a_o foolish_a pronenes_n to_o discover_v their_o interior_a nor_o without_o a_o just_a necessity_n continue_v to_o seek_v instruction_n from_o without_o nothing_o will_v excuse_v it_o but_o the_o want_n of_o internal_a light_n in_o some_o special_a doubtful_a case_n &_o then_o also_o they_o have_v a_o internal_a inspiration_n &_o motion_n to_o seek_v it_o from_o other_o in_o which_o case_n it_o be_v indeed_o their_o divine_a internal_a master_n that_o they_o obey_v who_o speak_v unto_o they_o by_o the_o external_a director_n appoint_v unto_o they_o by_o god_n the_o devout_a reader_n may_v further_o see_v what_o the_o forementioned_a excellent_a author_n of_o scala_fw-la perfectionis_fw-la say_v to_o this_o purpose_n in_o the_o 2._o part_n &_o 91._o chapter_n as_o likewise_o the_o author_n of_o the_o book_n call_v the_o cloud_n of_o unknowing_a chap._n 49._o &_o 54._o 3._o now_o to_o the_o end_n to_o enable_v the_o soul_n to_o make_v a_o good_a choice_n i_o mean_v such_o a_o soul_n as_o have_v freedom_n to_o make_v she_o own_o choice_n i_o will_v set_v down_o the_o quality_n necessary_a to_o be_v find_v in_o a_o good_a director_n by_o which_o title_n i_o do_v not_o mean_v simple_o a_o confessarius_fw-la that_o be_v only_o to_o hear_v fault_n confess_v to_o give_v absolution_n &_o there_o a_o end_n for_o the_o ordinary_a quality_n of_o learning_n &_o prudence_n be_v sufficien_fw-fr thereto_o but_o by_o a_o spiritual_a director_n i_o intend_v one_o that_o beside_o this_o be_v to_o instruct_v the_o disciple_n in_o all_o the_o peculiar_a duty_n of_o a_o internal_a life_n that_o be_v to_o judge_v of_o her_o propension_n to_o contemplative_a way_n &_o that_o can_v at_o least_o teach_v she_o how_o she_o may_v fit_a herself_o with_o a_o degree_n of_o prayer_n proper_a for_o she_o that_o know_v all_o the_o degree_n of_o internal_a prayer_n &_o can_v determine_v how_o long_o she_o be_v to_o remain_v in_o such_o a_o degree_n &_o when_o to_o change_v it_o for_o a_o high_a that_o can_v judge_v what_o employment_n &c._n &c._n be_v helpful_a or_o hinder_v to_o her_o progress_n in_o internal_a way_n but_o especial_o that_o can_v teach_v she_o how_o to_o dispose_v herself_o to_o hearken_v to_o &_o follow_v god_n internal_a teach_n &_o to_o stand_v in_o no_o more_o need_n of_o consult_v her_o externall_n directour_n etc._n etc._n such_o be_v the_o proper_a office_n of_o a_o guide_n to_o enable_v he_o whereto_o there_o be_v general_o by_o spiritual_a writer_n require_v three_o principal_a quality_n 1._o a_o good_a natural_a judgement_n 2._o learning_n 3._o experience_n 4._o but_o because_o it_o be_v scarce_o to_o be_v hope_v for_o in_o all_o place_n &_o for_o all_o soul_n to_o find_v a_o director_n absolute_o perfect_a &_o qualify_v with_o all_o manner_n of_o fit_a condition_n therefore_o the_o say_a writer_n do_v dispute_v what_o quality_n be_v the_o most_o necessary_a to_o make_v a_o director_n capable_a of_o a_o sufficient_a discharge_n of_o his_o office_n now_o for_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v the_o first_o condition_n to_o wit_n a_o good_a natural_a judgement_n though_o by_o all_o it_o be_v acknowledge_v to_o be_v insufficient_a alone_o yet_o be_v it_o so_o absolute_o necessary_a that_o without_o it_o no_o considerable_a experience_n can_v be_v attein_v &_o learn_v if_o it_o be_v join_v with_o a_o extravagant_a capricious_a spirit_n will_v prove_v rather_o pernicious_a then_o advantageous_a therefore_o the_o question_n remain_v between_o learning_n &_o experience_n whether_o of_o the_o two_o be_v the_o more_o necessary_a 5._o but_o true_o this_o scarce_a deserve_v to_o be_v a_o question_n for_o though_o for_o the_o assoyl_a of_o ordinary_a doubt_n &_o case_n of_o conscience_n as_o about_o fast_v say_v the_o divine_a office_n confession_n restitution_n &c_n &c_n learning_n be_v the_o principal_a condition_n to_o be_v look_v after_o in_o one_o that_o be_v to_o be_v a_o guide_n for_o such_o purpose_n notwthstand_v since_o the_o office_n of_o the_o spiritual_a director_n that_o now_o we_o seek_v after_o be_v to_o be_v exercise_v in_o such_o internal_a matter_n of_o the_o spirit_n as_o have_v be_v say_v to_o wit_n contemplative_a prayer_n attend_v to_o divine_a inspiration_n &c_n &c_n it_o be_v the_o resolute_a judgement_n of_o gerson_n auila_n s._n teresa_n b._n john_n de_fw-fr cruse_n seraphinus_n firmanus_n &c_n &c_n that_o no_o trust_n be_v to_o be_v give_v to_o learning_n without_o experience_n but_o much_o to_o experience_n though_o without_o learning_n and_o to_o this_o purpose_n it_o be_v observable_a that_o for_o the_o most_o part_n the_o instrument_n that_o god_n have_v be_v please_v both_o in_o ancient_a &_o modern_a time_n to_o employ_v in_o the_o instruct_v &_o guide_v of_o soul_n to_o the_o perfection_n of_o contemplative_a prayer_n have_v be_v person_n of_o small_a learning_n but_o great_a experience_n such_o as_o be_v s._n anthony_n s._n benedict_n s._n francis_n s._n teresa_n &c_n &c_n 6._o no_o learning_n therefore_o that_o may_v be_v get_v by_o study_n &_o read_v though_o of_o all_o the_o contemplative_a book_n that_o now_o be_v extant_a will_v alone_o serve_v to_o enable_v any_o one_o to_o be_v a_o competent_a director_n for_o internal_a liver_n but_o there_o be_v necessary_a experience_n &_o practice_v in_o the_o same_o prayer_n &_o other_o internal_a exercise_n that_o be_v to_o be_v teach_v for_o never_o so_o many_o year_n spend_v in_o discursive_a prayer_n will_v little_o avayle_v to_o qualify_v any_o person_n to_o become_v a_o proper_a &_o profitable_a director_n for_o soul_n that_o tend_v to_o contemplation_n as_o all_o enclose_a religious_a man_n &_o woman_n be_v oblige_v to_o do_v 7._o yea_o it_o be_v much_o more_o safe_a for_o a_o wellmeaning_n soul_n to_o trust_v to_o her_o own_o internal_a light_n though_o obscure_a &_o to_o such_o instruction_n as_o book_n which_o treat_v of_o such_o kind_n of_o prayer_n will_v afford_v she_o or_o else_o to_o the_o guidance_n of_o a_o virtuous_a humble-minded_n directour_n who_o though_o he_o have_v but_o a_o very_a small_a proportion_n either_o of_o experience_n or_o learning_n yet_o out_o of_o humility_n will_v not_o assume_v unto_o himself_o authority_n to_o judge_v of_o thing_n above_o his_o reach_n but_o will_v encourage_v the_o soul_n either_o to_o seek_v out_o one_o more_o intelligent_a or_o to_o follow_v the_o direction_n of_o her_o own_o spirit_n illuminate_v by_o grace_n then_o to_o confide_v in_o such_o directour_n as_o believe_v &_o will_v fain_o have_v the_o world_n do_v so_o too_o that_o the_o spiritual_a exercise_n be_v the_o most_o perfect_a kind_n of_o internal_a prayer_n &_o by_o consequence_n who_o best_o advice_n will_v be_v to_o make_v she_o suspect_v all_o tract_n &_o invitation_n wherewith_n god_n shall_v draw_v she_o to_o a_o more_o sublime_a quiet_a pure_a prayer_n in_o spirit_n from_o which_o such_o directour_n will_v pluck_v she_o down_o to_o multiplicity_n distraction_n &_o unquietnes_n the_o best_a prayer_n that_o they_o can_v teach_v be_v that_o which_o be_v exercise_v more_o gross_o in_o the_o imagination_n in_o figure_v of_o seene_n posture_n &_o representation_n or_o by_o curious_a painful_a discourse_n in_o the_o understanding_n fettr_n her_o likewise_o with_o nice_a form_n &_o method_n in_o meditation_n both_o very_a insupportable_a &_o also_o unproffitable_a yea_o pernicious_a to_o the_o design_n of_o such_o soul_n that_o tend_v to_o contemplation_n though_o very_o good_a &_o proper_a for_o those_o who_o live_v active_a life_n what_o order_n can_v such_o directour_n give_v touch_v the_o true_a use_n of_o aspiration_n of_o which_o there_o be_v great_a variety_n or_o concern_v other_o subtle_a pure_a elevation_n annihilation_n or_o internal_a reposefull_a silent_a prayer_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o much_o less_o help_n be_v to_o be_v expect_v from_o they_o in_o the_o case_n of_o those_o strange_a in_o explicable_a privatious_a the_o which_o be_v of_o infinite_a variety_n befalling_a to_o many_o soul_n high_o advance_v in_o contemplation_n 8._o what_o a_o misery_n therefore_o be_v it_o to_o see_v contemplative_a order_n yea_o even_o those_o of_o the_o great_a solitude_n &_o abstraction_n of_o life_n afford_v they_o so_o great_a advantage_n for_o contemplation_n to_o seek_v rule_n for_o contemplative_a prayer_n from_o those_o who_o profession_n be_v so_o absolute_o contrary_a thereto_o and_o the_o more_o that_o such_o incompetent_a directour_n be_v practise_v &_o advance_v in_o skill_n about_o their_o own_o exercise_n the_o more_o unfit_a be_v they_o to_o become_v guide_n to_o contemplative_a spirit_n &_o the_o more_o dangerous_a be_v it_o to_o rely_v upon_o they_o for_o such_o experience_n join_v with_o learning_n will_v make_v they_o confident_a that_o their_o own_o way_n be_v the_o very_o best_a for_o all_o &_o zealous_a to_o draw_v all_o other_o to_o a_o like_n &_o admiration_n of_o it_o most_o certain_a it_o
abound_v 3._o but_o as_o for_o spiritual_a book_n the_o intention_n of_o a_o internal_a liver_n ought_v not_o to_o be_v such_o as_o be_v that_o of_o those_o who_o live_v extrovert_v life_n who_o read_v they_o out_o of_o a_o vain_a curiosity_n or_o to_o be_v thereby_o enable_v to_o discourse_v of_o such_o sublime_a matter_n without_o any_o particular_a choice_n or_o consideration_n whether_o they_o be_v suitable_a to_o their_o spirit_n for_o practice_v or_o no._n a_o contemplative_a soul_n in_o read_v such_o book_n must_v not_o say_v this_o be_v a_o good_a book_n or_o passage_n but_o moreover_o this_o be_v useful_a &_o proper_a for_o i_o &_o by_o god_n grace_n i_o will_v endeavour_v to_o put_v in_o execution_n in_o due_a time_n &_o place_n the_o good_a instruction_n contain_v in_o it_o as_o far_o as_o they_o be_v good_a for_o i_o 4._o for_o such_o soul_n the_o book_n most_o proper_a be_v these_o follow_a scala_fw-la perfectionis_fw-la write_v by_o f._n walter_n hilton_n the_o cloud_n of_o unknowing_a write_v by_o a_o unknown_n author_n the_o secret_a path_n of_o divine_a love_n as_o likewise_o the_o anatomy_n of_o the_o soul_n write_v by_o r._n f._n constant_a in_o barbanson_n a_o capucin_n the_o book_n entitle_v of_o the_o threefold_a will_n of_o god_n write_v by_o r.f._n benet_n fitch_n alias_o ganfield_n a_o capucin_n likewise_o the_o work_n of_o s._n teresa_n of_o b._n john_n de_fw-fr cruse_n likewise_o harphius_n thaulerus_n suso_n rusbrochius_n richardus_fw-la de_fw-fr s._n victore_fw-la gerson_n etc._n etc._n and_o of_o the_o ancient_n the_o live_v of_o the_o ancient_a father_n live_v in_o the_o desert_n &_o cassian_n his_o conference_n of_o certain_a ancient_a hermit_n recommend_v particular_o unto_o we_o by_o our_o holy_a father_n s._n basiles_n rule_v etc._n etc._n then_o for_o soul_n that_o tend_v to_o perfection_n in_o a_o active_a life_n book_n most_o proper_a be_v the_o work_n of_o rodriguez_n of_o perfection_n the_o duke_n of_o gandy_n of_o good_a work_n mons_fw-la de_fw-fr sales_n ludovicus_n de_fw-fr puente_n etc._n etc._n and_o last_o book_n of_o a_o mix_a nature_n be_v granatensis_n blosius_n etc._n etc._n indeed_o few_o spiritual_a book_n there_o be_v wherein_o there_o be_v not_o a_o intermingle_v of_o such_o instruction_n now_o i_o shall_v advise_v soul_n in_o a_o active_a life_n not_o at_o all_o to_o meddle_v with_o instruction_n belong_v to_o contemplation_n but_o apply_v themselves_o to_o the_o precept_n &_o exercise_n of_o a_o active_a life_n to_o use_v they_o in_o order_n to_o the_o end_n thereof_o the_o perfection_n of_o external_a christian_a charity_n 5._o in_o all_o spiritual_a book_n as_o likewise_o in_o all_o that_o treat_v of_o christian_a morality_n such_o instruction_n as_o concern_v the_o essential_a quality_n &_o practice_n of_o virtue_n be_v to_o be_v esteem_v proper_a to_o all_o soul_n yet_o not_o so_o the_o motive_n manner_n &_o circumstance_n of_o exercise_v the_o say_a virtue_n 6._o in_o read_v of_o spiritual_a book_n if_o any_o thing_n touch_v prayer_n &c_n &c_n occur_v as_o ofttimes_o it_o will_v happen_v that_o the_o spiritual_a disciple_n understand_v not_o let_v he_o pass_v it_o over_o &_o neither_o unnecessary_o trouble_v his_o own_o brain_n nor_o make_v it_o a_o business_n to_o trouble_v other_o about_o the_o understanding_n of_o it_o perhaps_o in_o time_n after_o more_o read_v &_o especial_o more_o experience_n in_o prayer_n he_o will_v come_v to_o understand_v it_o 7._o and_o as_o for_o those_o thing_n which_o he_o either_o do_v indeed_o or_o think_v he_o understand_v they_o let_v he_o not_o be_v hasty_a to_o apply_v they_o to_o himself_o by_o practice_n out_o of_o his_o own_o natural_a judgement_n or_o like_n but_o let_v he_o observe_v his_o own_o spirit_n way_n &_o internal_a guidance_n by_o god_n &_o according_o make_v use_v of_o they_o otherwise_o instead_o of_o reap_v benefit_n such_o inconvenience_n may_v happen_v that_o it_o will_v have_v be_v better_a he_o have_v never_o read_v nor_o be_v able_a to_o read_v any_o book_n at_o all_o but_o only_o to_o have_v follow_v his_o own_o internal_a light_n as_o many_o good_a soul_n have_v do_v that_o never_o can_v read_v &_o yet_o seek_v god_n in_o simplicity_n of_o their_o heart_n &_o pray_v without_o any_o prescribe_a method_n practise_v likewise_o according_a to_o the_o invitation_n &_o impulse_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n have_v attein_v to_o perfect_a contemplation_n 8._o general_o mystic_a author_n write_v according_a to_o their_o own_o experience_n in_o their_o own_o soul_n when_o they_o treat_v of_o the_o several_a degree_n of_o prayer_n &_o the_o several_a manner_n of_o divine_a operation_n in_o soul_n in_o such_o degree_n as_o if_o the_o same_o instruction_n will_v serve_v indefinite_o for_o all_o other_o whereas_o such_o be_v the_o in_o explicable_a variety_n of_o internal_a disposition_n that_o the_o same_o course_n &_o order_n in_o all_o thing_n will_v scarce_o serve_v any_o two_o soul_n therefore_o if_o the_o indiscreet_a reader_n without_o consider_v their_o own_o spirit_n &_o enablement_n shall_v upon_o the_o authority_n of_o any_o book_n either_o tarry_v too_o long_o in_o a_o inferior_a degree_n of_o prayer_n when_o god_n have_v fit_v they_o &_o do_v call_v they_o to_o a_o high_a or_o in_o a_o foolish_a ambition_n shall_v being_n unprepared_a presume_v to_o a_o degree_n of_o prayer_n too_o sublime_a &_o spiritual_a for_o they_o there_o will_v be_v no_o end_n of_o difficulty_n doubt_n &_o consultation_n 9_o but_o of_o all_o error_n the_o great_a &_o most_o dangerous_a be_v the_o indiscreet_a imitate_v the_o example_n &_o practice_n of_o saint_n in_o particular_a extraordinary_a corporal_a mortification_n voluntary_o yet_o by_o god_n special_a direction_n assume_v by_o they_o as_o labour_n fasting_n watch_n discipline_n &c_n &c_n for_o such_o a_o forwardness_n in_o other_o not_o call_v thereto_o to_o be_v extraordinary_a likewise_o it_o be_v much_o to_o be_v fear_v proceed_v mere_o from_o pride_n &_o self-love_n &_o will_v produce_v no_o better_a effect_n than_o the_o nourish_a of_o the_o same_o inordinate_a affection_n and_o if_o such_o have_v not_o the_o courage_n &_o patience_n as_o it_o can_v be_v expect_v they_o shall_v have_v to_o persevere_v in_o such_o exercise_n this_o will_v cause_v infirmity_n of_o body_n deâ—ection_n of_o mind_n &_o weariness_n if_o not_o a_o utter_a cast_n of_o a_o spiritual_a course_n 10._o the_o benefit_n that_o we_o ought_v &_o easy_o may_v reap_v from_o the_o read_n of_o such_o extraordinary_a practice_n of_o other_o be_v to_o admire_v god_n way_n in_o the_o conduct_v of_o his_o saint_n &_o to_o take_v occasion_n from_o thence_o of_o humble_v &_o despise_v of_o ourselves_o see_v how_o short_a we_o come_v of_o they_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o their_o virtue_n but_o no_o further_o to_o imitate_v they_o in_o such_o thing_n than_o we_o may_v be_v assure_v that_o god_n direct_v we_o by_o a_o supernatural_a light_n &_o enable_v we_o by_o a_o extraordinary_a grace_n yea_o &_o moreover_o till_o we_o have_v obtain_v the_o leave_n &_o approbation_n of_o a_o prudent_a director_n till_o this_o be_v let_v we_o supply_v with_o a_o good_a will_n what_o our_o force_n will_v not_o reach_v unto_o and_o above_o all_o thing_n we_o must_v take_v heed_n that_o we_o do_v not_o entangle_v ourselves_o by_o lay_v obligation_n or_o vow_n upon_o our_o soul_n about_o such_o matter_n the_o which_o we_o shall_v have_v difficulty_n to_o discharge_v ourselves_o from_o when_o by_o trial_n we_o find_v the_o inconvenience_n 11._o mystic_a writer_n in_o express_v the_o spiritual_a way_n in_o which_o they_o have_v be_v lead_n do_v oft_o seem_v to_o differ_v extreme_o from_o one_o another_o the_o which_o difference_n notwithstanding_o if_o right_o understand_v be_v mere_o in_o the_o phrase_n &_o manner_n of_o expression_n and_o the_o ground_n hereof_o be_v because_o the_o pure_a immaterial_a operation_n of_o perfect_a soul_n in_o prayer_n &_o especial_o the_o operation_n of_o god_n in_o soul_n in_o which_o they_o be_v patient_n only_o be_v so_o sublime_a that_o intelligible_a word_n &_o phrase_n can_v perfect_o express_v they_o &_o therefore_o they_o be_v force_v to_o invent_v new_a word_n the_o best_a they_o can_v or_o to_o borrow_v similitude_n from_o corporal_a thing_n etc._n etc._n to_o make_v their_o conception_n more_o intelligible_a &_o thus_o do_v each_o one_o according_a to_o the_o manner_n that_o he_o find_v or_o conceive_v in_o himself_o or_o according_a to_o his_o skill_n in_o language_n no_o wonder_n therefore_o if_o there_o seem_v to_o be_v diversity_n among_o they_o herupon_o the_o author_n of_o the_o cloud_n observe_v that_o great_a harm_n may_v come_v by_o understand_v thing_n literal_o gross_o &_o sensible_o which_o howsoever_o they_o be_v express_v be_v intend_v &_o ought_v to_o be_v understand_v spiritual_o 12._o some_o good_a
