_v among_o the_o seven_o gift_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n isa_n xi_o therefore_o this_o doctrine_n be_v not_o wisdom_n herto_o he_o answer_v thus_o since_o judge_v perteine_n to_o a_o wise_a man_n according_a to_o a_o twofold_a manner_n of_o judge_v wisdom_n be_v understand_v in_o a_o twofold_a sense_n for_o one_o may_v judge_v 1._o either_o by_o way_n of_o inclination_n as_o he_o that_o have_v the_o habit_n of_o virtue_n do_v right_o judge_v of_o those_o thing_n which_o be_v to_o be_v do_v according_a to_o virtue_n in_o as_o much_o as_o he_o be_v
interior_a counsel_n of_o god_n seek_v by_o a_o resigned_n persevere_v prayer_n to_o which_o our_o lord_n have_v give_v a_o express_a promise_n say_v whatsoever_o you_o shall_v ask_v in_o my_o name_n believe_v that_o you_o shall_v receive_v it_o &_o it_o shall_v happen_v unto_o you_o and_o such_o be_v the_o practice_n of_o b._n angela_n de_fw-fr fulginio_n etc._n etc._n 21._o to_o this_o purpose_n it_o be_v very_o observable_a in_o the_o life_n of_o the_o same_o b._n angela_n that_o god_n command_v she_o to_o set_v down_o in_o write_v this_o passage_n which_o be_v the_o only_a one_o for_o which_o she_o receive_v such_o a_o command_n to_o wit_n that_o he_o will_v take_v away_o his_o light_n and_o grace_n from_o those_o who_o be_v bring_v immediate_o to_o their_o internal_a master_n will_v be_v so_o ungrateful_a as_o to_o forsake_v he_o and_o be_v take_v themselves_o to_o a_o externall_n one_o yea_o and_o that_o moreover_o such_o shall_v have_v a_o curse_n from_o he_o namely_o if_o they_o do_v persist_v in_o recede_v from_o the_o divine_a conduct_n constant_o prefer_v humane_a direction_n before_o god_n 22._o yet_o this_o advice_n of_o be_v constant_a to_o a_o resolution_n so_o make_v be_v to_o give_v place_n 1._o in_o case_n a_o superior_a shall_v command_v any_o thing_n contrary_a thereto_o for_o a_o superior_a must_v be_v obey_v even_o against_o such_o a_o interiour_n counsel_n because_o a_o soul_n be_v not_o only_o counsel_v but_o also_o command_v to_o obey_v her_o superior_n so_o that_o whensoever_o a_o superior_a do_v deliberate_o disapprove_v a_o counsel_n so_o receive_v a_o devout_a soul_n be_v to_o believe_v that_o now_o it_o be_v god_n will_n that_o his_o former_a counsel_n shall_v cease_v from_o be_v any_o further_o oblige_v 2._o in_o case_n that_o any_o other_o different_a circumstance_n shall_v occur_v which_o may_v perhaps_o alter_v the_o state_n of_o the_o difficulty_n notwithstanding_o such_o a_o change_n be_v not_o to_o be_v make_v upon_o this_o last_o ground_n without_o new_a recur_v to_o god_n for_o light_n yea_o though_o the_o reason_n for_o a_o change_n be_v never_o so_o clear_a yet_o it_o be_v best_o it_o shall_v be_v make_v in_o virtue_n of_o prayer_n to_o the_o end_n it_o may_v be_v do_v with_o great_a purity_n of_o intention_n 23._o now_o in_o all_o case_n of_o such_o like_a nature_n the_o purpose_n and_o resolution_n be_v seldom_o to_o be_v make_v in_o the_o very_a time_n of_o our_o recollection_n both_o because_o as_o have_v be_v say_v the_o think_v on_o such_o matter_n be_v not_o the_o proper_a subject_n of_o prayer_n but_o be_v very_o distractive_a and_o likewise_o because_o the_o internal_a illustration_n and_o motion_n of_o god_n spirit_n be_v better_o perceive_v after_o prayer_n when_o the_o soul_n have_v be_v recollect_v do_v reflect_v on_o they_o 24._o but_o it_o be_v otherwise_o in_o matter_n of_o resignation_n or_o when_o we_o pray_v for_o patience_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o mind_n in_o cross_n and_o difficulty_n for_o in_o such_o case_n we_o be_v to_o make_v our_o good_a purpose_n in_o our_o prayer_n themselves_o and_o oft_o be_v to_o renew_v they_o afterward_o because_o such_o purpose_n do_v of_o themselves_o present_o appear_v to_o be_v clear_a and_o obligatory_a and_o beside_o they_o be_v proper_a matter_n for_o prayer_n 25._o after_o that_o a_o soul_n have_v make_v a_o resolution_n in_o the_o case_n and_o after_o the_o manner_n aforesaid_a and_o likewise_o have_v put_v the_o same_o in_o practice_n let_v the_o issue_n be_v what_o it_o will_v whether_o profitable_a or_o harmful_a to_o nature_n yet_o must_v she_o never_o esteem_v the_o election_n to_o have_v be_v amiss_o nor_o must_v she_o hearken_v to_o the_o suggestion_n of_o nature_n the_o which_o find_v in_o such_o practise_v something_o contrary_a to_o her_o inclination_n will_v be_v apt_a by_o subtle_a insinuation_n to_o move_v the_o soul_n to_o repent_v and_o to_o undo_v what_o she_o have_v do_v such_o a_o erroneous_a judgement_n procure_v by_o corrupt_a nature_n be_v to_o be_v despise_v and_o depose_v for_o well_o may_v we_o happen_v to_o err_v in_o the_o manner_n of_o execute_v such_o counsel_n give_v we_o by_o god_n and_o thereby_o or_o by_o some_o other_o mean_n inconvenience_n or_o harm_n may_v sometime_o befall_v we_o but_o the_o election_n in_o itself_o make_v in_o the_o manner_n aforesaid_a be_v good_a and_o it_o will_v be_v a_o act_n of_o immortification_n to_o blame_v it_o or_o to_o be_v sorry_a for_o it_o god_n for_o our_o good_a do_v often_o turn_v our_o best_a deed_n to_o our_o great_a mortification_n and_o thereby_o we_o reap_v a_o double_a benefitt_a 26._o in_o such_o doubtful_a case_n as_o have_v here_o be_v speak_v of_o a_o soul_n must_v not_o expect_v a_o apparent_a evident_a certitude_n as_o spiritual_a writer_n say_v for_o god_n to_o keep_v the_o soul_n in_o humility_n do_v not_o use_v to_o give_v a_o absolute_a assurance_n of_o the_o matter_n itself_o simple_o consider_v but_o only_o a_o certainty_n of_o be_v direct_v and_o draw_v more_o to_o one_o side_n of_o the_o difficulty_n then_o to_o the_o other_o the_o which_o side_n in_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o say_a author_n be_v to_o be_v choose_v and_o follow_v as_o the_o divine_a will._n so_o that_o any_o advantage_n or_o preponderation_n though_o never_o so_o little_a towards_o one_o side_n more_o than_o another_o make_v certitude_n enough_o of_o god_n will_n as_o for_o stand_v to_o it_o if_o there_o be_v no_o perceptible_a difference_n or_o lean_v either_o way_n the_o soul_n be_v either_o to_o take_v advice_n from_o some_o other_o or_o to_o supply_v it_o with_o her_o natural_a impartial_a reason_n or_o even_o as_o it_o be_v by_o lot_n to_o choose_v whether_o she_o think_v good_a and_o what_o she_o do_v after_o this_o manner_n she_o may_v equivalent_o be_v say_v to_o do_v as_o by_o the_o direction_n and_o impulse_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n because_o it_o be_v god_n will_v and_o appointment_n that_o when_o himself_o do_v not_o direct_v we_o immediate_o by_o his_o spirit_n we_o shall_v make_v use_n of_o other_o inferior_a external_a way_n the_o best_a we_o can_v for_o our_o direction_n in_o all_o thing_n always_o intend_v his_o glory_n and_o increase_n in_o his_o love_n only_o 27._o it_o will_v be_v a_o vain_a presumptuous_a and_o dangerous_a tempt_a of_o god_n to_o go_v and_o pray_v to_o the_o end_n to_o know_v his_o will_n in_o thing_n command_v by_o know_a law_n and_o by_o lawful_a superior_n for_o they_o be_v appoint_v by_o he_o as_o the_o most_o assure_a interpreter_n of_o his_o will_n and_o to_o expect_v any_o more_o be_v to_o pretend_v to_o extraordinary_a illumination_n and_o call_n which_o be_v neither_o to_o be_v desire_v nor_o trust_v to_o because_o there_o will_v be_v great_a danger_n of_o illusion_n by_o the_o devil_n counterfeit_n a_o good_a angel_n and_o he_o that_o be_v so_o presumptuous_a in_o his_o practice_n deserve_v that_o god_n permit_v such_o illusion_n chap._n viii_o §_o 1._o 2._o 3._o sufficient_a assurance_n may_v be_v have_v that_o inspiration_n be_v from_o god_n §_o 4._o 5._o 6._o 7._o a_o soul_n therefore_o may_v secure_o commit_v herself_o to_o god_n guidance_n and_o why_o §_o 8._o no_o danger_n if_o a_o soul_n shall_v sometime_o be_v mistake_v take_v that_o for_o a_o inspiration_n which_o be_v not_o so_o 1._o now_o all_o these_o instruction_n and_o exhortation_n to_o attend_v unto_o and_o depend_v on_o the_o divine_a inspiration_n will_v be_v in_o vain_a yea_o all_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n that_o he_o will_v give_v he_o holy_a spirit_n to_o those_o that_o pray_v for_o it_o as_o they_o ought_v will_v be_v as_o vain_a if_o there_o be_v no_o mean_n to_o be_v assure_v of_o such_o inspiration_n that_o they_o be_v from_o god_n by_o a_o assurance_n i_o mean_v of_o hope_n for_o a_o certainty_n of_o faith_n without_o extraordinary_a revelation_n can_v be_v have_v of_o such_o matter_n which_o necessary_o suppose_v the_o like_a assurance_n of_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o thaulerus_n blosius_n michael_n constantiensis_n etc._n etc._n do_v teach_v we_o how_o we_o may_v discern_v and_o with_o confidence_n judge_v resolute_o what_o be_v a_o divine_a inspiration_n say_v that_o the_o devout_a soul_n which_o proceed_v with_o recollection_n &_o resignation_n in_o all_o doubtful_a matter_n of_o importance_n may_v &_o aught_o to_o take_v that_o to_o be_v the_o divine_a will_n to_o which_o she_o be_v interior_o move_v in_o or_o after_o her_o recollection_n when_o as_o passion_n do_v not_o prevail_v in_o she_o so_o long_o as_o the_o matter_n be_v not_o otherwise_o contrary_a to_o external_a obedience_n or_o other_o law_n of_o god_n or_o man_n 2._o for_o it_o be_v certain_a yea_o &_o faith_n oblige_v we_o to_o believe_v that_o
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
to_o obey_v &_o believe_v the_o superior_a declare_v against_o the_o former_a inspiration_n for_o though_o nothing_o that_o a_o superior_a in_o such_o circumstance_n can_v say_v will_v make_v the_o former_a inspiration_n not_o to_o have_v come_v from_o god_n yet_o his_o declare_v against_o it_o will_v show_v it_o not_o to_o be_v of_o force_n now_o since_o that_o all_o such_o inspiration_n do_v &_o aught_o to_o suppose_v the_o consent_n or_o at_o least_o the_o non-opposition_n of_o the_o superior_a before_o they_o be_v put_v in_o practice_n and_o therefore_o they_o be_v to_o give_v place_n to_o a_o inspiration_n of_o obey_v which_o be_v absolute_a true_a it_o be_v that_o in_o such_o a_o case_n it_o may_v happen_v that_o the_o superior_a may_v commit_v a_o great_a fault_n &_o must_v expect_v to_o be_v accountable_a to_o god_n for_o it_o but_o howsoever_o the_o subject_n in_o obey_v such_o a_o undue_a command_n shall_v not_o only_o be_v innocent_a but_o also_o merit_v thereby_o because_o in_o both_o case_n he_o do_v well_o first_o in_o be_v prepare_v to_o obey_v the_o former_a inspiration_n which_o be_v conditional_a &_o afterward_o in_o contradict_v that_o to_o obey_v a_o second_o inspiration_n of_o submit_v to_o his_o superior_a which_o be_v absolute_a 9_o as_o it_o concern_v therefore_o particular_a soul_n to_o depend_v principal_o upon_o their_o internal_a director_n so_o likewise_o be_v superior_n &_o spiritual_a guide_n no_o less_o oblige_v to_o penetrate_v into_o the_o disposition_n of_o their_o subject_n &_o disciple_n &_o to_o discover_v by_o what_o special_a way_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n conduct_n they_o &_o suitable_o thereto_o to_o conform_v themselves_o &_o to_o comply_v with_o the_o intention_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n and_o this_o duty_n our_o holy_a patriarch_n in_o the_o 64._o chap._n of_o his_o rule_n require_v from_o all_o abbot_n or_o superior_n forbid_v they_o to_o use_v rigour_n in_o the_o correction_n of_o their_o subject_n or_o so_o rude_o to_o scour_v the_o vessel_n as_o thereby_o to_o endanger_v the_o break_n of_o they_o he_o will_v not_o have_v they_o likewise_o to_o be_v restless_o suspicious_a &_o jealous_a over_o their_o subject_n but_o in_o their_o imposition_n to_o use_v great_a discretion_n which_o he_o call_v the_o mother_n of_o virtue_n consider_v each_o one_o ability_n &_o say_v with_o jacob_n if_o i_o force_v my_o flock_n to_o travail_v beyond_o their_o strength_n they_o will_v all_o of_o they_o die_v at_o once_o etc._n etc._n if_o the_o superior_a therefore_o in_o a_o humour_n of_o command_a on_o his_o own_o head_n shall_v impose_v command_n on_o his_o subject_n without_o any_o regard_n to_o the_o divine_a will_n &_o guidance_n such_o command_n will_v probable_o prove_v unprosperous_a as_o to_o the_o subject_n &_o certain_o very_o dangerous_a to_o the_o superior_a yet_o so_o it_o may_v be_v that_o the_o subject_n may_v reap_v spiritual_a profit_n by_o they_o for_o than_o it_o may_v please_v god_n to_o give_v he_o a_o interiour_n enablement_n to_o turn_v such_o undue_a command_n to_o his_o own_o good_a &_o advancement_n by_o increase_a in_o he_o the_o habit_n of_o resignation_n &_o humility_n it_o will_v indeed_o be_v very_o hard_a for_o imperfect_a soul_n to_o reap_v benefit_n by_o such_o impertinent_a superior_n but_o as_o for_o perfect_a one_o they_o have_v both_o light_n &_o spiritual_a strength_n to_o convert_v all_o the_o most_o unreasonable_a command_n of_o superior_n to_o the_o benefit_n &_o advancement_n of_o their_o own_o soul_n 10._o in_o case_n a_o superior_a shall_v forbid_v his_o subject_n to_o pray_v at_o this_o or_o that_o time_n or_o shall_v command_v he_o to_o spend_v no_o long_o than_o such_o a_o small_a space_n of_o time_n in_o internal_a prayer_n as_o will_v not_o suffice_v for_o his_o advancement_n in_o the_o internal_a way_n of_o the_o spirit_n the_o rule_n of_o perfection_n require_v the_o subject_n to_o obey_v his_o superior_a yet_o he_o may_v with_o all_o humility_n remonstrate_v to_o he_o his_o spiritual_a necessity_n acquaint_v he_o with_o the_o great_a benefit_n that_o his_o soul_n find_v in_o a_o constant_a performance_n of_o his_o recollection_n &_o in_o attend_v to_o divine_a inspiration_n and_o what_o prejudice_n it_o may_v be_v to_o he_o to_o be_v forbid_v or_o abridge_v of_o they_o but_o if_o the_o superior_a do_v persist_v he_o must_v be_v obey_v and_o god_n will_v some_o other_o way_n supply_v the_o loss_n the_o subject_n find_v in_o such_o particular_a obedience_n now_o though_o a_o superior_a can_v no_o more_o forbid_v in_o general_a the_o use_n of_o internal_a prayer_n &_o of_o observe_v divine_a inspiration_n than_o he_o can_v forbid_v the_o love_v or_o obey_v of_o god_n yet_o whether_o prayer_n shall_v be_v exercise_v at_o such_o certain_a appoint_a time_n or_o for_o such_o a_o determinate_a space_n of_o time_n that_o be_v within_o the_o limit_n of_o a_o superior_n authority_n and_o how_o he_o employ_v that_o authority_n it_o will_v concern_v he_o to_o consider_v for_o if_o he_o guide_v soul_n according_a to_o his_o own_o will_n and_o not_o god_n and_o sure_o god_n internal_a inspiration_n be_v his_o will_n beside_o the_o guilt_n that_o he_o shall_v contract_v by_o the_o abuse_n of_o his_o authority_n he_o must_v expect_v that_o all_o the_o harm_n or_o prejudice_n that_o his_o subject_n soul_n through_o his_o miscarriage_n shall_v incur_v will_v be_v heap_v &_o multiply_v upon_o his_o soul_n 11._o but_o concern_v the_o duty_n &_o obligation_n of_o superior_n towards_o soul_n who_o profession_n be_v to_o tread_v these_o internal_a way_n of_o contemplation_n more_o shall_v be_v say_v hereafter_o in_o its_o proper_a place_n where_o it_o shall_v be_v demonstrate_v that_o these_o instruction_n be_v so_o far_o from_o preiudice_v their_o authority_n that_o true_a cordial_a obedience_n will_v never_o nor_o can_v be_v perfect_o perform_v to_o they_o but_o by_o such_o soul_n as_o be_v most_o zealous_a &_o constant_a in_o the_o essential_a duty_n of_o prayer_n and_o attend_v to_o the_o inspiration_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n 12._o to_o conclude_v this_o whole_a discourse_n concern_v divine_a inspiration_n as_o these_o aduises_n be_v not_o curious_o to_o be_v apply_v to_o the_o practice_n of_o fearful_a scrupulous_a soul_n who_o unquiet_a thought_n make_v they_o in_o a_o manner_n incapable_a of_o either_o light_n or_o impulse_n of_o god_n spirit_n in_o matter_n about_o which_o their_o scrupulosity_n be_v exercise_v so_o in_o those_o case_n they_o be_v to_o follow_v instruction_n peculiar_o proper_a to_o they_o but_o for_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v all_o other_o well-disposed_n soul_n that_o lead_v contemplative_a life_n this_o doctrine_n ought_v to_o be_v serious_o recommend_v to_o they_o and_o they_o be_v to_o be_v teach_v how_o to_o practice_v it_o for_o by_o this_o &_o no_o other_o way_n can_v they_o assure_o understand_v or_o perform_v the_o divine_a will_n in_o the_o which_o alone_o consist_v spiritual_a perfection_n by_o these_o inspiration_n alone_o the_o interiour_n be_v regulate_v without_o which_o all_o exterior_a good_a carriage_n be_v little_a avayleable_a to_o perfection_n no_o externall_n director_n can_v order_v the_o interiour_n operation_n of_o the_o soul_n either_o in_o prayer_n or_o mortification_n none_o but_o god_n alone_o who_o know_v &_o search_v the_o heart_n of_o men._n and_o his_o principal_a way_n of_o direct_v be_v by_o his_o inspiration_n the_o which_o by_o the_o acknowledgement_n of_o all_o good_a christian_n be_v necessary_a to_o every_o action_n to_o make_v it_o good_a or_o meritorious_a these_o inspiration_n therefore_o we_o must_v follow_v therefore_o they_o may_v be_v know_v for_o we_o can_v not_o be_v oblige_v to_o follow_v a_o invisible_a &_o undiscernible_a light_n we_o know_v not_o what_o and_o if_o they_o may_v be_v know_v sure_o the_o rule_n here_o prescribe_v for_o that_o purpose_n to_o wit_n abstraction_n of_o life_n &_o pure_a resign_v prayer_n be_v the_o most_o secure_a and_o most_o efficacious_a mean_n to_o come_v to_o that_o knowledge_n and_o to_o procure_v grace_n to_o work_v according_o 13._o and_o it_o may_v very_o reasonable_o be_v believe_v that_o the_o principal_a ground_n &_o reason_n why_o true_a spirituality_n be_v in_o these_o day_n so_o rare_a and_o why_o matter_n go_v so_o amiss_o among_o soul_n that_o pretend_v to_o aspire_v to_o contemplation_n be_v because_o this_o most_o necessary_a duty_n of_o observe_v and_o follow_a divine_a inspiration_n be_v either_o unknown_n or_o wilful_o misunderstand_v and_o suspect_v if_o not_o deride_v by_o some_o who_o in_o popular_a opinion_n be_v hold_v and_o desire_v to_o pass_v for_o chief_a master_n in_o spirituality_n and_o no_o wonder_n be_v it_o that_o such_o shall_v be_v disaffect_v to_o this_o doctrine_n of_o the_o perfect_a practice_n whereof_o themselves_o be_v incapable_a by_o reason_n of_o their_o distractive_a
sublime_a and_o by_o all_o ancient_a saint_n deem_v so_o formidable_a a_o office_n by_o which_o they_o be_v empowerd_v and_o oblige_v with_o immaculate_a sacrifice_n and_o fervent_a prayer_n to_o be_v daily_a intercessor_n with_o god_n for_o the_o whole_a church_n presuppose_v they_o to_o have_v already_o attein_v to_o a_o good_a recollectednes_n in_o prayer_n and_o if_o moreover_o they_o have_v a_o charge_n of_o soul_n they_o will_v need_v a_o far_o great_a stability_n therein_o that_o their_o various_a employment_n may_v be_v perform_v pure_o for_o and_o in_o god_n and_o not_o break_v their_o union_n with_o he_o moreover_o by_o their_o profession_n their_o obligation_n come_v never_o to_o the_o vow_n of_o religious_a person_n for_o 1._o they_o owe_v a_o obedience_n to_o superior_n though_o not_o in_o every_o ordinary_a action_n 2._o they_o profess_v the_o same_o chastity_n 3._o they_o ought_v to_o have_v little_a more_o propriety_n in_o their_o good_n for_o whatsoever_o be_v beyond_o their_o moderate_a necessity_n &_o obligation_n of_o hospitable_a charity_n they_o can_v little_o more_o dispose_n of_o without_o wrong_n to_o the_o poor_a etc._n etc._n then_o religious_a 4._o though_o their_o employment_n require_v from_o they_o more_o conversation_n with_o other_o than_o the_o state_n of_o religious_a do_v yet_o they_o be_v as_o well_o oblige_v to_o disengage_v their_o affection_n from_o all_o love_n or_o solicitude_n about_o riches_n etc._n etc._n as_o the_o other_o be_v and_o in_o like_a manner_n to_o free_v themselves_o from_o all_o distractive_a employment_n not_o belong_v necessary_o to_o their_o call_v 10._o and_o upon_o these_o ground_n it_o be_v that_o in_o the_o ancient_n and_o best_a time_n of_o the_o church_n scarce_o any_o dare_v presume_v to_o undertake_v so_o high_a and_o perfect_a a_o call_v as_o the_o charge_n of_o soul_n be_v till_o after_o many_o year_n first_o spend_v in_o a_o kind_n of_o religious_a abstraction_n of_o life_n solitude_n silence_n great_a mortification_n and_o assiduous_a prayer_n etc._n etc._n witness_n s._n basile_n s._n gregory_n nazianzene_n s._n gregory_n nyssen_n s._n chrysostome_n s._n augustin_n s._n john_n damascene_fw-la etc._n etc._n and_o yet_o after_o they_o have_v do_v all_o this_o it_o be_v a_o wonder_n with_o what_o unwillingnes_n &_o fear_n they_o suffer_v themselves_o to_o be_v force_v to_o accept_v of_o such_o a_o charge_n what_o excuse_n prayer_n flight_n into_o the_o desert_n to_o avoid_v it_o and_o when_o they_o be_v compel_v by_o god_n or_o man_n thereto_o they_o be_v far_o from_o think_v themselves_o disoblige_v from_o a_o continuation_n of_o their_o contemplative_a exercise_n of_o abstraction_n mortification_n &_o prayer_n etc._n etc._n but_o on_o the_o contrary_n they_o steal_v time_n even_o from_o their_o necessary_a refection_n &_o sleep_v to_o employ_v in_o their_o recollection_n as_o know_v that_o nothing_o they_o can_v do_v will_v be_v acceptable_a to_o god_n further_o than_o it_o proceed_v in_o virtue_n of_o grace_n obtain_v by_o prayer_n 11._o but_o the_o best_a proof_n &_o example_n of_o the_o obligation_n of_o a_o ecclesiastical_a person_n be_v our_o bless_a saviour_n himself_o who_o though_o by_o virtue_n of_o the_o hypostatical_a union_n he_o be_v replenish_v with_o all_o manner_n of_o grace_n without_o measure_n and_o therefore_o have_v no_o need_n at_o all_o as_o for_o himself_o to_o pray_v for_o more_o yet_o to_o show_v a_o example_n most_o necessary_a to_o we_o he_o take_v not_o on_o he_o the_o employment_n of_o convert_v other_o till_o he_o have_v spend_v the_o former_a thirty_o year_n of_o his_o life_n in_o solitude_n silence_n and_o all_o the_o most_o holy_a internal_a exercise_n at_o home_n where_o he_o live_v unobserue_v &_o unknow_v unto_o the_o world_n and_o during_o all_o the_o time_n of_o his_o most_o laborious_a execution_n of_o his_o prophetical_a office_n beside_o much_o prayer_n exercise_v open_o before_o other_o the_o gospel_n express_o