employment_n and_o imperfect_a degree_n of_o prayer_n and_o consequent_o neither_o can_v they_o nor_o perhaps_o if_o they_o can_v will_v they_o teach_v it_o to_o other_o since_o thereby_o many_o soulâ—s_n will_v quick_o be_v discharge_v from_o any_o necessity_n of_o continue_v in_o a_o dependence_n on_o their_o manage_n &_o direction_n 14._o if_o any_o there_o be_v that_o notwithstanding_o all_o that_o have_v be_v here_o write_v touch_v divine_a inspiration_n and_o the_o necessity_n of_o attend_v to_o they_o shall_v yet_o be_v unsatisfied_a or_o at_o least_o suspect_n that_o the_o publish_n of_o such_o doctrine_n may_v not_o be_v convenient_a such_o a_o one_o for_o further_a satisfaction_n may_v consult_v the_o appendix_n adjoin_v at_o the_o end_n of_o the_o treatise_n the_o three_o section_n of_o the_o three_o treatise_n touch_v the_o school_n of_o contemplation_n viz._n solitude_n and_o a_o religious_a profession_n chap._n i._n §_o 1._o 2._o that_o the_o proper_a school_n of_o contemplation_n be_v solitude_n §_o 3._o which_o may_v be_v enjoy_v in_o the_o world_n §_o 4._o 5._o 6._o contemplation_n be_v by_o god_n deny_v to_o no_o state_n yea_o in_o some_o regard_v woman_n be_v rather_o better_o dispose_v thereto_o then_o man_n and_o why_o §_o 7._o 8._o 9_o 10._o 11._o 12._o 13._o the_o condition_n of_o ecclesiastic_n in_o the_o world_n be_v of_o great_a perfection_n what_o disposition_n be_v require_v to_o the_o undertake_v and_o execute_v of_o that_o sublime_a charge_n 1._o have_v hitherto_o treat_v of_o the_o nature_n and_o end_n of_o a_o internal_a contemplative_a life_n in_o general_a as_o likewise_o of_o the_o general_a quality_n &_o disposition_n requisite_a to_o all_o those_o who_o by_o a_o divine_a vocation_n do_v undertake_v that_o sublime_a course_n of_o life_n and_o in_o consequence_n thereto_o have_v demonstrate_v that_o the_o only_a sufficient_a master_n and_o guide_n in_o such_o a_o life_n be_v god_n and_o his_o divine_a inspiration_n by_o who_o alone_o both_o disciple_n and_o also_o master_n &_o guide_n must_v be_v direct_v it_o remain_v in_o the_o three_o place_n that_o i_o shall_v show_v what_o and_o where_o the_o school_n be_v wherein_o ordinary_o this_o divine_a master_n instruct_v his_o disciple_n in_o this_o so_o heavenly_a divine_a doctrine_n &_o science_n 2._o now_o by_o the_o unanimous_a acknowledgement_n of_o all_o mystic_a writer_n the_o only_a proper_a school_n of_o contemplation_n be_v solitude_n that_o be_v a_o condition_n of_o life_n both_o external_o free_v from_o the_o distractive_a encumbrance_n tempt_a flattery_n and_o disquiet_v sollicitude_n of_o the_o world_n and_o likewise_o wherein_o the_o mind_n internal_o be_v in_o a_o good_a measure_n at_o least_o in_o serious_a desire_n free_v also_o from_o inordinate_a affection_n to_o all_o worldly_a and_o carnal_a object_n that_o so_o the_o soul_n may_v be_v at_o leisure_n to_o attend_v unto_o god_n who_o deserve_v all_o our_o thought_n and_o affection_n and_o to_o practice_v such_o duty_n of_o mortification_n and_o prayer_n as_o dispose_v she_o for_o a_o immediate_a perfect_a union_n with_o he_o 3._o now_o though_o this_o so_o necessary_a solitude_n be_v find_v both_o more_o perfect_o and_o more_o permanent_o in_o a_o well-ordred_n religious_a state_n which_o afford_v likewise_o many_o other_o advantage_n scarce_o to_o be_v find_v elsewhere_o for_o a_o better_o practise_v the_o exercise_n dispose_v to_o contemplation_n yet_o be_v it_o not_o so_o confine_v to_o that_o state_n but_o that_o in_o the_o world_n also_o and_o in_o a_o secular_a course_n of_o life_n god_n have_v oft_o raise_v and_o guide_v many_o soul_n in_o these_o perfect_a way_n afford_v they_o even_o there_o as_o much_o solitude_n and_o as_o much_o internal_a freedom_n of_o spirit_n as_o he_o see_v be_v necessary_a to_o bring_v they_o to_o a_o high_a degree_n of_o perfection_n 4._o and_o indeed_o it_o be_v a_o illustrious_a proof_n of_o the_o abundant_a most_o communicative_a overflow_a riches_n of_o the_o divine_a goodness_n to_o all_o his_o servant_n whatsoever_o that_o in_o truth_n of_o heart_n seek_v he_o that_o this_o state_n of_o contemplation_n be_v the_o supreme_a and_o most_o divine_a that_o a_o intellectual_a soul_n be_v capable_a of_o either_o in_o this_o life_n or_o in_o heaven_n also_o shall_v neither_o be_v enclose_v only_o in_o cavern_n rock_n or_o desert_n nor_o fix_v to_o solitary_a religious_a community_n nor_o appropriate_v to_o the_o subtlety_n of_o wit_n profoundness_n of_o judgement_n gift_n of_o learning_n or_o study_n etc._n etc._n but_o that_o the_o poor_a simple_a soul_n live_v in_o the_o world_n and_o follow_a the_o common_a life_n of_o good_a christian_n there_o if_o she_o will_v faithful_o correspond_v to_o the_o internal_a light_n and_o tract_n afford_v she_o by_o god_n spirit_n may_v as_o secure_o yea_o and_o sometime_o more_o speedy_o arrive_v to_o the_o top_n of_o the_o mountain_n of_o vision_n than_o the_o learn_a doctor_n the_o most_o profound_o wise_a man_n yea_o the_o most_o abstract_a confine_v hermit_n 5._o yea_o both_o history_n &_o fresh_a experience_n do_v assure_v we_o that_o in_o these_o latter_a time_n god_n have_v as_o free_o and_o perhaps_o more_o common_o communicate_v the_o divine_a light_n and_o grace_n proper_a to_o a_o contemplative_a life_n to_o simple_a woman_n endue_v with_o lesser_a &_o more_o contemptible_a gift_n of_o judgement_n but_o yet_o enrich_v with_o strong_a will_n and_o more_o fervent_a affection_n to_o he_o than_o the_o able_a men._n and_o the_o reason_n hereof_o we_o may_v judge_v to_o be_v partly_o because_o god_n thereby_o shall_v as_o be_v most_o due_a reap_v all_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o most_o free_a grace_n the_o which_o if_o they_o do_v usual_o attend_v our_o natural_a endowment_n will_v be_v challenge_v as_o due_a to_o our_o own_o ability_n and_o endeavour_n and_o partly_o also_o because_o as_o substantial_a holiness_n so_o the_o perfection_n of_o it_o which_o be_v contemplation_n consist_v far_o more_o principal_o in_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o will_v then_o of_o the_o understanding_n as_o shall_v be_v demonstrate_v in_o due_a place_n and_o since_o woman_n do_v far_o more_o abound_v and_o be_v far_o more_o constant_a &_o fix_v in_o affecction_n and_o other_o operation_n of_o the_o will_v then_o man_n though_o inferior_a in_o those_o of_o the_o understanding_n no_o marvel_n if_o god_n do_v oft_o find_v they_o fit_a subject_n for_o his_o grace_n then_o men._n 6._o and_o for_o this_o reason_n it_o be_v beside_o that_o woman_n be_v less_o encumber_v with_o solicitous_a business_n abroad_o their_o secular_a employment_n be_v chief_o domestical_a within_o their_o own_o wall_n that_o they_o do_v far_o more_o frequent_o repair_v to_o the_o church_n more_o assiduous_o perform_v their_o devotion_n both_o there_o &_o at_o home_n &_o reap_v the_o blessing_n of_o the_o sacrament_n more_o plentiful_o upon_o which_o ground_n the_o church_n call_v they_o the_o devout_a sex_n insomuch_o as_o a_o very_a spiritual_a and_o experience_a author_n do_v not_o doubt_v to_o pronounce_v that_o according_a to_o his_o best_a judgement_n which_o be_v ground_v on_o more_o than_o only_o outward_a appearance_n for_o one_o man_n never_o ten_o woman_n go_v to_o heaven_n notwithstanding_o true_a it_o be_v that_o the_o contemplation_n of_o man_n be_v more_o noble_a sublime_a &_o more_o exalt_v in_o spirit_n that_o be_v less_o partake_v of_o sensible_a effect_n as_o rapt_n ecstasy_n or_o imaginative_a representation_n as_o likewise_o melt_a tenderness_n of_o affection_n than_o those_o of_o woman_n 7._o now_o though_o the_o true_a &_o immediate_a motive_n of_o the_o writing_n of_o these_o spiritual_a instruction_n be_v the_o direct_v of_o certain_a devout_a religious_a soul_n in_o the_o way_n of_o contemplation_n to_o the_o aspire_a whereto_o their_o profession_n do_v oblige_v they_o and_o for_o this_o reason_n most_o of_o the_o say_a instruction_n be_v intend_v to_o be_v most_o proper_a for_o such_o yet_o be_v a_o debtor_n to_o all_o wellminded_a soul_n whatsoever_o that_o desire_n to_o tread_v in_o the_o say_v internal_a way_n i_o will_v here_o brief_o show_v how_o they_o also_o may_v make_v use_n of_o my_o write_n for_o the_o same_o end_n from_o thence_o select_v such_o special_a direction_n as_o may_v also_o as_o well_o belong_v to_o they_o and_o pass_v over_o those_o that_o be_v more_o peculiarly_a proper_a to_o soul_n in_o a_o religious_a state_n 8._o in_o the_o world_n therefore_o there_o be_v two_o sort_n of_o person_n that_o do_v or_o may_v aspire_v unto_o contemplation_n or_o perfection_n in_o prayer_n to_o wit_n 1._o ecclesiastic_n 2._o lay-person_n 9_o first_o as_o for_o ecclesiastic_n i_o mean_v especial_o priest_n to_o which_o all_o other_o inferior_a order_n do_v tend_v they_o not_o only_o may_v but_o ought_v serious_o to_o aspire_v thereunto_o yea_o perhaps_o more_v they_o simple_a religious_a for_o their_o most_o
a_o abbot_n shall_v be_v set_v over_o he_o from_o whence_o we_o ought_v to_o infer_v that_o the_o intention_n of_o a_o religious_a person_n ought_v ever_o to_o be_v to_o live_v in_o subjection_n to_o the_o will_n of_o another_o and_o in_o such_o a_o mind_n to_o continue_v all_o his_o life_n and_o therefore_o those_o that_o ready_o accept_v &_o much_o more_o those_o that_o ambitious_o seek_v government_n and_o prelature_n may_v reasonable_o be_v judge_v to_o be_v lead_v by_o a_o spirit_n direct_o opposite_a to_o the_o spirit_n of_o religion_n and_o sure_o he_o that_o shall_v serious_o consider_v of_o what_o difficul_n y_z and_o of_o what_o extreme_a danger_n the_o office_n of_o a_o superior_a be_v what_o terrible_a threaten_n our_o holy_a father_n so_o oft_o denounce_v from_o god_n against_o a_o negligent_a partial_a and_o unfaithful_a discharge_n of_o such_o a_o office_n will_v think_v it_o far_o fit_a to_o be_v the_o object_n of_o his_o fear_n and_o aversion_n then_o of_o his_o desire_n therefore_o that_o superior_a that_o do_v not_o find_v himself_o more_o willing_a to_o give_v up_o his_o place_n then_o to_o retain_v it_o aught_o to_o suspect_v that_o he_o be_v scarce_o in_o a_o good_a state_n 3._o now_o to_o the_o end_n that_o both_o subject_n may_v be_v inform_v what_o quality_n they_o be_v to_o regard_v in_o the_o elect_v of_o superior_n and_o also_o superior_n be_v put_v in_o mind_n what_o be_v expect_v from_o they_o in_o the_o discharge_n of_o such_o a_o office_n due_o impose_v on_o they_o i_o will_v from_o s._n bernard_n set_v down_o three_o necessary_a condition_n or_o endowment_n by_o which_o superior_n be_v to_o direct_v their_o subject_n the_o which_o be_v 1._o verbum_fw-la 2._o exemplum_fw-la &_o 3_o oratio_fw-la that_o be_v exhortation_n good_a example_n and_o prayer_n add_v moreover_o maior_fw-la autem_fw-la horum_fw-la est_fw-la oratio_fw-la nam_fw-la et_fw-la si_fw-la vocis_fw-la virtus_fw-la sit_fw-la &_o operis_fw-la et_fw-la operi_fw-la tamen_fw-la &_o voci_fw-la gratiam_fw-la efficaciamque_fw-la promeretur_fw-la oratio_fw-la that_o be_v of_o those_o three_o necessary_a quality_n the_o great_a and_o most_o necessary_a be_v prayer_n for_o although_o there_o be_v much_o virtue_n in_o exhortation_n and_o example_n yet_o prayer_n be_v that_o which_o procure_v efficacy_n and_o success_n to_o both_o the_o other_o 4._o from_o which_o testimony_n and_o authority_n yea_o even_o from_o the_o light_n of_o natural_a reason_n we_o may_v firm_o conclude_v that_o the_o spirit_n of_o prayer_n be_v so_o absolute_o necessary_a to_o a_o religious_a superior_a that_o without_o it_o he_o can_v exercise_v his_o charge_n proffitable_o either_o to_o himself_o or_o his_o subject_n and_o consequent_o that_o to_o a_o superior_a in_o a_o order_n who_o spirit_n be_v contemplation_n it_o be_v necessary_a that_o he_o have_v attain_v to_o a_o good_a establish_a habit_n of_o contemplative_a prayer_n for_o as_o have_v be_v say_v in_o the_o forego_n discourse_n concern_v spiritual_a guide_n how_o can_v such_o a_o superior_a without_o knowledge_n gain_v by_o experience_n inculcate_v the_o so_o necessary_a duty_n of_o recollection_n and_o prayer_n nay_o rather_o will_v he_o not_o be_v more_o likely_a to_o discountenance_v those_o exercise_n in_o which_o he_o be_v not_o skill_v and_o from_o which_o perhaps_o he_o have_v a_o aversion_n 5._o therefore_o that_o too_o ordinary_o maintain_v position_n of_o some_o that_o active_a spirit_n be_v more_o fit_a for_o superiority_n and_o externall_n employment_n then_o contemplative_a which_o be_v to_o be_v leave_v to_o the_o solitude_n and_o sequestration_n to_o which_o their_o spirit_n incline_v they_o be_v indeed_o most_o unreasonable_a &_o groundless_a 6._o on_o the_o contrary_a no_o doubt_n there_o be_v but_o that_o the_o decay_n of_o religion_n have_v principal_o proceed_v from_o this_o preposterous_a disorder_n viz._n that_o in_o most_o religious_a community_n active_a spirit_n have_v get_v the_o advantage_n to_o possess_v themselves_o of_o prelature_n and_o spiritual_a pastourship_n over_o the_o contemplative_a though_o the_o state_n of_o religion_n be_v institute_v only_o for_o contemplation_n and_o this_o have_v happen_v even_o since_o contemplative_a prayer_n have_v be_v restore_v by_o person_n extraordinary_o raise_v by_o god_n as_o rusbrochius_n thaulerus_n s._n teresa_n etc._n etc._n so_o that_o religious_a community_n have_v be_v order_v even_o in_o the_o point_n of_o spirituallity_n by_o spirit_n of_o a_o quite_o different_a &_o contrary_a temper_n to_o that_o for_o which_o they_o be_v intend_v 7._o indeed_o it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v wonder_v at_o that_o active_a spirit_n shall_v so_o prevail_v consider_v that_o those_o who_o be_v true_o of_o a_o contemplative_a disposition_n and_o design_n know_v well_o the_o difficulty_n and_o danger_n of_o superiority_n how_o full_a of_o extroversion_n distraction_n and_o solicitude_n it_o be_v and_o what_o occasion_n and_o tentation_n there_o be_v in_o it_o to_o raise_v nourish_v and_o satisfy_v sensual_a affection_n pride_n etc._n etc._n to_o the_o peril_n of_o extinguish_v the_o spirit_n of_o prayer_n except_o in_o soul_n far_o advance_v in_o prayer_n and_o mortification_n such_o i_o say_v be_v therefore_o just_o afraid_a of_o and_o do_v use_v all_o lawful_a mean_n to_o avoid_v the_o care_n and_o government_n of_o other_o whereas_o active_a spirit_n that_o live_v in_o religion_n not_o be_v capable_a of_o such_o prayer_n as_o will_v raise_v they_o much_o out_o of_o nature_n have_v not_o the_o like_a apprehension_n of_o such_o employment_n but_o on_o the_o contrary_n be_v lead_n by_o natural_a desire_n of_o preeminence_n and_o love_n of_o liberty_n and_o believe_v that_o those_o who_o be_v true_a internal_a liver_n will_v not_o submit_v themselves_o to_o all_o the_o way_n &_o policy_n use_v for_o the_o increase_a the_o temporal_a good_a of_o their_o community_n do_v not_o fear_v to_o offer_v themselves_o yea_o and_o ambitious_o to_o seek_v dominion_n over_o other_o false_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n persuade_v themselves_o that_o their_o only_a motive_n be_v charity_n and_o a_o desire_n to_o promote_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o the_o advancement_n both_o temporal_a and_o spiritual_a of_o their_o conuent_v or_o congregation_n but_o what_o the_o effect_n be_v experience_n show_v 8._o true_a it_o be_v that_o it_o can_v be_v avoid_v but_o that_o many_o unfit_a spirit_n will_v oft_o be_v admit_v into_o religious_a order_n very_o different_a from_o the_o disposition_n requisite_a though_o it_o belong_v to_o superior_n to_o provide_v as_o well_o as_o may_v be_v against_o such_o a_o abuse_n but_o such_o be_v admit_v of_o active_a disposition_n the_o best_a be_v to_o employ_v they_o in_o active_a exercise_n &_o externall_n matter_n as_o in_o the_o office_n of_o procuration_n dispense_v building_n and_o the_o like_a but_o as_o for_o prelacy_n the_o charge_n of_o instruct_v novice_n or_o other_o office_n pertain_v to_o the_o direct_n of_o soul_n it_o be_v the_o destruction_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o contemplation_n to_o employ_v active_a disposition_n in_o such_o for_o how_o can_v they_o without_o light_n or_o experience_n direct_a soul_n in_o way_n unknowen_a to_o themselves_o yea_o which_o through_o ignorance_n or_o mistake_v they_o perhaps_o disapprove_v 9_o beside_o upon_o exact_a consideration_n it_o will_v be_v find_v that_o in_o the_o point_n of_o government_n contemplative_a spirit_n that_o have_v make_v a_o good_a progress_n in_o internal_a prayer_n have_v great_a advantage_n above_o the_o active_a for_o such_o be_v careful_a themselves_o to_o use_v all_o due_a abstraction_n will_v less_o molest_v themselves_o and_o other_o with_o impertinent_a business_n not_o pry_v too_o narrow_o into_o all_o passage_n as_o if_o they_o seek_v occasion_n of_o show_v their_o authority_n and_o ability_n in_o make_v unnecessary_a reprehension_n to_o the_o disquiet_v of_o community_n but_o for_o peace_n sake_n they_o will_v sometime_o even_o silere_fw-la a_o bonis_fw-la pass_v over_o many_o thing_n which_o do_v seem_v a_o little_a amiss_o wherein_o they_o show_v great_a prudence_n and_o also_o cause_v much_o profit_n to_o subject_n 2._o such_o be_v diligent_a about_o their_o own_o recollection_n do_v out_o of_o a_o love_n to_o silence_n patience_n &_o peace_n forbear_v the_o do_v or_o impose_v of_o a_o multitude_n of_o unnecessary_a task_n upon_o other_o 3._o by_o mean_n of_o prayer_n they_o obtain_v light_a to_o order_v all_o thing_n to_o the_o benefit_n of_o their_o subject_n soul_n and_o in_o case_n they_o have_v err_v or_o be_v defective_a in_o any_o thing_n they_o discover_v and_o amend_v it_o in_o their_o next_o recollection_n 4._o in_o the_o manner_n and_o fashion_n of_o their_o whole_a comportment_n a_o certain_a divine_a grace_n shine_v forth_o which_o be_v of_o great_a efficacy_n to_o win_v their_o subject_n heart_n to_o obedience_n and_o divine_a love._n 5._o yea_o if_o by_o corporal_a infirmity_n they_o be_v disable_v to_o attend_v
other_o or_o force_v herself_o to_o continue_v meditation_n she_o will_v make_v no_o progress_n at_o all_o yea_o on_o the_o contrary_a the_o extreme_a painefullnes_n of_o invent_v motive_n now_o unnecessary_a and_o tie_v herself_o to_o method_n and_o prescribe_a form_n will_v be_v to_o she_o so_o distractive_a so_o void_a of_o all_o taste_n and_o comfort_n and_o so_o insupportable_a that_o not_o be_v suffer_v to_o follow_v god_n invitation_n call_v to_o a_o exercise_n of_o the_o will_n she_o will_v be_v in_o danger_n to_o give_v quite_o over_o all_o internal_a prayer_n whereas_o by_o pursue_v god_n call_v she_o will_v every_o day_n get_v light_a to_o discover_v more_o and_o more_o her_o secret_a inward_a defect_n and_o grace_n to_o mortify_v and_o amend_v they_o and_o such_o her_o mortification_n be_v exercise_v rather_o by_o transcend_v &_o forget_v the_o object_n of_o her_o inordinate_a affection_n than_o a_o direct_a combat_v against_o they_o and_o this_o state_n of_o prayer_n do_v proper_o answer_n to_o that_o which_o be_v common_o call_v the_o illuminative_a way_n because_o iâ—_n it_o the_o soul_n with_o little_a reflection_n on_o herself_o or_o heâ—_n own_o obscurity_n by_o reason_n of_o sin_n &c_n &c_n tend_v direct_o and_o immediate_o to_o god_n by_o who_o she_o be_v enlighten_v and_o adorn_v with_o all_o virtue_n and_o grace_n 12._o in_o the_o three_o place_n a_o soul_n after_o a_o long_a exercise_n in_o force_a affection_n of_o the_o will_n to_o god_n represent_v to_o the_o understanding_n by_o image_n far_o more_o subtle_a and_o spiritual_a then_o former_o yea_o endeavour_v to_o contemplate_v he_o in_o the_o darkness_n and_o obscurity_n of_o a_o blind_a and_o naked_a faith_n void_a of_o all_o distinct_a and_o express_a image_n will_v by_o little_a and_o little_o grow_v so_o well_o dispose_v to_o he_o that_o she_o will_v have_v less_o need_n of_o force_v herself_o to_o produce_v good_a affection_n to_o he_o or_o of_o prescribe_v to_o herself_o determinate_a form_n of_o act_n or_o affection_n on_o the_o contrary_a divine_a love_n will_v become_v so_o firm_o establish_v in_o the_o soul_n so_o whole_o and_o only_o fill_v and_o possess_v it_o that_o it_o will_v become_v as_o it_o be_v a_o new_a soul_n unto_o the_o soul_n as_o constant_o breathe_v forth_o feruorous_a act_n of_o love_n and_o as_o natural_o almost_o as_o the_o lung_n do_v send_v forth_o breath_n 13._o and_o here_o begin_v the_o state_n of_o pure_a contemplation_n the_o end_n of_o all_o exercise_n of_o a_o internal_a life_n in_o this_o bless_a state_n the_o actuation_n and_o aspiration_n be_v so_o pure_a &_o spiritual_a that_o the_o soul_n herself_o often_o time_n be_v not_o able_a to_o give_v a_o account_n what_o she_o do_v and_o no_o wonder_n since_o they_o do_v not_o proceed_v from_o any_o forethought_a or_o election_n of_o her_o own_o but_o be_v suggest_v to_o she_o by_o the_o divine_a spirit_n entire_o possess_v she_o and_o although_o in_o these_o most_o sublime_a and_o blind_a elevation_n of_o the_o will_v the_o imagination_n and_o understanding_n with_o their_o image_n be_v not_o absolute_o exclude_v yet_o so_o unperceptible_a be_v their_o operation_n that_o it_o be_v no_o wonder_n if_o many_o mystical_a writer_n speak_v according_a to_o what_o they_o feel_v and_o experience_v in_o themselves_o have_v say_v that_o in_o pure_a contemplation_n the_o will_n without_o the_o understanding_n be_v only_o operative_a as_o for_o the_o mortification_n proper_a to_o this_o state_n they_o be_v as_o unexpressible_a as_o the_o prayer_n indeed_o prayer_n and_o mortification_n seem_v to_o be_v now_o become_v the_o same_o thing_n for_o the_o light_n in_o which_o the_o soul_n walk_v be_v so_o clear_a and_o wonderful_a that_o the_o small_a imperfection_n be_v clear_o discover_v and_o by_o prayer_n alone_o mortify_v prayer_n be_v the_o whole_a business_n of_o the_o life_n interrupt_v by_o sleep_n only_o and_o not_o alway_v then_o neither_o true_a it_o be_v that_o by_o other_o necessity_n of_o corporal_a nature_n refection_n study_v conversation_n or_o business_n it_o may_v be_v depress_v a_o little_a from_o the_o height_n in_o which_o it_o be_v when_o the_o soul_n set_v itself_o to_o attend_v to_o god_n only_o but_o still_o it_o continue_v with_o efficacy_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o all_o those_o avocation_n and_o this_o be_v true_o and_o proper_o that_o which_o mystic_n do_v style_v the_o vnitive_a way_n because_o herein_o the_o soul_n be_v in_o a_o continual_a union_n in_o spirit_n with_o god_n have_v transcend_v all_o creature_n and_o herself_o too_o the_o which_o be_v become_v as_o it_o be_v amnihilate_v &_o god_n be_v all_o in_o all_o 14._o there_o be_v no_o state_n of_o spirituality_n beyond_o this_o but_o yet_o this_o state_n may_v infinite_o increase_v in_o degree_n of_o purity_n the_o operation_n of_o the_o soul_n grow_v more_o and_o more_o spiritual_a intime_fw-la and_o divine_a without_o all_o limitation_n in_o this_o state_n it_o be_v that_o the_o soul_n be_v prepare_v for_o divine_a inaction_n passive_a union_n and_o grace_n most_o admirable_a and_o most_o efficacious_a to_o purify_v she_o as_o perfect_o as_o in_o the_o condition_n of_o this_o life_n she_o be_v capable_a now_o it_o be_v that_o god_n provide_v for_o soul_n dear_o belove_v by_o he_o trial_n and_o desolation_n incomprehensible_a to_o the_o unexperienced_a lead_v they_o from_o light_n to_o darkness_n and_o from_o thence_o to_o light_v again_o in_o all_o which_o change_v the_o soul_n keep_v herself_o in_o the_o same_o equality_n and_o tranquillity_n as_o know_v that_o by_o they_o all_o she_o approach_v near_a and_o near_o to_o god_n plunge_v herself_o more_o and_o more_o profound_o in_o he_o a_o soul_n that_o be_v come_v to_o this_o state_n be_v above_o all_o instructour_n and_o instruction_n a_o divine_a light_n be_v her_o guide_n in_o all_o manner_n of_o thing_n in_o a_o word_n it_o be_v not_o she_o that_o now_o life_n but_o christ_n and_o his_o holy_a spirit_n that_o live_v reign_v and_o operate_v in_o she_o 15._o these_o be_v the_o three_o state_n of_o a_o spiritual_a contemplative_a life_n distinguish_v according_a to_o the_o three_o state_n or_o degree_n of_o internal_a prayer_n as_o for_o vocal_a prayer_n it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v esteem_v a_o peculiar_a degree_n of_o prayer_n but_o it_o may_v and_o do_v accompany_v all_o these_o state_n without_o any_o change_n in_o the_o substance_n of_o the_o prayer_n though_o with_o very_o great_a variety_n in_o the_o actuation_n of_o the_o soul_n during_o its_o exercise_n for_o while_o the_o soul_n be_v in_o the_o imperfect_a degree_n of_o meditation_n she_o perform_v her_o vocal_a prayer_n with_o the_o use_n of_o grosser_n image_n and_o much_o distractednes_n but_o be_v arrive_v to_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o will_n she_o recite_v they_o with_o less_o multiplicity_n and_o some_o good_a measure_n of_o recollection_n and_o be_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o aspiration_n her_o vocal_a prayer_n become_v likewise_o aspirative_a and_o vnitive_a not_o at_o all_o distract_n she_o but_o rather_o drive_v her_o more_o profound_o and_o intime_o into_o god_n 16._o now_o god_n be_v both_o the_o principle_n and_o object_n of_o all_o our_o internal_a exercise_n be_v after_o several_a way_n represent_v to_o the_o mind_n in_o they_o for_o 1._o in_o meditation_n the_o soul_n as_o yet_o much_o immerse_v in_o sense_n be_v force_v to_o make_v use_n of_o a_o distinct_a grosser_n image_n by_o which_o to_o apprehend_v he_o as_o the_o humanity_n of_o our_o lord_n and_o the_o mystery_n belong_v thereto_o and_o sometime_o such_o attribute_n of_o the_o divinity_n as_o be_v most_o obvious_a and_o easy_a to_o be_v conceive_v and_o which_o do_v produce_v more_o sensible_a motion_n in_o our_o imperfect_a soul_n as_o his_o justice_n mercy_n power_n etc._n etc._n 2._o but_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o act_n of_o the_o will_n the_o understand_a endeavour_n to_o apprehend_v god_n in_o the_o obscure_a notion_n of_o faith_n and_o when_o she_o be_v sometime_o force_v to_o make_v use_n of_o more_o particular_a sensible_a image_n the_o mind_n after_o a_o short_a reflection_n on_o they_o give_v place_n to_o the_o recollect_v actuation_n of_o the_o will_v alone_o 3._o but_o be_v arrive_v to_o aspiration_n which_o be_v active_a contemplatian_n the_o soul_n make_v use_v of_o no_o particular_a express_a image_n at_o all_o but_o content_v herself_o with_o the_o only_a general_a obscure_a notion_n of_o god_n which_o faith_n teach_v she_o 17._o now_o though_o it_o may_v seem_v that_o the_o most_o perfect_a have_v no_o great_a advantage_n in_o this_o regard_n over_o the_o more_o imperfect_a since_o all_o that_o be_v endue_v with_o ordinary_a knowledge_n do_v sufficient_o believe_v and_o be_v assure_v that_o god_n be_v infinite_a and_o incomprehensible_a can_v be_v true_o represent_v by_o any_o particular_a image_n and_o
ought_v any_o to_o fear_v least_o ordinary_a christian_n will_v foolish_o apply_v to_o themselves_o the_o relaxation_n about_o confession_n etc._n etc._n necessary_o allow_v to_o wellminded_n scrupulous_a soul_n that_o pursue_v contemplation_n way_n in_o a_o abstract_a life_n &_o solitude_n or_o that_o soul_n that_o live_v distract_v solicitous_a active_a life_n as_o long_o as_o they_o live_v so_o will_v judge_v themselves_o interest_v in_o the_o way_n &_o exercise_n of_o internal_a contemplative_a liver_n or_o in_o a_o word_n that_o those_o who_o be_v yet_o but_o beginner_n or_o have_v make_v but_o small_a proficiency_n in_o internal_a way_n of_o the_o spirit_n will_v be_v so_o foolish_o presumptuous_a as_o to_o aspire_v to_o exercise_n more_o sublime_a than_o belong_v to_o they_o the_o which_o they_o can_v do_v without_o receive_v infinite_a prejudice_n by_o their_o indiscreet_a ambition_n add_v hereto_o that_o in_o several_a occasion_n there_o have_v be_v use_v &_o inculcate_v in_o this_o book_n the_o best_a prevention_n caution_n and_o provision_n that_o possible_o can_v be_v devise_v against_o all_o misunderstanding_n and_o misapplication_n of_o any_o doctrine_n contain_v in_o it_o to_o conclude_v it_o may_v seem_v a_o sufficient_a safeguard_v for_o i_o to_o have_v herein_o the_o example_n of_o the_o v._o r._n f._n a._n cr._n a_o person_n much_o esteem_v for_o learning_n and_o piety_n who_o have_v not_o only_o publish_v in_o a_o additionall_n treatise_n to_o the_o conflict_n of_o the_o soul_n instruction_n for_o contemplation_n but_o a_o great_a part_n of_o his_o maxim_n though_o brief_a be_v very_o conformable_a to_o what_o be_v here_o express_v more_o large_o 11._o the_o special_a fear_a inconvenience_n that_o may_v arise_v from_o the_o publish_n of_o this_o doctrine_n touch_v divine_a inspiration_n do_v regard_n partly_o some_o that_o live_v in_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n but_o principal_o such_o as_o be_v stranger_n and_o enemy_n thereto_o as_o for_o the_o former_a it_o be_v suspect_v that_o by_o urge_v so_o serious_o the_o duty_n of_o attend_v to_o and_o follow_a divine_a inspiration_n some_o even_o of_o the_o more_o sober_a catholic_n will_v be_v apt_a to_o be_v jealous_a that_o the_o teacher_n and_o practiser_n of_o such_o a_o doctrine_n will_v seem_v thereby_o to_o exempt_v themselves_o in_o many_o thing_n from_o the_o ordinary_a jurisdiction_n