say_v that_o his_o custom_n be_v at_o night_n to_o retire_v himself_o with_o his_o disciple_n to_o prayer_n yea_o &_o whensoever_o any_o great_a work_n be_v to_o be_v do_v as_o before_o the_o mission_n of_o the_o disciple_n and_o apostle_n that_o he_o spend_v whole_a night_n alone_o in_o prayer_n add_v hereunto_o that_o he_o utter_o refuse_v to_o meddle_v in_o secular_a affair_n or_o controversy_n he_o frequent_v the_o desert_n etc._n etc._n 12._o so_o that_o a_o ecclesiastical_a person_n both_o for_o his_o own_o sake_n and_o out_o of_o a_o tender_a love_n to_o his_o flock_n aught_o to_o think_v himself_o more_o oblige_v then_o before_o to_o the_o practice_n of_o all_o internal_a contemplative_a exercise_n and_o above_o all_o other_o of_o pure_a spiritual_a prayer_n which_o alone_o will_v sanctify_v &_o make_v successful_a both_o to_o himself_o &_o other_o all_o other_o action_n belong_v to_o his_o profession_n and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o s._n florentius_n a_o ancient_a holy_a bishop_n first_o of_o vtrecht_n and_o afterward_o of_o munster_n when_o he_o be_v reprehend_v by_o some_o for_o spend_v so_o much_o time_n in_o prayer_n as_o if_o thereby_o he_o be_v hinder_v from_o a_o more_o perfect_a discharge_n of_o his_o episcopal_a function_n return_v they_o a_o answer_v very_o become_v a_o perfect_a illuminate_v bishop_n say_v quid_fw-la vobis_fw-la insanire_fw-la videor_fw-la si_fw-la cum_fw-la multas_fw-la oves_fw-la habeam_fw-la multum_fw-la orem_fw-la that_o be_v what_o do_v you_o account_v i_o mad_a because_o have_v so_o many_o sheep_n under_o my_o charge_n i_o best_o we_o so_o much_o time_n in_o prayer_n imply_v that_o it_o be_v only_o by_o prayer_n that_o he_o can_v hope_v for_o enablement_n to_o perform_v his_o episcopal_a duty_n and_o for_o a_o blessing_n after_o the_o performance_n of_o it_o 13._o such_o be_v the_o duty_n and_o such_o the_o obligation_n of_o ecclesiastical_a person_n but_o if_o there_o be_v any_o conscious_a to_o themselves_o of_o neglect_n in_o this_o matter_n and_o desirous_a to_o repair_v past_a omission_n by_o future_a diligence_n they_o may_v if_o they_o think_v good_a make_v use_n of_o these_o simple_a instruction_n the_o which_o general_o in_o the_o substance_n be_v proper_a enough_o for_o they_o if_o they_o will_v only_o separate_v certain_a circumstance_n &_o respect_n in_o they_o which_o be_v peculiar_a to_o religious_a chap._n ii_o §_o 1._o 2._o how_o a_o secular_a person_n may_v make_v use_n of_o these_o instruction_n some_o of_o which_o do_v equal_o belong_v to_o such_o a_o one_o as_o well_o as_o to_o religious_a §_o 3._o what_o benefit_n such_o a_o one_o may_v also_o reap_v from_o instruction_n here_o peculiar_o belong_v to_o religious_a §_o 4._o 5._o 6._o 7._o 8._o 9_o such_o a_o soul_n need_v not_o to_o apprehend_v want_n if_o consecrate_v herself_o to_o god_n she_o shall_v relinquish_v worldly_a sollicitude_n 1._o in_o the_o next_o place_n as_o concern_v a_o secular_a person_n not_o in_o holy_a order_n that_o live_v a_o common_a life_n in_o the_o world_n of_o what_o sex_n or_o condition_n soever_o for_o with_o god_n there_o be_v no_o difference_n or_o acceptation_n of_o person_n to_o who_o the_o divine_a spirit_n shall_v have_v give_v a_o effectual_a call_v to_o seek_v god_n in_o these_o internal_a way_n of_o contemplation_n yet_o so_o as_o that_o they_o do_v not_o find_v themselves_o oblige_v to_o forsake_v a_o secular_a profession_n and_o to_o embrace_v a_o religious_a life_n of_o which_o state_n the_o person_n perhaps_o be_v marry_v or_o otherwise_o hinder_v be_v not_o capable_a or_o however_o find_v no_o inclination_n thereto_o such_o a_o soul_n may_v make_v benefit_n also_o of_o these_o instruction_n though_o purposely_o write_v for_o religious_a in_o as_o much_o as_o many_o of_o they_o do_v general_o belong_v to_o all_o person_n tend_v to_o perfection_n and_o those_o that_o seem_v more_o peculiar_a to_o religious_a yet_o with_o some_o qualification_n and_o application_n such_o as_o ordinary_a discretion_n will_v teach_v those_o instruction_n also_o may_v afford_v unto_o they_o some_o good_a help_n and_o useful_a benefit_n and_o for_o that_o purpose_n they_o may_v do_v well_o to_o take_v into_o their_o consideration_n and_o apply_v unto_o their_o own_o advantage_n in_o practice_n these_o follow_a advice_n 2._o a_o devout_a soul_n therefore_o be_v inspire_v by_o god_n to_o such_o a_o course_n and_o live_v in_o the_o world_n aught_o to_o conceive_v herself_o oblige_v as_o true_o and_o as_o proper_o though_o not_o altogether_o equal_o as_o any_o of_o a_o religious_a profession_n to_o the_o practice_n of_o these_o substantial_a &_o essential_a duty_n and_o instruction_n follow_a viz._n 1._o a_o strong_a resolution_n notwithstanding_o any_o contradiction_n and_o difficulty_n to_o pursue_v by_o the_o divine_a assistance_n the_o way_n tend_v to_o contemplation_n 2._o a_o equal_a care_n to_o observe_v and_o faithful_o to_o execute_v all_o divine_a inspiration_n and_o to_o dispose_v
for_o sure_o not_o corporal_a labour_n not_o the_o use_n of_o the_o sacrament_n not_o hear_v of_o sermon_n etc._n etc._n for_o all_o these_o she_o may_v have_v enjoy_v perhaps_o more_o plentiful_o in_o the_o world_n it_o be_v therefore_o only_a the_o union_n of_o the_o spirit_n with_o god_n by_o recollect_v constant_a prayer_n to_o the_o attain_n which_o divine_a end_n all_o thing_n practise_v in_o religion_n do_v dispose_v and_o to_o which_o alone_o so_o great_a impediment_n be_v find_v in_o the_o world_n 6._o the_o best_a general_a proof_n therefore_o of_o a_o good_a call_v to_o religion_n be_v a_o love_n to_o prayer_n either_o vocal_a or_o mental_a for_o if_o at_o first_o it_o be_v only_o to_o vocal_a prayer_n by_o reason_n that_o the_o soul_n be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o efficacy_n and_o excellency_n of_o internal_a contemplative_a prayer_n or_o perhaps_o have_v receive_v some_o preiudices_fw-la against_o it_o yet_o if_o she_o observe_v solitude_n careful_o and_o with_o attention_n and_o fervour_n practice_v vocal_a prayer_n she_o will_v in_o time_n either_o by_o a_o divine_a light_n perceive_v the_o necessity_n of_o join_v mental_a prayer_n to_o her_o vocal_a or_o be_v enable_v to_o practice_v her_o vocal_a prayer_n mental_o which_o be_v a_o sublime_a perfection_n 7._o it_o be_v a_o state_n therefore_o of_o recollectednes_n &_o introversion_n that_o every_o one_o enter_v into_o religion_n be_v to_o aspire_v unto_o the_o which_o consist_v in_o a_o habitual_a disposition_n of_o soul_n whereby_o she_o transcend_v all_o creature_n &_o their_o image_n the_o which_o thereby_o come_v to_o have_v little_a or_o no_o dominion_n over_o she_o so_o that_o she_o remain_v apt_a for_o immediate_a cooperation_n with_o god_n receive_v his_o inspiration_n and_o by_o a_o return_n and_o as_o it_o be_v a_o reflux_n tend_v to_o he_o and_o operate_n to_o his_o glory_n it_o be_v call_v recollectednes_n because_o the_o soul_n in_o such_o a_o state_n gather_v her_o thought_n natural_o disperse_v &_o fix_v with_o multiplicity_n on_o creature_n and_o unite_v they_o upon_o god_n and_o it_o be_v call_v introversion_n both_o because_o the_o spirit_n &_o those_o thing_n which_o concern_v it_o be_v the_o only_a object_n that_o a_o devout_a soul_n consider_v &_o value_v she_o turn_v all_o her_o sollicitude_n inward_o to_o observe_v defect_n want_n or_o inordination_n there_o to_o the_o end_n she_o may_v remedy_v supply_n &_o correct_v they_o and_o likewise_o because_o the_o proper_a seat_n the_o throne_n &_o kingdom_n where_o god_n by_o his_o holy_a spirit_n dwell_n and_o reign_v be_v the_o pure_a summity_n of_o man_n spirit_n there_o it_o be_v that_o the_o soul_n most_o perfect_o enjoy_v and_o contemplate_v god_n though_o every_o where_o as_o in_o regard_n of_o himself_o equal_o present_a yet_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o communication_n of_o his_o perfection_n present_v there_o after_o a_o far_o more_o noble_a manner_n then_o in_o any_o part_n of_o the_o world_n beside_o inasmuch_o as_o he_o communicate_v to_o the_o spirit_n of_o man_n as_o much_o of_o his_o infinite_a perfection_n as_o any_o creature_n be_v capable_a of_o be_v not_o only_o simple_a be_v as_o he_o be_v to_o inanimate_a body_n or_o life_n as_o to_o live_a creature_n or_o perception_n as_o to_o sensitive_a or_o knowledge_n as_o to_o other_o ordinary_a rational_a soul_n but_o with_o and_o beside_o all_o these_o he_o be_v a_o divine_a light_n purity_n &_o happiness_n by_o communicate_v the_o supernatural_a grace_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n to_o the_o spirit_n of_o his_o servant_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o our_o saviour_n say_v regnum_fw-la dei_fw-la intra_fw-la vos_fw-la est_fw-la the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n be_v within_o you_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v that_o religious_a solitary_a &_o abstract_a soul_n do_v endeavour_v to_o turn_v all_o their_o thought_n inward_a raise_v they_o to_o apicem_fw-la spiritus_fw-la the_o pure_a top_n of_o the_o spirit_n far_o above_o all_o sensible_a phantasm_n or_o imaginative_a discourse_n or_o grosser_n affection_n where_o god_n be_v most_o perfect_o see_v and_o most_o comfortable_o enjoy_v 7._o now_o the_o actual_a practice_n of_o this_o introversion_n consist_v principal_o if_o not_o only_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o pure_a internal_a spiritual_a prayer_n the_o perfection_n of_o which_o therefore_o ought_v to_o be_v the_o chief_a aim_n to_o which_o a_o religious_a contemplative_a soul_n be_v oblige_v to_o aspire_v so_o that_o sure_o it_o be_v a_o great_a mistake_n to_o think_v that_o the_o spirit_n of_o s._n benedict_v order_n &_o rule_n consist_v in_o a_o public_a orderly_a protract_v solemn_a sing_v of_o the_o divine_a office_n the_o which_o may_v be_v full_a as_o well_o yea_o and_o for_o the_o externall_n be_v with_o more_o advantage_n perform_v by_o secular_a ecclesiastic_n in_o cathedral_n church_n a_o motive_n to_o the_o introduce_v of_o which_o pompous_a solemnity_n may_v be_v that_o it_o be_v full_a of_o edification_n to_o other_o to_o see_v &_o hear_v a_o conspire_v of_o many_o singer_n &_o voice_n and_o it_o be_v to_o be_v suppose_v of_o heart_n too_o to_o the_o praise_v of_o god_n but_o it_o be_v not_o for_o edification_n of_o other_o that_o a_o monastical_a state_n be_v institute_v or_o ought_v to_o be_v undertake_v religious_a soul_n true_o monastical_a fly_v the_o sight_n of_o the_o world_n enter_v into_o desert_n and_o solitude_n to_o spend_v their_o life_n alone_o in_o penance_n and_o recollection_n and_o to_o purify_v their_o own_o soul_n not_o to_o give_v example_n or_o instruction_n to_o other_o such_o solitude_n be_v or_o aught_o to_o be_v seek_v by_o they_o thereby_o to_o dispose_v themselves_o for_o another_o far_o more_o profitable_a internal_a solitude_n in_o which_o creature_n be_v banish_v the_o only_a conversation_n be_v between_o god_n and_o the_o soul_n herself_o in_o the_o depth_n of_o the_o spirit_n as_o if_o beside_o they_o two_o no_o other_o thing_n be_v existent_a 8._o to_o gain_v this_o happy_a state_n a_o devout_a soul_n enter_v into_o religion_n where_o all_o imaginable_a advantage_n be_v to_o be_v find_v for_o this_o end_n at_o least_o ancient_o they_o be_v so_o and_o still_o ought_v to_o be_v but_o yet_o though_o all_o religious_a person_n ought_v to_o aspire_v to_o the_o perfection_n of_o this_o state_n it_o be_v real_o gain_v by_o very_a few_o in_o these_o time_n for_o some_o through_o ignorance_n or_o misinstruction_n by_o teacher_n that_o know_v no_o deep_o not_o a_o more_o perfect_a introversion_n then_o into_o the_o internal_a sense_n or_o imagination_n and_o other_o through_o negligence_n or_o else_o by_o reason_n of_o a_o voluntary_a pour_v forth_o their_o affection_n &_o thought_n upon_o vanity_n useless_a study_n or_o other_o sensual_a enterteinment_n be_v never_o able_a perfect_o to_o enter_v into_o their_o spirit_n and_o to_o find_v god_n there_o 9_o but_o it_o be_v wonderful_a to_o read_v of_o that_o depth_n of_o recollectednes_n &_o most_o profound_a introversion_n to_o which_o some_o ancient_a solitary_a religious_a person_n by_o long_a exercise_n of_o spiritual_a prayer_n have_v come_v in_o so_o much_o as_o they_o have_v be_v so_o absorb_v &_o even_o drown_v in_o a_o deep_a contemplation_n of_o god_n that_o they_o have_v not_o see_v what_o their_o eye_n look_v on_o nor_o feel_v what_o otherwise_o will_v greivous_o hurt_v they_o yea_o to_o so_o habitual_a a_o state_n of_o attend_v only_o to_o god_n in_o their_o spirit_n do_v some_o of_o they_o attain_v that_o they_o can_v not_o though_o they_o have_v a_o mind_n thereto_o ofttimes_o fix_v their_o thought_n upon_o any_o other_o object_n but_o god_n their_o internal_a sense_n according_a as_o themselves_o have_v describe_v it_o have_v be_v in_o a_o unexpressible_a manner_n draw_v into_o their_o spirit_n and_o therein_o so_o swallow_v up_o as_o to_o loose_v in_o a_o sort_n all_o other_o use_n a_o most_o happy_a state_n in_o which_o the_o devil_n can_v so_o much_o as_o fix_v a_o seduce_a tentation_n or_o image_n in_o their_o mind_n to_o distract_v they_o from_o god_n but_o on_o the_o contrary_a if_o he_o shall_v attempt_v it_o that_o will_v be_v a_o occasion_n to_o plunge_v they_o deep_o &_o more_o intimely_a into_o god_n 10._o and_o this_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o pure_a spiritual_a contemplative_a prayer_n the_o which_o be_v not_o only_o practise_v by_o the_o holy_a ancient_a hermit_n etc._n etc._n in_o most_o sublime_a perfection_n but_o the_o exercise_n thereof_o be_v their_o chief_n most_o proper_a &_o almost_o continual_a employment_n in_o so_o much_o as_o the_o perfection_n thereof_o be_v by_o they_o account_v the_o perfection_n of_o their_o state_n a_o large_a proof_n whereof_o shall_v be_v reserve_v till_o we_o come_v to_o speak_v of_o prayer_n for_o the_o present_a therefore_o i_o will_v content_v myself_o with_o a_o testimony_n or_o two_o relate_v by_o cassian_n out_o of_o the_o mouth_n
aspire_v and_o attain_v to_o such_o internal_a perfection_n without_o which_o the_o externall_n observance_n will_v be_v of_o no_o value_n but_o rather_o be_v final_o rest_v in_o without_o far_a application_n to_o the_o spirit_n empty_a hypocritical_a formality_n and_o more_o particular_o as_o touch_v the_o conference_n of_o the_o father_n write_v by_o cassian_n and_o express_o recommend_v to_o we_o by_o our_o holy_a father_n we_o reasonable_o may_v and_o aught_o to_o judge_v that_o his_o intention_n be_v we_o shall_v in_o a_o special_a manner_n make_v use_n of_o the_o instruction_n and_o example_n there_o deliver_v by_o prudent_a holy_a and_o experience_a contemplative_n as_o a_o rule_n and_o patterne_n to_o which_o we_o shall_v conform_v ourselves_o principal_o in_o our_o internal_a exercise_n as_o be_v much_o more_o useful_a and_o proper_a for_o we_o than_o any_o instruction_n about_o such_o matter_n to_o be_v find_v in_o the_o writing_n of_o other_o far_a more_o learned_a holy_a father_n of_o the_o church_n who_o general_o direct_v their_o speech_n to_o such_o as_o lead_v common_a life_n in_o the_o world_n 18._o this_o obligation_n be_v so_o manifest_a and_o unquestionable_a how_o can_v those_o new_a interpreter_n of_o our_o holy_a rule_n be_v excuse_v that_o extend_v the_o profession_n of_o a_o religious_a person_n no_o further_o then_o to_o the_o performance_n of_o exterior_a obedience_n and_o observance_n literal_o express_v in_o the_o rule_n or_o signify_v by_o the_o express_a command_n of_o superior_n sure_o they_o forget_v that_o it_o be_v to_o god_n only_o that_o we_o make_v our_o vow_n and_o not_o to_o man_n but_o only_o as_o his_o substitute_n and_o as_o appoint_v by_o he_o to_o take_v care_n of_o the_o purify_n our_o soul_n for_o the_o destroy_n therefore_o of_o so_o unreasonable_a a_o interpretation_n yet_o too_o likely_a to_o be_v embrace_v by_o the_o tepid_a spirit_n of_o this_o age_n it_o will_v suffice_v only_o to_o look_v upon_o the_o form_n of_o a_o religious_a profession_n institute_v by_o our_o holy_a father_n in_o the_o 58._o chapter_n in_o these_o word_n suscipiendus_fw-la autem_fw-la in_fw-la oratorio_fw-la etc._n etc._n that_o be_v let_v he_o that_o be_v to_o be_v receive_v to_o a_o religious_a profession_n promise_v in_o the_o presence_n of_o the_o whole_a community_n assemble_v in_o the_o church_n before_o god_n and_o his_o saint_n 1._o a_o constant_a stability_n in_o that_o state_n 2._o a_o conversion_n of_o his_o manner_n 3._o and_o obedience_n now_o of_o the_o three_o thing_n so_o solemn_o and_o with_o such_o affright_a circumstance_n vow_v conversion_n of_o manner_n can_v signify_v no_o other_o thing_n but_o internal_a purity_n of_o the_o soul_n obedience_n indeed_o seem_v to_o regard_v the_o outward_a observance_n of_o the_o rule_n yet_o sure_o with_o a_o eye_n to_o the_o principal_a end_n of_o all_o external_a duty_n of_o all_o christian_n and_o much_o more_o of_o those_o that_o aspire_v to_o the_o perfection_n of_o divine_a love._n and_o as_o for_o stability_n it_o regard_v both_o these_o add_v to_o they_o a_o perseverance_n and_o a_o continual_a progress_n in_o both_o to_o the_o end_n 19_o these_o thing_n consider_v if_o god_n so_o earnest_o protest_v to_o the_o jew_n say_v my_o soul_n hate_v your_o new_a moon_n your_o solemn_a feast_n and_o sacrifice_n which_o yet_o be_v observance_n ordain_v by_o himself_o and_o this_o because_o those_o that_o practise_v they_o with_o all_o exactness_n rest_v in_o the_o outward_a action_n and_o neglect_v inward_a purity_n of_o the_o heart_n typify_v by_o they_o much_o more_o will_n god_n despise_v and_o hate_v a_o exact_a performance_n of_o regular_a observance_n command_v by_o man_n when_o the_o practiser_n of_o they_o do_v not_o refer_v they_o to_o the_o only_a true_a end_n regard_v by_o the_o institutour_n which_o be_v by_o they_o to_o dispose_v and_o fit_a soul_n to_o internal_a solitude_n aptness_n to_o receive_v divine_a light_n &_o grace_n and_o last_o to_o the_o practice_n of_o pure_a contemplative_a prayer_n without_o which_o a_o religious_a state_n will_v be_v no_o better_o than_o a_o mere_a outward_a occupation_n on_o trade_n and_o if_o only_o so_o consider_v it_o be_v perhaps_o less_o perfect_a than_o one_o exercise_v in_o the_o world_n by_o which_o much_o good_a commodity_n may_v be_v derive_v to_o other_o also_o 20._o again_o when_o such_o condescend_v interpreter_n do_v further_o say_v that_o all_o our_o obligation_n by_o virtue_n of_o a_o religious_a profession_n be_v to_o be_v understand_v only_o secundum_fw-la regulam_fw-la according_a to_o the_o rule_n we_o must_v know_v that_o this_o phrase_n secundum_fw-la regulam_fw-la be_v to_o be_v annex_v to_o the_o vow_n of_o obedience_n only_o import_v that_o a_o religious_a superior_a have_v not_o a_o vast_a unlimited_a authority_n but_o confine_v to_o the_o rule_n whereas_o there_o be_v no_o limit_n prescribe_v to_o conversion_n of_o manner_n to_o christian_a holiness_n and_o perfection_n in_o which_o we_o be_v oblige_v daily_o to_o make_v a_o further_a progress_n to_o the_o which_o duty_n as_o by_o become_v religious_a we_o have_v a_o great_a obligation_n so_o likewise_o have_v we_o a_o great_a necessity_n for_o though_o by_o enter_v into_o religion_n we_o do_v avoid_v many_o occasion_n and_o tentation_n to_o outward_a enormous_a sin_n yet_o we_o can_v never_o be_v free_v from_o our_o thought_n which_o will_v pursue_v we_o where_o ever_o we_o be_v and_o more_o impetuous_o and_o dangerous_o in_o solitude_n then_o in_o company_n be_v indeed_o the_o great_a pleasure_n of_o man_n whether_o they_o be_v good_a or_o bad_a for_o in_o solitude_n the_o soul_n have_v her_o whole_a free_a scope_n without_o interruption_n to_o pursue_v her_o thought_n so_o that_o a_o religious_a person_n that_o can_v think_v himself_o not_o oblige_v and_o that_o actual_o do_v not_o restrain_v and_o order_v his_o thought_n by_o divert_v and_o fix_v they_o on_o heavenly_a and_o divine_a object_n such_o a_o one_o if_o for_o want_n of_o opportunity_n he_o guard_v himself_o from_o outward_a scandalous_a crime_n yet_o he_o will_v more_v &_o more_o deep_o plunge_v himself_o in_o corrupt_a nature_n contract_v a_o great_a obscurity_n &_o incapacity_n of_o divine_a grace_n daily_o and_o such_o inward_a deordination_n will_v become_v more_o dangerous_a and_o incurable_a then_o if_o he_o have_v live_v in_o the_o world_n where_o there_o be_v so_o frequent_a diversion_n now_o a_o poor_a and_o most_o ineffectual_a remedy_n against_o these_o will_v he_o find_v in_o a_o exact_a conformity_n to_o any_o external_a observance_n whatsoever_o yea_o perhaps_o they_o will_v serve_v to_o increase_v such_o ill_a habit_n of_o soul_n by_o breed_v pride_n and_o security_n in_o it_o 21._o a_o much_o better_o and_o more_o profitable_a interpreter_n of_o our_o holy_a rule_n therefore_o be_v devout_a s._n bernard_n in_o many_o passage_n in_o his_o work_n and_o particular_o in_o those_o word_n of_o his_o in_o a_o epistle_n to_o william_n a_o abbot_n of_o the_o same_o order_n attendite_fw-la in_o regulam_fw-la dei_fw-la etc._n etc._n that_o be_v be_v attentive_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o god_n the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n be_v within_o you_o that_o be_v it_o consist_v not_o outward_o in_o the_o fashion_n of_o our_o clothes_n or_o manner_n of_o our_o corporal_a diet_n but_o in_o the_o virtue_n of_o our_o inner_a man_n but_o you_o will_v say_v what_o do_v thou_o so_o enforce_v upon_o we_o spiritual_a duty_n as_o that_o thou_o condemne_v a_o care_n of_o the_o external_a obseruamce_n enjoin_v by_o the_o rule_n of_o s._n benedict_n no_o by_o no_o mean_n but_o my_o meaning_n be_v that_o the_o former_a spiritual_a duty_n must_v necessary_o and_o indispensable_o be_v do_v and_o yet_o these_o lastre_n must_v not_o be_v omit_v but_o otherwise_o when_o it_o shall_v happen_v that_o one_o of_o these_o two_o must_v be_v omit_v in_o such_o case_n these_o be_v much_o rather_o to_o be_v omit_v than_o those_o former_a for_o by_o how_o much_o the_o spirit_n be_v more_o excellent_a and_o noble_a than_o the_o body_n by_o so_o much_o be_v spiritual_a exercise_n more_o profitable_a than_o corporal_a 22._o neither_o will_v it_o avail_v the_o forementioned_a interpreter_n to_o say_v that_o their_o meaning_n be_v not_o to_o prejudice_n the_o obligation_n of_o religious_a person_n to_o internal_a duty_n but_o only_o to_o show_v that_o such_o obligation_n be_v ground_v on_o the_o divine_a law_n impose_v on_o they_o as_o christian_n and_o not_o on_o a_o externall_n law_n make_v by_o man_n and_o voluntary_o undergo_v for_o in_o opposition_n to_o this_o excuse_n beside_o what_o have_v be_v say_v concern_v the_o make_n of_o our_o vow_n to_o god_n and_o the_o express_a obligation_n therein_o to_o a_o internal_a conversion_n of_o mamner_n we_o be_v to_o know_v that_o by_o virtue_n of_o our_o religious_a vow_n we_o be_v oblige_v to_o a_o far_o