of_o prelate_n and_o magistrate_n pretend_v to_o extraordinary_a illumination_n and_o commission_n and_o to_o walk_v in_o mirabilibus_fw-la super_fw-la seâ—_n etc._n etc._n by_o which_o a_o prejudice_n &_o contempt_n also_o may_v be_v cast_v upon_o the_o common_a order_n and_o rule_n concern_v faith_n and_o good_a manner_n establish_v in_o the_o church_n 12._o now_o not_o to_o forestall_v what_o be_v copious_o deliver_v in_o the_o second_o treatise_n to_o wit_n that_o due_a obedience_n to_o all_o kind_n of_o superior_n be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v prejudice_v by_o this_o doctrine_n that_o it_o be_v only_o by_o this_o doctrine_n that_o it_o be_v perfect_o establish_v and_o all_o possible_a suspicion_n all_o imaginable_a case_n to_o the_o contrary_n solue_v hereto_o it_o be_v answer_v that_o whereas_o it_o be_v say_v that_o by_o a_o pretend_v to_o divine_a illumination_n etc._n etc._n a_o contempt_n may_v be_v cast_v upon_o the_o common_a doctrine_n &_o rule_n of_o faith_n and_o a_o good_a life_n there_o be_v not_o the_o least_o ground_n for_o such_o a_o apprehension_n for_o never_o do_v any_o spiritual_a mâ—stick_a writer_n pretend_v to_o receive_v any_o new_a or_o former_o unknown_a light_n or_o revelation_n in_o matter_n of_o faith_n beyond_o what_o have_v be_v know_v and_o universal_o receive_v in_o the_o church_n the_o light_n that_o such_o person_n by_o god_n gracious_a visit_n receive_v be_v only_o a_o clear_a sight_n of_o ordinary_a mystery_n the_o which_o produce_v in_o they_o a_o firm_a assent_n unto_o they_o a_o great_a love_n to_o they_o a_o abhor_v of_o all_o novelty_n of_o doctrine_n and_o a_o most_o fervent_a zeal_n to_o the_o unity_n and_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n and_o to_o the_o reduce_n of_o all_o vnbeleiver_n misbeleiver_n and_o schismatic_n into_o its_o bosom_n and_o communion_n 13._o the_o like_a be_v to_o be_v say_v for_o the_o rule_n of_o practice_n and_o a_o holy_a christian_a conversation_n they_o know_v no_o other_o but_o such_o as_o be_v common_a to_o all_o other_o christian_n which_o be_v reveal_v in_o the_o glospell_n and_o propose_v by_o the_o pastor_n of_o god_n church_n in_o counsel_n and_o in_o the_o write_n of_o the_o holy_a father_n the_o only_a advantage_n that_o in_o this_o regard_n be_v pretend_v to_o and_o acquire_v by_o attend_v to_o divine_a inspiration_n be_v a_o more_o perfect_a use_n and_o a_o more_o faithful_a application_n of_o the_o ordinary_a precept_n of_o holiness_n or_o of_o counsel_n of_o perfection_n to_o those_o who_o profess_v the_o embrace_v of_o such_o counsel_n a_o extend_v of_o they_o further_o and_o to_o more_o particular_n than_o it_o be_v possible_a to_o be_v teach_v by_o book_n or_o attain_v by_o study_n 14._o all_o christian_n know_v that_o to_o blaspheme_n to_o lie_v to_o defraud_v to_o be_v rebellious_a unchaste_a revengeful_a etc._n etc._n be_v sin_n odious_a to_o god_n and_o that_o the_o contrary_a virtue_n be_v to_o be_v practise_v yea_o moreover_o they_o know_v that_o we_o be_v oblige_v to_o love_n god_n with_o all_o our_o heart_n with_o all_o our_o soul_n and_o with_o all_o our_o strength_n that_o we_o ought_v in_o all_o thing_n to_o intend_v his_o love_n and_o honour_n etc._n etc._n moreover_o all_o know_v that_o beside_o the_o essential_o necessary_a christian_a duty_n there_o be_v other_o counsel_n of_o perfection_n which_o belong_v to_o those_o upon_o who_o god_n have_v bestow_v a_o extraordinary_a vocation_n and_o grace_n enable_v they_o to_o cast_v from_o they_o all_o secular_a anxiety_n and_o other_o impediment_n to_o perfect_a charity_n and_o to_o put_v themselves_o in_o a_o condition_n of_o solitude_n obedience_n etc._n etc._n the_o which_o afford_v they_o the_o best_a expedient_n &_o help_n for_o the_o increase_n of_o divine_a love_n &_o conformity_n to_o his_o will_n even_o in_o the_o small_a matter_n all_o this_o in_o gross_a be_v know_v to_o all_o christian_n of_o any_o reasonable_a capacity_n &_o good_a education_n 15._o but_o yet_o the_o wise_a the_o most_o subtle_a &_o learned_a christian_n will_v never_o be_v able_a by_o any_o humane_a endeavour_n of_o study_n or_o meditation_n to_o put_v in_o practice_n even_o those_o essential_a precept_n after_o a_o perfect_a manner_n that_o be_v with_o a_o intention_n not_o only_o right_a but_o also_o pure_a &_o deiforme_a and_o much_o less_o will_v they_o by_o such_o weak_a help_n be_v enable_v to_o discern_v in_o a_o thousand_o particular_a case_n and_o circumstance_n what_o be_v most_o perfect_a most_o acceptable_a to_o god_n &_o conformable_a to_o his_o divine_a will_n as_o for_o example_n 1._o how_o when_o two_o good_a or_o indifferent_a thing_n be_v propose_v to_o make_v choice_n and_o preference_n of_o that_o which_o in_o the_o present_a disposition_n of_o the_o soul_n will_v prove_v most_o advantageous_a to_o perfection_n 2._o how_o to_o spiritualise_v even_o the_o ordinary_a indifferent_a occurrence_n of_o our_o life_n daily_o and_o hourly_o 3._o how_o to_o perceive_v what_o manner_n &_o degree_n of_o prayer_n be_v most_o proper_a &_o profitable_a to_o the_o soul_n in_o her_o present_a state_n 4._o or_o what_o mortification_n be_v in_o the_o present_a circumstance_n most_o advantageous_a 5._o or_o how_o to_o discern_v the_o state_n inclination_n &_o spiritual_a necessity_n of_o other_o soul_n commit_v to_o our_o charge_n 6._o or_o last_o to_o discover_v a_o thousand_o secret_a subtlety_n close_a interest_n &_o reservation_n of_o our_o corrupt_a nature_n which_o mingle_v themselves_o more_o or_o less_o almost_o in_o all_o our_o best_a action_n etc._n etc._n in_o these_o and_o a_o thousand_o like_a case_n not_o all_o the_o read_n or_o study_n in_o the_o world_n will_v enable_v soul_n to_o carry_v themselves_o perfect_o in_o the_o execution_n of_o those_o precept_n or_o counsel_n which_o in_o gross_a all_o know_v to_o be_v necessary_a at_o least_o to_o the_o attain_n to_o perfection_n but_o a_o distinct_a actual_a supernatural_a light_n and_o grace_n be_v necessary_a and_o this_o not_o to_o teach_v we_o new_a precept_n or_o furnish_v we_o with_o new_a counsel_n but_o circumstantial_o to_o apply_v those_o which_o be_v common_a and_o universal_o know_v for_o want_n of_o which_o light_n it_o be_v that_o the_o true_a way_n to_o perfection_n be_v almost_o unknown_a even_o to_o those_o who_o profess_v the_o seek_n of_o perfection_n and_o fill_v the_o world_n with_o book_n and_o instruction_n about_o it_o 16._o by_o what_o other_o mean_n than_o be_v such_o light_a to_o be_v have_v sure_o by_o no_o other_o but_o by_o
especial_o for_o the_o discover_n of_o the_o several_a degree_n of_o prayer_n proper_a for_o that_o state_n reason_n require_v that_o since_o in_o all_o doctrine_n which_o tend_v to_o practise_v the_o end_n be_v principal_o to_o be_v regard_v as_o be_v that_o which_o if_o it_o can_v be_v approve_v worthy_a the_o take_n pain_n for_o will_v give_v life_n and_o courage_n in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n conduce_v thereto_o we_o shall_v treat_v more_o precise_o of_o the_o proper_a end_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n the_o which_o indeed_o be_v of_o so_o supreme_a a_o excellence_n and_o divine_a profection_n above_o any_o thing_n that_o can_v be_v design_v or_o seek_v after_o in_o any_o other_o doctrine_n or_o profession_n that_o those_o who_o have_v eye_n to_o see_v it_o and_o palate_n capable_a of_o a_o spiritual_a taste_n of_o it_o will_v think_v no_o difficulty_n no_o tediousness_n no_o bitterness_n or_o labour_n too_o great_a a_o price_n to_o purchase_v it_o 4._o it_o be_v say_v before_o that_o the_o general_a end_n of_o man_n creation_n and_o which_o ought_v to_o be_v aspire_v unto_o by_o all_o christian_n and_o much_o more_o those_o who_o more_o special_a profession_n be_v to_o tend_v perfection_n whether_o in_o a_o active_a or_o a_o contemplative_a state_n be_v a_o perfect_a &_o constant_a union_n in_o spirit_n to_o god_n by_o love_n which_o be_v uninterrupt_a perfect_a prayer_n but_o the_o same_o end_n be_v different_o seek_v &_o attain_v by_o active_a and_o by_o contemplative_a spirit_n for_o in_o a_o active_a life_n the_o union_n be_v not_o so_o immediate_a stable_n sublime_a &_o intime_fw-la of_o the_o supreme_a portion_n of_o the_o spirit_n with_o god_n as_o it_o be_v in_o a_o contemplative_a state_n but_o as_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o active_a liver_n be_v much_o in_o the_o imaginative_a &_o discursive_a faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n so_o be_v likewise_o their_o union_n the_o effect_n indeed_o of_o it_o be_v more_o perceptible_a and_o therefore_o more_o apt_a to_o cause_v admiration_n in_o other_o but_o with_o all_o be_v much_o in_o sense_n it_o be_v not_o so_o clear_a nor_o so_o peaceful_a and_o by_o consequence_n not_o so_o stable_a nor_o immediate_a as_o be_v that_o of_o contemplative_n the_o charity_n of_o actives_a be_v strong_a and_o vigorous_a and_o the_o outward_a effect_n of_o it_o dazzle_v the_o eye_n of_o the_o beholder_n and_o thereby_o cause_v great_a edification_n they_o be_v with_o all_o frequent_o multiply_v for_o strong_a love_n be_v a_o passion_n that_o take_v pleasure_n in_o labour_n whereas_o the_o deed_n of_o contemplative_a soul_n except_o when_o god_n by_o a_o extraordinary_a inspiration_n call_v they_o to_o exterior_a employment_n be_v but_o few_o and_o in_o appearance_n but_o small_a &_o little_o regard_v or_o esteem_v by_o other_o yet_o those_o mean_a action_n of_o they_o in_o god_n esteem_n may_v be_v prefer_v incomparable_o before_o the_o other_o as_o be_v in_o a_o far_o more_o perfect_a degree_n supernatural_a and_o divine_a as_o proceed_v from_o a_o immediate_a and_o most_o certain_a impulse_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n who_o conduct_n light_n &_o virtue_n such_o soul_n do_v far_o more_o clear_o perceive_v and_o more_o faithful_o &_o constant_o follow_v even_o in_o their_o daily_a and_o ordinary_a practice_n then_o active_a liver_n do_v or_o can_v in_o their_o action_n of_o high_a importance_n last_o the_o charity_n of_o contemplative_n though_o it_o be_v less_o stir_v &_o buisy_n yet_o be_v far_o more_o profound_o root_v in_o the_o centre_n of_o the_o spirit_n cause_v a_o union_n much_o more_o spiritual_a &_o divine_a 5._o s._n bernard_n perfect_o experience_v in_o the_o internal_a way_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n writing_n to_o certain_a religious_a father_n of_o the_o carthusian_n order_n profess_v the_o same_o excellent_o express_v this_o union_n in_o these_o word_n aliorum_fw-la est_fw-la deo_fw-la seruire_fw-la vestrum_fw-la adhaerere_fw-la aliorum_fw-la est_fw-la deo_fw-la credere_fw-la scire_fw-la amare_fw-la revereri_fw-la vestrum_fw-la est_fw-la sapere_fw-la intelligere_fw-la cognoscere_fw-la frui_fw-la that_o be_v it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o other_o that_o live_v active_a life_n either_o in_o the_o world_n or_o religion_n â—o_o serve_v god_n but_o it_o be_v you_o to_o adhere_v inseparable_o unto_o he_o it_o belong_v to_o other_o to_o believe_v to_o know_v to_o love_v to_o adore_v god_n but_o to_o you_o to_o taste_v to_o understand_v to_o be_v familiar_o acquaint_v with_o and_o to_o enjoy_v he_o 6._o consonant_o to_o this_o expression_n of_o s._n bernard_n mystic_a writer_n do_v teach_v that_o the_o proper_a end_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n be_v the_o attain_v unto_o a_o habitual_a &_o almost_o uninterrupt_a perfect_a union_n with_o god_n in_o the_o supreme_a point_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o such_o a_o union_n as_o give_v the_o soul_n a_o fruitive_a possession_n of_o he_o &_o a_o real_a experimental_a perception_n of_o his_o divine_a presence_n in_o the_o depth_n &_o centre_n of_o the_o spirit_n which_o be_v full_o possess_v and_o fill_v with_o he_o alone_o not_o onâ—y_o all_o deliberate_a affection_n to_o creature_n be_v exclude_v but_o in_o a_o manner_n all_o image_n of_o they_o also_o at_o least_o so_o far_o as_o they_o may_v be_v distractive_a to_o the_o soul_n 7._o the_o effect_n of_o this_o bless_a perceptible_a presence_n of_o god_n in_o perfect_a soul_n be_v unspeakable_a &_o divine_a for_o he_o be_v in_o they_o both_o as_o a_o principle_n of_o all_o their_o action_n internal_a &_o externall_n be_v the_o life_n of_o their_o life_n and_o spirit_n of_o their_o spirit_n and_o also_o as_o the_o end_n of_o they_o direct_v both_o the_o action_n &_o person_n to_o himself_o only_o he_o be_v all_o in_o all_o thing_n unto_o they_o a_o light_a to_o direct_v secure_o all_o their_o step_n and_o to_o order_v all_o their_o working_n even_o those_o also_o which_o seem_v the_o most_o indifferent_a the_o which_o by_o the_o guidance_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n do_v cause_n a_o far_a advancement_n of_o they_o to_o a_o yet_o more_o immediate_a union_n he_o be_v a_o shield_n to_o protect_v they_o in_o all_o tentation_n and_o danger_n a_o internal_a force_n and_o vigour_n within_o they_o to_o make_v they_o do_v &_o suffer_v all_o thing_n whatsoever_o his_o pleasure_n be_v they_o shall_v do_v or_o suffer_v they_o not_o only_o believe_v &_o know_v but_o even_o feel_v &_o taste_v he_o to_o be_v the_o universal_a infinite_a good_n by_o mean_n of_o a_o continual_a conversation_n with_o he_o they_o be_v reduce_v to_o a_o bless_a state_n of_o a_o perfect_a denudation_n of_o spirit_n to_o a_o absolute_a internal_a solitude_n a_o transcendency_n &_o forgetfulness_n of_o all_o create_a thing_n and_o especial_o of_o themselves_o to_o a_o heavenly-mindednes_a &_o fix_a attention_n to_o god_n only_o and_o this_o even_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o employment_n to_o other_o never_o so_o distractive_a and_o final_o to_o a_o gustfull_a knowledge_n of_o all_o his_o infinite_a perfection_n and_o a_o strict_a application_n of_o their_o spirit_n by_o love_n above_o knowledge_n join_v with_o a_o fruition_n &_o repose_n in_o he_o with_o the_o whole_a extent_n of_o their_o will_n so_o that_o they_o become_v after_o a_o inexpressible_a manner_n partaker_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n yea_o one_o spirit_n one_o will_n one_o love_n with_o he_o be_v in_o a_o sort_n deify_v &_o enjoy_v as_o much_o of_o heaven_n hereas_fw-la mortality_n be_v capable_a of_o 8._o to_o this_o purpose_n saih_o the_o same_o s._n bern_n amor_fw-la dei_fw-la vel_fw-la amor_fw-la deus_fw-la spiritus_fw-la sanctus_n amori_fw-la hominis_fw-la se_fw-la infundens_fw-la afficit_fw-la eum_fw-la sibi_fw-la &_o amans_fw-la semetipsum_fw-la de_fw-la homine_fw-la deus_fw-la secum_fw-la unum_fw-la efficit_fw-la &_o spiritum_fw-la eius_fw-la &_o amorem_fw-la eius_fw-la that_o be_v the_o love_n of_o god_n or_o love_v which_o be_v god_n to_o wit_n the_o holy_a ghost_n pour_v himself_o into_o the_o love_n of_o man_n incline_v &_o appli_v mâ—n_z by_o love_n unto_o himself_o and_o thus_o god_n love_v himself_o by_o man_n make_v both_o his_o spirit_n &_o love_v one_o with_o himself_o 9_o a_o most_o bless_a state_n this_o be_v certain_o be_v the_o portion_n choose_v by_o mary_n which_o our_o lord_n himself_o call_v optimam_fw-la partem_fw-la the_o very_o best_a of_o all_o divine_a grace_n which_o god_n can_v bestow_v in_o this_o life_n and_o wherewith_o he_o enrich_v two_o in_o a_o singular_a mnaner_n those_o his_o most_o high_o favour_v &_o most_o tender_o love_a friend_n s._n john_n the_o evangelist_n and_o s._n mary_n magdalen_n but_o in_o a_o yet_o more_o supereminent_a degree_n his_o own_o most_o heavenly_a virgin-mother_n 10._o happy_a therefore_o be_v those_o soul_n upon_o which_o god_n bestow_v a_o desire_n &_o ambition_n so_o glorious_a as_o serious_o &_o effectual_o to_o tend_v aspire_v and_o endeavour_v
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
a_o religious_a person_n be_v to_o raise_v a_o stock_n for_o his_o whole_a future_a life_n so_o that_o if_o a_o novice-ship_n be_v negligent_o &_o unprovident_o spend_v he_o will_v scarce_o ever_o have_v the_o like_a opportunity_n to_o promote_v his_o spiritual_a good_n for_o after_o his_o profession_n he_o will_v beside_o liberty_n have_v many_o more_o distraction_n more_o freedom_n of_o conversation_n and_o more_o intercourse_n with_o the_o news_n &_o affair_n abroad_o beside_o he_o will_v not_o utter_o be_v out_o of_o danger_n of_o some_o office_n &_o employment_n for_o the_o discharge_n of_o which_o some_o perhaps_o will_v suppose_v he_o already_o fit_a &_o prepare_v in_o spirit_n 6._o at_o the_o go_v out_o of_o the_o novice-ship_n the_o person_n be_v to_o be_v very_o careful_a with_o who_o he_o converse_v so_o as_o to_o become_v a_o inward_a acquaintance_n lest_o be_v so_o tender_a as_o he_o be_v yet_o he_o happen_v quick_o to_o be_v corrupt_v with_o the_o society_n of_o negligent_a tepid_a companion_n for_o want_v of_o this_o care_n too_o oft_o it_o happen_v that_o all_o the_o good_a get_v in_o a_o novice-ship_n be_v clean_o lose_v in_o a_o short_a time_n since_o usual_o thing_n be_v no_o other_o way_n preserve_v but_o by_o the_o same_o mean_n that_o they_o be_v first_o get_v therefore_o since_o it_o be_v by_o prayer_n &_o abstraction_n of_o life_n that_o a_o novice_n procure_v all_o the_o little_a proportion_n of_o divine_a love_n that_o he_o be_v possess_v of_o he_o must_v expect_v that_o it_o will_v no_o other_o way_n be_v preserve_v for_o this_o reason_n it_o be_v very_o requisite_a that_o the_o superior_a shall_v appoint_v such_o a_o one_o his_o companion_n 7._o a_o soul_n must_v consider_v that_o it_o be_v not_o a_o little_a diligence_n nor_o yet_o the_o space_n of_o a_o year_n or_o two_o that_o will_v ordinary_o speak_v suffice_v to_o get_v a_o habit_n and_o stability_n in_o mortification_n and_o prayer_n and_o therefore_o a_o young_a beginner_n ought_v to_o imprint_v deep_o in_o his_o heart_n this_o most_o important_a truth_n and_o advice_n that_o his_o duty_n be_v never_o to_o abate_v or_o slacken_v but_o rather_o continual_o to_o increase_v in_o firmness_n of_o mind_n and_o resolution_n to_o proceed_v courageous_o during_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o his_o follow_a life_n in_o the_o internal_a exercise_n of_o spirit_n for_o he_o be_v to_o consider_v that_o his_o novice-ship_n be_v once_o end_v he_o must_v never_o expect_v such_o advantage_n thereto_o afterward_o such_o stillnes_n such_o want_n of_o interruption_n and_o tentation_n such_o clear_a light_n and_o such_o calmness_n of_o passion_n as_o he_o enjoy_v before_o therefore_o least_o by_o a_o change_n of_o his_o state_n from_o a_o rigorous_a solitude_n and_o silence_n to_o ordinary_a conversing_n and_o perhaps_o employment_n or_o however_n study_v he_o shall_v come_v to_o endanger_v a_o decay_n in_o spirit_n and_o so_o be_v miserable_o reduce_v to_o his_o first_o natural_a state_n or_o worse_o for_o indeed_o worse_o it_o will_v be_v if_o such_o a_o decay_n happen_v let_v he_o be_v very_o vigilant_a and_o industrious_a to_o avoid_v all_o thing_n that_o may_v hinder_v he_o from_o prosecute_a internal_a prayer_n and_o let_v he_o be_v careful_a to_o continue_v according_a to_o the_o utmost_a of_o his_o ability_n to_o use_v all_o abstraction_n possible_a as_o if_o he_o be_v still_o in_o his_o novice-ship_n 8._o indeed_o superior_n ought_v to_o be_v very_o careful_a not_o to_o put_v their_o young_a religious_a into_o distractive_a employment_n or_o study_n either_o soon_o or_o more_o than_o can_v well_o stand_v with_o their_o spirit_n or_o before_o they_o be_v reasonable_o well_o ground_v in_o prayer_n for_o how_o be_v it_o possible_a for_o a_o imperfect_a beginner_n have_v such_o hindrance_n to_o make_v progress_n in_o spirit_n whereas_o if_o a_o good_a foundation_n of_o spiritual_a prayer_n be_v once_o lay_v such_o a_o soul_n by_o be_v apply_v to_o his_o study_n or_o externall_n office_n will_v suffer_v no_o decay_n yea_o moreover_o he_o will_v probable_o profit_n in_o study_n above_o the_o proportion_n of_o his_o natural_a ability_n by_o reason_n that_o passion_n which_o much_o distract_v and_o darken_v even_o the_o natural_a understanding_n will_v be_v much_o abate_v by_o prayer_n and_o moreover_o he_o will_v undertake_v his_o study_n as_o a_o duty_n and_o matter_n of_o conscience_n which_o will_v increase_v his_o attention_n and_o diligence_n yet_o perhaps_o by_o reason_n of_o his_o abstinence_n and_o exercise_n in_o spirit_n his_o bodily_a strength_n will_v not_o be_v vigorous_a enough_o to_o enable_v he_o to_o support_v very_o much_o study_v and_o if_o it_o shall_v prove_v so_o the_o loss_n be_v not_o great_a since_o the_o divine_a love_n will_v sufficient_o recompense_v all_o other_o want_v so_o it_o fare_v with_o our_o holy_a father_n who_o as_o s._n gregory_n say_v be_v sapienter_fw-la indoctus_fw-la his_o wisdom_n consist_v in_o despise_v all_o learning_n which_o be_v not_o helpful_a or_o not_o necessary_a to_o his_o advancement_n in_o the_o divine_a love_n which_o alone_o be_v the_o true_a wisdom_n and_o learning_n 9_o true_o so_o great_a harm_n come_v to_o young_a religious_a after_o a_o novice-ship_n well_o spend_v by_o be_v put_v immediate_o to_o school_n &_o for_o that_o purpose_n dispense_v with_o in_o a_o great_a measure_n about_o their_o monastical_a duty_n of_o prayer_n abstraction_n silence_v &c_n &c_n that_o it_o be_v very_o good_a and_o fit_a when_o person_n of_o tender_a age_n come_v to_o demand_v the_o habit_n to_o put_v they_o of_o and_o in_o the_o first_o place_n to_o inform_v they_o well_o about_o prayer_n and_o to_o endeavour_v to_o persuade_v they_o that_o before_o they_o undertake_v a_o religious_a state_n they_o shall_v dispatch_v their_o course_n of_o philosophy_n and_o divinity_n and_o during_o such_o a_o course_n to_o use_v as_o much_o abstraction_n and_o recollection_n as_o well_o they_o can_v for_o which_o they_o will_v then_o find_v more_o time_n than_o if_o they_o have_v be_v religious_a because_o they_o shall_v not_o be_v interrupt_v by_o the_o choir_n &_o other_o regular_a observance_n so_o that_o if_o study_v be_v then_o a_o hindrance_n to_o prayer_n how_o much_o more_o will_v they_o be_v so_o in_o case_n they_o have_v be_v religious_a have_v do_v all_o this_o then_o in_o god_n name_n let_v they_o demand_v the_o habit._n by_o this_o mean_n good_a soul_n will_v not_o be_v interrupt_v in_o their_o religious_a course_n nor_o put_v in_o danger_n never_o again_o to_o recover_v the_o spirit_n of_o prayer_n and_o if_o follow_a such_o direction_n they_o shall_v come_v to_o die_v before_o the_o time_n of_o take_v the_o habit_n they_o may_v assure_v themselves_o that_o in_o god_n account_n they_o shall_v be_v esteem_v as_o religious_a soul_n whole_o consecrate_v unto_o he_o chap._n x._o §_o 1._o 2._o of_o the_o obligation_n of_o english_a benedictius_n to_o the_o mission_n the_o sublime_a perfection_n of_o that_o employment_n §_o 3._o 4._o the_o care_n of_o it_o belong_v only_o to_o religious_a superior_n and_o not_o at_o all_o to_o particular_a religious_a §_o 5._o 6._o 7._o 8._o 9_o 10._o 11._o great_a danger_n of_o seek_v that_o employment_n and_o false_a pretence_n to_o obtain_v it_o etc._n etc._n §_o 12._o how_o the_o say_a charge_n be_v to_o be_v perform_v 1._o it_o will_v not_o be_v amiss_o to_o adjoine_v to_o this_o section_n concern_v a_o religious_a state_n certain_a consideration_n &_o advice_n touch_v a_o subject_n which_o though_o it_o pertain_v not_o to_o religious_a person_n in_o general_a yet_o be_v annex_v to_o our_o profession_n in_o the_o english_a congregation_n of_o s._n benedict_v order_n and_o that_o be_v the_o apostolical_a mission_n into_o england_n the_o which_o all_o that_o profess_v do_v by_o a_o particular_a vow_n oblige_v themselves_o to_o undertake_v whensoever_o they_o shall_v be_v command_v by_o superior_n 2._o a_o employment_n this_o be_v of_o high_a importance_n and_o most_o sublime_a perfection_n if_o due_o undertake_v and_o administer_v but_o the_o care_n thereof_o only_o belong_v to_o superior_n and_o indeed_o it_o be_v worthy_a both_o of_o their_o prudence_n and_o zeal_n by_o a_o right_a manage_n whereof_o they_o may_v procure_v great_a glory_n to_o god_n and_o good_a to_o soul_n miserable_o mislead_v by_o infinite_a &_o most_o pernicious_a error_n 3._o but_o as_o for_o particular_a religious_a they_o be_v mere_o to_o be_v passive_a in_o the_o business_n they_o be_v to_o submit_v themselves_o to_o the_o undergo_n of_o all_o the_o pain_n incommodity_n and_o danger_n of_o it_o whensoever_o it_o shall_v be_v impose_v on_o they_o but_o this_o be_v only_o a_o accessary_a obligation_n and_o capacity_n they_o be_v not_o to_o suppose_v that_o when_o god_n give_v they_o a_o vocation_n to_o a_o religious_a life_n that_o this_o do_v make_v
on_o the_o other_o side_n voluntary_a mortification_n be_v such_o as_o on_o our_o own_o head_n &_o without_o the_o advice_n &_o judgement_n of_o those_o that_o be_v acquaint_v with_o our_o interiour_n we_o voluntary_o assume_v or_o impose_v on_o ourselves_o either_o because_o we_o have_v see_v or_o read_v of_o other_o that_o have_v do_v the_o like_a &_o thereupon_o without_o further_a due_a consideration_n of_o our_o own_o state_n or_o ability_n we_o will_v hope_v they_o will_v advance_v we_o as_o much_o in_o the_o way_n of_o perfection_n such_o be_v voluntary_a corporal_a fast_n beyond_o what_o the_o church_n or_o regular_n observance_n do_v require_v wear_v of_o haircloth_n chain_n &c_n &c_n obstinate_a silence_n during_o the_o time_n that_o the_o order_n of_o the_o community_n do_v appoint_v conversation_n etc._n etc._n to_o these_o may_v be_v abd_v a_o assume_v the_o task_n of_o say_v so_o many_o vocal_a prayer_n rosary_n etc._n etc._n 4._o this_o distinction_n be_v premise_v the_o devout_a reader_n be_v to_o take_v notice_n that_o whatsoever_o hitherto_o have_v or_o shall_v be_v speak_v of_o the_o use_n end_n &_o benefit_n of_o mortification_n be_v to_o be_v understand_v &_o apply_v only_o to_o mortification_n of_o necessity_n and_o not_o to_o such_o as_o be_v voluntary_a and_o moreover_o that_o all_o these_o instruction_n &_o direction_n be_v intend_v only_o for_o such_o soul_n whether_o religious_a or_o other_o as_o be_v enter_v or_o desirous_a to_o enter_v into_o a_o internal_a course_n tend_v to_o contemplation_n 5._o as_o touch_v therefore_o the_o former_a sort_n of_o necessary_a mortification_n according_a to_o the_o whole_a latitude_n before_o express_v a_o devout_a soul_n be_v to_o be_v exhort_v as_o be_v her_o duty_n &_o obligation_n with_o all_o courage_n &_o fervour_n to_o accept_v &_o cheerful_o undergo_v they_o consider_v that_o beside_o the_o foremencion_v inestimable_a benefit_n attend_v they_o they_o be_v of_o great_a security_n free_a from_o all_o peril_n of_o error_n indiscretion_n or_o pride_n 6._o but_o as_o for_o voluntary_a mortification_n those_o i_o mean_v which_o be_v proper_o such_o we_o have_v nothing_o to_o do_v with_o they_o yea_o moreover_o i_o shall_v never_o persuade_v a_o spiritual_a disciple_n to_o assume_v any_o considerable_a mortification_n beside_o such_o as_o attend_v his_o present_a state_n of_o life_n till_o he_o can_v assure_v himself_o that_o he_o have_v a_o good_a call_v to_o they_o that_o be_v till_o after_o that_o have_v spend_v a_o considerable_a time_n in_o internal_a prayer_n he_o have_v receive_v light_a to_o judge_v of_o their_o fitness_n for_o he_o &_o grace_n or_o spiritual_a strength_n to_o undertake_v &_o pursue_v they_o cheerful_o &_o withal_o have_v the_o approbation_n of_o his_o superior_a or_o spiritual_a director_n yea_o though_o he_o have_v a_o body_n as_o strong_a as_o samson_n &_o withal_o a_o very_a good_a inclination_n to_o internal_a way_n i_o shall_v hardly_o be_v the_o first_o proposer_n mover_n &_o inciter_n of_o he_o to_o such_o extraordinary_a mortification_n unless_o some_o special_a occasion_n require_v they_o for_o a_o remedy_n against_o any_o special_a tentation_n then_o assalt_v he_o in_o which_o case_n they_o be_v not_o indeed_o to_o be_v esteem_v extraordinary_a and_o voluntary_a although_o supernumerary_a but_o consider_v the_o present_a state_n ordinary_a &_o necessary_a yea_o &_o if_o such_o a_o one_o shall_v ask_v my_o counsel_n about_o the_o use_n of_o such_o mortification_n &_o upon_o examination_n i_o shall_v find_v it_o to_o be_v doubtful_a whether_o it_o be_v upon_o a_o divine_a inspiration_n that_o he_o be_v move_v to_o desire_v they_o i_o shall_v take_v the_o sure_a course_n that_o be_v to_o dissuade_v he_o from_o the_o undertake_n of_o they_o 7._o it_o be_v true_a we_o find_v in_o read_v the_o life_n of_o saint_n that_o most_o of_o they_o have_v practise_v they_o &_o many_o even_o from_o their_o infancy_n but_o this_o show_v that_o spirit_n fit_a for_o extraordinary_a mortification_n be_v rare_o to_o be_v find_v be_v only_o such_o as_o god_n himself_o lead_v after_o a_o extraordinary_a manner_n to_o make_v they_o example_n of_o the_o power_n of_o his_o grace_n to_o the_o edification_n of_o many_o use_v they_o for_o his_o instrument_n in_o great_a work_n as_o for_o we_o we_o be_v not_o to_o suppose_v that_o god_n esteem_v we_o fit_a or_o intend_v we_o for_o such_o extraordinary_a matter_n therefore_o it_o may_v suffice_v we_o to_o undergo_v such_o mortification_n as_o god_n himself_o have_v provide_v for_o we_o believe_v he_o to_o know_v what_o be_v best_a for_o we_o &_o most_o proportionable_a 8._o in_o all_o our_o holy_a rule_n there_o be_v no_o provision_n nor_o order_n make_v for_o such_o extraordinary_a or_o supernumerary_a mortification_n but_o only_o in_o the_o 49._o cap._n about_o diet_n &_o in_o the_o time_n of_o lent_n etc._n etc._n and_o then_o it_o be_v forbid_v to_o undertake_v such_o without_o the_o approbation_n of_o the_o superior_a the_o neglect_n of_o which_o approbation_n be_v impute_v to_o rashness_n for_o our_o holy_a father_n as_o he_o know_v the_o inestimable_a benefit_n of_o mortification_n which_o come_v from_o god_n &_o therefore_o he_o be_v exact_a in_o require_v conformity_n to_o the_o austerity_n command_v in_o the_o rule_n so_o on_o the_o other_o side_n be_v he_o not_o ignorant_a of_o the_o great_a inconvenience_n that_o probable_o attend_v the_o undertake_v such_o extraordinary_a one_o by_o imperfect_a soul_n which_o be_v common_o induce_v thereto_o mere_o out_o of_o a_o fancy_n humour_n or_o sudden_a passion_n for_o such_o be_v seldom_o attend_v with_o any_o blessing_n from_o god_n who_o neither_o be_v oblige_v nor_o ordinary_o will_v bestow_v his_o grace_n &_o spiritual_a strength_n for_o the_o undergo_n of_o any_o morcification_n but_o such_o as_o be_v send_v by_o he_o or_o evident_o ordain_v by_o his_o inspiration_n and_o experience_n witness_n this_o because_o we_o seldom_o see_v soul_n to_o persevere_v in_o those_o which_o they_o assume_v by_o their_o own_o free_a election_n and_o while_o they_o perform_v they_o it_o be_v with_o little_a or_o no_o purity_n of_o intention_n hereupon_o it_o be_v that_o our_o holy_a father_n express_o declare_v that_o the_o divine_a inspiration_n &_o grace_n be_v to_o be_v acknowledge_v the_o root_n of_o all_o religious_a voluntary_a austerity_n by_o those_o word_n of_o his_o cap._n 40._o quibus_fw-la donat_fw-la deus_fw-la tolerantiam_fw-la abstinentiae_fw-la that_o be_v to_o who_o god_n have_v give_v the_o courage_n or_o strength_n to_o suffer_v extraordinary_a abstinence_n add_v withal_o that_o such_o voluntary_a abstinence_n must_v be_v offer_v to_o god_n cum_fw-la gaudio_fw-la sancti_fw-la spiritus_fw-la with_o joy_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n 9_o great_a caution_n therefore_o be_v to_o be_v use_v in_o the_o read_n &_o make_v use_n of_o instruction_n &_o example_n find_v especial_o concern_v this_o point_n in_o spiritual_a book_n because_o otherwise_o a_o soul_n will_v be_v in_o danger_n to_o plunge_v herself_o into_o great_a inconvenience_n &_o difficulty_n for_o while_o she_o do_v imitate_v such_o extraordinary_a practice_n it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v be_v yet_o imperfect_a she_o will_v entertain_v a_o proud_a conceit_n of_o herself_o &_o not_o receive_v grace_n to_o persevere_v she_o will_v be_v apt_a to_o draw_v from_o thence_o matter_n of_o scrupulosity_n &_o dejection_n so_o far_o as_o perhaps_o to_o become_v dishearten_v from_o further_a tendance_n in_o the_o way_n of_o the_o spirit_n yea_o such_o a_o soul_n will_v be_v liable_a to_o contract_v thereby_o a_o obscurity_n in_o her_o understanding_n especial_o if_o she_o be_v unlearned_a by_o which_o she_o will_v become_v disable_v to_o distinguish_v necessary_a mortification_n from_o voluntary_a 10._o it_o be_v a_o very_a hard_a &_o to_o many_o soul_n will_v prove_v a_o dangerous_a advice_n which_o some_o spiritual_a author_n give_v viz._n that_o a_o spiritual_a disciple_n shall_v in_o every_o thing_n that_o be_v of_o itself_o indifferent_a in_o case_n that_o several_a object_n be_v offer_v to_o choice_n take_v that_o which_o be_v most_o contrary_a to_o his_o natural_a inclination_n as_o if_o many_o several_a dish_n be_v set_v before_o we_o to_o eat_v only_o that_o which_o we_o least_o like_a &_o thus_o to_o live_v in_o a_o continual_a contradiction_n &_o cross_v of_o nature_n 11._o sure_o no_o soul_n but_o such_o as_o be_v in_o a_o good_a measure_n perfect_a be_v capable_a of_o make_v good_a use_n of_o such_o advice_n for_o only_o such_o can_v with_o facility_n discretion_n &_o profit_n practise_v they_o as_o for_o the_o less_o perfect_a if_o they_o practise_v they_o with_o any_o willingness_n it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v that_o the_o true_a ground_n be_v because_o thereby_o they_o do_v covert_o comply_v with_o nature_n some_o orhe_a way_n nourish_v selfe-esteeme_a contempt_n of_o other_o not_o so_o courageous_a