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
to_o a_o constant_a exercise_n of_o it_o 15._o now_o this_o care_n of_o superior_n must_v extend_v itself_o as_o well_o to_o lay-brother_n or_o sister_n as_o those_o of_o the_o choir_n for_o they_o also_o have_v the_o same_o obligation_n to_o aspire_v to_o contemplation_n and_o if_o the_o appoint_a vocal_a prayer_n of_o the_o divine_a office_n without_o the_o join_n of_o daily_a recollection_n will_v not_o avail_v to_o procure_v in_o these_o the_o spirit_n of_o recollectednes_n much_o less_o will_v those_o short_a prayer_n or_o office_n to_o which_o the_o other_o be_v oblige_v 16._o to_o conclude_v this_o point_n it_o concern_v most_o deep_o superior_n to_o take_v care_n that_o their_o subject_n live_v according_a to_o their_o profession_n and_o obligation_n for_o if_o it_o shall_v be_v by_o their_o fault_n that_o they_o fail_v it_o will_v be_v no_o excuse_n to_o the_o subject_n but_o a_o great_a part_n of_o the_o burden_n and_o punishment_n will_v light_v upon_o superior_n and_o it_o be_v far_o better_a they_o have_v never_o come_v under_o their_o direction_n but_o stay_v in_o the_o world_n where_o not_o have_v the_o like_a obligation_n to_o the_o perfection_n of_o christian_a virtue_n their_o guilt_n will_v have_v be_v the_o less_o hence_o s._n augustin_n say_v that_o as_o he_o never_o see_v better_a soul_n than_o those_o in_o religion_n so_o likewise_o he_o never_o see_v worse_o and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o it_o argue_v a_o most_o malicious_o ill_a habit_n of_o soul_n when_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o so_o great_a light_n and_o such_o help_n to_o piety_n spiritual_a sloth_n and_o tepidity_n reign_v and_o where_o tepidity_n be_v in_o religion_n although_o carnal_a open_a sin_n may_v be_v avoid_v yet_o the_o more_o dangerous_a sin_n of_o the_o spirit_n pride_n factiousnes_n envy_n etc._n etc._n do_v find_v occasion_n of_o be_v raise_v and_o nourish_v perhaps_o more_o than_o in_o the_o world_n add_v herunto_o that_o irreverence_n and_o profane_v of_o the_o sacrament_n be_v not_o so_o common_a in_o the_o world_n where_o the_o obligation_n and_o commodity_n of_o participate_v be_v not_o so_o frequent_a and_o last_o which_o be_v most_o considerable_a those_o who_o in_o religion_n be_v sluggish_a and_o indevout_a do_v grow_v continual_o worse_a &_o worse_o be_v more_o and_o more_o harden_a by_o the_o daily_a heartless_a exercise_n of_o prayer_n and_o tepid_a communion_n for_o where_o the_o sacament_n do_v not_o produce_v the_o good_a effect_n for_o which_o god_n give_v they_o they_o do_v occasional_o increase_v hardness_n of_o heart_n and_o impenitency_n hence_o say_v thaulerus_n it_o be_v better_a to_o take_v into_o one_o body_n a_o million_o of_o devil_n than_o once_o to_o take_v the_o body_n of_o our_o lord_n be_v in_o a_o unfit_a disposition_n and_o so_o it_o be_v a_o very_a extraordinary_a and_o almost_o miraculous_a thing_n if_o god_n give_v the_o grace_n of_o a_o new_a conversion_n to_o soul_n that_o in_o religion_n be_v become_v habitual_o tepid_v and_o stain_v with_o know_v impurity_n for_o they_o be_v insensible_a of_o their_o soul_n good_a in_o the_o midst_n of_o all_o advantage_n possible_a to_o be_v have_v can_v by_o any_o change_n to_o a_o better_a state_n be_v amend_v and_o therefore_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v such_o do_v general_o die_v in_o the_o state_n wherein_o they_o live_v whereas_o in_o the_o world_n a_o ill_a liver_n may_v far_o more_o probable_o meet_v with_o help_n of_o conversion_n by_o change_n of_o state_n place_n etc._n etc._n or_o by_o sickness_n whereupon_o s._n bernard_n profess_v that_o he_o will_v not_o doubt_v to_o give_v a_o present_a absolution_n to_o the_o most_o enormous_a sinner_n live_v in_o the_o world_n if_o he_o will_v promise_v to_o enter_v into_o a_o religious_a life_n but_o what_o hope_n can_v be_v of_o he_o that_o after_o he_o have_v leave_v the_o world_n so_o habitual_o neglect_v god_n what_o change_n what_o new_a occasion_n can_v be_v afford_v to_o he_o for_o his_o conversion_n chap._n ix_o §_o 1._o advice_n to_o novice_n §_o 2._o 3._o 4._o 5._o of_o the_o fervour_n novitius_n why_o god_n give_v it_o at_o the_o beginning_n of_o our_o conversion_n and_o what_o use_n be_v to_o be_v make_v of_o it_o §_o 6._o 7._o how_o they_o be_v to_o behave_v themselves_o after_o their_o novice-ship_n §_o 8._o superior_n ought_v not_o to_o employ_v young_a religious_a in_o distractive_a employment_n §_o 9_o how_o they_o be_v to_o be_v order_v about_o their_o study_n 1._o there_o will_v be_v occasion_n in_o the_o follow_a treatise_n to_o speak_v of_o several_a special_a duty_n of_o religious_a person_n as_o how_o they_o be_v to_o behave_v themselves_o in_o exterior_a office_n in_o sickness_n refection_n etc._n etc._n i_o will_v therefore_o content_v myself_o to_o adjoine_v here_o a_o few_o direction_n and_o caution_n address_v particular_o to_o beginner_n or_o novice_n in_o religion_n 2._o daily_o experience_n confirm_v that_o which_o spiritual_a writer_n observe_v that_o god_n in_o great_a goodness_n to_o soul_n do_v usual_o upon_o their_o first_o conversion_n bestow_v upon_o they_o a_o great_a fervour_n in_o divine_a &_o religious_a duty_n which_o therefore_o our_o holy_a father_n call_v feruorem_fw-la novitium_fw-la yea_o even_o natural_o the_o inbred_a like_n that_o our_o infirm_a nature_n have_v to_o all_o novelty_n and_o change_n cause_v a_o more_o than_o ordinary_a pleasure_n diligence_n &_o earnestness_n in_o any_o newbegun_a employment_n 3._o to_o this_o purpose_n there_o be_v in_o the_o annal_n of_o the_o franciscan_n relate_v a_o passage_n touch_v a_o devout_a brother_n call_v michael_n magothi_fw-mi by_o which_o we_o may_v learn_v the_o ground_n and_o intention_n of_o almighty_a god_n in_o bestow_v such_o a_o fervour_n the_o story_n be_v this_o there_o be_v one_o of_o the_o religious_a brethren_n in_o his_o convent_n that_o observe_v of_o himself_o that_o ordinary_o when_o he_o be_v in_o any_o externall_n employment_n of_o study_n labour_v &c_n &c_n god_n do_v prevent_v his_o soul_n with_o his_o blessing_n of_o sweetness_n and_o a_o affection_n oftend_a sensible_a devotion_n the_o which_o whensoever_o he_o set_v himself_o purposely_o to_o prayer_n forsake_v he_o whereupon_o he_o address_v himself_o to_o this_o good_a brother_n michael_n to_o demand_v his_o counsel_n who_o answer_v he_o thus_o when_o you_o be_v walk_v at_o leisure_n in_o the_o marketplace_n think_v of_o nothing_o there_o meet_v you_o a_o man_n with_o a_o vessel_n of_o wine_n to_o sell_v he_o invite_v you_o to_o buy_v it_o much_o commend_v the_o excellency_n of_o it_o and_o the_o better_a to_o persuade_v you_o he_o offer_v you_o gratis_o a_o small_a glass_n of_o it_o to_o the_o end_n that_o be_v delight_v with_o the_o colour_n and_o fragrancy_n of_o it_o you_o may_v be_v more_o tempt_v to_o buy_v the_o whole_a vessel_n which_o you_o must_v expect_v will_v cost_v you_o very_o dear_a even_o so_o our_o lord_n jesus_n while_o your_o thought_n be_v wander_v upon_o other_o matter_n either_o in_o read_v or_o hear_v a_o sermon_n or_o work_v by_o a_o secret_a inspiration_n invite_v you_o powerful_o instil_v a_o few_o drop_n of_o his_o sweetness_n into_o your_o heart_n to_o taste_v how_o delicious_a he_o be_v but_o this_o be_v but_o transitory_a be_v offer_v not_o to_o satiate_v or_o inebriate_v you_o but_o only_o to_o allure_v you_o to_o his_o service_n and_o therefore_o if_o you_o expect_v any_o more_o you_o must_v consider_v it_o be_v to_o be_v sell_v and_o a_o dear_a price_n pay_v for_o it_o for_o spiritual_a sweetness_n can_v be_v obtain_v no_o other_o way_n but_o by_o corporal_a affliction_n nor_o rest_v but_o by_o labour_n 4._o good_a soul_n therefore_o be_v often_o to_o be_v exhort_v to_o make_v good_a use_n of_o this_o fervour_n and_o to_o improve_v it_o diligent_o yet_o with_o discretion_n thereby_o to_o produce_v in_o their_o heart_n a_o unshake_a resolution_n to_o proceed_v in_o the_o way_n of_o the_o divine_a love_n notwithstanding_o any_o contradiction_n or_o pain_n that_o may_v happen_v they_o must_v not_o expect_v that_o this_o fervour_n will_v be_v last_v for_o be_v seat_v in_o the_o inferior_a grosser_n part_n of_o the_o soul_n it_o be_v not_o of_o long_a continuance_n since_o it_o may_v easy_o be_v alter_v even_o by_o any_o change_n make_v in_o the_o bodily_a humour_n or_o by_o externall_n occurrent_n so_o that_o if_o it_o be_v not_o well_o manage_v and_o good_a use_n make_v of_o it_o to_o fix_v holy_a and_o resolute_a desire_n in_o the_o spirit_n which_o be_v more_o last_a as_o not_o depend_v on_o the_o body_n or_o outward_a thing_n it_o be_v just_o to_o be_v fear_v that_o god_n will_v not_o bestow_v the_o like_a afterward_o 5._o a_o novice-ship_n be_v a_o golden_a time_n for_o the_o learning_n and_o practise_v matter_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o that_o short_a space_n therefore_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
ascend_v before_o we_o can_v attain_v to_o the_o perfection_n of_o this_o virtue_n 12._o the_o first_o degree_n be_v to_o have_v a_o serious_a desire_n of_o patience_n and_o however_o in_o the_o superior_a will_n to_o endeavour_v to_o hold_v patience_n upon_o any_o provocation_n and_o if_o this_o can_v be_v have_v at_o first_o yet_o to_o procure_v it_o as_o soon_o as_o may_v be_v at_o least_o before_o the_o sun_n pass_v or_o in_o the_o next_o recollection_n and_o however_o to_o restrain_v the_o tongue_n and_o outward_a member_n from_o express_v impatience_n though_o perhaps_o as_o yet_o anger_n can_v be_v prevent_v from_o show_v itself_o in_o sour_a look_n a_o person_n therefore_o that_o ordinary_o can_v abstain_v from_o deliberate_a angry_a speech_n or_o which_o be_v worse_o from_o passionate_a action_n in_o which_o the_o deliberation_n be_v great_a have_v not_o as_o yet_o attain_v the_o low_a degree_n of_o patience_n 13._o the_o second_o be_v to_o use_v all_o endeavour_n to_o guard_v the_o heart_n not_o suffer_v the_o contradiction_n or_o cross_n to_o enter_v into_o it_o or_o move_v passion_n in_o it_o but_o to_o esteem_v the_o provocation_n as_o not_o worth_a the_o consider_v or_o rather_o as_o a_o matter_n from_o which_o we_o may_v reap_v much_o good_a 14._o the_o three_o be_v to_o use_v the_o mild_a word_n &_o freindly_o look_v we_o can_v to_o the_o person_n provoke_v we_o and_o not_o only_o to_o desire_v but_o endeavour_v also_o to_o procure_v his_o good_a and_o to_o lay_v obligation_n upon_o he_o 15._o the_o four_o be_v to_o imitate_v the_o prophet_n david_n who_o say_v improperium_fw-la expectavit_fw-la cor_fw-la meum_fw-la &_o miseriam_fw-la my_o soul_n expect_v scornful_a upbraid_v and_o affliction_n this_o degree_n do_v not_o oblige_v we_o to_o seek_v voluntary_a mortification_n but_o only_o not_o be_v solicitous_a to_o avoid_v they_o and_o god_n oft_o inspire_v into_o his_o servant_n a_o desire_n that_o occasion_n of_o exercise_v their_o patience_n may_v be_v afford_v they_o yea_o and_o sometime_o to_o seek_v they_o as_o s._n syncletica_n beg_v of_o s._n athanasius_n to_o assign_v unto_o she_o a_o crosse-ill-natured_n person_n to_o be_v attend_v on_o by_o she_o the_o which_o be_v grant_v she_o she_o come_v to_o attain_v this_o virtue_n in_o great_a perfection_n suffer_v all_o her_o froward_a insupportable_a humour_n with_o facility_n &_o joy._n 16._o the_o five_o degree_n be_v show_v in_o bear_v with_o resignation_n and_o peace_n internal_a cross_n aridity_n etc._n etc._n which_o be_v far_o more_o grievous_a then_o externall_n once_o especial_o that_o great_a desolation_n send_v by_o god_n for_o the_o purify_n of_o perfect_a soul_n of_o which_o we_o shall_v speak_v in_o the_o follow_a treatise_n 17._o six_o a_o great_a addition_n be_v make_v to_o the_o greivousnes_n of_o these_o internal_a cross_n and_o consequent_o to_o patience_n in_o bear_v they_o when_o they_o be_v accompany_v with_o externall_n affliction_n also_o this_o be_v our_o lord_n case_n on_o the_o cross_n when_o to_o the_o intolerable_a torment_n of_o his_o body_n be_v add_v internal_a desolation_n 26._o the_o seven_o and_o supreme_a degree_n of_o patience_n be_v to_o suffer_v all_o these_o thing_n not_o only_o with_o quietness_n but_o joy_n this_o be_v a_o degree_n more_o than_o humane_a be_v a_o supernatural_a gift_n of_o god_n by_o which_o not_o only_o the_o superior_a will_n without_o any_o repugnance_n do_v receive_v and_o embrace_v thing_n most_o contrary_a to_o nature_n but_o the_o sensuality_n make_v no_o opposition_n neither_o though_o they_o shall_v come_v sudden_o &_o without_o preparation_n now_o i_o know_v not_o whether_o ever_o any_o mere_a creature_n except_o our_o bless_a lady_n have_v ever_o arrive_v to_o so_o high_a a_o degree_n of_o perfection_n in_o this_o life_n as_o to_o become_v whole_o impassable_a 19_o s._n john_n climacus_n mention_n two_o example_n of_o two_o holy_a person_n that_o seem_v some_o what_o extravagant_a the_o first_o be_v of_o one_o that_o have_v receive_v a_o injury_n and_o be_v not_o at_o all_o move_v with_o it_o yet_o desire_v to_o conceal_v his_o patience_n make_v great_a complaint_n to_o his_o bethren_n express_v a_o counterfeit_n great_a commotion_n of_o passion_n the_o other_o be_v of_o a_o very_a humble_a soul_n that_o abhor_a ambition_n yet_o pretend_v a_o impatient_a desire_n and_o pursuit_n after_o office_n and_o great_a irresignation_n when_o they_o be_v refuse_v but_o say_v our_o author_n we_o must_v take_v heed_n least_o by_o imitate_v such_o practice_n we_o come_v much_o rather_o to_o deceive_v our_o own_o soul_n than_o the_o devil_n or_o other_o 20._o all_o other_o mean_n whatsoever_o use_v for_o the_o procure_n of_o patience_n without_o pure_a internal_a prayer_n will_v produce_v little_o better_o than_o a_o philosophical_a mortification_n mix_v with_o secret_a undiscovered_a interest_n of_o nature_n but_o by_o prayer_n join_v with_o exercise_n of_o patience_n out_o of_o it_o the_o very_a soul_n will_v be_v rectify_v and_o in_o time_n come_v to_o such_o a_o establish_a peacefullnes_n that_o nothing_o will_v be_v able_a to_o disturb_v it_o no_o scarce_o the_o person_n themselves_o if_o they_o have_v a_o mind_n to_o it_o the_o which_o amendment_n will_v be_v imperceptible_a as_o progress_n in_o such_o prayer_n be_v but_o after_o some_o convenient_a space_n of_o time_n there_o will_v be_v a_o certain_a general_a sense_n &_o feeling_n of_o it_o and_o this_o ere_o we_o be_v ware_v and_o the_o way_n that_o perfect_a soul_n take_v for_o the_o perfect_a themselves_o in_o this_o virtue_n be_v not_o so_o much_o by_o a_o direct_a purpose_a exercise_n &_o combat_n against_o special_a defect_n or_o passion_n as_o by_o a_o universal_a transcend_v of_o all_o create_a thing_n by_o mean_n of_o a_o elevation_n of_o spirit_n and_o drown_a it_o in_o god_n 21._o herupon_o a_o holy_a hermit_n in_o cassian_n seem_v to_o account_v all_o our_o action_n whatsoever_o except_o only_o the_o actual_a exercise_n of_o contemplation_n to_o be_v defectuous_a his_o reason_n i_o suppose_v to_o be_v because_o only_o during_o the_o time_n that_o a_o soul_n be_v in_o actual_a contemplation_n she_o be_v in_o god_n perfect_o unite_v in_o spirit_n to_o he_o and_o consequent_o entire_o separate_v from_o corrupt_a nature_n and_o sin_n whereas_o out_o of_o contemplation_n she_o be_v at_o least_o in_o some_o measure_n depress_v in_o nature_n and_o paint_v with_o the_o image_n of_o creature_n the_o which_o can_v but_o leave_v some_o small_a stain_n in_o the_o soul_n chap._n viii_o §_o 1._o 2._o of_o mortification_n of_o fear_n and_o scrupulosity_n which_o be_v the_o most_o disquiet_v passion_n of_o all_o other_o §_o 3._o 4._o what_o scrupulosity_n be_v §_o 5._o 6._o advice_n here_o give_v only_o belong_v to_o such_o as_o true_o desire_v to_o lead_v internal_a life_n and_o why_o §_o 7._o scrupulosity_n though_o a_o pernicious_a passion_n yet_o be_v only_o incident_a to_o the_o tender_a conscience_n §_o 8._o 9_o soul_n at_o the_o beginning_n of_o a_o spiritual_a course_n be_v usual_o very_o tender_a and_o scrupulous_a and_o why_o therefore_o it_o be_v necessary_a and_o easy_a to_o prevent_v scrupulosity_n in_o the_o beginning_n §_o 10._o the_o order_n according_a to_o which_o the_o follow_a aduises_n be_v dispose_v 1._o the_o next_o passion_n to_o be_v mortify_v be_v fear_n to_o which_o we_o will_v add_v grief_n not_o as_o if_o they_o be_v not_o quite_o different_a passion_n but_o because_o ordinary_o the_o grief_n which_o be_v in_o wellminded_n soul_n that_o lead_v internal_a life_n proceed_v from_o fear_n and_o scrupulosity_n and_o not_o from_o such_o cause_n as_o procure_v grief_n in_o secular_a mind_n as_o loss_n of_o good_n friend_n etc._n etc._n or_o the_o feel_n of_o pain_n &c._n &c._n 2._o now_o fear_n seem_v to_o be_v of_o all_o other_o passion_n the_o most_o disquiet_v for_o though_o grief_n regard_v the_o same_o object_n real_o add_v this_o excess_n to_o fear_n that_o it_o suppose_v the_o evil_a to_o be_v present_a which_o to_o fear_n be_v only_o future_a and_o a_o present_a ill_n as_o such_o be_v more_o afflict_v then_o a_o evil_a only_o expect_v yet_o fear_v respect_v the_o evil_a in_o the_o imagination_n &_o as_o yet_o unknow_v apprehend_v it_o according_a as_o the_o imagination_n will_v represent_v it_o which_o ordinary_o be_v far_o great_a than_o in_o reality_n it_o be_v yea_o as_o in_o a_o sort_n infinite_a and_o moreover_o such_o a_o apprehension_n set_v the_o understanding_n on_o work_n either_o to_o contrive_v mean_n to_o avoid_v it_o or_o if_o that_o be_v difficult_a to_o invent_v new_a motive_n of_o unquietnes_n and_o anxiety_n the_o which_o be_v far_o great_a in_o evil_n of_o which_o we_o be_v uncertain_a how_o great_a they_o may_v be_v and_o how_o soon_o they_o may_v be_v fall_n us._n 3._o the_o special_a kind_n of_o fear_n
however_o for_o the_o peril_n of_o pride_n which_o will_v insinuate_v &_o mingle_v itself_o even_o in_o humility_n also_o we_o shall_v not_o be_v too_o forward_o to_o exercise_v voluntary_a outward_a action_n of_o humility_n out_o of_o a_o pretence_n of_o give_v edification_n to_o other_o and_o when_o we_o do_v such_o as_o be_v command_v in_o the_o rule_n &_o conformable_a to_o our_o state_n we_o ought_v in_o they_o as_o well_o as_o we_o can_v to_o purify_v our_o intention_n chap._n fourteen_o §_o 1._o 2._o of_o the_o mortification_n of_o our_o natural_a inclination_n to_o liberty_n or_o independency_n by_o the_o virtue_n of_o obedience_n §_o 3._o 4._o obedience_n likewise_o regard_v god_n either_o mediate_o or_o immediate_o and_o that_o it_o be_v easy_a to_o obey_v god_n then_o man_n §_o 5._o 6._o 7._o 8._o the_o obligation_n lay_v by_o our_o holy_a rule_n on_o subject_n to_o discover_v their_o internal_a defect_n to_o superior_n be_v now_o much_o out_o of_o use_n and_o how_o this_o be_v come_v to_o pass_v §_o 9_o obedience_n earnest_o press_v by_o s._n benedict_n §_o 10._o it_o ought_v to_o proceed_v from_o the_o soul_n §_o 11._o 12._o of_o the_o doctrine_n of_o casuist_n limit_v or_o dispense_n with_o regular_a obedience_n and_o what_o use_n be_v to_o be_v make_v of_o it_o §_o 13._o 14._o special_a advice_n thereabouts_o to_o scrupulous_a soul_n §_o 15._o true_o perfect_a obedience_n have_v no_o limit_n §_o 16._o 17._o 18._o several_a defect_n in_o obedience_n §_o 19_o 20._o 21._o 22._o 23._o how_o a_o soul_n be_v to_o behave_v herself_o in_o obedience_n in_o thing_n prejudicial_a and_o in_o such_o as_o be_v please_v to_o nature_n §_o 24._o a_o example_n of_o perfect_a simplicity_n in_o obedience_n §_o 25._o of_o obedience_n to_o brethren_n require_v in_o our_o rule_n §_o 26._o prayer_n a_o necessary_a mean_a to_o beget_v obedience_n 1._o the_o second_o depravation_n of_o the_o will_n which_o be_v to_o be_v mortify_v be_v a_o natural_a love_n of_o liberty_n &_o independence_n as_o also_o a_o ambition_n to_o dispose_v &_o rule_v other_o and_o the_o proper_a virtue_n whereby_o this_o be_v mortify_v be_v religious_a obedience_n the_o which_o be_v a_o branch_n of_o humility_n as_o the_o foresay_a depravation_n be_v of_o pride_n 2._o obedience_n therefore_o as_o well_o as_o humility_n do_v principal_o regard_n god_n even_o when_o it_o be_v perform_v to_o man_n and_o indeed_o unless_o our_o obedience_n to_o creature_n do_v flow_v from_o our_o obedience_n due_a to_o god_n it_o will_v never_o advance_v or_o perfectionate_a the_o soul_n but_o rather_o nourish_v all_o deprave_a affection_n in_o it_o as_o have_v its_o root_n in_o self-love_n servile_a fear_n yea_o oft_o in_o pride_n itself_o whereas_o if_o it_o be_v ground_v on_o our_o duty_n to_o god_n the_o soul_n thereby_o will_v become_v so_o humble_a supple_a and_o pliable_a that_o it_o will_v not_o refuse_v to_o subject_v itself_o to_o the_o mean_a creature_n it_o will_v cheerful_o suffer_v all_o cross_n contradiction_n &_o pressure_n both_o external_a and_o internal_a 3._o obedience_n be_v perform_v either_o 1._o immediate_o to_o god_n alone_o 2._o or_o immediate_o to_o man_n but_o for_o god_n sake_n we_o will_v in_o this_o place_n only_o treat_v of_o this_o latter_a for_o as_o for_o the_o other_o it_o comprehend_v all_o the_o duty_n of_o piety_n &_o devotion_n whether_o external_a or_o internal_a and_o therefore_o need_v not_o be_v speak_v of_o particular_o 4._o to_o submit_v one_o self_n to_o man_n for_o god_n sake_n or_o out_o of_o love_n to_o god_n be_v much_o hard_a than_o to_o do_v it_o immediate_o to_o god_n &_o consequent_o it_o be_v in_o that_o regard_n more_o meritorious_a &_o will_v most_o efficacious_o and_o speedy_o bring_v a_o soul_n to_o perfection_n the_o reason_n of_o the_o great_a difficulty_n in_o our_o obedience_n to_o man_n be_v 1._o because_o though_o we_o acknowledge_v our_o superior_a to_o be_v god_n substitute_n yet_o we_o be_v not_o always_o convince_v that_o his_o particular_a command_n proceed_v from_o he_o as_o such_o but_o rather_o from_o passion_n natural_a interest_n aversion_n &c_n &c_n so_o that_o we_o can_v see_v his_o command_n to_o be_v so_o reasonable_a as_o god_n be_v acknowledge_v to_o be_v not_o that_o obedience_n to_o they_o will_v produce_v so_o much_o good_a to_o the_o soul_n 2._o because_o we_o know_v our_o superior_a can_v see_v nor_o judge_v the_o heart_n but_o may_v err_v &_o be_v mistake_v so_o that_o it_o be_v not_o easy_a to_o submit_v the_o mind_n to_o one_o that_o have_v no_o right_a over_o it_o nor_o power_n to_o see_v his_o command_n perfect_o execute_v 5._o for_o this_o reason_n it_o be_v that_o our_o holy_a father_n know_v the_o wonderful_a virtue_n &_o efficacy_n of_o obedience_n proceed_v from_o the_o heart_n require_v in_o his_o holy_a rule_n that_o subject_n shall_v in_o a_o sort_n communicate_v to_o their_o superior_n that_o proper_a attribute_n of_o god_n who_o call_v himself_o a_o seer_n &_o searcher_n of_o the_o heart_n with_o humility_n &_o simplicity_n discover_v unto_o they_o all_o their_o considerable_a imperfection_n in_o thought_n and_o this_o he_o do_v not_o only_o out_o of_o a_o eye_n to_o the_o benefit_n that_o may_v come_v by_o the_o sacrament_n of_o penance_n for_o this_o be_v to_o be_v do_v though_o the_o superior_a be_v no_o priest_n as_o ancient_o oft_o they_o be_v not_o but_o the_o end_n of_o this_o obligation_n be_v 1._o for_o the_o more_o perfect_a humiliation_n of_o the_o subject_n &_o a_o mortification_n of_o that_o natural_a aversion_n that_o we_o have_v from_o the_o discover_n &_o submit_v to_o the_o censure_n of_o other_o our_o secret_a defect_n 2._o to_o the_o end_n that_o the_o superior_a may_v be_v enable_v to_o govern_v his_o subject_n for_o their_o spiritual_a advancement_n 6._o we_o may_v reasonable_o impute_v to_o the_o disuse_n of_o this_o obligation_n the_o great_a decay_n of_o religious_a discipline_n &_o perfection_n in_o the_o world_n because_o now_o general_o speak_v superior_n know_v no_o more_o of_o their_o subject_n but_o what_o they_o chance_v to_o observe_v in_o their_o outward_a behaviour_n for_o as_o for_o internal_a matter_n which_o be_v the_o principal_a they_o all_o pass_v between_o each_o religious_a person_n &_o a_o private_a choose_v confessarius_fw-la 7._o but_o withal_o the_o disuse_n of_o the_o say_a obligation_n we_o be_v to_o impute_v 1._o partly_o to_o the_o tepidity_n of_o subject_n &_o their_o want_n of_o care_n to_o be_v govern_v by_o a_o way_n absolute_o the_o best_a for_o themselves_o however_o very_o heavy_a to_o corrupt_v nature_n 2._o but_o principal_o to_o the_o incapacity_n &_o insufficiency_n of_o superior_n in_o regard_n of_o which_o such_o a_o change_n of_o the_o say_a custom_n be_v esteem_v even_o necessary_a 8._o sure_o this_o most_o excellent_a practice_n have_v never_o be_v bring_v into_o disuse_n or_o will_v again_o be_v restore_v if_o superior_n according_a as_o our_o holy_a rule_n require_v &_o as_o in_o the_o primitive_a time_n they_o be_v have_v continue_v or_o general_o now_o be_v 1._o themselves_o practise_v in_o a_o spiritual_a course_n of_o prayer_n &_o contemplation_n &_o will_v consider_v that_o their_o duty_n be_v to_o direct_v their_o subject_n soul_n in_o the_o same_o way_n 2._o if_o they_o have_v the_o spirit_n of_o discretion_n &_o light_n to_o discern_v the_o several_a disposition_n &_o capacity_n of_o their_o subject_n soul_n in_o order_n to_o their_o principal_a end_n 3._o if_o in_o whatsoever_o imposition_n they_o lie_v on_o they_o beyond_o the_o observance_n of_o the_o rule_n they_o will_v regard_v whether_o thereby_o their_o subject_n consider_v their_o several_a temper_n be_v likely_a to_o be_v advance_v or_o hinder_v in_o their_o spiritual_a course_n &_o not_o esteem_v that_o it_o be_v a_o sufficient_a justification_n for_o they_o that_o the_o thing_n in_o themselves_o be_v not_o ill_o &_o their_o end_n therein_o be_v to_o mortify_v their_o subject_n will_n &_o passion_n for_o such_o mortification_n there_o may_v be_v as_o will_v endanger_v to_o extinguish_v the_o light_n that_o be_v in_o their_o subject_n soul_n by_o draw_v they_o to_o multiplicity_n &c_n &c_n so_o that_o no_o other_o imposition_n or_o mortification_n be_v excusable_a but_o such_o as_o right_a reason_n enlighten_v by_o grace_n will_v judge_v nocessary_a &_o such_o as_o god_n himself_o will_v ordain_v for_o they_o 4._o especialâ—y_o if_o they_o will_v abstain_v from_o lay_v such_o encumbrance_n on_o their_o subject_n as_o be_v last_a &_o regard_v not_o only_o the_o exterior_a but_o interiour_n also_o distract_n the_o memory_n confound_v the_o understanding_n &_o breed_v perplexity_n in_o their_o mind_n or_o in_o a_o word_n that_o be_v prejudicial_a to_o internal_a prayer_n for_o indeed_o imposition_n be_v to_o be_v account_v only_o so_o
perfection_n we_o be_v arrive_v 6._o four_o all_o increase_n of_o sanctify_a grace_n by_o whatsoever_o instrument_n it_o be_v produce_v as_o by_o regular_a austerity_n temperance_n exercise_n of_o mortification_n be_v perform_v according_a to_o the_o good_a internal_a disposition_n and_o actuation_n of_o soul_n accompany_v the_o use_n of_o they_o yea_o the_o same_o may_v also_o in_o a_o certain_a proportion_n be_v affirm_v even_o of_o the_o sacrament_n themselves_o in_o adultis_fw-la the_o which_o although_o by_o their_o own_o intrinsical_a virtue_n and_o as_o the_o council_n of_o trent_n sess_v 7._o can_n 8._o express_v it_o ex_fw-la opere_fw-la operato_fw-la they_o do_v conserre_v a_o peculiar_a grace_n and_o aid_v and_o this_o quantum_fw-la est_fw-la parte_fw-la dei_fw-la at_o all_o time_n and_o on_o all_o person_n that_o due_o receive_v they_o see_v sess_v 7._o cap._n 6._o &_o 7._o yet_o withal_o the_o quantity_n and_o measure_n of_o the_o say_a grace_n be_v in_o the_o same_o council_n sess_v 6._o cap._n 7._o say_v to_o be_v secundam_fw-la propriam_fw-la cuiusque_fw-la dispositionem_fw-la &_o cooperationem_fw-la according_a to_o the_o peculiar_a disposition_n and_o cooperation_n of_o each_o person_n respective_o that_o be_v those_o that_o come_v with_o more_o or_o less_o perfect_a intense_a continued_z and_o multiply_v internal_a act_n of_o faith_n hope_n charity_n devotion_n &c_n &c_n do_v according_o receive_v a_o more_o or_o less_o plentiful_a measure_n of_o sacramental_a grace_n now_o what_o be_v all_o these_o disposition_n and_o preparation_n but_o the_o exercise_v of_o internal_a prayer_n whence_o appear_v how_o wonderful_a a_o influence_n internal_a prayer_n both_o by_o way_n of_o merit_n or_o impetration_n and_o likewise_o by_o a_o direct_a efficiency_n have_v in_o the_o produce_v and_o increase_n of_o divine_a virtue_n in_o the_o soul_n 7._o five_o if_o a_o soul_n out_o of_o the_o time_n of_o prayer_n shall_v in_o occasion_n for_o example_n of_o contradiction_n persecution_n &c_n &c_n neglect_v to_o exercise_v patience_n she_o must_v necessary_o exercise_v impatience_n &_o by_o consequence_n will_v make_v little_a or_o no_o progress_n by_o her_o prayer_n yet_o if_o then_o she_o shall_v use_v any_o reasonable_a care_n diligence_n or_o watchfullnes_n over_o herself_o though_o not_o for_o the_o get_n of_o much_o yet_o not_o to_o loose_v much_o out_o of_o prayer_n god_n will_v by_o mean_n of_o her_o prayer_n serious_o prosecute_v infuse_v such_o a_o measure_n of_o grace_n as_o will_v cause_v a_o progress_n notwithstanding_o frequent_a fail_n through_o frailty_n or_o inaduertence_n etc._n etc._n but_o it_o will_v be_v late_o ere_o the_o effect_n of_o such_o infusion_n will_v appear_v 8._o six_o increase_v in_o virtue_n do_v pure_o depend_v on_o the_o free_a grace_n &_o good_a pleasure_n of_o god_n confer_v the_o say_a grace_n in_o prayer_n etc._n etc._n in_o a_o measure_n as_o himself_o please_v &_o also_o by_o his_o holy_a providence_n administer_a occasion_n several_o of_o exercise_v several_a virtue_n the_o which_o occasion_n ordinary_o be_v not_o at_o all_o in_o our_o own_o power_n or_o disposal_n 9_o seaventh_o according_a to_o our_o progress_n in_o virtue_n so_o be_v our_o progress_n in_o prayer_n &_o till_o the_o soul_n be_v in_o a_o very_a high_a degree_n purify_v from_o self-love_n she_o be_v incapable_a of_o that_o perfect_a degree_n of_o prayer_n which_o be_v call_v contemplation_n according_a to_o that_o save_n of_o our_o saviour_n math._n 5._o beati_fw-la mundo_fw-la cord_n quoniam_fw-la ipsi_fw-la deum_fw-la videbunt_fw-la that_o be_v bless_a be_v the_o pure_a in_o heart_n for_o they_o shall_v see_v god_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v evident_a because_o until_o the_o internal_a eye_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v cleanse_v from_o the_o mist_n of_o passion_n &_o inordinate_a affection_n it_o neither_o will_v nor_o can_v fix_v itself_o upon_o so_o pure_a &_o divine_a a_o object_n true_a it_o be_v that_o in_o every_o the_o most_o imperfect_a degree_n of_o prayer_n by_o which_o the_o soul_n be_v proportional_o purify_v god_n be_v in_o some_o qualify_a sense_n contemplate_v but_o we_o do_v not_o apply_v the_o term_n of_o contemplation_n except_o only_o to_o the_o most_o sublime_a degree_n of_o prayer_n the_o which_o yet_o be_v never_o so_o perfect_o absolute_a in_o this_o life_n but_o that_o it_o may_v without_o limitation_n increase_v because_o the_o soul_n be_v never_o so_o perfect_o free_v from_o the_o bitter_a fruit_n of_o original_a sin_n ignorance_n &_o concupiscence_n but_o there_o will_v over_o remain_v matter_n &_o exercise_v for_o further_a mortification_n or_o purification_n 10._o eight_o virtue_n be_v in_o no_o other_o state_n of_o life_n so_o perfect_o establish_v in_o the_o depth_n &_o centre_n of_o the_o spirit_n as_o in_o a_o contemplative_a state_n because_o all_o the_o exercise_n thereof_o do_v principal_o &_o direct_o regard_v the_o exaltation_n spiritualise_v &_o purification_n of_o the_o spirit_n by_o a_o continual_a application_n adhesion_n &_o union_n of_o it_o to_o god_n the_o fountain_n of_o light_n &_o purity_n 11._o lastâ—y_o by_o the_o mean_n of_o contemplative_a prayer_n in_o a_o internal_a life_n virtue_n be_v most_o easy_o obtain_v most_o secure_o possess_v and_o most_o perfect_o practise_v in_o a_o active_a life_n a_o person_n that_o aspire_v to_o perfection_n therein_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o many_o thing_n to_o enable_v he_o for_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o duty_n dispose_v thereto_o for_o the_o exercise_n of_o externall_n work_v of_o charity_n there_o be_v needful_a riches_n or_o friend_n &c_n &c_n and_o for_o spiritual_a almes-giving_a there_o be_v require_v learning_n study_n disputation_n etc._n etc._n and_o if_o by_o the_o help_n of_o these_o there_o be_v acquire_v a_o established_a habit_n of_o solid_a charity_n it_o be_v not_o very_o secure_o possess_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o so_o many_o distraction_n follicitude_n and_o tentation_n but_o a_o contemplative_a life_n as_o s._n thomas_n 22._o q._n 182._o a._n 1._o c._n observe_v even_o from_o aristotle_n himself_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o very_a few_o thing_n be_v to_o itself_o sufficient_a such_o a_o person_n alone_o without_o need_v either_o assistance_n or_o favour_n from_o abroad_o can_v both_o purchase_v and_o exercise_v all_o virtue_n yea_o and_o liberal_o dispense_v all_o kind_n of_o charity_n to_o other_o also_o for_o by_o prayer_n alone_o exercise_v in_o solitude_n he_o can_v employ_v and_o engage_v god_n omnipotence_n wisdom_n and_o all_o the_o treasure_n of_o his_o riches_n for_o the_o supply_v all_o the_o necessity_n externall_n and_o internal_a of_o his_o church_n the_o light_n that_o be_v get_v by_o prayer_n will_v be_v more_o than_o equivalent_a to_o long_a and_o laborious_a study_n not_o sanctify_v with_o prayer_n for_o the_o enable_v he_o to_o discharge_v efficacious_o a_o pastoral_a charge_n over_o soul_n when_o they_o shall_v be_v commit_v to_o he_o though_o no_o doubt_n prayer_n will_v also_o incite_v to_o sufficient_a study_n and_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n though_o he_o be_v deprive_v of_o all_o conversation_n and_o book_n yea_o fetter_a and_o bury_v in_o the_o obscurity_n of_o a_o dungeon_n prayer_n alone_o will_v be_v a_o sufficient_a entertainment_n to_o he_o there_o he_o will_v find_v god_n and_o his_o holy_a spirit_n as_o present_v and_o as_o bountiful_a to_o he_o as_o ever_o yea_o the_o great_a solitude_n there_o be_v at_o the_o more_o freedom_n be_v the_o soul_n to_o run_v speedy_o and_o light_o in_o the_o course_n of_o virtue_n for_o nothing_o do_v indeed_o fetter_v she_o but_o selfelove_n &_o propriety_n and_o last_o virtue_n once_o get_v be_v evident_o most_o secure_o possess_v in_o solitude_n from_o whence_o all_o distraction_n and_o almost_o all_o tentation_n be_v exclude_v the_o end_n of_o the_o second_o treatise_n of_o mortification_n sancta_fw-la sophia_n or_o direction_n for_o the_o prayer_n of_o contemplation_n etc._n etc._n extract_v out_o of_o more_o than_o xl._n treatise_n write_v by_o the_o late_a ven._n father_n f._n augustin_n baker_n a_o monk_n of_o the_o english_a congregation_n of_o the_o holy_a order_n of_o s._n benedict_n and_o methodical_o digest_v by_o the_o r._n f._n serenus_n cressy_n of_o the_o same_o order_n and_o congregation_n and_o print_v at_o the_o charge_n of_o his_o convent_n of_o s._n gregory_n in_o douai_n vol._n ii_o at_o douai_n by_o john_n patte_n '_o and_o thomas_n fievet_n anno_fw-la d._n m.dc.lvii_o to_o the_o venerable_a and_o r._n lady_z d._n catherine_n gascoigne_n the_o lady_n abbess_n of_o the_o religious_a dame_n of_o the_o holy_a order_n of_o s._n benedict_n in_o cambray_n and_o to_o all_o the_o rr._n dame_n etc._n etc._n of_o the_o same_o convent_n madam_n if_o i_o have_v not_o any_o press_a obligation_n as_o i_o have_v many_o to_o take_v all_o occasion_n to_o acknowledge_v both_o my_o worthy_a esteem_n and_o resentment_n also_o for_o your_o many_o favour_n yet_o without_o injustice_n
i_o can_v not_o but_o return_v unto_o your_o ladishipp_n etc._n etc._n these_o instruction_n about_o the_o prayer_n of_o contemplation_n which_o from_o your_o full_a store_n i_o first_o receive_v i_o can_v wish_v it_o have_v be_v in_o my_o power_n to_o commend_v they_o to_o the_o like_n and_o practice_n of_o other_o as_o the_o admirable_a piety_n of_o the_o ven._n author_n who_o memory_n will_v always_o be_v in_o benediction_n with_o you_o do_v to_o you_o but_o be_v able_a to_o boast_v no_o other_o virtue_n in_o this_o matter_n but_o only_a diligence_n and_o fidelity_n assert_v by_o your_o ladyship_n own_o testimony_n i_o shall_v doubt_v that_o the_o unworthines_n of_o the_o compiler_n will_v to_o their_o disparagement-prevayle_a against_o the_o excellency_n of_o the_o author_n and_o his_o argument_n be_v it_o not_o that_o i_o be_o confident_a that_o a_o view_n apparent_a to_o all_o that_o know_v that_o convent_n of_o the_o many_o most_o bless_a effect_n that_o they_o have_v produce_v there_o will_v have_v the_o force_n to_o recommend_v they_o to_o stranger_n and_o to_o defend_v they_o against_o contradictour_n your_o great_a charity_n rr._n dd._n make_v you_o think_v yourselves_o not_o unbehold_v to_o i_o for_o disperse_v thus_o abroad_o to_o all_o that_o will_v accept_v they_o these_o your_o rich_a jewel_n your_o most_o delicious_a provision_n your_o most_o secure_a armour_n that_o be_v all_o that_o make_v your_o solitude_n &_o scarcity_n etc._n etc._n deserve_v to_o be_v the_o envy_n of_o prince_n court_n the_o habitation_n of_o angel_n and_o temple_n of_o god_n himself_o for_o prayer_n be_v all_o this_o &_o more_o good_a than_o yourselves_o can_v express_v and_o yet_o you_o can_v express_v more_o than_o any_o other_o but_o such_o as_o yourselves_o can_v understand_v since_o therefore_o you_o have_v be_v please_v to_o say_v i_o have_v oblige_v you_o by_o this_o publication_n let_v my_o recompense_n i_o beseech_v you_o be_v to_o be_v sometime_o think_v of_o in_o your_o prayer_n that_o i_o may_v become_v serious_o i_o own_o disciple_n and_o learn_v by_o this_o book_n to_o pray_v as_o you_o do_v and_o that_o this_o work_n may_v invite_v the_o reader_n whoever_o they_o be_v only_o to_o make_v a_o trial_n though_o at_o first_o but_o even_o out_o of_o curiosity_n whether_o we_o have_v boast_v too_o large_o of_o the_o treasure_n here_o expose_v this_o if_o through_o the_o divine_a assistance_n they_o shall_v do_v it_o may_v be_v hope_v that_o many_o unaware_o to_o themselves_o will_v become_v convert_v not_o only_o to_o piety_n but_o even_o to_o catholic_n truth_n and_o unity_n and_o sure_o none_o will_v suspect_v that_o any_o danger_n can_v come_v from_o pure_a spiritual_a prayer_n madam_n and_o rr._n dd._n douai_n this_o 23._o of_o july_n 1657._o your_o servant_n in_o our_o lord_n most_o humble_o devote_a br._n serenus_n cressy_n the_o second_o volume_n of_o instruction_n for_o a_o contemplative_a life_n contain_v a_o three_o treatise_n of_o prayer_n etc._n etc._n the_o three_o treatise_n of_o prayer_n the_o first_o section_n of_o prayer_n in_o general_a and_o the_o general_a division_n of_o it_o chap._n i._n §_o 1._o 2_o 3._o 4._o of_o prayer_n in_o general_a what_o it_o be_v §_o 5._o 6._o 7._o 8._o it_o be_v the_o most_o excellent_a &_o most_o necessary_a of_o all_o duty_n §_o 9_o 10._o the_o division_n of_o prayer_n into_o vocal_a and_o mental_a improper_a the_o whole_a employment_n of_o a_o internal_a contemplative_a life_n have_v be_v by_o i_o comprehend_v under_o two_o duty_n to_o wit_n mortification_n and_o prayer_n concern_v the_o former_a mortification_n we_o have_v discourse_v large_o in_o the_o precedent_a treatise_n we_o be_v now_o henceforward_a to_o treat_v of_o the_o other_o most_o noble_a &_o divine_a instrument_n of_o perfection_n which_o be_v prayer_n by_o which_o and_o in_o which_o alone_o we_o attain_v to_o the_o reward_n of_o all_o our_o endeavour_n the_o end_n of_o our_o creation_n and_o redemption_n to_o wit_n union_n with_o god_n in_o which_o alone_o consist_v our_o happiness_n &_o perfection_n 2._o by_o prayer_n in_o this_o place_n i_o do_v not_o understand_v petition_n or_o supplication_n which_o according_a to_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o school_n be_v exercise_v principal_o by_o the_o understanding_n be_v a_o signification_n of_o what_o the_o person_n desire_v to_o receive_v from_o god_n but_o prayer_n here_o especial_o mean_v be_v rather_o a_o offering_n and_o give_v to_o god_n whatsoever_o he_o may_v just_o require_v from_o we_o that_o be_v all_o duty_n love_n obedience_n &c_n &c_n and_o it_o be_v principal_o yea_o almost_o only_o exercise_v by_o the_o affective_a part_n of_o the_o soul_n 3._o now_o prayer_n in_o this_o general_a notion_n may_v be_v define_v to_o be_v a_o elevation_n of_o the_o mind_n to_o god_n or_o more_o large_o &_o express_o thus_o prayer_n be_v a_o affectuous_a actuation_n of_o a_o intellective_a soul_n towards_o god_n express_v or_o at_o least_o imply_v a_o entire_a dependence_n on_o he_o as_o the_o author_n &_o fountain_n of_o all_o good_a a_o will_n &_o readiness_n to_o give_v he_o his_o due_n which_o be_v no_o less_o than_o all_o love_n obedience_n adoration_n glory_n &_o worship_n by_o humble_v and_o annihilate_v of_o herself_o &_o all_o creature_n in_o his_o presence_n and_o last_o a_o desire_n &_o intention_n to_o aspire_v to_o a_o union_n of_o spirit_n with_o he_o 4._o this_o be_v the_o nature_n and_o these_o the_o necessary_a quality_n which_o be_v all_o at_o least_o virtual_o involue_v in_o all_o prayer_n whether_o it_o be_v make_v interior_o in_o the_o soul_n only_o or_o withal_o express_v by_o word_n or_o outward_a sign_n 5._o hence_o it_o appear_v that_o prayer_n be_v the_o most_o perfect_a &_o most_o divine_a action_n that_o a_o national_a soul_n be_v capable_a of_o yea_o it_o be_v the_o only_a principal_a action_n for_o the_o exercise_v of_o which_o the_o soul_n be_v create_v since_o in_o prayer_n alone_o the_o soul_n be_v unite_v to_o god_n and_o by_o consequence_n it_o be_v of_o all_o other_o action_n &_o duty_n the_o most_o indispensable_o necessary_a 6._o for_o a_o further_a demonstration_n of_o which_o necessity_n we_o may_v consider_v 1._o that_o only_o in_o prayer_n we_o be_v join_v to_o god_n our_o last_o end_n from_o who_o when_o we_o be_v separate_v we_o be_v in_o ourselves_o wherein_o our_o chief_a misery_n consist_v 2._o that_o by_o prayer_n grace_n &_o all_o good_a be_v obtain_v conserve_v &_o recover_v for_o god_n be_v the_o fountain_n of_o all_o good_a no_o good_a can_v be_v have_v but_o by_o recourse_n to_o he_o which_o be_v only_o by_o prayer_n 3._o that_o by_o prayer_n alone_o all_o exterior_a good_a thing_n be_v sanctify_v so_o as_o to_o become_v blessing_n to_o us._n 4._o that_o prayer_n do_v exercise_v all_o virtue_n in_o so_o much_o as_o whatsoever_o good_a action_n be_v perform_v it_o be_v no_o further_o meritorious_a then_o as_o it_o proceed_v from_o a_o internal_a motion_n of_o the_o soul_n elevate_n &_o direct_v it_o to_o god_n the_o which_o internal_a motion_n be_v prayer_n so_o that_o whatsoever_o be_v not_o prayer_n or_o be_v not_o do_v in_o virtue_n of_o prayer_n be_v little_o better_a than_o a_o action_n of_o mere_a nature_n 5._o that_o there_o be_v no_o action_n with_o which_o sin_n be_v incompatible_a but_o prayer_n we_o may_v lie_v in_o our_o sin_n give_v alm_n fast_o recite_v the_o divine_a office_n communicate_v obey_v our_o superior_n &c_n &c_n but_o it_o be_v impossible_a to_o exercise_v true_a prayer_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o deliberate_o continue_v under_o the_o guilt_n of_o sin_n because_o by_o prayer_n a_o soul_n be_v convert_v and_o unite_v to_o god_n can_v at_o the_o same_o time_n be_v avert_v and_o separate_v from_o he_o 6._o that_o by_o prayer_n alone_o approach_v to_o god_n we_o be_v place_v above_o all_o misery_n whereas_o without_o prayer_n the_o least_o calamity_n will_v oppress_v us._n therefore_o prâ—yer_n be_v the_o proper_a remedy_n against_o all_o kind_n of_o affliction_n guilt_n remorse_n etc._n etc._n 7._o and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o all_o the_o devil_n quarrel_n &_o assault_n be_v chief_o if_o not_o only_o against_o prayer_n the_o which_o if_o he_o can_v extinguish_v he_o have_v all_o that_o he_o aim_v at_o separate_v we_o from_o the_o fruition_n &_o adhesion_n to_o god_n &_o therewith_n from_o all_o good_a and_o hence_o likewise_o it_o be_v that_o the_o duty_n of_o prayer_n be_v enjoin_v after_o such_o a_o manner_n as_o no_o other_o duty_n be_v for_o we_o be_v command_v to_o exercise_v it_o without_o intermission_n oportet_fw-la semper_fw-la orare_fw-la &_o non_fw-la deficere_fw-la we_o must_v needs_o pray_v continual_o &_o never_o give_v over_o 8._o in_o the_o precedent_a description_n of_o prayer_n in_o general_n i_o say_v that_o it_o be_v a_o affectuous_a