those_o that_o be_v to_o go_v abroad_o &_o the_o like_a when_o they_o return_v home_o whither_o when_o they_o come_v they_o be_v strict_o forbid_v to_o tell_v any_o news_n of_o their_o journey_n all_o this_o as_o if_o by_o only_o step_v out_o of_o their_o enclosure_n they_o be_v expose_v to_o immediate_a peril_n &_o that_o it_o be_v not_o possible_a to_o have_v be_v in_o the_o world_n without_o contract_v such_o stain_n as_o that_o for_o the_o wash_v they_o away_o public_a prayer_n of_o the_o community_n be_v needful_a such_o be_v the_o care_n express_v by_o our_o holy_a patriarch_n who_o by_o own_o experience_n have_v learn_v the_o wonderful_a benefit_n &_o extreme_a necessity_n of_o solitude_n for_o the_o attain_n to_o contemplation_n according_a to_o that_o of_o the_o prophet_n by_o who_o mouth_n god_n say_v ose_n cap._n 4._o ducam_fw-la eam_fw-la in_o solitudinem_fw-la &_o loquar_fw-la ad_fw-la cor_fw-la illius_fw-la that_o be_v i_o will_v lead_v the_o devour_v soul_n into_o a_o solitary_a place_n and_o there_o i_o will_v speak_v word_n of_o kindness_n &_o intimacy_n to_o her_o spirit_n and_o to_o the_o same_o purpose_n another_o prophet_n say_v lament_v cap._n 3._o sedebit_fw-la solitarius_fw-la &_o tacebit_fw-la quia_fw-la levauit_fw-la se_fw-la super_fw-la se_fw-la the_o solitary_a person_n will_v sit_v still_o &_o hold_v his_o peace_n because_o he_o have_v raise_v up_o his_o spirit_n above_o himself_o &_o all_o creature_n 12._o indeed_o whatsoever_o spiritual_a employment_n a_o soul_n have_v &_o whensoever_o she_o desire_v to_o have_v any_o conversation_n with_o god_n solitude_n be_v the_o state_n most_o proper_a for_o it_o whether_o it_o be_v to_o bewail_v her_o sin_n to_o exercise_v penance_n to_o meditate_v on_o the_o holy_a scripture_n to_o prepare_v herself_o for_o any_o employment_n but_o especial_o to_o exercise_v spiritual_a prayer_n free_o thither_o most_o of_o the_o ancient_a saint_n yea_o many_o holy_a bishop_n oft_o retire_v themselves_o because_o they_o know_v that_o in_o solitude_n god_n dwell_v be_v especial_o fix_v &_o after_o a_o free_a immediate_a &_o unexpressible_a communion_n with_o he_o there_o they_o return_v more_o enable_v &_o enlighten_v to_o discharge_v the_o solicitous_a duty_n of_o their_o calling_n 13._o but_o absolute_a solitude_n such_o as_o be_v that_o of_o ancient_a hermit_n be_v never_o permit_v to_o soul_n till_o after_o a_o sufficient_a time_n spend_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o a_o coenobiticall_a life_n except_o to_o a_o very_a few_o miraculous_o call_v thereto_o out_o of_o the_o world_n as_o s._n anthony_n s._n hilarion_n our_o holy_a father_n s._n benedict_n &c_n &c_n because_o a_o wonderful_a firmness_n of_o mind_n confidence_n in_o god_n purity_n of_o soul_n &c_n &c_n be_v requisite_a to_o he_o that_o without_o the_o comfort_n &_o assistance_n of_o any_o shall_v oppose_v himself_o single_a to_o the_o devil_n assault_n which_o in_o such_o a_o solitude_n be_v more_o furious_a and_o likewise_o a_o unusual_a measure_n of_o spiritual_a light_n be_v needful_a to_o such_o a_o soul_n to_o enable_v she_o to_o be_v she_o own_o director_n &_o disposer_n in_o all_o thing_n chap._n vii_o §_o 1._o 2._o etc._n etc._n the_o three_o kind_n of_o general_a mortification_n be_v silence_n the_o which_o be_v strict_o enjoin_v in_o s._n benedict_v rule_n but_o in_o these_o day_n can_v so_o rigorous_o be_v observe_v &_o why_o the_o condition_n of_o it_o §_o 12._o 13._o 14._o 15._o of_o recreation_n now_o permit_v §_o 16._o 17._o 18._o condition_n to_o be_v observe_v in_o conference_n §_o 19_o of_o melancholic_a disposition_n &_o how_o they_o be_v to_o be_v treat_v 1._o the_o three_o general_a kind_n of_o mortification_n be_v silence_n the_o which_o be_v one_o of_o the_o most_o profitable_a mortification_n in_o a_o spiritual_a life_n prevent_v a_o world_n of_o inconceiveable_o pernicious_a damage_n which_o the_o spirit_n of_o devotion_n and_o recollection_n receive_v by_o the_o superfluity_n and_o intemperance_n of_o the_o tongue_n the_o ordinary_a subject_n of_o unnecessary_a conversation_n be_v murmur_n detraction_n at_o least_o vain_a and_o distractive_a dispute_n profession_n of_o friendship_n news_n etc._n etc._n upon_o the_o guard_n of_o the_o tongue_n say_v the_o wiseman_n depend_v life_n and_o death_n and_o whosoever_o account_v himself_o religious_a and_o refrain_v not_o his_o tongue_n that_o man_n religion_n be_v vain_a say_v s._n james_n of_o such_o infinite_a importance_n be_v the_o well_o order_v of_o so_o small_a a_o member_n and_o this_o even_o in_o the_o world_n much_o more_o therefore_o in_o religion_n 2._o herupon_o our_o holy_a father_n deal_v with_o his_o disciple_n as_o god_n do_v with_o a_o certain_a devout_a and_o holy_a monk_n to_o who_o he_o leave_v no_o power_n at_o all_o to_o use_v his_o tongue_n but_o only_o for_o prayer_n in_o the_o community_n be_v absolute_o dumb_a in_o all_o other_o occasion_n and_o time_n for_o in_o our_o holy_a rule_n there_o seem_v no_o permission_n allow_v to_o particular_a religious_a for_o any_o voluntary_a or_o recreative_a discourse_n at_o any_o time_n no_o not_o to_o superior_n themselves_o and_o for_o spiritual_a discourse_n by_o way_n of_o teach_v those_o be_v only_o allow_v to_o the_o abbot_n or_o to_o certain_a seniors_n and_o officer_n by_o the_o abbot_n express_a appointment_n or_o leave_n and_o when_o there_o happen_v a_o necessity_n that_o a_o answer_n shall_v be_v give_v by_o any_o of_o the_o private_a religious_a they_o be_v to_o deliver_v it_o as_o brief_o as_o be_v possible_a if_o yea_o or_o nay_o will_v serve_v the_o turn_n they_o must_v add_v no_o more_o and_o it_o seem_v answer_v only_o be_v permit_v not_o ask_v of_o question_n except_o when_o necessary_a business_n require_v 3._o but_o in_o these_o latter_a day_n superior_n have_v conceive_v themselves_o oblige_v to_o remit_v much_o of_o this_o rigorous_a silence_n not_o only_o permit_v but_o even_o appoint_v set_v time_n for_o recreative_a conversation_n and_o entertainment_n therein_o comply_v with_o the_o indisposition_n and_o general_a infirmity_n either_o of_o our_o complexion_n or_o mind_n 4._o now_o whether_o it_o be_v true_a real_a necessity_n or_o no_o that_o have_v cause_v such_o dispensation_n i_o will_v not_o inquire_v but_o this_o be_v certain_a that_o no_o ancient_a than_o s._n bernard_n day_n the_o rigorous_a silence_n of_o the_o rule_n be_v most_o exact_o observe_v yea_o even_o in_o these_o our_o day_n and_o that_o in_o community_n of_o woman_n there_o be_v little_o want_v of_o the_o like_a rigour_n and_o if_o religious_a person_n have_v true_o good_a will_n to_o seek_v god_n they_o will_v find_v many_o thing_n not_o very_o difficult_a which_o in_o their_o present_a disposition_n seem_v impossible_a both_o in_o the_o point_n of_o silence_n and_o also_o of_o diet_n etc._n etc._n 5._o how_o ever_o this_o be_v certain_a that_o much_o and_o willing_a speak_n be_v the_o effect_n of_o tepidity_n self-love_n and_o pride_n for_o common_o it_o flow_v from_o a_o opinion_n that_o we_o can_v speak_v well_o and_o consequent_o out_o of_o a_o desire_n of_o gain_v estimation_n from_o other_o by_o show_v our_o wit_n and_o ability_n but_o such_o intention_n and_o design_n as_o these_o the_o disciple_n of_o true_a humility_n and_o spirituality_n will_v abhor_v 6._o it_o be_v very_o requisite_a for_o a_o internal_a liver_n therefore_o at_o least_o to_o observe_v that_o moderate_a and_o qualify_a silence_n require_v in_o his_o community_n not_o transgress_v either_o in_o the_o appoint_a place_n or_o at_o the_o determinate_a time_n in_o which_o speak_v be_v forbid_v 7._o a_o young_a religious_a person_n must_v not_o without_o necessity_n be_v the_o first_o mover_n or_o proposer_n of_o a_o discourse_n nor_o ordinary_o speak_v till_o he_o be_v ask_v unless_o it_o be_v to_o propose_v a_o question_n or_o doubt_v in_o a_o matter_n of_o concernment_n yea_o this_o advice_n may_v likewise_o concern_v the_o more_o ancient_a unless_o we_o do_v conceive_v that_o they_o be_v disoblige_v from_o humility_n and_o necessary_a abstraction_n indeed_o perfect_a soul_n can_v when_o a_o occasion_n of_o necessary_a discourse_n be_v administer_v speak_v more_o with_o incur_v few_o and_o less_o defect_n than_o the_o imperfect_a 8._o when_o prudence_n and_o charity_n require_v of_o we_o to_o speak_v we_o must_v be_v very_o careful_a not_o to_o make_v the_o imperfection_n of_o other_o any_o part_n of_o the_o matter_n of_o our_o discourse_n and_o especial_o not_o the_o imperfection_n of_o those_o from_o who_o in_o our_o nature_n we_o seem_v to_o have_v a_o aversion_n and_o principal_o we_o must_v take_v heed_n of_o speak_v or_o do_v any_o thing_n to_o breed_v a_o dislike_n between_o any_o therefore_o all_o secret_a informing_n and_o accusation_n be_v most_o careful_o to_o be_v avoid_v as_o the_o ruin_n of_o christian_a charity_n in_o community_n 9_o and_o this_o concern_v superior_n as_o
of_o all_o other_o be_v the_o most_o proper_a season_n 26._o and_o as_o concern_v tentation_n to_o infidelity_n despair_v &c_n &c_n beside_o what_o have_v be_v already_o say_v i_o will_v only_o add_v these_o two_o advice_n 1._o that_o the_o soul_n be_v sure_a to_o avoid_v all_o invent_v of_o reason_n or_o dispute_n to_o oppose_v the_o tentation_n 2._o to_o turn_v the_o mind_n neglect_o from_o the_o say_a tentation_n &_o to_o fix_v it_o with_o resignation_n &_o confidence_n on_o god_n these_o indeed_o be_v the_o only_a proper_a remedy_n for_o soul_n especial_o those_o that_o walk_v in_o internal_a way_n for_o these_o require_v no_o study_n nor_o subtlety_n of_o wit_n to_o encounter_v the_o enemy_n who_o be_v able_a to_o entangle_v even_o the_o most_o learned_a that_o in_o confidence_n of_o their_o ability_n dare_v contest_v with_o he_o and_o yet_o these_o remedy_n be_v sufficient_a to_o quench_v even_o his_o most_o fiery_a dart_n and_o moreover_o this_o one_o expedient_a of_o turn_v the_o mind_n from_o all_o object_n but_o god_n and_o adhere_v to_o he_o be_v a_o universal_a remedy_n always_o ready_a at_o hand_n be_v the_o usual_a exercise_n of_o those_o soul_n for_o who_o these_o instruction_n be_v principal_o write_v 27._o to_o this_o purpose_n cardinal_n bellarmine_n in_o his_o book_n de_fw-fr arte_fw-la bene_fw-la moriendi_fw-la from_o barocius_n bishop_n of_o milan_n relate_v a_o sad_a story_n of_o two_o doctor_n in_o that_o university_n famous_a for_o scholastic_a controversy_n the_o one_o whereof_o after_o his_o death_n do_v according_a to_o a_o mutual_a agreement_n former_o make_v appear_v to_o his_o friend_n after_o a_o most_o affright_a manner_n all_o burn_a in_o flame_n give_v this_o account_n of_o the_o cause_n that_o bring_v he_o to_o that_o woeful_a condition_n a_o little_a before_o my_o expire_a say_v he_o the_o devil_n suggest_v to_o i_o doubt_n &_o argument_n against_o the_o divinity_n of_o our_o lord_n the_o which_o i_o out_o of_o a_o confidence_n in_o my_o own_o ability_n undertake_v to_o resolve_v find_v myself_o so_o press_v with_o new_a reply_n that_o in_o the_o end_n be_v quite_o overcome_v i_o renounce_v the_o catholic_a doctrine_n of_o the_o church_n &_o assent_v to_o the_o arian_n heresy_n and_o in_o that_o state_n a_o just_a judgement_n for_o my_o pride_n i_o expire_v so_o receive_v this_o reward_n of_o heresy_n the_o live_a companion_n astonish_v with_o this_o relation_n reveal_v the_o case_n to_o some_o pious_a friend_n from_o who_o he_o receive_v advice_n direct_o conformable_a to_o these_o here_o before_o deliver_v and_o thereupon_o spend_v the_o remainder_n of_o his_o time_n more_o in_o prayer_n &_o pennance_n then_o study_v &_o not_o long_o after_o approach_v to_o his_o end_n the_o same_o tentation_n assault_v he_o for_o the_o devil_n require_v of_o he_o a_o account_n of_o his_o faith_n can_v get_v no_o other_o answer_n from_o he_o but_o this_o i_o believe_v what_o the_o church_n teach_v and_o be_v thereupon_o ask_v what_o the_o church_n teach_v he_o answer_v the_o church_n teach_v that_o which_o i_o believe_v the_o which_o word_n he_o often_o repeat_v in_o the_o hear_n of_o those_o that_o assist_v he_o by_o which_o mean_n he_o elude_v the_o subtlety_n of_o the_o enemyâ—_n and_o as_o afterward_o appear_v to_o some_o of_o those_o his_o good_a counsellor_n in_o a_o glorious_a manner_n he_o manifest_v he_o pass_v to_o heaven_n 28._o in_o the_o next_o place_n as_o touch_v mortification_n to_o be_v practise_v about_o externall_n thing_n it_o be_v a_o duty_n so_o necessary_a in_o all_o state_n that_o it_o belong_v as_o well_o to_o the_o infirmary_n as_o the_o refectory_n for_o in_o all_o manner_n of_o thing_n &_o occurrent_n in_o this_o life_n there_o lie_v a_o snare_n to_o be_v avoid_v &_o a_o enemy_n to_o be_v combat_v so_o that_o whosoever_o out_o of_o slothfullnes_n shall_v forbear_v to_o continue_v the_o practice_n of_o mortification_n will_v the_o next_o day_n be_v more_o avert_v from_o it_o nature_n get_v strength_n against_o the_o spirit_n 29._o in_o as_o much_o therefore_o as_o sickness_n be_v a_o tentation_n &_o a_o snare_n it_o be_v by_o consequence_n well_o use_v a_o occasion_n of_o victory_n against_o impatience_n &_o self-love_n &_o of_o advancement_n in_o spiritual_a perfection_n 30._o more_o particular_o the_o exercise_n of_o mortification_n proper_a in_o the_o time_n of_o sickness_n be_v 1._o not_o to_o be_v draw_v by_o the_o pain_n &_o incommodity_n of_o it_o to_o impatience_n 2._o not_o to_o yield_v to_o a_o immoderate_a satisfaction_n of_o nature_n when_o it_o suggest_v a_o desire_n either_o of_o seek_v improper_a or_o unlawful_a remedy_n or_o when_o please_a nourishment_n