that_o which_o be_v affective_a for_o as_o for_o discursive_a prayer_n or_o meditation_n the_o world_n be_v but_o even_o burden_a with_o book_n which_o with_o more_o than_o sufficient_a niceness_n prescribe_v rule_n &_o method_n for_o the_o practice_n of_o it_o and_o with_o too_o partial_a a_o affection_n magnify_v it_o the_o author_n of_o such_o book_n neglect_v in_o the_o mean_a time_n or_o perhaps_o scarce_o know_v what_o true_a internal_a affective_a prayer_n be_v the_o which_o notwithstanding_o be_v the_o only_a efficacious_a instrument_n that_o immediate_o bring_v soul_n to_o contemplation_n &_o perfect_a union_n in_o spirit_n with_o god_n 3._o some_o there_o be_v that_o because_o they_o do_v not_o find_v in_o the_o write_n of_o the_o ancient_a father_n &_o mystical_a doctor_n such_o exact_a instruction_n touch_v the_o practice_n of_o internal_a prayer_n as_o be_v now_o common_a &_o abound_v in_o the_o church_n do_v therefore_o undervalue_v &_o despise_v it_o as_o a_o mere_a humane_a invention_n not_o at_o all_o necessary_a but_o rather_o on_o the_o contrary_a subject_a to_o great_a inconvenience_n expose_v soul_n to_o illusion_n error_n &c_n &c_n and_o therefore_o they_o in_o opposition_n to_o it_o do_v only_o recommend_v &_o exact_v vocal_a prayer_n &_o a_o solemn_a protract_a performance_n of_o it_o 4._o notwithstanding_o to_o any_o one_o that_o shall_v heedful_o read_v the_o writing_n not_o only_o of_o the_o ancient_a solitary_n but_o likewise_o of_o s._n augustin_n s._n basile_n s._n gregory_n nazianzene_n &_o other_o it_o will_v evident_o appear_v that_o they_o both_o know_v and_o practise_v most_o profound_a &_o recollect_v devotion_n internal_o yea_o &_o exhort_v soul_n to_o a_o continual_a attendance_n to_o god_n &_o his_o divine_a presence_n in_o the_o spirit_n sufficient_a proof_n whereof_o shall_v occasional_o hereafter_o be_v insert_v 5._o true_o indeed_o it_o be_v that_o they_o have_v not_o deliur_v any_o exact_a method_n for_o the_o practice_n of_o such_o prayer_n the_o which_o in_o those_o time_n be_v not_o at_o all_o necessary_a or_o at_o least_o not_o at_o all_o needful_a to_o be_v communicate_v to_o the_o world_n for_o to_o soul_n that_o live_v as_o ancient_o they_o do_v entire_o sequester_v from_o all_o world_o business_n or_o conversation_n in_o continual_a laborious_a &_o penitential_a exercise_n have_v no_o image_n of_o creature_n to_o distract_v their_o mind_n and_o much_o less_o any_o inordinate_a affection_n to_o creature_n to_o depress_v they_o from_o mount_v to_o spiritual_a union_n with_o god_n it_o be_v more_o than_o sufficient_a for_o such_o to_o know_v that_o their_o duty_n &_o the_o end_n of_o their_o solitude_n be_v to_o live_v in_o a_o continual_a conversation_n with_o god_n suffer_v themselves_o to_o be_v conduct_v and_o manage_v by_o his_o holy_a spirit_n to_o such_o all_o other_o more_o nice_a or_o particular_a instruction_n will_v have_v prove_v but_o distractive_a &_o intangle_a and_o therefore_o we_o see_v that_o our_o holy_a father_n though_o he_o ordain_v daily_o conuentuall_a short_a recollection_n for_o the_o exercise_n of_o that_o which_o he_o call_v pure_a prayer_n yet_o he_o neither_o interpret_v what_o he_o mean_v by_o such_o prayer_n for_o all_o his_o disciple_n understand_v that_o sufficient_o &_o much_o less_o do_v he_o deliver_v any_o instruction_n how_o to_o exercise_v it_o 6._o but_o in_o these_o day_n in_o which_o religious_a person_n and_o other_o that_o aspire_v to_o spiritual_a contemplation_n do_v either_o want_n the_o mean_n to_o enjoy_v or_o have_v not_o the_o courage_n and_o strength_n to_o support_v such_o solitude_n and_o austerity_n lest_o the_o spirit_n of_o contemplation_n shall_v fail_v in_o the_o world_n god_n raise_v up_o first_o in_o germany_n master_n of_o contemplative_a prayer_n as_o suso_n harphius_n eschius_fw-la thaulerus_n etc._n etc._n in_o former_a time_n and_o more_o late_o in_o spain_n s._n teresa_n b._n john_n de_fw-fr cruse_n etc._n etc._n who_o no_o question_n by_o the_o direction_n of_o god_n spirit_n as_o the_o grace_n of_o miracle_n confer_v on_o they_o may_v witness_v have_v judge_v it_o necessary_a to_o supply_v the_o want_n of_o the_o foresay_a advantage_n by_o add_v a_o certain_a obligation_n to_o the_o daily_a practice_n of_o internal_a recollect_v prayer_n prescribe_v order_n &_o time_n for_o the_o performance_n of_o it_o they_o have_v likewise_o more_o exact_o discover_v the_o degree_n and_o progress_n of_o prayer_n and_o in_o a_o word_n most_o earnest_o do_v they_o exhort_v soul_n to_o a_o diligent_a pursuance_n of_o it_o profess_v that_o without_o it_o it_o be_v impossible_a to_o comply_v with_o the_o essential_a design_n of_o a_o spiritual_a or_o religious_a life_n 7._o i_o will_v content_v myself_o in_o this_o place_n to_o express_v the_o ground_n &_o sum_n of_o the_o exhortation_n of_o those_o &_o other_o illuminate_v person_n the_o glorious_a instrument_n of_o god_n for_o the_o reviue_n of_o decay_a spirituality_n in_o the_o world_n by_o produce_v a_o passage_n of_o cardinal_n bellarmine_n which_o may_v be_v apply_v to_o this_o purpose_n take_v out_o of_o one_o of_o his_o sermon_n in_o for_o 2._o rogat_fw-la which_o be_v this_o ego_fw-la illud_fw-la mihi_fw-la videor_fw-la verissime_fw-la posse_fw-la affirmare_fw-la &c_n &c_n that_o be_v this_o i_o believe_v i_o may_v most_o true_o &_o confident_o affirm_v say_v he_o that_o without_o a_o diligent_a pursuit_n of_o internal_a prayer_n none_o will_v ever_o become_v true_o spiritual_a nor_o attain_v to_o any_o degree_n of_o perfection_n we_o see_v many_o which_o often_o time_n in_o the_o year_n do_v approach_n to_o the_o sacrament_n of_o penance_n &_o as_o far_o as_o humane_a frailty_n &_o infirmity_n will_v permit_v do_v with_o sufficient_a diligence_n endeavour_v to_o purge_v away_o all_o the_o stain_n &_o uncleanenes_n of_o sin_n and_o yet_o they_o make_v no_o progress_n but_o be_v still_o the_o very_a same_o that_o they_o be_v and_o have_v be_v at_o confession_n if_o a_o week_n after_o they_o come_v to_o the_o same_o tribunal_n again_o they_o bring_v neither_o few_o nor_o lesser_a fault_n than_o such_o as_o be_v former_o confess_v yea_o without_o offend_v against_o truth_n i_o may_v add_v some_o what_o more_o strange_a than_o all_o this_o to_o wit_n that_o we_o see_v sometime_o religious_a person_n &_o not_o a_o few_o priest_n which_o by_o their_o vocation_n &_o habit_n profess_v sanctity_n &_o moreover_o do_v assiduous_o read_v divine_a scripture_n &_o book_n of_o piety_n they_o do_v often_o if_o not_o daily_o celebrate_v the_o most_o holy_a sacrifice_n they_o have_v neither_o wife_n nor_o child_n but_o be_v free_a from_o all_o care_n &_o sollicitude_n which_o may_v distract_v they_o from_o a_o continual_a attendance_n to_o divine_a thing_n and_o yet_o after_o all_o this_o they_o be_v so_o veyd_v of_o all_o devotion_n &_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n so_o cold_a in_o divine_a love_n &_o so_o earnest_a in_o the_o love_n of_o secular_a vanity_n so_o replenish_v with_o impatience_n envy_n &_o all_o inordinate_a desire_n that_o they_o seem_v not_o one_o iott_n to_o differ_v from_o secular_a person_n whole_o engage_v in_o the_o world_n now_o the_o only_a cause_n of_o all_o these_o disorder_n be_v that_o they_o do_v not_o serious_o enter_v into_o their_o own_o heart_n by_o exercise_n of_o introversion_n but_o only_o esteem_v &_o regard_v the_o exterior_a &c_n &c_n thus_o far_o be_v the_o word_n &_o too_o just_a complaint_n of_o the_o learned_a &_o pious_a cardinal_n 8._o the_o which_o with_o very_o great_a reason_n may_v be_v further_o extend_v even_o to_o those_o religious_a who_o by_o their_o profession_n ought_v to_o aspire_v to_o contemplation_n &_o be_v mistake_v in_o the_o true_a way_n thereto_o erroneous_o believe_v that_o by_o a_o exact_a performance_n of_o outward_a observance_n &_o the_o solemn_a say_n of_o the_o office_n adjoin_v the_o exercise_n of_o such_o internal_a discursive_a prayer_n do_v yet_o find_v but_o little_a fruit_n as_o to_o any_o interior_a reformation_n or_o simplification_n of_o their_o soul_n by_o reason_n that_o they_o rest_v in_o such_o active_a exercise_n which_o in_o a_o short_a time_n to_o solitary_a liver_n lose_v all_o their_o virtue_n &_o do_v not_o from_o they_o proceed_v to_o the_o true_o enlighten_v exercise_n of_o internal_a affective_a prayer_n which_o be_v a_o prayer_n of_o the_o heart_n or_o will_v by_o good_a affection_n quiet_o &_o calm_o produce_v &_o not_o with_o the_o understanding_n a_o prayer_n make_v without_o those_o distract_n method_n or_o that_o busy_v of_o the_o imagination_n &_o weary_v of_o the_o soul_n by_o laborious_a discourse_n which_o be_v only_o inferior_a &_o imperfect_a preparation_n to_o true_a prayer_n 9_o now_o to_o a_o consideration_n of_o the_o necessity_n of_o internal_a affective_a prayer_n we_o will_v add_v certain_a virtue_n benefit_n &_o preeminence_n thereof_o compare_v with_o all_o other_o sort_n of_o
profane_a unless_o they_o be_v use_v with_o prayer_n 2._o that_o we_o be_v oblige_v not_o only_o in_o the_o use_n of_o creature_n by_o eat_v &_o drink_v &c_n &c_n but_o also_o in_o all_o our_o other_o action_n whatsoever_o to_o join_v prayer_n &_o a_o consecrate_v of_o they_o to_o god_n glory_n so_o that_o if_o we_o comply_v with_o these_o our_o obligation_n &_o duty_n we_o must_v continual_o either_o be_v in_o actual_a prayer_n or_o busy_v in_o something_o do_v in_o virtue_n of_o prayer_n 6._o now_o as_o we_o say_v in_o the_o first_o treatise_n that_o although_o all_o be_v not_o oblige_v necessary_o to_o attain_v unto_o the_o perfection_n proportionable_a to_o each_o one_o state_n yet_o all_o be_v necessary_o bind_v to_o aspire_v thereunto_o because_o no_o man_n can_v love_v god_n with_o a_o sincere_a love_n &_o such_o a_o one_o as_o may_v be_v account_v worthy_a of_o he_o who_o be_v our_o only_a good_a &_o beatitude_n that_o shall_v fix_v any_o limit_n to_o his_o love_n or_o that_o shall_v not_o aspire_v continual_o to_o a_o further_o &_o high_a degree_n of_o his_o love_n so_o here_o likewise_o we_o be_v to_o conceive_v that_o this_o precept_n of_o pray_v continual_o so_o indefinite_o express_v so_o earnest_o press_v so_o universal_o apply_v both_o by_o our_o lord_n &_o his_o apostle_n to_o all_o christian_n do_v infer_v a_o indefinite_a &_o universal_a obligation_n so_o as_o that_o although_o none_o but_o the_o perfect_a do_v real_o fulfil_v it_o yet_o all_o even_o the_o most_o imperfect_a can_v without_o danger_n dispense_v with_o or_o neglect_v the_o endeavour_v &_o aspire_v to_o the_o fulfil_n of_o it_o every_o one_o must_v exercise_v as_o much_o prayer_n as_o shall_v be_v necessary_a to_o sanctify_v his_o vocation_n &_o make_v the_o work_n &_o duty_n of_o his_o life_n acceptable_a to_o god_n &_o helpful_a to_o the_o procure_n of_o his_o eternal_a felicity_n 7._o and_o the_o ground_n of_o this_o obligation_n be_v both_o very_a firm_a &_o manifest_a which_o be_v this_o that_o even_o reason_n dictate_v that_o all_o the_o thing_n we_o do_v we_o ought_v to_o do_v they_o in_o order_n to_o our_o last_o end_n which_o be_v god_n that_o be_v with_o a_o sanctify_a intention_n for_o whatsoever_o be_v not_o do_v with_o a_o right_a intention_n in_o order_n to_o god_n be_v of_o no_o worth_a at_o all_o be_v only_o a_o work_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n now_o since_o there_o be_v only_o two_o thing_n which_o do_v sanctify_v all_o thing_n &_o action_n to_o wit_n the_o word_n of_o god_n &_o prayer_n the_o word_n of_o god_n general_o that_o be_v the_o certain_a &_o reveil_v will_n of_o god_n that_o the_o thing_n be_v in_o itself_o lawful_a to_o be_v use_v or_o do_v &_o prayer_n in_o particular_a proceed_v from_o faith_n or_o assurance_n that_o the_o thing_n be_v lawful_a &_o thereupon_o acknowlege_v it_o to_o be_v god_n gift_n desire_v his_o blessing_n on_o it_o &_o refer_v it_o to_o his_o glory_n hence_o it_o evident_o follow_v that_o since_o without_o prayer_n all_o thing_n be_v unsanctified_a or_o profane_a not_o at_o all_o conduce_v to_o our_o last_o end_n but_o rather_o prejudicial_a to_o it_o therefore_o all_o be_v bind_v to_o endeavour_v to_o sanctify_v all_o their_o action_n &_o work_n by_o prayer_n 8._o hence_o we_o may_v infer_v that_o the_o degree_n of_o grace_n &_o sanctity_n in_o any_o man_n be_v to_o be_v measure_v according_a to_o the_o virtue_n that_o prayer_n have_v upon_o his_o action_n for_o the_o more_o &_o more_o frequent_o that_o his_o ordinary_a action_n be_v perform_v in_o virtue_n of_o prayer_n the_o more_o perfect_a &_o holy_a such_o a_o one_o be_v &_o the_o more_o approach_v to_o his_o chief_a end_n and_o he_o who_o action_n do_v not_o for_o the_o most_o part_n flow_v from_o the_o virtue_n of_o prayer_n be_v not_o yet_o right_o dispose_v towards_o his_o last_o end_n 9_o now_o though_o perhaps_o scarce_o any_o man_n can_v say_v that_o hic_fw-la &_o nunc_fw-la actual_a prayer_n be_v necessary_o oblige_v under_o mortal_a sin_n yet_o withal_o most_o certain_a it_o be_v that_o that_o man_n have_v reason_n to_o doubt_v that_o he_o be_v in_o a_o mortal_o sinful_a estate_n that_o do_v not_o use_v so_o much_o prayer_n as_o thereby_o to_o sanctify_v &_o render_v meritorious_a the_o generality_n of_o his_o more_o serious_a action_n or_o which_o be_v all_o one_o he_o be_v in_o a_o state_n mortal_o sinful_a that_o for_o the_o most_o part_n live_v wilful_o &_o habitual_o in_o a_o neglect_n of_o grace_n which_o can_v no_o way_n be_v obtain_v without_o prayer_n therefore_o it_o be_v observable_a that_o the_o disciple_n of_o our_o lord_n never_o ask_v any_o instruction_n but_o how_o to_o pray_v for_o that_o skill_n be_v once_o have_v all_o other_o good_a thing_n be_v consequent_o have_v and_o when_o all_o other_o action_n be_v perform_v by_o grace_n obtain_v by_o prayer_n &_o for_o the_o end_n propose_v in_o prayer_n than_o a_o person_n may_v be_v say_v to_o be_v in_o continual_a prayer_n and_o much_o more_o if_o they_o be_v accompany_v with_o a_o actual_a elevation_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o god_n 10._o this_o be_v the_o perfection_n of_o prayer_n to_o which_o our_o holy_a rule_n oblige_v we_o to_o aspire_v namely_o beside_o the_o set_v exercise_n either_o of_o vocal_a or_o internal_a prayer_n to_o preserve_v our_o soul_n in_o a_o uninterrupt_a attention_n to_o god_n &_o tendance_n in_o spirit_n to_o he_o so_o as_o that_o whatsoever_o action_n we_o do_v they_o shall_v he_o accompany_v instantissima_fw-la oratione_fw-la with_o a_o most_o fervent_a &_o perseverant_fw-la prayer_n and_o that_o this_o perfection_n of_o continual_a prayer_n in_o a_o supreme_a degree_n have_v be_v real_o attain_v to_o by_o the_o ancient_a contemplative_n &_o account_v by_o they_o a_o essential_a duty_n of_o their_o vocation_n be_v evident_a out_o of_o what_o we_o read_v in_o several_a place_n in_o cassian_n hic_fw-la finis_fw-la totius_fw-la perfectionis_fw-la est_fw-la etc._n etc._n say_v a_o holy_a hermit_n there_o this_o be_v the_o end_n of_o all_o perfection_n to_o have_v the_o soul_n become_v so_o extenuate_v &_o purify_v from_o all_o carnal_a desire_n as_o that_o it_o may_v continual_o be_v in_o a_o actual_a ascent_n to_o spiritual_a thing_n until_o all_o its_o conversation_n &_o employment_n &_o every_o motion_n of_o the_o heart_n become_v one_o continual_a prayer_n we_o mention_v likewise_o before_o a_o hermit_n who_o spirit_n be_v so_o continual_o fix_v on_o god_n that_o he_o can_v not_o though_o he_o endeavour_v depress_v it_o for_o so_o small_a a_o time_n as_o till_o he_o may_v fetch_v from_o the_o other_o end_n of_o his_o cell_n some_o small_a thing_n that_o his_o neighbour_n desire_v of_o he_o the_o like_a continual_a attention_n to_o god_n gregory_n lopez_n acknowledge_v to_o have_v be_v in_o himself_o by_o long_a practice_n of_o recollection_n so_o that_o though_o he_o will_v he_o can_v not_o but_o think_v on_o he_o the_o which_o attention_n &_o union_n no_o work_n conversation_n or_o study_n can_v interrupt_v another_o hermit_n likewise_o in_o cassian_n in_o 19_o conf._n call_v john_n say_v of_o himself_o how_o he_o forget_v whether_o he_o have_v take_v his_o daily_a sustenance_n so_o continual_a be_v his_o prayer_n by_o which_o their_o sense_n become_v so_o stupefy_v that_o they_o see_v not_o what_o be_v before_o their_o eye_n to_o this_o purpose_n it_o be_v report_v in_o the_o live_v of_o the_o father_n that_o when_o a_o certain_a religious_a man_n in_o a_o journey_n meet_v with_o a_o little_a troop_n of_o religious_a woman_n &_o see_v they_o purposely_o turn_v out_o of_o the_o way_n to_o avoid_v they_o the_o abbess_n say_v to_o he_o if_o thou_o have_v be_v a_o perfect_a monk_n indeed_o though_o thou_o have_v see_v we_o thou_o will_v not_o have_v know_v that_o we_o be_v woman_n 11._o now_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o a_o soul_n to_o continue_v without_o interruption_n in_o vocal_a prayer_n there_o be_v so_o many_o necessary_a occasion_n hourly_o occur_v to_o employ_v the_o tongue_n other_o way_n beside_o that_o it_o will_v utter_o exhaust_v the_o spirit_n and_o as_o for_o meditation_n the_o exercise_n thereof_o be_v so_o painful_a that_o it_o will_v destroy_v the_o head_n to_o force_v the_o imagination_n continual_o to_o invent_v &_o discourse_v internal_o on_o divine_a or_o spiritual_a object_n 12._o therefore_o by_o no_o other_o manner_n of_o prayer_n but_o the_o internal_a exercise_n of_o the_o will_n in_o holy_a desire_n &c_n &c_n can_v this_o precept_n of_o our_o lord_n be_v perfect_o accomplish_v for_o the_o soul_n be_v natural_o in_o a_o continual_a exercise_n of_o some_o one_o desire_n or_o other_o the_o which_o be_v not_o all_o at_o painful_a to_o her_o be_v her_o natural_a employment_n so_o that_o if_o by_o
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
they_o accept_v as_o a_o certain_a proof_n that_o it_o come_v from_o god_n that_o it_o be_v beneficial_a to_o soul_n and_o therefore_o odious_a to_o the_o devil_n for_o so_o have_v all_o such_o thing_n be_v ever_o at_o the_o first_o entertain_v 2._o but_o among_o all_o the_o late_a master_n of_o pure_a spiritual_a contemplative_a prayer_n there_o be_v none_o deserve_v more_o out_o esteem_v nor_o be_v more_o proper_a to_o be_v produce_v in_o this_o place_n than_o the_o late_a r._n f._n baltazar_n aluarez_n of_o the_o society_n of_o jesus_n well_o know_v unto_o and_o most_o high_o esteem_v by_o s._n teresa_n who_o be_v much_o assist_v &_o comfort_v by_o he_o during_o her_o trouble_n &_o difficulty_n the_o special_a benefit_n that_o may_v be_v reap_v from_o his_o story_n be_v that_o by_o occasion_n of_o his_o trial_n and_o examination_n about_o his_o prayer_n all_o the_o suspicion_n and_o allegation_n against_o it_o be_v well_o clear_v and_o the_o whole_a substance_n of_o this_o treatise_n worthy_o confirm_v and_o assert_v 3._o this_o venerable_a person_n after_o he_o have_v with_o great_a diligence_n spend_v above_o fifteen_o year_n in_o meditation_n and_o the_o spiritual_a exercise_n peculiar_a to_o his_o order_n and_o yet_o receive_v but_o little_a profit_n to_o his_o spirit_n by_o they_o be_v on_o the_o contrary_n torment_v with_o extreme_a doubtfullnes_n &_o unsatisfaction_n be_v at_o the_o last_o guide_v powerful_o by_o god_n holy_a spirit_n to_o quit_v meditation_n and_o to_o betake_v himself_o to_o a_o serious_a practice_n of_o prayer_n immediate_o in_o the_o will_n to_o the_o which_o divine_a motion_n he_o correspond_v present_o receive_v abundance_n of_o light_n and_o a_o perfect_a remedy_n against_o all_o his_o anguish_n and_o perplexity_n 4._o but_o his_o internal_a trouble_n cease_v outward_a difficulty_n begin_v for_o other_o of_o his_o brethren_n &_o companion_n perceive_v that_o he_o walk_v in_o way_n unknow_v to_o they_o earnest_o require_v a_o examination_n of_o this_o new_a spirit_n insomuch_o as_o that_o out_o of_o spain_n these_o complaint_n come_v to_o the_o ear_n of_o their_o then_o general_n the_o most_o r._n f._n euerardus_fw-la mercurialis_n resident_a at_o rome_n by_o order_n from_o who_o his_o study_n be_v seal_v up_o &_o afterward_o search_v by_o learned_a father_n thereto_o appoint_v &_o all_o his_o paper_n examine_v though_o which_o afford_v no_o matter_n of_o just_a accusation_n at_o all_o but_o on_o the_o contrary_a of_o great_a edification_n a_o second_o command_n come_v from_o the_o general_n to_o he_o to_o give_v a_o full_a account_n of_o the_o order_n &_o manner_n of_o his_o prayer_n 5._o this_o command_n oblige_v he_o to_o make_v a_o free_a &_o ingenuous_a apology_n for_o himself_o the_o which_o because_o it_o be_v most_o pertinent_a &_o conformable_a to_o the_o spirit_n of_o these_o instruction_n &_o beside_o be_v not_o common_a in_o many_o man_n hand_n i_o will_v here_o set_v down_o the_o substance_n of_o it_o as_o it_o be_v relate_v with_o most_o commendable_a candour_n &_o ingenuity_n by_o f._n ludovicus_n de_fw-fr puente_n of_o the_o same_o society_n his_o scholar_n who_o write_v his_o life_n 6._o now_o in_o his_o say_a apology_n he_o free_o &_o humble_o declare_v that_o near_o sixteen_o year_n he_o have_v labour_v like_o one_o that_o till_v the_o ground_n without_o reap_v any_o fruit_n that_o his_o heart_n be_v much_o straighten_v with_o grief_n observe_v that_o he_o want_v the_o talent_n for_o which_o he_o see_v other_o esteem_v &_o particular_o that_o he_o be_v much_o trouble_v that_o be_v have_v not_o space_n enough_o allow_v he_o for_o prayer_n 〈◊〉_d this_o tentation_n he_o overcome_v resolve_v to_o employ_v no_o more_o time_n in_o prayer_n then_o bâ—y_v obedience_n permit_v &_o reject_v that_o foolish_a ambition_n of_o excel_v therein_o or_o of_o pretend_v to_o divine_a favour_n which_o other_o better_a deserve_v enjoy_v notwithstanding_o he_o still_o find_v his_o defect_n to_o multiply_v &_o rather_o to_o disquiet_v then_o humble_v he_o yea_o they_o make_v he_o in_o a_o incapacity_n to_o comply_v with_o the_o internal_a counsel_n &_o invitation_n of_o god_n moreover_o that_o by_o reason_n of_o this_o unquietnes_n the_o defect_n of_o other_o also_o under_o his_o government_n do_v much_o increase_v his_o distemper_n so_o that_o he_o judge_v it_o a_o point_n of_o right_a government_n to_o make_v his_o subject_n perform_v all_o thing_n like_o himself_o with_o a_o melancholic_a deiectednes_n of_o mind_n 7._o that_o at_o the_o end_n of_o fourteen_o year_n he_o find_v himself_o in_o a_o practice_n of_o prayer_n by_o which_o he_o place_v himself_o in_o god_n presence_n as_o a_o beggar_n say_v little_a but_o only_o expect_v a_o alm_n but_o by_o reason_n that_o he_o can_v not_o keep_v his_o mind_n fix_v on_o god_n but_o do_v overmuch_o reflect_v upon_o himself_o his_o trouble_n dejection_n &_o utter_a despair_n of_o approach_v to_o perfection_n increase_v since_o god_n have_v show_v hiw_v no_o mark_n of_o his_o favour_n which_o it_o seem_v he_o expect_v but_o as_o he_o confess_v very_o foolish_o since_o his_o come_n to_o god_n with_o such_o a_o expectation_n be_v a_o great_a fault_n than_o his_o former_a desert_v he_o yea_o hereby_o he_o be_v bring_v to_o that_o extreme_a confusion_n that_o for_o mere_a shame_n be_v dare_v not_o for_o a_o good_a space_n in_o prayer_n say_v any_o thing_n to_o god_n at_o all_o but_o only_o that_o he_o will_v punish_v forgive_v &_o assist_v he_o 8._o but_o when_o sixteen_o year_n be_v pass_v he_o find_v his_o hair_n on_o the_o sudden_a unexpected_o quite_o change_v &_o dilate_a all_o his_o disquietness_n vanish_v &_o his_o soul_n free_v from_o all_o create_a thing_n be_v fill_v with_o a_o astonish_n joy_n like_o that_o of_o those_o which_o say_v lord_z when_o we_o see_v thou_o we_o have_v see_v all_o good_a and_o be_v entire_o satiate_v here_o he_o find_v himself_o in_o a_o congregation_n of_o person_n destine_v to_o beatitude_n the_o way_n whereto_o seem_v plain_a &_o easy_a now_o he_o receive_v a_o spiritual_a discretion_n to_o sever_v between_o the_o precious_a &_o the_o vile_a new_a notion_n and_o intelligence_n of_o verity_n be_v give_v he_o which_o feed_v his_o soul_n which_o joy_n &_o peace_n yet_o such_o illumination_n at_o the_o first_o be_v somewhat_o rare_a but_o at_o the_o time_n of_o the_o write_n of_o this_o apology_n they_o be_v become_v much_o more_o frequent_a 9_o instead_o of_o that_o anxie_fw-la y_o that_o he_o have_v former_o because_o his_o ambitious_a desire_n of_o be_v eminent_a be_v not_o satisfy_v now_o he_o be_v content_a to_o live_v under_o the_o cross_n now_o he_o do_v so_o humble_a himself_o under_o all_o that_o he_o be_v in_o confusion_n to_o appear_v before_o any_o notwithstanding_o though_o he_o honour_v all_o man_n yet_o he_o find_v that_o they_o be_v not_o at_o all_o needful_a to_o he_o as_o former_o they_o seem_v to_o be_v but_o that_o it_o be_v both_o better_a and_o easy_a for_o he_o to_o converse_v with_o god_n only_o 10._o thence_o forward_o he_o perceive_v that_o god_n have_v give_v he_o a_o internal_a light_n for_o the_o order_n both_o of_o himself_o &_o other_o under_o he_o even_o in_o the_o small_a matter_n and_o whereas_o sollicitude_n in_o government_n &c_n &c_n do_v former_o disquiet_v &_o opprese_n his_o spirit_n now_o he_o find_v that_o business_n be_v far_o better_a discharge_v by_o cast_v his_o care_n on_o god_n &_o put_v they_o out_o of_o his_o thought_n till_o the_o time_n come_v that_o he_o be_v to_o execute_v his_o duty_n so_o that_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o a_o throng_n of_o care_n he_o live_v without_o care_n now_o he_o be_v not_o as_o formerly_z trouble_v for_o that_o he_o have_v not_o time_n sufficient_a for_o prayer_n because_o he_o find_v that_o god_n give_v more_o in_o one_o hour_n to_o mortify_a resign_v soul_n then_o to_o other_o in_o many_o day_n and_o he_o find_v more_o profit_n to_o his_o spirit_n by_o a_o faithful_a discharge_n of_o employment_n impose_v by_o god_n then_o in_o vacancy_n &_o read_v spiritual_a book_n of_o his_o own_o election_n 11._o a_o sight_n of_o his_o defect_n now_o do_v he_o good_a by_o humble_v he_o &_o make_v he_o distrustful_a of_o himself_o &_o confident_a in_o god_n know_v that_o no_o defect_n nor_o know_o &_o deliberate_o persist_v in_o do_v hinder_v god_n counsel_n and_o design_n for_o our_o perfection_n and_o as_o for_o the_o defect_n of_o those_o under_o his_o government_n he_o find_v it_o a_o great_a folly_n for_o he_o to_o disquiet_v himself_o about_o they_o and_o that_o his_o former_a desire_n of_o make_v they_o sad_a &_o melancholic_a be_v a_o effect_n of_o his_o own_o impatience_n 12._o his_o prayer_n now_o be_v to_o place_v himself_o in_o god_n presence_n both_o inward_o and_o
outward_o present_v to_o he_o &_o to_o rejoice_v with_o he_o permanent_o and_o habitual_o now_o he_o understand_v the_o difference_n between_o imperfect_a &_o perfect_a soul_n in_o the_o point_n of_o enjoy_v the_o divine_a presence_n express_v by_o s._n thomas_n 22._o q._n 24._o a._n 9_o ad_fw-la 3._o et_fw-la opusc_fw-la 63._o and_o he_o perceive_v that_o those_o be_v blind_a that_o seek_v god_n with_o anxiety_n of_o mind_n &_o call_v upon_o he_o as_o if_o he_o be_v absent_a whereas_o be_v already_o his_o temple_n in_o which_o his_o divine_a majesty_n rest_v thâ—y_v aught_o to_o enjoy_v he_o actual_o and_o internal_o present_a in_o they_o sometime_o in_o his_o prayer_n he_o ponder_v while_n on_o some_o text_n of_o scripture_n according_a to_o the_o inspiration_n and_o light_n then_o give_v he_o sometime_o he_o remain_v in_o cessation_n and_o silence_n before_o god_n which_o manner_n of_o prayer_n he_o account_v a_o great_a treasure_n for_o than_o his_o heart_n his_o desire_n his_o secret_a intention_n his_o knowledge_n and_o all_o his_o power_n speak_v &_o god_n understand_v their_o mute_a language_n and_o with_o one_o aspect_n can_v expel_v his_o defect_n kindle_v his_o desire_n &_o give_v he_o wing_n to_o mount_v spiritual_o unto_o he_o now_o he_o take_v comfort_n in_o nothing_o but_o in_o suffer_v content_o the_o will_n of_o god_n to_o be_v perform_v in_o all_o thing_n which_o be_v as_o welcome_v to_o he_o in_o aridity_n as_o consolation_n be_v unwilling_a to_o know_v more_o than_o god_n free_o discover_v unto_o he_o or_o to_o make_v a_o more_o speedy_a progress_n or_o by_o any_o other_o way_n then_o such_o as_o god_n himself_o prescribe_v unto_o he_o if_o his_o heart_n out_o of_o its_o natural_a infirmity_n do_v any_o time_n groan_v under_o his_o present_a burden_n his_o answer_n thereto_o will_v be_v iâ—_n not_o that_o good_a which_o god_n will_n to_o be_v &_o will_v it_o not_o a_o way_n incessant_o remain_v so_o or_o will_v god_n cease_v to_o perform_v his_o owâ—e_n will_v because_o thou_o do_v not_o judge_v it_o to_o be_v for_o thy_o good_a in_o conclusion_n his_o present_a establish_a comfort_n be_v to_o see_v himself_o in_o god_n presence_n to_o be_v a_o sufferer_n &_o to_o be_v treat_v according_a to_o his_o divine_a pleasure_n 13._o if_o sometime_o leave_v this_o quiet_a prayer_n to_o which_o god_n have_v bring_v he_o he_o offer_v to_o apply_v himself_o to_o his_o former_a exercise_n of_o meditation_n he_o find_v that_o god_n give_v he_o a_o internal_a reprehension_n &_o restraint_n for_o his_o great_a assurance_n therefore_o he_o search_v mystic_a author_n s._n dionysius_n areopagita_n the_o mist_n theol._n c._n 1._o s._n augustin_n epistol_n 119._o s._n gregory_n moritur_fw-la lib._n 30._o 26._o etc._n etc._n s._n bernard_n in_o cant._n serm_n 55._o etc._n etc._n out_o of_o which_o he_o satisfy_v himself_o that_o as_o rest_n be_v the_o end_n of_o motion_n &_o a_o quiet_a habitation_n the_o end_n of_o a_o laborious_a build_n so_o this_o peaceful_a prayer_n &_o quiet_a enjoy_n of_o god_n in_o spirit_n be_v the_o end_n of_o the_o imperfect_a busy_a prayer_n of_o meditation_n and_o therefore_o that_o all_o internal_a discourse_v with_o the_o understanding_n be_v to_o cease_v whensoever_o god_n enable_v soul_n to_o actuate_v pure_o by_o the_o will._n and_o that_o to_o do_v otherwise_o will_v be_v as_o if_o one_o shall_v be_v always_o prepare_v somewhat_o to_o eat_v &_o yet_o afterward_o refuse_v to_o taste_v that_o which_o be_v prepare_v by_o this_o divine_a prayer_n of_o the_o will_v the_o hoâ—y_a spirit_n of_o wisdom_n with_o all_o the_o excellency_n of_o it_o describe_v in_o the_o book_n of_o wisdom_n cap._n viij_o be_v obtain_v &_o with_o it_o perfect_a liberty_n 14._o in_o consequence_n hereto_o he_o proceed_v by_o reason_n to_o demonstrate_v the_o supreminent_a excellency_n of_o this_o reposefull_a prayer_n of_o the_o will_n as_o 1._o that_o though_o in_o it_o there_o be_v no_o reason_n of_o the_o mind_n yet_o the_o soul_n silent_o present_v herself_o bâ—fore_o god_n with_o a_o firm_a faith_n that_o her_o desire_n be_v manifest_a to_o he_o do_v more_o than_o equivalent_o tell_v god_n her_o desire_n &_o withal_o exercise_v all_o virtue_n humble_v herself_o before_o he_o love_v he_o only_o and_o believe_v that_o leave_v she_o own_o way_n and_o constant_o hold_v to_o god_n all_o good_a will_v proceed_v from_o thence_o to_o she_o 2._o that_o in_o this_o prayer_n a_o soul_n have_v a_o far_o more_o sublime_a &_o worthy_a notion_n of_o god_n 3._o that_o this_o still_a &_o quiet_a prayer_n may_v be_v far_o more_o prolixely_a &_o perseverant_o practise_v then_o the_o tire_a prayer_n of_o meditation_n â—ea_o it_o mâ—y_v come_v to_o be_v continual_a &_o without_o interruption_n 4._o that_o all_o the_o good_a effect_n of_o meditation_n as_o humility_n obedience_n &c_n &c_n be_v far_o more_o efficacious_o &_o perfect_o produce_v by_o this_o prayer_n then_o by_o that_o which_o be_v join_v wiâ—h_v inward_a reason_n 5._o true_o indeed_o it_o be_v that_o â—he_v exercise_n institute_v by_o s._n ignatius_n be_v more_o proper_a general_o for_o soul_n then_o this_o yet_o that_o this_o aught_o to_o be_v esteem_v proper_a for_o those_o who_o god_n have_v call_v &_o prepare_v to_o it_o and_o that_o this_o be_v s._n ignatius_n his_o own_o practice_n who_o though_o in_o his_o less_o perfect_a state_n he_o pursue_v the_o imperfect_a exercise_n institute_v by_o he_o yet_o afterward_o he_o be_v exalt_v to_o this_o sublime_a prayer_n by_o which_o he_o come_v to_o suffer_v divine_a thing_n that_o therefore_o as_o none_o ought_v to_o intrude_v into_o the_o exercise_n of_o this_o pure_a prayer_n till_o god_n have_v call_v and_o fit_v they_o for_o it_o so_o be_v call_v none_o ought_v to_o be_v forbid_v it_o as_o osanna_n in_o his_o alphabet_n teach_v and_o that_o whosoever_o forbid_v such_o shall_v give_v a_o strict_a account_n to_o god_n for_o so_o great_a a_o fault_n insomuch_o as_o a_o certain_a spiritual_a writer_n say_v that_o god_n will_v shorten_v the_o life_n of_o those_o superior_n who_o shall_v presume_v to_o discourage_v and_o affright_v any_o soul_n from_o these_o internal_a way_n except_o they_o desist_v from_o such_o a_o attempt_n 15._o this_o be_v the_o sum_n of_o the_o account_n which_o the_o most_o venerable_a f._n baltazar_n aluarez_n after_o a_o retirement_n of_o fifteen_o day_n with_o a_o most_o humble_a confession_n of_o his_o own_o defect_n &_o misery_n &_o a_o magnify_v of_o god_n liberal_a goodness_n extend_v towards_o he_o give_v unto_o his_o general_n 16._o now_o beside_o this_o account_n he_o write_v likewise_o a_o short_a discourse_n in_o which_o he_o do_v more_o full_o treat_v of_o the_o nature_n of_o this_o prayer_n of_o rest_n and_o silence_n &_o give_v a_o particular_a answer_n to_o several_a objection_n which_o certain_a of_o his_o brethren_n have_v make_v and_o disperse_v against_o the_o say_a prayer_n the_o sum_n of_o which_o objection_n with_o hiâ—_n answer_v to_o they_o i_o will_v here_o adjoine_v 17._o the_o first_o objection_n be_v that_o one_o who_o exercise_v this_o prayer_n which_o admit_v neither_o of_o discoursâ—â—_n meditation_n nor_o any_o such_o like_a use_n of_o the_o understanding_n seem_v to_o spend_v his_o time_n unproffitable_o in_o do_v nothing_o which_o may_v far_o better_o be_v bestow_v in_o external_a exercise_n of_o virtue_n 18._o the_o answer_n herto_o be_v that_o though_o the_o understanding_n be_v in_o a_o sort_n suspend_v from_o exercise_v its_o activity_n yet_o the_o soul_n be_v far_o from_o be_v idle_a on_o the_o contrary_n she_o perform_v that_o which_o s._n bernard_n call_v the_o business_n of_o all_o business_n for_o therein_o the_o stream_n of_o holy_a affection_n do_v free_o flow_v by_o love_v admire_a adore_a congratulate_v resign_v &_o offer_v the_o soul_n to_o god_n contemplate_v with_o the_o eye_n of_o faith_n &c_n &c_n and_o all_o this_o sometime_o in_o a_o few_o word_n sometime_o in_o silence_n in_o a_o word_n the_o soul_n behave_v herself_o according_a to_o the_o variety_n of_o affection_n that_o the_o unction_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n who_o be_v the_o principal_a master_n herein_o do_v teach_v &_o move_v she_o to_o according_a to_o that_o of_o s._n dionysius_n areopagita_n to_o timotheus_n convert_v te_fw-fr ad_fw-la radium_fw-la etc._n etc._n turn_v thyself_o to_o the_o beam_n of_o divine_a light_n fron_n hence_o that_o admirable_a union_n do_v proceed_v which_o the_o same_o saint_n call_v the_o union_n of_o the_o unknown_n with_o the_o unknown_n the_o which_o be_v the_o supreme_a height_n of_o mystical_a theology_n &_o which_o without_o experience_n of_o it_o can_v be_v conceive_v by_o any_o 19_o the_o second_o objection_n be_v that_o to_o leave_v meditation_n out_o of_o a_o expectation_n of_o divine_a inspiration_n or_o revelation_n seem_v to_o be_v a_o
soul_n powerful_o and_o immediate_o direct_v and_o move_v by_o the_o holy_a spirit_n now_o this_o three_o degree_n to_o which_o the_o prayer_n belong_v be_v indeed_o true_o the_o prayer_n of_o contemplation_n beyond_o which_o there_o be_v no_o state_n of_o prayer_n may_v very_o convenient_o include_v all_o the_o four_o degree_n mention_v by_o barbanson_n &_o so_o nice_o distinguish_v by_o he_o rather_o out_o of_o a_o particular_a experience_n of_o the_o effect_n pass_v in_o his_o own_o soul_n the_o which_o perhaps_o be_v not_o the_o same_o in_o all_o for_o god_n work_v according_a to_o his_o own_o good_a pleasure_n in_o the_o soul_n of_o his_o perfect_a servant_n and_o not_o according_a to_o any_o method_n that_o man_n can_v conceive_v or_o express_v 6._o these_o therefore_o be_v the_o three_o degree_n of_o internal_a prayer_n the_o which_o do_v most_o proper_o answer_n to_o the_o common_o assign_a way_n of_o spirituality_n the_o purgative_n illuminative_a and_o vnitive_a of_o they_o the_o first_o be_v a_o prayer_n consist_v much_o of_o discourse_n of_o the_o vndestanding_n the_o other_o two_o be_v prayer_n of_o the_o will_n but_o most_o principal_o and_o pure_o the_o last_o of_o these_o three_o i_o shall_v treat_v in_o order_n in_o the_o follow_a discourse_n to_o wit_n 1._o in_o pursuit_n of_o this_o second_o section_n of_o the_o most_o imperfect_a degree_n to_o wit_n meditation_n 2._o in_o the_o follow_a section_n of_o the_o prayer_n of_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n 3._o and_o in_o the_o last_o section_n of_o the_o prayer_n of_o aspiration_n or_o contemplation_n but_o before_o i_o come_v to_o treat_v of_o each_o in_o particular_a i_o conceive_v it_o requisite_a first_o to_o show_v the_o ground_n upon_o which_o the_o propriety_n and_o reasonableness_n of_o this_o division_n of_o the_o succeed_a degree_n of_o prayer_n be_v build_v and_o may_v be_v evident_o and_o convince_o demonstrate_v so_o far_o that_o according_a to_o the_o ordinary_a dispensation_n of_o divine_a grace_n to_o soul_n that_o tend_v to_o perfection_n it_o may_v be_v affirm_v that_o they_o be_v conduct_v by_o these_o degree_n in_o this_o order_n and_o no_o other_o way_n and_o this_o experience_n will_v make_v good_a even_o in_o soul_n that_o never_o hear_v of_o any_o degree_n of_o prayer_n but_o without_o learning_n read_v or_o instruction_n be_v immediate_o guide_v by_o god_n holy_a spirit_n in_o his_o internal_a way_n the_o reason_n hereof_o will_v appear_v by_o that_o which_o follow_v 7._o first_o therefore_o it_o be_v apparent_a and_o acknowledged_a that_o general_a speak_n a_o soul_n from_o a_o state_n of_o negligence_n &_o secularity_n first_o enter_v into_o a_o spiritual_a course_n though_o she_o be_v suppose_v by_o virtue_n of_o that_o grace_n by_o which_o she_o be_v move_v to_o make_v so_o great_a and_o happy_a a_o change_n to_o be_v real_o in_o the_o state_n of_o justification_n yet_o there_o still_o remain_v in_o she_o a_o great_a measure_n of_o fear_n conceive_v from_o the_o guilt_n of_o her_o former_a sin_n and_o withal_o strong_a inclination_n to_o sin_n and_o vicious_a habit_n do_v yet_o abide_v and_o will_v do_v so_o till_o by_o long_a practice_n of_o virtue_n and_o piety_n they_o be_v abate_v and_o expel_v moreover_o a_o world_n of_o vain_a and_o sinful_a image_n do_v possess_v the_o soul_n which_o distract_v she_o whensoever_o she_o set_v her_o mind_n on_o god_n call_v she_o to_o attend_v to_o her_o formerly-pleasing_a object_n which_o take_v up_o all_o her_o affection_n and_o which_o do_v still_o ofttimes_o insinuate_v themselves_o into_o her_o memory_n with_o too_o much_o contentment_n to_o inferior_a nature_n the_o which_o contentment_n though_o she_o upon_o reflection_n do_v resist_v and_o renown_n with_o her_o superior_a soul_n yet_o this_o resistance_n be_v ofttimes_o so_o feeble_a that_o frequent_o she_o be_v real_o entangle_v and_o seduce_v &_o more_o oft_o do_v find_v ground_n to_o doubt_v that_o she_o have_v give_v consent_n thereto_o 8._o such_o be_v ordinary_o the_o disorder_a condition_n of_o a_o soul_n at_o her_o first_o conversion_n the_o remedy_n acknowledge_v to_o be_v proper_a and_o necessary_a for_o she_o be_v prayer_n and_o the_o high_a degree_n of_o prayer_n that_o for_o the_o present_a she_o be_v capable_a of_o be_v either_o a_o much_o distract_a vocal_a prayer_n or_o discursive_a meditation_n in_o which_o the_o understanding_n and_o imagination_n be_v chief_o employ_v and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o although_o god_n have_v imprint_v true_a charity_n in_o such_o a_o soul_n yet_o seduce_v image_n so_o abound_v and_o vicious_a affection_n be_v as_o yet_o so_o predominant_a in_o sensitive_a nature_n there_o be_v a_o necessity_n for_o the_o fortify_v it_o to_o chase_v away_o the_o say_a image_n and_o subdue_v such_o affection_n by_o store_v the_o imagination_n with_o contrary_a good_a image_n and_o set_v on_o work_n affection_n contrary_a to_o these_o and_o this_o be_v do_v by_o invent_v argument_n and_o motive_n especial_o of_o fear_n so_o that_o the_o exercise_n proper_a to_o a_o soul_n in_o this_o first_o imperfect_a state_n be_v those_o of_o sensible_a contrition_n and_o remorse_n for_o sin_n etc._n etc._n cause_v by_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o foulness_n of_o it_o of_o the_o misery_n that_o attend_v it_o the_o certainty_n and_o uncertainty_n of_o death_n the_o terror_n of_o god_n judgement_n the_o horror_n of_o hell_n etc._n etc._n as_o likewise_o a_o consideration_n that_o no_o less_o a_o price_n will_v serve_v for_o the_o reparation_n of_o a_o soul_n from_o sin_n then_o the_o ibloudy_a passion_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n etc._n etc._n such_o matter_n as_o these_o be_v now_o the_o seasonable_a subject_n of_o meditation_n and_o the_o action_n of_o mortification_n fit_a to_o attend_v such_o prayer_n be_v more_o sensible_a gross_a and_o exterior_a proper_a to_o repress_v she_o grosser_n defect_n 9_o now_o when_o by_o mean_n of_o such_o exercise_n the_o soul_n be_v become_v well_o ease_v from_o remorse_n and_o begin_v to_o be_v move_v to_o the_o resistance_n and_o hatred_n of_o sin_n by_o the_o love_n of_o god_n rather_o than_o fear_v of_o his_o judgement_n her_o discursive_a prayer_n for_o all_o that_o do_v not_o cease_v but_o there_o be_v a_o change_n make_v only_o in_o the_o object_n of_o it_o because_o instead_o of_o the_o consideration_n of_o judgement_n hell_n etc._n etc._n the_o soul_n find_v herself_o more_o incline_v to_o resist_v sin_n by_o the_o motive_n of_o love_n or_o a_o consideration_n of_o the_o charity_n patience_n and_o suffering_n of_o our_o lord_n as_o likewise_o out_o of_o a_o comfortable_a meditation_n of_o the_o future_a joy_n promise_v and_o prepare_v for_o she_o although_o charity_n be_v much_o increase_v yet_o not_o yet_o to_o such_o a_o point_n but_o that_o she_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o motive_n and_o consideration_n to_o set_v it_o on_o work_n as_o likewise_o of_o good_a holy_a and_o efficacious_a image_n of_o divine_a thing_n to_o allure_v she_o to_o forget_v or_o neglect_v the_o vain_a image_n that_o yet_o do_v much_o distract_v she_o the_o object_n of_o her_o thought_n now_o be_v the_o infinite_a joy_n of_o heaven_n the_o sublime_a mystery_n of_o faith_n the_o bless_a humanity_n of_o our_o lord_n the_o glorious_a attribute_n of_o the_o divinity_n etc._n etc._n and_o the_o mortification_n answerable_a to_o the_o present_a state_n do_v grow_v more_o internal_a be_v much_o exercise_v about_o inward_a defect_n which_o by_o prayer_n be_v discover_v to_o she_o and_o correct_v now_o a_o soul_n whilst_o she_o continue_v in_o this_o sort_n of_o prayer_n and_o mortification_n stand_v in_o need_n of_o a_o much_o and_o frequent_a consideration_n of_o motive_n be_v proper_o say_v to_o be_v in_o the_o purgative_n way_n though_o towards_o the_o latter_a end_n there_o be_v a_o mixture_n of_o the_o illuminative_a 10._o in_o the_o second_o place_n when_o a_o soul_n by_o perseverance_n in_o such_o discursive_a prayer_n come_v to_o find_v as_o in_o â—â—me_n she_o will_v that_o she_o stand_v in_o less_o need_n of_o invent_v motive_n to_o induce_v she_o to_o exercise_v love_n to_o god_n because_o good_a affection_n by_o exercise_n abound_v and_o â—owing_v ripe_a do_v with_o facility_n move_v themselves_o so_o â—â—at_a the_o mere_a present_v of_o a_o good_a object_n to_o the_o soul_n suffise_v to_o make_v she_o produce_v a_o good_a affection_n thenceforward_o by_o little_a and_o little_a the_o soul_n in_o prayer_n quit_v discourse_v and_o the_o will_v immediate_o stir_v itself_o towards_o god_n and_o here_o meditation_n end_v the_o second_o and_o more_o perfect_a degree_n or_o state_n of_o internal_a prayer_n begin_v to_o wit_n the_o prayer_n of_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n 11._o now_o a_o soul_n live_v a_o solitary_a or_o abstract_a life_n and_o be_v arrive_v to_o this_o prayer_n if_o she_o shall_v be_v oblige_v by_o