refreshment_n etc._n etc._n be_v offer_v to_o us._n 3_o to_o take_v heed_n of_o spiritual_a sloth_n &_o neglect_v of_o our_o devotion_n to_o god_n of_o which_o we_o will_v speak_v when_o we_o etreate_n of_o the_o duty_n of_o prayer_n 31._o as_o concern_v the_o mortification_n of_o impatience_n by_o restrain_v the_o tongue_n from_o break_v out_o into_o complaint_n or_o murmur_n &_o the_o mind_n from_o yield_v to_o melancholy_n &_o discontent_n enough_o have_v be_v say_v in_o the_o second_o treatise_n the_o which_o may_v easy_o be_v apply_v to_o the_o present_a subject_n of_o sickness_n i_o will_v therefore_o only_o add_v these_o two_o advice_n 1._o that_o the_o infirm_a person_n will_v consider_v that_o impatience_n in_o sickness_n be_v not_o only_o harmful_a to_o the_o soul_n but_o likewise_o to_o the_o body_n too_o as_o on_o the_o contrary_a patience_n peacefullnes_n of_o mind_n and_o a_o mortify_a temperance_n which_o be_v heavenly_a ornament_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v withal_o very_o efficacious_a mean_n to_o restore_v health_n in_o as_o much_o as_o thereby_o neither_o will_v the_o patient_a out_o of_o immortification_n refuse_v bitter_a thing_n which_o be_v advantageous_a to_o health_n nor_o greedy_o seek_v please_a thing_n which_o be_v harmful_a 2._o that_o patience_n ought_v to_o be_v preserve_v at_o least_o in_o the_o superior_a soul_n although_o violence_n of_o pain_n shall_v force_v the_o patient_a to_o groan_v or_o it_o may_v be_v to_o cry_v out_o the_o which_o if_o they_o afford_v ease_n be_v not_o whole_o to_o be_v condemn_v 32._o next_o touch_v the_o mortification_n and_o moderation_n of_o the_o sensual_a appetite_n to_o be_v practise_v in_o sickness_n in_o the_o first_o place_n it_o can_v be_v deny_v but_o that_o it_o be_v lawful_a &_o fit_v for_o a_o sick_a person_n to_o desire_n &_o seek_v remedy_n proper_a in_o that_o case_n yet_o this_o be_v to_o be_v do_v without_o too_o much_o solicitude_n &_o disquietness_n of_o mind_n and_o in_o case_n such_o remedy_n can_v be_v have_v a_o content_a submission_n of_o mind_n in_o the_o want_n or_o refusal_n of_o they_o be_v of_o admirable_a virtue_n to_o advance_v the_o soul_n since_o necessity_n declare_v such_o a_o want_n to_o be_v the_o will_n of_o god_n and_o this_o for_o the_o soul_n great_a good_n a_o most_o perfect_a example_n hereof_o we_o have_v in_o our_o lord_n who_o among_o the_o other_o insupportable_a torment_n of_o the_o cross_n be_v most_o greivous_o afflict_v with_o thirst_n in_o which_o case_n he_o demand_v refreshment_n but_o all_o assuagement_n be_v deny_v he_o yea_o gall_n be_v present_v to_o he_o to_o inflame_v his_o thirst_n he_o complain_v not_o at_o all_o 33._o in_o the_o second_o place_n it_o be_v to_o be_v consider_v that_o though_o the_o same_o manner_n of_o exercise_v temperance_n by_o repress_v sensuality_n in_o the_o interior_a disposition_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v alike_o to_o be_v practise_v in_o health_n &_o sickness_n yet_o there_o be_v a_o difference_n as_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o matter_n about_o which_o such_o temperance_n be_v to_o be_v exercise_v for_o those_o meat_n and_o solace_n which_o will_v misbecome_v a_o spiritual_a person_n in_o health_n may_v be_v very_o allowable_a and_o expedient_a in_o sickness_n only_o care_n ought_v to_o be_v have_v that_o the_o yield_n to_o some_o reasonable_a pleasure_n and_o recreation_n of_o the_o sense_n may_v be_v by_o the_o direction_n of_o the_o spirit_n according_a to_o spiritual_a discretion_n for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o spirit_n so_o as_o not_o to_o hinder_v internal_a exercise_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o because_o such_o be_v god_n will_n and_o not_o that_o a_o undue_a liberty_n shall_v be_v allow_v upon_o the_o pretence_n of_o sickness_n to_o give_v the_o reins_n to_o sensual_a appetite_n so_o as_o to_o make_v the_o state_n of_o sickness_n more_o easy_a and_o pleasurable_a perhaps_o then_o that_o of_o health_n it_o be_v nothing_o considerable_a as_o in_o itself_o whether_o the_o body_n have_v ease_n or_o no_o all_o the_o matter_n be_v how_o it_o fare_v with_o the_o spirit_n if_o bodily_a ease_n may_v indeed_o be_v a_o help_n to_o the_o spirit_n it_o
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
doctrine_n fit_a and_o agreeable_a to_o the_o vocation_n of_o our_o rule_n 7._o sept._n 1629._o f._n leander_n de_fw-fr s._n martino_n prior_n of_o s._n gregory_n and_o ordinary_a of_o the_o monastery_n of_o our_o lady_n of_o comfort_n in_o cambray_n again_o this_o treatise_n of_o doubt_n and_o call_v be_v a_o very_a good_a one_o 1630._o b._n rosendo_n barlow_n precedent_n of_o the_o english_a congregation_n of_o the_o order_n of_o s._n ben._n to_o the_o book_n of_o confession_n the_o original_a whereof_o be_v lose_v but_o a_o perfect_a transcript_n remain_v be_v this_o approbation_n i_o have_v read_v this_o book_n and_o have_v find_v nothing_o in_o it_o against_o faith_n or_o good_a manner_n for_o although_o the_o author_n dispute_v much_o against_o the_o urge_n of_o confession_n of_o venial_a sin_n as_o unnecessary_a to_o spiritual_a profit_n yet_o he_o do_v not_o in_o any_o sort_n condemn_v the_o discreet_a use_n of_o frequent_a confession_n of_o venial_a sin_n but_o only_o the_o needless_a renumeration_n of_o they_o and_o of_o daily_a defect_n which_o can_v be_v use_v without_o great_a loss_n of_o time_n and_o anxiety_n of_o mind_n in_o testimony_n of_o this_o i_o subscribe_v my_o name_n at_o cambray_n 17._o sept._n 1629._o br._n rudisind_v barlow_n precedent_n of_o the_o english_a congregation_n of_o the_o order_n of_o s._n bennet_n beside_o these_o many_o more_o approbation_n may_v be_v add_v annex_v by_o the_o same_o vv._n rr._n ff_n to_o other_o book_n as_o to_o that_o of_o discretion_n of_o sickness_n direction_n for_o the_o idiot_n devotion_n contain_v in_o 16._o several_a book_n remedy_n the_o stay_v of_o the_o soul_n in_o tentation_n in_o two_o volume_n a_o book_n call_v the_o five_o treatise_n the_o alphabet_n and_o abstract_n etc._n etc._n but_o i_o make_v choice_n only_o of_o the_o forementioned_a because_o they_o treat_v of_o subject_n more_o likely_a to_o meet_v with_o contradiction_n suppose_v therefore_o that_o these_o will_v suffice_v which_o be_v take_v from_o the_o original_n extant_a at_o cambray_n in_o the_o approver_n own_o hand-writing_n i_o will_v here_o adjoine_v the_o forementioned_a memorial_n contain_v both_o a_o approbation_n and_o explication_n of_o the_o general_a doctrine_n of_o our_o v._o venerable_a author_n a_o memorial_n write_v by_o the_o late_a v._o r._n f._n leander_n â—_o s._n marcino_n and_o place_v in_o the_o book_n of_o collection_n i_o have_v read_v over_o careful_o the_o book_n a._n b._n c._n and_o the_o alphabet_n &_o abstract_n as_o also_o the_o 3._o part_n of_o doubt_n &_o call_v beside_o diverse_a other_o treatise_n of_o the_o same_o author_n in_o all_o which_o be_v to_o be_v see_v my_o approbation_n &_o allowance_n in_o the_o begin_n of_o they_o they_o do_v all_o contain_v very_o sound_a &_o wholesome_a doctrine_n for_o the_o direction_n of_o devout_a soul_n &_o fit_a &_o agreeable_a to_o our_o call_v &_o rule_n and_o especial_o for_o the_o use_n of_o our_o dame_n the_o spirit_n of_o our_o holy_a rule_n consist_v principal_o in_o a_o spiritual_a union_n of_o our_o soul_n with_o god_n in_o affective_a prayer_n &_o exercise_v of_o the_o will_v immediate_o upon_o god_n rather_o then_o intellectual_a &_o discursive_a prayer_n busy_v the_o understanding_n as_o appear_v plain_o by_o our_o rule_n and_o the_o daily_a use_n of_o our_o choir_n office_n which_o for_o the_o most_o part_n consist_v of_o aspiration_n and_o affect_n and_o have_v very_o few_o discourse_n yet_o because_o the_o author_n refer_v the_o dame_n his_o scholar_n to_o his_o large_a explication_n by_o word_n of_o mouth_n in_o many_o place_n and_o to_o his_o practice_n in_o which_o he_o settle_v they_o both_o which_o can_v not_o be_v know_v but_o by_o those_o who_o know_v the_o author_n and_o this_o mystic_a way_n though_o most_o plain_a most_o secure_a and_o most_o compendious_a to_o perfection_n contain_v many_o hard_a &_o delicate_a point_n which_o will_v seem_v strange_a to_o such_o as_o have_v be_v only_o accustom_v to_o intellectual_a meditation_n and_o little_a to_o affective_a prayer_n by_o reason_n of_o the_o great_a abstraction_n which_o it_o require_v from_o all_o thing_n that_o be_v not_o god_n lest_o the_o ensue_a confessor_n and_o directour_n shall_v mistake_v the_o meaning_n of_o the_o author_n and_o thereupon_o alter_v the_o course_n of_o prayer_n begin_v and_o settle_v in_o the_o house_n as_o we_o hope_v to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n &_o spiritual_a profit_n of_o soul_n in_o perfection_n proper_a to_o our_o call_v i_o have_v think_v convenient_a to_o note_v these_o few_o point_n follow_a first_o of_o all_o that_o the_o reader_n of_o these_o book_n &_o collection_n have_v always_o before_o his_o eye_n that_o they_o be_v write_v precise_o &_o only_o for_o such_o soul_n as_o by_o god_n holy_a grace_n do_v effectual_o &_o constant_o dedicate_v themselves_o to_o as_o pure_a a_o abstraction_n from_o creature_n as_o may_v with_o discretion_n be_v practise_v in_o the_o community_n and_o consequent_o for_o such_o as_o abstain_v from_o all_o manner_n of_o levity_n loss_n of_o time_n notable_a and_o know_v defect_n vain_a talk_n needless_a familiarity_n &_o in_o a_o word_n do_v take_v as_o much_o care_n as_o they_o can_v to_o avoid_v all_o venial_a sin_n &_o occasion_n of_o they_o and_o all_o thing_n which_o they_o shâ—ll_v perceive_v or_o be_v warn_v of_o to_o be_v impediment_n to_o the_o divine_a union_n of_o their_o soul_n with_o god_n second_o let_v he_o consider_v that_o it_o be_v suppose_v as_o a_o ground_n in_o all_o those_o collection_n &_o observation_n that_o the_o office_n of_o choir_n &_o action_n of_o obedience_n &_o conuentuall_a act_n and_o all_o other_o thing_n prescribe_v by_o rule_n &_o statute_n be_v most_o exact_o to_o be_v keep_v &_o observe_v yea_o prefer_v before_o all_o other_o private_a exercise_n whatsoever_o so_o that_o all_o these_o instruction_n be_v to_o be_v understand_v always_o with_o reservation_n of_o the_o conuentuall_a discipline_n &_o public_a observance_n prescribe_v by_o obedience_n particular_o let_v the_o reader_n observe_v a_o note_n which_o be_v give_v in_o one_o of_o these_o book_n &_o find_v but_o in_o few_o spiritual_a writer_n yet_o necessary_a for_o those_o religious_a that_o be_v addict_v to_o the_o choir_n viz_o that_o although_o the_o author_n commend_v so_o high_o mental_a prayer_n yet_o that_o prayer_n which_o be_v perfect_o mental_a &_o vocal_a too_o be_v far_o more_o excellent_a then_o that_o which_o be_v mental_a only_o as_o will_v be_v the_o exercise_n of_o the_o saint_n in_o heaven_n after_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n when_o in_o body_n &_o soul_n they_o â—hall_v praise_v &_o contemplate_v almighty_a god_n whereupon_o it_o follow_v that_o although_o in_o this_o life_n our_o frail_a &_o weak_a body_n hinder_v our_o soul_n that_o our_o prayer_n can_v be_v so_o perfect_o mental_a &_o vocal_a as_o it_o shall_v be_v in_o heaven_n yet_o must_v our_o mental_a prayer_n be_v so_o practise_v that_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n &_o joy_v all_o perseverance_n in_o union_n with_o he_o our_o vocal_a prayer_n inquire_v may_v be_v convert_v into_o mental_a that_o be_v that_o our_o vocal_a say_n &_o sing_v may_v be_v so_o lively_o animate_v as_o it_o be_v &_o inform_v with_o affect_v of_o the_o soul_n as_o if_o it_o be_v altogether_o spiritual_a prayer_n and_o so_o shall_v we_o fulfil_v the_o word_n of_o our_o rule_n nihil_fw-la praeponatur_fw-la operi_fw-la dei_fw-la nothing_n prefer_v before_o the_o office_n of_o the_o choir_n whereas_o in_o diverse_a place_n the_o author_n say_v that_o all_o bodily_a exercise_n even_o frequent_v the_o sacrament_n without_o mental_a prayer_n &_o abstraction_n &_o mortification_n do_v not_o advance_v a_o soul_n one_o â—ot_n in_o spirit_n although_o it_o be_v plain_a enough_o to_o they_o that_o know_v the_o necessity_n of_o these_o 3._o instrument_n of_o spiritual_a perfection_n yet_o lest_o any_o shall_v mistake_v his_o meaning_n as_o if_o these_o former_a exercise_n do_v not_o profit_n a_o soul_n at_o all_o without_o these_o instrument_n practise_v by_o few_o out_o of_o the_o former_a advice_n the_o reader_n must_v understand_v that_o by_o advancement_n in_o spirit_n be_v mean_v here_o not_o the_o bare_a avoid_n of_o grosser_n sin_n &_o some_o perfection_n too_o in_o active_a life_n which_o be_v get_v by_o these_o bodily_a exercise_n but_o a_o clear_a &_o experimental_a knowledge_n of_o the_o will_n of_o god_n &_o a_o spiritualize_a of_o the_o soul_n by_o adhere_v to_o god_n &_o transcend_v all_o creature_n whatsoever_o for_o this_o do_v the_o mystic_a doctor_n call_v advancement_n in_o spirit_n &_o this_o can_v be_v attain_v unto_o but_o by_o the_o three_o above_o name_v instrument_n continual_o practise_v &_o employ_v by_o god_n grace_n which_o notwithstanding_o the_o author_n deni_v not_o but_o that_o a_o soul_n without_o the_o foresay_a exercise_n
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
in_o which_o they_o direct_v we_o be_v in_o their_o nature_n indifferent_a and_o be_v order_v only_o towards_o a_o more_o perfect_a love_a of_o god_n and_o withdraw_v we_o from_o creature_n whereas_o all_o the_o misery_n and_o almost_o all_o the_o disorder_n and_o enormous_a vice_n of_o the_o nation_n be_v the_o effect_n of_o their_o mislead_v light_n 34._o thus_o stand_v the_o case_n between_o catholic_n inspiration_n and_o the_o pretend_a inspiration_n of_o sectary_n such_o be_v that_o spirit_n of_o charity_n and_o peace_n and_o so_o divine_a be_v the_o effect_n of_o it_o direct_v the_o mind_n of_o good_a humble_a obedient_a &_o devout_a catholic_n and_o such_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o disorder_n revenge_n wrath_n rebellion_n etc._n etc._n and_o so_o dismal_a be_v the_o effect_n of_o that_o spirit_n wherewith_o selfe-opinionated_n presumptuous_a frantic_a sectary_n be_v agitate_a what_o resemblance_n what_o agreement_n can_v there_o be_v between_o these_o two_o this_o evil_a spirit_n though_o it_o sacrilegious_o usurp_v the_o name_n yet_o it_o do_v not_o so_o much_o as_o counterfeit_v the_o operation_n of_o the_o good_a one_o or_o if_o with_o the_o name_n it_o do_v sometime_o seem_v to_o counterfeit_v some_o outward_a resemblance_n and_o to_o some_o person_n show_v demure_a look_v &c_n &c_n yet_o the_o aequivocation_n and_o hypocrisy_n be_v so_o gross_a and_o palpable_a that_o they_o must_v put_v out_o their_o eye_n that_o perceive_v it_o not_o 35._o shall_v we_o then_o extinguish_v and_o in_o a_o sort_n exorcise_v the_o good_a divine_a spirit_n for_o fear_v it_o shall_v raise_v up_o the_o evil_a one_o with_o it_o or_o rather_o shall_v we_o not_o confident_o assure_v ourselves_o that_o upon_o the_o appear_a of_o the_o good_a one_o the_o evil_a one_o will_v either_o vanish_v or_o the_o hideousnes_n of_o it_o will_v affright_v all_o from_o harken_v to_o it_o shall_v we_o forbid_v the_o sun_n to_o rise_v because_o in_o some_o unclean_a rot_a marsh_n some_o fog_n will_v arise_v with_o it_o we_o may_v as_o well_o annul_v the_o sacrament_n forbid_v prayer_n extinguish_v the_o scripture_n &c_n &c_n for_o from_o all_o these_o the_o devil_n have_v malicious_o take_v advantage_n to_o pervert_v and_o damn_v thousand_o of_o soul_n 36._o no_o doubt_v it_o be_v but_o that_o among_o those_o seduce_a and_o seduce_a people_n great_a number_n there_o be_v that_o if_o they_o be_v charitable_o instruct_v in_o such_o way_n of_o discern_v