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
suitable_a to_o reason_n but_o be_v moreover_o confirm_v by_o the_o authority_n of_o learned_a and_o experience_v mystic_a writer_n and_o particular_o the_o devout_a reader_n may_v see_v what_o barbancon_n in_o his_o secret_n sentier_n 1_o cap._n 6._o admonit_fw-la 2._o have_v write_v on_o this_o point_n 13._o thus_o have_v show_v the_o indispensable_a necessity_n for_o a_o soul_n aspire_v to_o contemplation_n with_o all_o due_a liberty_n of_o spirit_n to_o follow_v the_o divine_a guidance_n from_o each_o inferior_a degree_n of_o prayer_n to_o another_o more_o sublime_a they_o become_v more_o proper_a &_o profitable_a i_o will_v now_o endeavour_v to_o give_v more_o particular_a advice_n concern_v pass_v from_o the_o exercise_n of_o meditation_n to_o that_o of_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n and_o will_v show_v by_o what_o sign_n and_o mark_n a_o devout_a soul_n may_v reasonable_o judge_v and_o conclude_v that_o such_o a_o change_n and_o transition_n be_v proper_a for_o she_o yet_o so_o as_o that_o my_o intention_n and_o desire_n be_v that_o soul_n shall_v principal_o depend_v on_o their_o internal_a light_n which_o god_n holy_a spirit_n will_v afford_v they_o in_o and_o by_o prayer_n 14._o let_v every_o devout_a soul_n diligent_o pursue_v her_o present_a exercise_n in_o prayer_n advise_o undertake_v or_o recommend_v to_o she_o by_o a_o prudent_a director_n till_o there_o come_v a_o proper_a time_n for_o a_o change_n let_v she_o say_v the_o excellent_a author_n of_o scala_fw-la perfectionis_fw-la content_v herself_o with_o this_o gift_n of_o god_n till_o he_o be_v please_v to_o bestow_v on_o she_o a_o better_a which_o he_o will_v not_o fail_v to_o do_v when_o he_o shall_v see_v it_o to_o be_v for_o her_o good_a and_o so_o do_v she_o can_v but_o increase_v in_o charity_n although_o she_o see_v no_o evident_a proof_n of_o her_o advancement_n in_o spiritual_a operation_n whensoever_o it_o shall_v be_v god_n pleasure_n to_o make_v a_o change_n in_o her_o prayer_n he_o will_v by_o degree_n so_o press_v she_o thereto_o that_o in_o the_o end_n she_o shall_v both_o clear_o perceive_v and_o correspond_v to_o his_o invitation_n and_o till_o that_o time_n come_v it_o be_v to_o no_o purpose_n for_o she_o to_o examine_v or_o frame_v any_o judgement_n of_o her_o progress_n her_o best_a be_v to_o do_v her_o duty_n and_o leave_v the_o success_n to_o god_n 15._o a_o change_n whensoever_o it_o be_v make_v as_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v consist_v in_o this_o that_o the_o activity_n of_o the_o fancy_n and_o discourse_n be_v abate_v and_o the_o whole_a internal_a exercise_n of_o prayer_n by_o little_a be_v reduce_v to_o blind_a operation_n of_o the_o will_v the_o which_o operation_n or_o affection_n likewise_o grow_v by_o practice_n more_o and_o more_o natural_a quiet_a pure_a silent_a subtle_a imperceptible_a and_o profound_a the_o divine_a spirit_n draw_v the_o soul_n in_o her_o exercise_n ever_o more_o and_o more_o unto_o itself_o 16._o ordinary_o when_o a_o time_n of_o change_n from_o a_o more_o imperfect_a to_o a_o more_o sublime_a exercise_n of_o prayer_n come_v it_o will_v not_o on_o the_o sudden_a or_o at_o once_o be_v perceive_v or_o but_o very_o obscure_o &_o doubtful_o only_o a_o soul_n will_v perceive_v a_o better_n in_o her_o exercise_n her_o operation_n by_o little_a and_o little_o become_v more_o spiritual_a and_o indeed_o in_o some_o person_n there_o be_v almost_o daily_a a_o better_n and_o purify_n of_o their_o prayer_n the_o which_o themselves_o do_v or_o may_v well_o enough_o observe_v though_o perhaps_o they_o be_v not_o able_a to_o express_v the_o manner_n of_o it_o to_o another_o by_o reason_n of_o its_o subtlety_n 17._o far_o less_o inconvenience_n will_v follow_v by_o detain_v a_o soul_n somewhat_o too_o long_o in_o a_o humble_a inferior_a exercise_n as_o of_o meditation_n when_o she_o be_v fit_a and_o ripe_a for_o a_o more_o sublime_a one_o then_o if_o through_o inconsideration_n levity_n or_o a_o ambitious_a humour_n to_o imitate_v example_n or_o instruction_n in_o book_n not_o pertinent_a to_o she_o she_o shall_v at_o the_o first_o or_o before_o her_o time_n be_v put_v into_o one_o above_o her_o present_a capacity_n for_o in_o the_o former_a case_n a_o easy_a and_o present_a remedy_n may_v be_v find_v by_o exalt_v the_o soul_n afterward_o to_o a_o more_o perfect_a exercise_n suitable_a to_o her_o present_a disposition_n till_o which_o be_v do_v she_o will_v at_o least_o exercise_v her_o humility_n and_o submission_n of_o judgement_n by_o which_o she_o will_v receive_v much_o profit_n but_o it_o be_v very_o difficult_a to_o find_v a_o remedy_n in_o the_o other_o case_n because_o first_o the_o natural_a unwillingnes_n and_o shame_n that_o be_v in_o soul_n to_o acknowledge_v their_o too_o hasty_a ambition_n and_o to_o descend_v lower_n will_v secret_o hinder_v they_o and_o beside_o they_o will_v be_v ready_a to_o justify_v themselves_o by_o misapply_v certain_a document_n in_o spiritual_a author_n which_o forbid_v soul_n to_o quit_v their_o present_a exercise_n for_o one_o inferior_a through_o any_o discouragement_n from_o aridity_n or_o unsatisfaction_n find_v in_o they_o notwithstanding_o except_o they_o will_v be_v content_a with_o the_o mortification_n of_o return_v to_o meditation_n in_o case_n they_o be_v not_o yet_o ripe_a for_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n they_o will_v be_v in_o danger_n of_o incur_v a_o habitual_a dryenes_n melancholy_a and_o stupidity_n and_o morever_o they_o will_v run_v into_o a_o endless_a labarynth_n perplex_v and_o entangle_v themselves_o therein_o to_o the_o great_a disquiet_n of_o their_o own_o mind_n and_o the_o trouble_v of_o other_o with_o question_n and_o doubt_n 18._o yet_o it_o can_v be_v deny_v but_o that_o god_n do_v often_o invite_v soul_n to_o some_o change_n in_o prayer_n according_a to_o that_o which_o before_o they_o have_v read_v in_o some_o book_n and_o then_o they_o be_v to_o follow_v the_o instruction_n of_o such_o a_o book_n as_o a_o light_n send_v they_o from_o god_n in_o which_o case_n it_o be_v indeed_o the_o secret_a motion_n and_o invitation_n afford_v they_o by_o god_n to_o apply_v such_o instruction_n that_o be_v their_o sure_a guide_n without_o which_o they_o must_v apply_v nothing_o that_o they_o find_v in_o book_n 19_o more_o particular_o by_o these_o follow_a sign_n a_o devout_a soul_n may_v for_o the_o most_o part_n perceive_v and_o judge_v when_o it_o be_v fit_a for_o she_o to_o change_v her_o exercise_n of_o prayer_n as_o for_o example_n to_o quit_v meditation_n and_o to_o betake_v herself_o to_o a_o prayer_n of_o the_o will_n etc._n etc._n 20._o first_o she_o will_v not_o find_v that_o pleasure_n satisfaction_n and_o profit_n in_o her_o present_a exercise_n which_o former_o she_o do_v but_o on_o the_o contrary_a a_o sensible_a disgust_n and_o a_o kind_n of_o impotency_n to_o practice_v internal_a discourse_n any_o long_o or_o if_o she_o will_v force_v herself_o to_o observe_v her_o method_n of_o meditate_v it_o will_v produce_v no_o effect_n upon_o her_o affection_n the_o which_o if_o they_o be_v leave_v to_o themselves_o will_v flow_v far_o more_o free_o and_o this_o disgust_n be_v not_o for_o once_o or_o twice_o nor_o as_o former_o upon_o occasion_n of_o some_o corporal_a distemper_n passion_n aridity_n or_o any_o unusual_a accident_n but_o it_o be_v a_o last_a disgust_n arise_v from_o a_o desire_n to_o please_v god_n and_o to_o grow_v in_o perfection_n join_v with_o a_o uncertainty_n or_o fear_n that_o the_o way_n wherein_o she_o now_o be_v be_v not_o proper_a to_o effect_v that_o desire_n 21._o second_o she_o will_v thereupon_o find_v in_o herself_o a_o certain_a motion_n or_o inward_a invitation_n to_o enter_v into_o some_o other_o new_a exercise_n at_o yet_o not_o clear_o know_v to_o she_o or_o if_o there_o be_v no_o new_a exercise_n propose_v to_o she_o there_o be_v however_o a_o motion_n to_o a_o cessation_n from_o the_o present_a exercise_n at_o least_o for_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v the_o manner_n of_o it_o as_o it_o happen_v when_o from_o aspiration_n a_o soul_n be_v invite_v to_o a_o rest_a and_o repose_v in_o god_n with_o a_o cessation_n of_o all_o active_a aspiration_n or_o affection_n the_o which_o be_v a_o immediate_a disposition_n to_o a_o supernatural_a contemplation_n 22._o three_o a_o devout_a soul_n consider_v the_o benefit_n that_o she_o have_v hitherto_o reap_v by_o her_o present_a exercise_n and_o her_o accustomance_n to_o it_o which_o be_v not_o easy_o leave_v consider_v likewise_o that_o for_o want_n of_o trial_n she_o do_v not_o as_o yet_o know_v the_o worth_a and_o benefit_n of_o the_o new_a propose_a exercise_n the_o which_o at_o first_o appear_v a_o little_a strange_a and_o uncouth_a to_o she_o she_o will_v not_o easy_o see_v or_o believe_v that_o it_o will_v prove_v as_o profitable_a as_o her_o present_a exercise_n have_v already_o be_v for_o
these_o and_o the_o like_a reason_n she_o will_v be_v apprehensive_a and_o unwilling_a to_o adventure_v upon_o the_o new_a one_o 23._o four_o during_o these_o uncertainty_n and_o irresolution_n her_o disgust_n in_o her_o present_a exercise_n rather_o increase_v then_o diminish_v and_o god_n still_o interious_o though_o not_o gross_o and_o sensible_o incline_v she_o to_o the_o new_a propose_a way_n she_o at_o length_n as_o it_o be_v force_v thereto_o adventure_n upon_o it_o yet_o with_o some_o fear_n at_o the_o first_o whether_o this_o change_n will_v prove_v for_o her_o good_a or_o no._n 24._o five_o as_o soon_o as_o she_o be_v well_o enter_v into_o this_o new_a exercise_n present_o she_o will_v find_v it_o gustfull_a &_o delightful_a unto_o she_o and_o withal_o much_o more_o profitable_a than_o be_v the_o other_o former_o practise_v whereupon_o she_o will_v thenceforward_o with_o courage_n and_o joy_n persevere_v in_o it_o 25._o by_o such_o step_n and_o degree_n do_v a_o soul_n that_o be_v pure_o under_o the_o guidance_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n pass_v from_o one_o degree_n of_o prayer_n to_o another_o former_o unknowen_a unto_o she_o till_o at_o last_o she_o come_v to_o contemplation_n and_o she_o will_v clear_o perceive_v that_o it_o be_v not_o herself_o but_o god_n only_o that_o do_v as_o it_o be_v lead_v she_o by_o the_o hand_n and_o draw_v she_o forward_o into_o the_o new_a exercise_n teach_v she_o likewise_o how_o to_o hehave_v herself_o in_o the_o beginning_n whereas_o in_o the_o pursuance_n of_o it_o she_o afterward_o proceed_v as_o it_o be_v by_o she_o own_o habitual_a skill_n though_o real_o god_n be_v in_o every_o thing_n her_o secret_a master_n and_o helper_n and_o he_o deal_v with_o a_o humble_a soul_n as_o a_o write_a master_n with_o his_o scholar_n who_o at_o first_o move_v and_o direct_v his_o hand_n to_o form_n &_o join_v letter_n but_o afterward_o direct_v he_o only_o with_o his_o eye_n and_o tongue_n or_o as_o a_o father_n that_o carry_v his_o child_n over_o a_o ditch_n or_o style_n but_o let_v we_o he_o go_v alone_o in_o the_o even_o plain_a way_n 26._o and_o as_o for_o a_o soul_n that_o by_o read_v or_o teach_v be_v inform_v in_o the_o nature_n and_o degree_n of_o internal_a prayer_n her_o proceed_n and_o transition_n be_v much_o after_o the_o same_o manner_n except_v only_o that_o the_o next_o degree_n to_o which_o she_o be_v to_o ascend_v do_v not_o seem_v so_o strange_a to_o she_o but_o the_o sign_n by_o which_o a_o necessity_n of_o change_n do_v appear_v be_v as_o formerly_z a_o constant_a disgust_n in_o her_o present_a exercise_n of_o meditation_n etc._n etc._n and_o a_o kind_n of_o disability_n to_o continue_v it_o with_o any_o profit_n to_o her_o spirit_n by_o which_o mean_v it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o in_o her_o recollection_n the_o meditate_v or_o discourse_v part_n diminish_v daily_a and_o the_o affective_a part_n increase_v the_o will_n by_o little_a and_o little_o get_v ground_n of_o the_o understanding_n till_o at_o last_o the_o prayer_n become_v entire_o of_o the_o will_n and_o thus_o she_o pass_v almost_o unaware_n into_o the_o next_o degree_n her_o prayer_n become_v by_o little_a and_o little_o more_o and_o more_o purify_v into_o the_o which_o degree_n when_o she_o be_v in_o such_o a_o manner_n and_o order_n enter_v then_o indeed_o she_o be_v not_o for_o any_o aridity_n or_o obscurity_n to_o quit_v it_o and_o to_o return_v to_o meditation_n but_o to_o use_v a_o discreet_a violence_n upon_o the_o will_n to_o make_v it_o to_o produce_v good_a affection_n and_o act_n although_o nature_n take_v little_a comfort_n or_o satisfaction_n in_o the_o exercise_n for_o by_o so_o do_v she_o will_v much_o benefit_v herself_o both_o by_o mortify_a nature_n and_o fix_v divine_a love_n more_o profound_o in_o the_o spiritual_a region_n of_o the_o soul_n 27._o to_o conclude_v this_o point_n a_o spiritual_a life_n be_v subject_a to_o many_o and_o wonderful_a change_n interiour_n as_o well_o as_o exterior_a and_o all_o be_v according_a to_o the_o mere_a will_n and_o good_a pleasure_n of_o god_n who_o be_v tie_v to_o no_o method_n or_o rule_n therefore_o follow_a he_o in_o all_o simplicity_n and_o resignation_n let_v we_o wonder_n at_o nothing_o let_v we_o neither_o oblige_v self_n too_o rigorous_o to_o any_o exercise_n nor_o refuse_v any_o to_o which_o he_o shall_v invite_v we_o seem_v it_o never_o so_o strange_a or_o to_o natural_a reason_n even_o senseless_a for_o in_o his_o guidance_n there_o can_v be_v no_o danger_n of_o error_n but_o on_o the_o contrary_a there_o be_v all_o security_n and_o this_o may_v and_o aught_o to_o be_v a_o great_a comfort_n and_o encouragement_n to_o a_o wellminded_n resolute_a soul_n the_o three_o section_n of_o the_o three_o treatise_n to_o wit_n of_o the_o exercise_n of_o immediate_a force_a act_n of_o the_o will_n be_v the_o second_o degree_n of_o internal_a prayer_n chap._n i._n §_o 1._o 2._o 3._o of_o exercise_n of_o the_o will_n to_o wit_n force_v immediate_a act_n or_o affection_n &_o aspiration_n §_o 4._o 5._o &c_n &c_n difference_n between_o act_n of_o the_o will_n &_o affection_n §_o 8._o 9_o how_o the_o prayer_n of_o sensible_a affection_n be_v to_o be_v exercise_v §_o 10._o of_o sublime_a pure_a affection_n of_o the_o spirit_n §_o 11._o 12._o &c_n &c_n of_o the_o prayer_n of_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n compare_v with_o meditation_n §_o 17._o 18._o condition_n of_o acts._n §_o 19_o mere_a cessation_n of_o prayer_n to_o be_v avoid_v §_o 20._o a_o account_v not_o to_o be_v require_v touch_v the_o behaviour_n of_o soul_n in_o affective_a prayer_n §_o 21._o act_n proceed_v from_o a_o good_a natural_a propension_n be_v most_o efficacious_a 1._o a_o soul_n that_o by_o a_o divine_a call_n as_o be_v in_o a_o state_n of_o maturity_n for_o it_o relinquish_v meditation_n to_o the_o end_n to_o betake_v herself_o to_o a_o more_o sublime_a exercise_n which_o be_v that_o of_o immediate_a act_n or_o affection_n of_o the_o will_n then_o only_o begin_v to_o enter_v into_o the_o way_n of_o contemplation_n for_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o will_n be_v the_o sublimest_n that_o any_o soul_n can_v practice_v and_o all_o the_o difference_n that_o hereafter_o follow_v be_v only_o either_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o great_a or_o lesser_a promptitude_n or_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o degree_n of_o purity_n wherewith_o a_o soul_n produce_v such_o acts._n 2._o so_o that_o the_o whole_a latitude_n of_o internal_a prayer_n of_o the_o will_v which_o be_v contemplative_a prayer_n may_v be_v comprehend_v under_o these_o two_o distinct_a exercise_n to_o wit_n 1._o the_o exercise_n of_o force_a act_n or_o affection_n of_o the_o will_n produce_v either_o immediate_o according_a to_o the_o person_n present_a disposition_n without_o a_o distinct_a or_o express_a motive_n represent_v by_o the_o understanding_n or_o else_o suitable_a to_o such_o â—_o motive_n yet_o without_o any_o formal_a discourse_n of_o the_o understanding_n these_o be_v call_v force_v act_n because_o after_o â—hat_n a_o soul_n be_v become_v indispose_v to_o prosecute_v the_o exâ—rcise_n of_o meditation_n it_o will_v be_v long_o before_o that_o good_a affection_n do_v as_o it_o be_v natural_o flow_v from_o she_o so_o that_o she_o will_v need_v to_o use_v some_o force_n upon_o herself_o for_o the_o produce_v of_o the_o say_a act_n of_o the_o will_n which_o be_v imperfect_a contemplation_n 2._o the_o exercise_n of_o aspiration_n the_o which_o though_o they_o be_v in_o substance_n little_o differ_v from_o the_o former_a yet_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o facility_n wherewith_o they_o be_v produce_v without_o force_n foresight_n or_o election_n pure_o flow_a from_o a_o internal_a impulse_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n we_o therefore_o give_v they_o another_o name_n &_o call_v they_o not_o act_n but_o aspiration_n the_o constant_a exercise_n of_o which_o be_v proper_a &_o perfect_a contemplation_n 3._o of_o these_o two_o exercise_n i_o shall_v consequent_o treat_v beginning_n with_o the_o more_o imperfect_a which_o be_v that_o of_o force_a immediate_a act_n or_o affection_n of_o the_o will_n 4._o in_o the_o which_o exercise_n i_o make_v some_o difference_n between_o act_n &_o affection_n of_o the_o will_n the_o former_a oâ—_n which_o be_v make_v in_o and_o by_o the_o superior_a will_n only_o without_o any_o concurrence_n of_o sensitive_a nature_n such_o be_v act_n of_o humiliation_n resignation_n &c_n &c_n the_o produce_v of_o which_o do_v not_o cause_v any_o gust_n in_o inferiors_n nature_n whereas_o affection_n of_o love_n joy_n hope_v desire_v &c_n &c_n be_v exercise_v by_o imperfect_a soul_n be_v mucâ—_n immerse_v in_o sense_n and_o they_o begin_v at_o the_o first_o almoâ—â—_n whole_o in_o inferior_a nature_n but_o yet_o by_o practice_n theâ—_n become_v more_o and_o more_o pure_a be_v raise_v to_o the_o toâ—_n
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
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
molestation_n and_o affliction_n yea_o in_o that_o case_n it_o may_v reasonable_o be_v judge_v that_o they_o be_v strong_o assist_v with_o god_n holq_n spirit_n since_o they_o overcome_v so_o great_a tentation_n of_o the_o evil_a spirit_n 21._o the_o twelve_o and_o last_o rule_n it_o can_v proceed_v from_o a_o good_a spirit_n when_o soul_n visit_v with_o revelation_n &c_n &c_n shall_v obstinate_o believe_v they_o to_o be_v of_o god_n after_o they_o have_v be_v condemn_v by_o experience_a superior_n and_o directour_n unless_o the_o person_n be_v able_a to_o yield_v most_o convince_a proof_n thereof_o and_o moreover_o shall_v serious_o profess_v that_o god_n together_o with_o the_o secret_n reveyl_v have_v imprint_v in_o their_o soul_n this_o assurance_n and_o belief_n also_o certain_a it_o be_v that_o obedience_n be_v a_o most_o secure_a remedy_n against_o all_o possible_a inconvenience_n and_o can_v do_v no_o harm_n in_o no_o case_n this_o be_v that_o that_o s._n teresa_n serious_o enjoine_v and_o most_o constant_o practise_v herself_o and_o this_o in_o very_o strange_a circumstance_n when_o the_o confessarius_fw-la condemn_v she_o be_v both_o unlearned_a &_o impertinent_a etc._n etc._n but_o withal_o spiritual_a directour_n ought_v not_o to_o be_v rash_a in_o their_o proceed_n nor_o to_o judge_v till_o after_o a_o long_a experience_n and_o knowledge_n of_o the_o inward_a disposition_n of_o the_o person_n and_o a_o due_a weigh_v of_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o revelation_n discover_v to_o they_o it_o be_v likewise_o requisite_a that_o those_o that_o take_v upon_o they_o to_o judge_v of_o these_o thing_n be_v themselves_o devout_a exercise_v in_o prayer_n and_o in_o good_a state_n towards_o god_n to_o the_o end_n they_o may_v from_o he_o receive_v light_a to_o direct_v other_o 22._o in_o the_o next_o place_n as_o touch_v the_o manner_n how_o a_o soul_n after_o the_o receive_n of_o such_o supernatural_a favour_n be_v to_o behave_v herself_o the_o principal_a care_n that_o she_o ought_v to_o have_v be_v that_o she_o do_v not_o bear_v a_o deliberate_a and_o fix_a love_n to_o such_o thing_n which_o be_v due_a to_o god_n only_o and_o consequent_o that_o she_o do_v not_o either_o express_o or_o implicit_o pray_v to_o god_n to_o have_v such_o vision_n revelation_n etc._n etc._n or_o in_o case_n that_o god_n without_o her_o prayer_n have_v send_v they_o that_o she_o do_v not_o usual_o without_o necessity_n talk_v of_o such_o matter_n or_o love_v to_o hear_v other_o talk_v of_o they_o for_o these_o be_v sign_n of_o a_o undue_a affection_n to_o they_o 23._o b._n john_n de_fw-fr cruse_n say_v that_o when_o god_n do_v after_o a_o extraordinary_a manner_n make_v know_v unto_o humble_a soul_n his_o will_n that_o they_o shall_v take_v in_o hand_n some_o great_a employment_n by_o mean_n whereof_o they_o may_v likely_o gain_v a_o great_a esteem_n of_o excellency_n and_o probable_o will_v be_v in_o danger_n to_o conceive_v some_o extraordinary_a worth_a to_o be_v in_o themselves_o for_o which_o they_o be_v so_o high_o favour_v by_o god_n which_o conceit_n the_o devil_n will_v not_o fail_v to_o cherish_v and_o increase_v he_o do_v ofentimes_o rather_o increase_v then_o diminish_v the_o fear_n and_o repugnance_n that_o they_o have_v former_o to_o such_o thing_n cause_v in_o they_o a_o desire_n and_o readiness_n much_o rather_o to_o the_o undergo_n of_o some_o vile_a or_o base_a office_n thus_o he_o deal_v with_o moses_n when_o he_o send_v he_o to_o pharaoh_n and_o thus_o with_o jeremy_n etc._n etc._n but_o it_o happen_v quite_o contrary_a when_o the_o bid_n be_v from_o the_o devil_n counterfeit_n privy_o a_o divine_a mission_n for_o he_o with_o his_o commission_n cause_v a_o forwardness_n in_o soul_n to_o take_v upon_o they_o employment_n of_o excellency_n or_o otherwise_o grateful_a to_o nature_n as_o also_o a_o great_a aversion_n from_o those_o that_o either_o suspect_v or_o will_v dissuade_v they_o from_o such_o undertake_n 24._o a_o soul_n therefore_o be_v by_o serious_a consideration_n to_o raise_v and_o increase_v in_o herself_o a_o apprehension_n and_o aversion_n from_o such_o matter_n say_v with_o s._n peter_n exi_n a_o i_o etc._n etc._n go_v from_o i_o o_o lord_n for_o i_o be_o a_o sinful_a man_n and_o by_o exercise_v so_o profitable_a a_o mortification_n she_o will_v secure_v herself_o from_o all_o peril_n and_o render_v herself_o very_o acceptable_a to_o god_n serious_a instruction_n to_o a_o disappropriation_n and_o mortify_v our_o love_n to_o such_o thing_n be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o scala_n perfectionis_fw-la angela_n de_fw-fr fulginio_n and_o particular_o in_o the_o book_n call_v interiour_n abnegation_n there_o be_v this_o passage_n to_o god_n it_o belong_v to_o give_v rare_a and_o excellent_a gift_n and_o to_o the_o soul_n it_o belong_v to_o refuse_v they_o it_o be_v suitable_a to_o the_o divine_a goodness_n to_o approach_v unto_o a_o soul_n and_o the_o soul_n duty_n be_v in_o humility_n to_o draw_v back_o as_o s._n peter_n do_v it_o belong_v to_o god_n to_o elevate_v the_o soul_n and_o her_o duty_n be_v to_o humble_a and_o abase_v herself_o for_o as_o our_o nature_n in_o every_o thing_n and_o upon_o every_o occasion_n desire_v a_o proper_a excellency_n and_o sublimity_n yea_o even_o in_o thing_n holy_a and_o appertain_v to_o god_n so_o our_o spirit_n illuminate_v by_o grace_n which_o be_v superior_a to_o our_o nature_n ought_v incessant_o in_o all_o thing_n and_o occasion_n to_o seek_v to_o be_v deprive_v of_o all_o excellency_n except_o in_o essential_a virtue_n and_o to_o embrace_v all_o poverty_n and_o lowne_n even_o in_o sacred_a thing_n that_o so_o she_o be_v not_o less_o careful_a and_o resolute_a to_o overcome_v herself_o than_o nature_n be_v to_o seek_v herself_o thus_o there_o must_v be_v a_o continual_a contestation_n between_o god_n and_o the_o humble_a soul_n etc._n etc._n and_o especial_o those_o soul_n that_o be_v most_o incline_v &_o forward_o to_o embrace_v these_o high_a and_o grateful_a thing_n must_v necessary_o make_v such_o resistance_n not_o yield_v till_o pure_a necessity_n force_v they_o and_o till_o god_n take_v from_o they_o all_o power_n to_o withdraw_v themselves_o and_o to_o refuse_v the_o excellence_n of_o that_o grace_n whereunto_o he_o at_o the_o same_o time_n so_o continual_o and_o powerful_o urge_v and_o draw_v they_o instruction_n to_o the_o same_o purpose_n we_o find_v in_o auilas_fw-la epistle_n 25._o this_o be_v the_o practice_n of_o the_o holy_a virgin_n coleta_n who_o when_o god_n offer_v to_o reveyle_v unto_o her_o diverse_a secret_n answer_v lord_n god_n it_o suffice_v i_o only_o to_o know_v thou_o and_o the_o sin_n in_o which_o i_o have_v offend_v thou_o and_o to_o obtain_v thy_o pardon_n for_o they_o but_o most_o notable_a in_o this_o regard_n be_v the_o example_n of_o suso_n when_o god_n command_v he_o to_o publish_v to_o all_o estate_n in_o the_o world_n the_o pope_n bishop_n abbot_n &c._n &c._n their_o vice_n and_o enormity_n represent_v to_o he_o in_o the_o vision_n of_o the_o nine_o rock_n he_o out_o of_o that_o habitual_a fear_n and_o humility_n that_o be_v in_o he_o do_v so_o resist_v the_o execute_v such_o a_o charge_n that_o till_o he_o be_v adiur_v and_o command_v in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o holy_a trinity_n and_o and_o so_o force_v to_o it_o even_o against_o his_o will_n he_o have_v never_o yield_v and_o then_o also_o he_o submit_v himself_o with_o much_o bewail_v his_o misery_n express_v his_o fear_n of_o the_o danger_n of_o pride_n and_o therefore_o humble_o beg_v that_o his_o name_n may_v be_v conceiled_a from_o the_o world_n and_o last_o protest_v his_o desire_n and_o love_n to_o be_v direct_v to_o nothing_o but_o only_a to_o god_n himself_o his_o resistance_n indeed_o be_v so_o obstinate_a that_o god_n tell_v he_o that_o if_o he_o have_v not_o know_v that_o it_o proceed_v from_o true_a but_o indiscreet_a humility_n he_o will_v present_o have_v cast_v he_o into_o hell_n for_o it_o 26._o those_o therefore_o that_o be_v favour_v with_o extraordinary_a grace_n if_o they_o do_v due_o consider_v their_o state_n and_o danger_n will_v find_v little_a ground_n to_o exalt_v themselves_o or_o to_o despise_v other_o that_o be_v in_o a_o more_o low_a but_o withal_o far_o more_o secure_a way_n 27._o now_o for_o the_o prevent_n and_o avoid_v the_o great_a danger_n of_o ill_o use_v such_o favour_n and_o divine_a grace_n to_o the_o feed_n of_o self_n love_n and_o pride_n spiritual_a author_n do_v serious_o enjoin_v such_o person_n so_o visit_v by_o god_n not_o to_o trust_v their_o own_o judgement_n or_o to_o determine_v whether_o they_o come_v from_o god_n or_o not_o and_o much_o less_o to_o put_v in_o practice_v any_o thing_n of_o consequence_n upon_o such_o revelation_n but_o to_o refer_v themselves_o to_o the_o judgement_n and_o advice_n of_o other_o 28._o and_o herein_o great_a
care_n be_v to_o be_v have_v to_o choose_v pious_a and_o discreet_a directour_n because_o too_o many_o there_o be_v that_o will_v too_o ready_o and_o sudden_o resolve_v such_o matter_n to_o come_v from_o none_o but_o god_n and_o will_v thereupon_o desire_v such_o person_n to_o intercede_v for_o they_o and_o to_o beg_v some_o particular_a favour_n of_o the_o like_a nature_n etc._n etc._n now_o upon_o such_o indiscreet_a behaviour_n in_o those_o that_o shall_v be_v directour_n such_o person_n will_v begin_v to_o think_v that_o god_n love_v to_o treat_v with_o they_o and_o will_v interpret_v the_o thing_n declare_v unto_o they_o according_a to_o their_o own_o gust_n and_o humour_n and_o if_o thing_n shall_v fall_v out_o otherwise_o then_o they_o imagine_v they_o will_v fall_v into_o melancholic_a suspicion_n and_o great_a danger_n of_o the_o devil_n snare_n 29._o the_o best_a course_n that_o a_o confessarius_fw-la in_o this_o case_n can_v take_v be_v if_o there_o be_v any_o rational_a ground_n of_o probability_n that_o such_o vision_n etc._n etc._n do_v not_o come_v from_o god_n to_o exhort_v and_o enjoin_v the_o person_n to_o avoid_v and_o despise_v they_o yea_o and_o if_o after_o long_o and_o serious_a examination_n it_o shall_v seem_v almost_o evident_a to_o he_o that_o god_n be_v the_o author_n of_o they_o yet_o ought_v he_o so_o to_o behave_v himself_o both_o in_o word_n and_o action_n as_o to_o deter_v the_o soul_n from_o adhere_v to_o they_o with_o affection_n rather_o incline_v she_o to_o a_o suspicion_n and_o fear_n or_o however_o to_o a_o indifferency_n about_o they_o with_o a_o aspect_n of_o love_n to_o god_n himself_o only_o who_o be_v above_o all_o his_o gift_n and_o aught_o to_o be_v the_o only_a object_n of_o our_o love_n and_o thus_o if_o the_o confessarius_fw-la behave_v himself_o he_o may_v be_v sure_a that_o he_o will_v prevent_v all_o harm_n to_o ensue_v and_o he_o shall_v perform_v a_o service_n very_o acceptable_a to_o god_n 30._o certain_o the_o danger_n be_v far_o less_o to_o be_v too_o difficult_a in_o believe_v and_o esteem_v such_o thing_n then_o to_o be_v never_o so_o little_a too_o credulous_a and_o incline_v to_o admire_v they_o for_o it_o be_v better_a that_o good_a one_o shall_v be_v often_o suspect_v they_o that_o a_o ill_a one_o shall_v be_v once_o believe_v and_o therefore_o we_o do_v find_v that_o our_o bless_a lord_n appear_v to_o s._n teresa_n do_v neither_o take_v it_o ill_o from_o she_o nor_o from_o her_o director_n when_o by_o his_o order_n she_o do_v spit_n at_o he_o and_o defy_v he_o so_o appear_v to_o she_o but_o he_o only_o inform_v she_o how_o she_o shall_v give_v convince_a proof_n that_o it_o be_v no_o illusion_n 31._o b._n john_n de_fw-fr cruse_n give_v very_o good_a advice_n touch_v this_o point_n exhort_v soul_n as_o the_o sure_a way_n that_o in_o case_n they_o can_v meet_v with_o a_o prudent_a and_o experience_a confessarius_fw-la they_o shall_v not_o speak_v one_o word_n concern_v such_o grace_n but_o to_o pass_v they_o over_o and_o to_o make_v no_o account_n of_o they_o and_o however_o by_o no_o mean_n of_o their_o own_o head_n to_o proceed_v to_o the_o execute_n of_o any_o thing_n signify_v after_o such_o a_o unusual_a manner_n 32._o and_o though_o it_o shall_v happen_v that_o the_o soul_n be_v so_o dispose_v as_o to_o make_v no_o great_a estimation_n of_o such_o thing_n which_o will_v be_v a_o great_a security_n from_o danger_n by_o they_o shall_v therefore_o think_v it_o to_o no_o purpose_n to_o consult_v with_o a_o prudent_a director_n about_o such_o trifle_n or_o if_o on_o the_o other_o side_n such_o revelation_n seem_v unto_o she_o so_o absolute_o clear_a and_o unquestionable_a that_o there_o be_v no_o need_n at_o all_o to_o ask_v any_o one_o judgement_n about_o they_o yet_o say_v the_o same_o author_n it_o will_v be_v necessary_a that_o she_o discover_v they_o to_o her_o spiritual_a master_n 33._o and_o the_o reason_n be_v 1._o because_o ordinary_o such_o be_v god_n order_n and_o disposition_n to_o the_o end_n that_o by_o such_o a_o humble_a submission_n of_o herself_o a_o new_a light_n and_o grace_n may_v be_v communicate_v to_o she_o 2._o to_o the_o end_n that_o upon_o such_o a_o occasion_n she_o may_v be_v put_v in_o mind_n to_o restrain_v her_o affection_n from_o such_o thing_n and_o be_v establish_v in_o true_a nakedness_n and_o poverty_n of_o spirit_n for_o which_o end_v the_o confessarius_fw-la aught_o not_o to_o insist_v upon_o the_o excellency_n of_o such_o favour_n but_o pass_v over_o they_o slight_o to_o encourage_v the_o soul_n rather_o to_o value_v and_o tend_v to_o a_o perfect_a active_a union_n by_o charity_n and_o pure_a prayer_n 3._o that_o by_o such_o a_o occasion_n offer_v the_o soul_n may_v conquer_v that_o natural_a unwillingnes_n which_o be_v in_o some_o to_o discover_v what_o thing_n pass_v within_o they_o and_o with_o such_o soul_n the_o confessarius_fw-la be_v to_o deal_n mild_o not_o affright_v or_o scandalize_a they_o nor_o dishearten_v they_o from_o deal_v free_o that_o by_o this_o mean_v such_o vision_n ecstasy_n etc._n etc._n may_v produce_v in_o they_o that_o effect_n which_o probable_o god_n intend_v namely_o by_o they_o to_o call_v soul_n to_o a_o near_o and_o more_o perfect_a active_a union_n by_o love_n whereof_o one_o perfect_a act_n frame_v by_o the_o will_n be_v of_o more_o worth_a and_o more_o grateful_a to_o god_n than_o all_o the_o vision_n and_o revelation_n of_o all_o thing_n that_o pass_v in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n can_v be_v and_o certain_a it_o be_v that_o many_o soul_n which_o be_v never_o visit_v with_o any_o such_o favour_n be_v yet_o far_o more_o advance_v in_o spirit_n and_o more_o near_o to_o god_n then_o be_v some_o other_o who_o frequent_o enjoy_v such_o extraordinary_a favour_n 34._o whatsoever_o it_o be_v that_o be_v suggest_v in_o such_o a_o revelation_n whether_o it_o concern_v knowledge_n or_o practice_n though_o in_o itself_o it_o be_v of_o never_o so_o small_a moment_n yet_o without_o advice_n a_o soul_n ought_v neither_o to_o assent_v to_o it_o nor_o execute_v it_o for_o whatsoever_o the_o thing_n itself_o be_v yet_o consider_v the_o cause_n &_o mean_n by_o which_o it_o come_v which_o be_v suppose_v to_o be_v supernatural_a it_o become_v of_o great_a importance_n yea_o the_o mere_a conversation_n &_o familiarity_n with_o a_o intellectual_a spirit_n be_v a_o matter_n of_o great_a consequence_n and_o as_o be_v with_o a_o good_a spirit_n it_o be_v likely_a to_o be_v occasion_n of_o much_o good_a so_o be_v with_o a_o bad_a spirit_n as_o it_o may_v well_o be_v suppose_v to_o be_v till_o the_o contrary_n be_v evident_a it_o will_v probable_o cause_v very_o much_o harm_n 35._o a_o soul_n be_v to_o consult_v with_o other_o about_o such_o matter_n aught_o to_o take_v heed_n that_o she_o fall_v not_o into_o impertinence_n but_o as_o aluarez_n de_fw-fr paz_n advise_v let_v she_o humble_o brief_o &_o clear_o manifest_v so_o much_o of_o these_o extraordinary_a matter_n to_o her_o director_n as_o may_v be_v sufficient_a to_o enable_v he_o to_o judge_v and_o if_o he_o do_v not_o much_o value_v they_o let_v she_o simple_o hold_v on_o her_o course_n and_o secure_o proceed_v in_o her_o ordinary_a exercise_n of_o devotion_n 36._o if_o some_o eminent_o perfect_a soul_n have_v follow_v their_o own_o light_n in_o judge_v of_o these_o thing_n and_o practise_v according_o without_o consult_v other_o this_o ought_v not_o to_o prejudice_n the_o forego_n advice_n which_o be_v indeed_o for_o soul_n less_o experience_v and_o perfect_a and_o such_o as_o in_o s._n paul_n phrase_n have_v not_o their_o sense_n exercise_v in_o the_o discern_a of_o good_a and_o evil_a in_o matter_n of_o this_o nature_n 37._o in_o such_o case_n likewise_o all_o soul_n be_v not_o so_o absolute_o oblige_v to_o resign_v their_o judgement_n and_o will_n to_o other_o as_o utter_o to_o neglect_v their_o own_o proper_a call_v receive_v from_o god_n for_o to_o a_o wellminded_n soul_n that_o walk_v and_o deal_v simple_o and_o plain_o with_o god_n and_o labour_v diligent_o to_o keep_v her_o affection_n free_a from_o all_o create_a thing_n aspire_v to_o a_o indifference_n whether_o she_o have_v or_o want_v they_o yea_o out_o of_o humility_n and_o a_o pious_a fear_n rather_o desire_n to_o want_n such_o extraordinary_a visitation_n such_o a_o soul_n doubtless_o will_v be_v so_o guide_v and_o illuminate_v by_o god_n holy_a spirit_n as_o she_o will_v perfect_o know_v what_o to_o do_v &_o forbear_v and_o whether_o when_o and_o of_o who_o to_o ask_v counsel_n let_v therefore_o such_o a_o soul_n careful_o observe_v her_o internal_a direction_n and_o this_o be_v the_o advice_n of_o b._n john_n de_fw-fr cruse_n 38._o from_o these_o precedent_a advice_n it_o may_v appear_v how_o different_o a_o soul_n ought_v
they_o easy_o infer_v that_o there_o be_v some_o other_o thing_n within_o they_o from_o whence_o those_o splendour_n do_v issue_n but_o they_o be_v so_o pure_o simple_o and_o naked_o resign_v to_o god_n in_o catholic_n belief_n that_o whensoever_o they_o receive_v any_o joyful_a consolation_n from_o he_o they_o be_v more_o apprehensive_a then_o when_o they_o find_v themselves_o deprive_v of_o it_o for_o their_o only_a desire_n be_v simple_o to_o imitate_v the_o example_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n in_o simple_a faith_n they_o adhere_v so_o pure_o and_o simple_o to_o the_o catholic_n faith_n that_o they_o neither_o desire_v nor_o endeavour_v to_o know_v any_o thing_n else_o there_o be_v in_o they_o so_o profound_a a_o humility_n that_o they_o esteem_v themselves_o unworthy_a of_o any_o of_o those_o secret_a and_o comfort_a grace_n of_o god_n and_o therefore_o dare_v not_o ask_v they_o they_o desire_v no_o other_o thing_n but_o this_o that_o god_n may_v be_v perfect_o glorify_v they_o be_v so_o absolute_o resign_v to_o the_o divine_a will_n that_o whatsoever_o befall_v they_o and_o all_o other_o creature_n be_v most_o acceptable_a to_o they_o therefore_o if_o god_n give_v they_o any_o thing_n they_o be_v content_v with_o it_o if_o he_o deprive_v they_o of_o it_o they_o be_v as_o well_o please_v thus_o they_o challenge_v nothing_o they_o appropriate_v nothing_o yet_o if_o it_o be_v leave_v to_o they_o they_o will_v choose_v rather_o to_o avoid_v please_v then_o bitter_a thing_n for_o the_o cross_n be_v their_o sovereign_a delight_n they_o fear_v neither_o life_n nor_o death_n purgatory_n nor_o hell_n nor_o all_o the_o devil_n in_o it_o for_o all_o servile_a fear_n be_v utter_o extinguish_v in_o they_o and_o the_o only_a fear_n remain_v be_v this_o that_o they_o do_v not_o as_o yet_o imitate_v the_o example_n of_o our_o lord_n as_o they_o ought_v &_o desire_n thâ—y_v be_v so_o humble_a that_o they_o despise_v themselves_o and_o all_o the_o work_n that_o ever_o they_o perform_v yea_o they_o abase_v themselves_o below_o all_o creature_n not_o dare_v to_o compare_v themselves_o with_o any_o they_o love_v all_o man_n alike_o in_o god_n and_o every_o one_o that_o love_v god_n they_o love_v he_o likewise_o thâ—y_o be_v total_o dead_a to_o the_o world_n and_o it_o to_o they_o and_o all_o the_o intellectual_a exercise_n and_o operation_n which_o former_o they_o pursue_v with_o propriety_n be_v altogether_o dead_a in_o they_o thâ—y_v do_v neither_o by_o intention_n nor_o love_n seek_v themselves_o nor_o any_o proper_a honour_n nor_o profit_n in_o time_n or_o eternity_n they_o have_v utter_o lose_v themselves_o &_o all_o creature_n both_o for_o time_n &_o eternity_n and_o they_o live_v in_o a_o certain_a learned_a ignorance_n not_o desire_v to_o know_v any_o thing_n they_o resent_v no_o tentation_n nor_o affliction_n it_o be_v their_o joy_n to_o follow_v our_o lord_n bear_v his_o cross_n to_o the_o last_o gasp_n they_o desire_v to_o walk_v in_o no_o other_o way_n but_o this_o and_o although_o they_o be_v unknown_a unto_o the_o world_n yet_o the_o world_n be_v well_o know_v unto_o they_o these_o be_v true_o man_n indeed_o true_a adorer_n of_o god_n that_o adore_v he_o in_o spirit_n and_o truth_n thus_o suso_n 6._o but_o as_o for_o the_o internal_a actuation_n in_o the_o soul_n of_o the_o perfect_a they_o be_v so_o inexplicable_o subtle_a and_o pure_a that_o experience_n itself_o do_v not_o sufficient_o enable_v they_o to_o give_v a_o intelligible_a account_n of_o they_o what_o soul_n can_v imagine_v how_o divine_o spiritual_a &_o angelical_a must_v needs_o have_v be_v the_o internal_a exercise_n of_o divine_a love_n in_o s._n romualdus_n after_o almost_o a_o hundred_o year_n spend_v in_o solitude_n during_o all_o which_o time_n they_o continual_o grow_v more_o and_o more_o pure_a and_o divine_a 7._o in_o the_o active_a union_n which_o soul_n during_o a_o less_o perfect_a state_n have_v with_o god_n god_n be_v in_o they_o as_o a_o object_n distinct_a from_o they_o and_o so_o contemplate_v by_o they_o but_o in_o the_o state_n of_o perfection_n he_o be_v not_o only_o the_o object_n and_o end_n but_o the_o only_a perceivable_a principle_n also_o of_o all_o their_o operation_n yea_o say_v barbanson_n cap._n 12._o he_o be_v the_o fund_z the_o entire_a state_n the_o stable_a foundation_n of_o the_o soul_n by_o virtue_n of_o which_o the_o be_v life_n and_o respiration_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v become_v as_o much_o exalt_v as_o the_o operation_n &_o contemplation_n thereof_o for_o this_o union_n be_v not_o now_o only_a a_o gift_n and_o operation_n of_o god_n that_o be_v of_o a_o short_a continuance_n nor_o only_a simple_a actual_a infusion_n by_o which_o the_o soul_n may_v at_o some_o time_n be_v actual_o inform_v and_o no_o more_o but_o the_o very_a foundation_n state_n and_o disposition_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v change_v reverse_v and_o reform_v by_o divine_a grace_n the_o which_o be_v a_o participation_n of_o the_o divine_a be_v and_o consequent_o make_v we_o partaker_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n confer_v on_o we_o a_o stable_n and_o permanent_a state_n in_o regard_n of_o our_o interiour_n to_o live_v according_a to_o the_o divine_a and_o supernatural_a life_n conformable_a whereto_o be_v the_o consequent_n and_o effect_n of_o it_o to_o wit_n light_n knowledge_n experience_n and_o inclination_n to_o divine_a thing_n yea_o say_v the_o same_o author_n in_o another_o place_n although_o the_o divine_a actual_a and_o special_a touch_n be_v not_o always_o real_o present_a so_o as_o by_o mean_n of_o their_o prevention_n to_o produce_v actual_a operation_n the_o soul_n notwithstanding_o can_v maintain_v itself_o yea_o and_o perceive_v itself_o to_o persist_v in_o a_o state_n of_o life_n according_a to_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n a_o life_n of_o peace_n serenity_n and_o repose_n in_o which_o the_o spirit_n be_v continual_o attentive_a to_o what_o god_n will_v vouchsafe_v to_o speak_v in_o she_o 8._o by_o reason_n of_o this_o habitation_n and_o absolute_a dominion_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o the_o soul_n of_o the_o perfect_a who_o have_v whole_o neglect_v forget_v and_o lose_v themselves_o to_o the_o end_n that_o god_n alone_o may_v live_v in_o they_o who_o they_o contemplate_v in_o the_o absolute_a obscurity_n of_o faith_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o some_o mystic_a writer_n do_v call_v this_o perfect_a union_n the_o union_n of_o nothing_o with_o nothing_o that_o be_v the_o union_n of_o the_o soul_n which_o be_v not_o where_o corporal_o that_o have_v no_o image_n nor_o affection_n to_o creature_n in_o she_o yea_o that_o have_v lose_v the_o free_a disposal_n of_o her_o own_o faculty_n actuate_a by_o a_o portion_n of_o the_o spirit_n above_o all_o the_o faculty_n and_o according_a to_o the_o actual_a touch_v of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n and_o apprehend_v god_n with_o a_o exclusion_n of_o all_o conception_n and_o apprehension_n thus_o it_o be_v that_o the_o soul_n be_v no_o where_o corporal_o or_o sensible_o be_v every_o where_o spiritual_o and_o immediate_o unite_v to_o god_n this_o infinite_a nothing_o 9_o the_o soul_n now_o be_v so_o elevate_v in_o spirit_n that_o she_o seem_v to_o be_v all_o spirit_n and_o as_o it_o be_v separate_v from_o the_o body_n here_o she_o come_v to_o a_o feel_n indeed_o of_o her_o not-being_a &_o by_o consequence_n of_o the_o not-being_a of_o creature_n the_o which_o be_v indeed_o a_o real_a truth_n not_o as_o if_o the_o soul_n or_o other_o creature_n either_o do_v cease_v according_a to_o their_o natural_a be_v or_o as_o if_o a_o natural_a be_v be_v indeed_o no_o real_a be_v as_o father_n benet_n canfield_n do_v seem_v to_o determine_v but_o because_o all_o sinful_a adhesion_n by_o affection_n to_o creature_n be_v annihilate_v than_o they_o remain_v as_o to_o the_o soul_n only_o in_o that_o true_a be_v which_o they_o have_v in_o god_n by_o dependence_n on_o he_o and_o relation_n to_o he_o so_o that_o he_o be_v all_o in_o all_o whereas_o while_o we_o sinful_o adhere_v unto_o they_o by_o stay_v in_o they_o with_o love_n we_o carry_v ourselves_o towards_o they_o as_o if_o we_o think_v they_o to_o have_v a_o be_v or_o subsistence_n of_o &_o in_o themselves_o &_o not_o of_o god_n only_o &_o that_o they_o may_v be_v love_v for_o themselves_o without_o reference_n to_o god_n which_o be_v the_o fundamental_a error_n and_o root_n of_o all_o sin_n 10._o all_o sensible_a operation_n former_o exercise_v yea_o all_o express_a and_o deliberate_v intellectual_a operation_n bring_v the_o soul_n some_o whither_o and_o to_o some_o determinate_a thing_n but_o in_o this_o perfect_a state_n the_o soul_n desire_n be_v to_o be_v nowhere_o and_o she_o seek_v nothing_o that_o either_o sense_n or_o understanding_n can_v fix_v upon_o such_o soul_n can_v taste_v and_o comprehend_v what_o s._n denys_n mean_v in_o his_o instruction_n to_o timothy_n