spirit_n they_o will_v be_v susprise_v and_o start_v to_o see_v to_o what_o kind_n of_o directour_n and_o guide_n they_o have_v unwary_o commit_v their_o soul_n if_o such_o as_o these_o can_v persuade_v and_o i_o beseech_v god_n they_o may_v even_o while_o they_o be_v yet_o out_o of_o the_o church_n for_o a_o while_n to_o suspend_v the_o pursuance_n of_o their_o busy_a design_n and_o reform_v of_o other_o and_o retire_v themselves_o into_o solitude_n allow_v themselves_o the_o leisure_n to_o turn_v their_o eye_n inward_a into_o their_o own_o spirit_n and_o as_o well_o as_o they_o can_v to_o practice_v the_o humble_a selfe-renouncing_a resign_v way_n of_o spiritual_a prayer_n teach_v in_o this_o book_n thereby_o to_o procure_v from_o god_n such_o light_n as_o then_o may_v be_v trust_v to_o nor_o they_o nor_o we_o shall_v ever_o repent_v that_o the_o publish_n of_o such_o doctrine_n as_o these_o give_v they_o a_o happy_a occasion_n to_o do_v so_o 37._o and_o what_o great_a satisfaction_n can_v catholic_n have_v in_o their_o way_n and_o what_o great_a advantage_n can_v they_o have_v over_o all_o those_o that_o be_v out_o of_o the_o church_n than_o this_o proof_n make_v good_a by_o universal_a experience_n viz._n that_o whosoever_o sincere_o and_o constant_o give_v himself_o to_o the_o practice_n of_o such_o perfect_a prayer_n as_o be_v here_o teach_v if_o he_o be_v already_o a_o catholic_n he_o will_v most_o certain_o ever_o remain_v so_o and_o if_o he_o be_v not_o yet_o in_o the_o church_n he_o will_v become_v afraid_a of_o remain_v his_o owâ—e_a pastor_n and_o guide_n for_o never_o any_o catholic_n that_o exercise_v spiritual_a prayer_n cease_v to_o be_v a_o catholic_n till_o he_o first_o cease_v so_o to_o pray_v and_o the_o spirit_n of_o such_o prayer_n in_o any_o perfection_n never_o rest_v upon_o any_o soul_n that_o be_v out_o of_o the_o catholic_n church_n 38._o and_o this_o i_o suppose_v may_v suffice_v not_o only_o to_o justify_v the_o truth_n and_o innocency_n of_o this_o our_o doctrine_n concern_v divine_a inspiration_n but_o also_o the_o lawfullnes_n yea_o conveniency_n yea_o even_o the_o necessity_n of_o publish_v it_o to_o the_o world_n and_o this_o for_o those_o very_a reason_n wherewith_o other_o will_v deter_v us._n for_o the_o obiectour_n be_v afraid_a of_o the_o publication_n of_o it_o least_o franctick_a sectary_n shall_v think_v themselves_o justify_v in_o their_o pretence_n and_o on_o the_o contrary_a i_o conceive_v the_o publication_n necessary_a lest_o they_o shall_v think_v themselves_o justify_v in_o their_o pretence_n which_o till_o they_o see_v how_o unlike_a to_o true_a divine_a light_n and_o inspiration_n they_o be_v they_o may_v have_v some_o show_v for_o i_o do_v not_o intend_v when_o i_o call_v it_o our_o doctrine_n to_o appropriate_v it_o to_o any_o person_n or_o community_n for_o it_o be_v the_o very_a same_o that_o have_v in_o all_o age_n be_v teach_v by_o all_o saint_n experience_v in_o internal_a way_n as_o will_v be_v demonstrate_v by_o infinite_a testimony_n ancient_a and_o modern_a if_o god_n shall_v engage_v we_o to_o such_o a_o labour_n by_o the_o opposition_n of_o any_o one_o true_a it_o be_v that_o the_o pious_a and_o sublime_a author_n of_o the_o treatise_n here_o abridge_v have_v doubtless_o by_o the_o guidance_n and_o assistance_n of_o a_o supernatural_a light_n spend_v more_o thought_n about_o this_o subject_n and_o take_v more_o pain_n in_o encouragng_n wellminded_n soul_n to_o fit_n themselves_o for_o the_o receive_n of_o such_o light_n in_o distinguish_v it_o from_o false_a light_n and_o in_o show_v the_o bless_a effect_n of_o it_o etc._n etc._n then_o perhaps_o any_o other_o author_n former_o do_v and_o that_o be_v all_o for_o the_o doctrine_n in_o substance_n be_v all_o old_a as_o christianity_n itself_o and_o can_v show_v strange_a or_o new_a but_o only_o to_o such_o to_o who_o in_o these_o day_n antiquity_n do_v seem_v the_o great_a novelty_n 39_o have_v thus_o by_o declare_v the_o insufficiency_n of_o these_o objection_n against_o the_o publish_n of_o the_o follow_a instruction_n open_v the_o barrier_n to_o give_v this_o book_n a_o free_a escape_n to_o range_v abroad_o at_o liberty_n and_o my_o only_a intention_n be_v for_o god_n glory_n to_o benefit_v thy_o soul_n dear_a reader_n for_o as_o for_o the_o mean_a or_o sinister_a end_n of_o gain_v credit_n or_o esteem_v with_o other_o thereby_o the_o ambition_n be_v so_o unworthy_a my_o profession_n and_o withal_o so_o poor_a and_o unreasonable_a consider_v that_o i_o can_v appropriate_v nothing_o to_o myself_o but_o a_o little_a pain_n in_o transcribe_v &_o digest_v another_o man_n labour_n that_o i_o can_v think_v myself_o liable_a to_o any_o suspicion_n with_o thou_o in_o that_o regard_n therefore_o to_o the_o end_n i_o may_v according_a to_o my_o utmost_a ability_n facilitate_v thy_o receive_n good_a to_o thy_o spirit_n hereby_o though_o i_o have_v no_o more_o objection_n to_o answer_n yet_o by_o converse_v with_o certain_a pious_a and_o learned_a person_n to_o who_o perusal_n and_o judgement_n this_o book_n be_v present_v have_v find_v that_o some_o few_o passage_n in_o it_o be_v not_o so_o very_o clear_o express_v but_o that_o even_o a_o uninteress_v and_o unpassionate_a reader_n may_v perhaps_o stop_v a_o little_a at_o they_o i_o think_v expedient_a to_o let_v thou_o good_a reader_n be_v acquaint_v what_o satisfaction_n i_o give_v to_o they_o 40._o one_o point_n that_o seem_v to_o require_v a_o explication_n be_v that_o in_o the_o 1._o treat_n 2._o section_n 2._o chap._n where_o be_v treat_v of_o what_o care_n a_o spiritual_a disciple_n ought_v to_o take_v in_o the_o choice_n of_o a_o sit_v directour_n for_o to_o leave_v a_o matter_n of_o such_o importance_n to_o the_o election_n of_o a_o unexperienced_a &_o perhaps_o young_a &_o ignorant_a soul_n seem_v to_o they_o neither_o convenient_a nor_o prudent_a beside_o that_o in_o religious_a community_n such_o a_o permission_n will_v be_v a_o infringe_n of_o all_o due_a order_n and_o submission_n to_o superior_n but_o hereto_o be_v reply_v 1._o that_o religious_a person_n be_v express_o except_v in_o the_o book_n 2._o and_o as_o for_o other_o this_o very_a same_o advice_n be_v long_o since_o give_v by_o the_o bishop_n of_o geneva_n auila_n etc._n etc._n true_a it_o be_v notwithstanding_o that_o there_o may_v oft_o be_v find_v in_o the_o world_n many_o good_a devout_a soul_n
that_o yet_o be_v not_o very_o capable_a of_o make_v a_o good_a choice_n however_o even_o such_o as_o far_o as_o be_v allow_v aught_o to_o use_v their_o best_a endeavour_n hope_v that_o god_n will_v bless_v such_o their_o care_n for_o the_o advancement_n of_o their_o spirit_n notwithstanding_o such_o aught_o withal_o to_o take_v heed_n that_o from_o too_o nice_a a_o curiosity_n in_o choose_v there_o do_v not_o follow_v any_o disquiet_n in_o the_o family_n where_o they_o live_v if_o several_a person_n shall_v be_v zealous_a each_o for_o a_o particular_a director_n as_o s._n hierome_n chide_v a_o mother_n and_o a_o daughter_n that_o upon_o such_o a_o occasion_n separate_v from_o one_o another_o therefore_o in_o such_o a_o case_n a_o good_a soul_n that_o will_v prefer_v peace_n before_o the_o content_v her_o mind_n may_v of_o all_o other_o rely_v upon_o god_n assure_v herself_o that_o he_o will_v in_o a_o special_a manner_n assist_v and_o conduct_v she_o supply_v all_o other_o want_v and_o particular_o such_o a_o extraordinary_a divine_a assistance_n may_v be_v most_o confident_o expect_v by_o well-disposed_n soul_n in_o religious_a community_n where_o such_o freedom_n of_o choose_v be_v not_o permit_v for_o as_o rusbrochius_n say_v god_n will_v rather_o send_v a_o angel_n from_o heaven_n than_o that_o such_o humble_a obedient_a and_o sincere_a soul_n rely_v upon_o he_o shall_v want_v due_a help_n therefore_o such_o as_o forbear_v a_o solicitous_a search_n after_o a_o director_n either_o for_o the_o prevent_a inconvenience_n or_o out_o of_o a_o humble_a sincere_a apprehension_n of_o the_o danger_n of_o err_v in_o the_o choice_n or_o a_o religious_a regard_n to_o the_o prejudice_n it_o may_v cause_v in_o a_o community_n to_o peace_n and_o good_a order_n &c_n &c_n such_o may_v well_o hope_v that_o god_n will_v not_o permit_v they_o to_o be_v loser_n thereby_o yea_o moreover_o such_o as_o in_o the_o forename_a case_n think_v they_o have_v a_o true_a occasion_n and_o that_o they_o may_v just_o do_v it_o for_o the_o quiet_n of_o their_o conscience_n resolve_v of_o their_o doubt_n &c_n &c_n have_v need_n be_v very_o wary_a that_o they_o proceed_v sincere_o and_o that_o they_o real_o seek_v their_o spiritual_a profit_n and_o not_o natural_a contentment_n for_o as_o our_o venerable_a f._n baker_n in_o a_o certain_a place_n advise_v it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o any_o soul_n that_o it_o be_v permit_v by_o the_o law_n of_o the_o church_n at_o certain_a time_n to_o require_v a_o special_a director_n upon_o a_o consideration_n of_o the_o expedience_n and_o necessity_n that_o some_o soul_n in_o some_o circumstance_n may_v have_v but_o they_o be_v to_o consider_v whether_o their_o case_n have_v these_o circumstance_n and_o whether_o they_o do_v true_o make_v use_n of_o the_o say_a permission_n for_o the_o right_a end_n 41._o a_o second_o point_n in_o the_o same_o chapter_n suppose_v to_o deserve_v explication_n be_v that_o assertion_n that_o a_o devout_a soul_n once_o set_v in_o a_o good_a and_o proper_a way_n of_o prayer_n after_o she_o have_v make_v some_o progress_n in_o it_o ought_v not_o to_o have_v recourse_n ordinary_o to_o a_o director_n but_o that_o she_o shall_v practice_v the_o follow_v of_o god_n direction_n etc._n etc._n on_o the_o contrary_a it_o be_v suppose_v that_o till_o a_o soul_n have_v make_v some_o considerable_a progress_n in_o the_o prayer_n of_o the_o will_n she_o will_v not_o be_v subject_a to_o illusion_n and_o therefore_o have_v thence_o forward_o must_v need_v of_o advice_n from_o a_o prudent_a guide_n but_o this_o difficulty_n be_v clear_v towards_o the_o latter_a end_n of_o the_o three_o treatise_n where_o be_v teach_v that_o in_o the_o case_n and_o peril_n of_o illusion_n upon_o a_o opinion_n of_o some_o extraordinary_a illumination_n &c_n &c_n it_o be_v necessary_a that_o soul_n though_o never_o so_o much_o advance_v shall_v distrust_v their_o own_o judgement_n and_o never_o presume_v to_o add_v belief_n unto_o and_o must_v less_o put_v in_o execution_n any_o thing_n suggest_v by_o any_o illumination_n true_a or_o pretend_a without_o the_o advice_n and_o consent_n of_o superior_n and_o directour_n but_o as_o for_o the_o ordinary_a practice_n of_o a_o internal_a life_n as_o prayer_n and_o mortification_n &c_n &c_n be_v be_v very_o requisite_a that_o soul_n shall_v be_v teach_v as_o soon_o as_o may_v be_v to_o quit_v a_o assiduous_a dependence_n on_o externall_n guide_n from_o whence_o will_v follow_v nothing_o but_o sollicitude_n distraction_n etc._n etc._n there_o be_v a_o parallel_a advice_n though_o in_o somewhat_o a_o different_a case_n in_o 3._o treat_n 4._o sect._n 3_o chap._n §_o 36._o 37._o where_o in_o a_o discourse_n concern_v rapt_n and_o the_o like_a extraordinary_a favour_n it_o be_v say_v of_o perfect_a soul_n that_o they_o may_v judge_v of_o those_o matter_n by_o their_o own_o supernatural_a light_n etc._n etc._n &_o that_o they_o be_v not_o so_o absolute_o oblige_v to_o resign_v their_o judgment_n and_o will_n to_o other_o as_o utter_o to_o neglect_v their_o own_o proper_a call_v receive_v from_o god_n etc._n etc._n by_o which_o word_n be_v not_o mean_v that_o any_o soul_n though_o never_o so_o perfect_a shall_v be_v exempt_v from_o the_o obligation_n of_o submission_n to_o superior_n judge_v or_o ordain_v concern_v any_o such_o divine_a favour_n but_o only_o that_o such_o perfect_a soul_n need_v not_o so_o oft_o to_o have_v recourse_n for_o advice_n about_o such_o matter_n but_o may_v proceed_v by_o that_o divine_a light_n communicate_v to_o they_o whereas_o the_o imperfect_a aught_o neither_o to_o yield_v belief_n nor_o execution_n further_o than_o they_o have_v advice_n and_o order_n for_o now_o who_o will_v find_v fault_n with_o s._n teresa_n s._n catherine_n of_o sienna_n &c_n &c_n if_o they_o shall_v forbear_v consultation_n after_o every_o rapt_v or_o revelation_n have_v former_o be_v sufficient_o warrant_v by_o superior_n &_o c_o 42._o in_o consequence_n to_o the_o story_n of_o v._o r._n f._n balthasar_n aluarez_n his_o account_n give_v of_o his_o prayer_n to_o his_o general_n mention_v in_o the_o 3._o treat_n 1._o sect._n 7._o chap._n at_o the_o latter_a end_n where_o a_o relation_n be_v make_v of_o the_o general_n order_n require_v all_o superior_n to_o direct_v and_o assist_v the_o young_a religious_a among_o they_o so_o as_o that_o they_o may_v high_o y_o esteem_n and_o in_o their_o practice_n follow_v the_o manner_n of_o prayer_n most_o suitable_a to_o their_o institute_n &_o prescribe_v in_o their_o exercise_n i_o think_v myself_o oblige_v to_o acquaint_v thou_o dear_a reader_n that_o by_o two_o book_n publish_v of_o late_a by_o two_o rr._n ff_n of_o the_o society_n and_o peruse_v by_o i_o since_o the_o writing_n and_o print_n of_o that_o passage_n i_o do_v find_v that_o the_o say_v order_n of_o the_o general_n be_v not_o at_o least_o of_o late_a so_o rigide_o interpret_v as_o former_o they_o be_v 43._o the_o author_n of_o say_a book_n write_v in_o french_a be_v r._n f._n ant._n civoré_n and_o r._n f._n andr._n baiole_n in_o which_o the_o whole_a doctrine_n of_o this_o book_n especial_o concern_v the_o excellency_n of_o affective_a prayer_n beyond_o discursive_a be_v most_o copious_o and_o strong_o assert_v yea_o and_o moreover_o the_o instruction_n concern_v the_o necessity_n of_o attend_v to_o and_o follow_v divine_a inspiration_n as_o likewise_o way_n prescribe_v to_o distinguish_v they_o from_o false_a suggestion_n of_o the_o devil_n or_o corrupt_a nature_n be_v so_o large_o clear_o and_o even_o in_o the_o very_a phrase_n of_o this_o book_n deliver_v by_o the_o former_a of_o the_o two_o in_o his_o book_n call_v les_fw-fr secret_n de_fw-fr la_fw-fr science_n des_fw-fr saint_n tr._n iii_o cap._n ix_o from_o p._n 402._o to_o p._n 486._o that_o it_o not_o be_v credible_a that_o he_o have_v see_v our_o v._n f._n a._n baker_n write_n we_o may_v rational_o in_o far_o that_o what_o he_o write_v with_o such_o extraordinary_a exactness_n proceed_v from_o a_o deep_a and_o experimental_a knowledge_n of_o these_o internal_a and_o secret_a path_n of_o contemplation_n 44._o so_o that_o no_o doubt_n there_o be_v many_o devout_a person_n in_o the_o society_n which_o not_o be_v engage_v in_o many_o external_a employment_n and_o enjoy_v consequent_o both_o a_o solitude_n and_o liberty_n of_o spirit_n great_a perhaps_o than_o will_v be_v afford_v in_o many_o community_n by_o profession_n pure_o contemplative_a do_v permit_v themselves_o to_o the_o divine_a conduct_n &_o make_v wonderful_a progress_n in_o these_o divine_a way_n 45._o true_o indeed_o it_o be_v that_o the_o other_o author_n f._n ant._n baiole_n seem_v to_o maintain_v that_o the_o spiritual_a exercise_n according_a to_o the_o intention_n of_o s._n ignatius_n will_v by_o practice_n become_v a_o prayer_n of_o contemplation_n and_o mystick_n union_n a_o assertion_n in_o
which_o i_o have_v not_o find_v any_o yet_o to_o join_v with_o he_o but_o however_o he_o show_v in_o his_o bookâ—_n style_v la_fw-fr vie_n interieure_fw-fr that_o he_o have_v a_o true_a notion_n of_o the_o prayer_n of_o mystick_n union_n and_o that_o be_v so_o he_o may_v free_o enjoy_v the_o contentment_n of_o the_o former_a supposition_n 46._o beside_o these_o there_o may_v possible_o be_v other_o passage_n that_o thou_o also_o devout_a reader_n if_o thou_o have_v have_v the_o perusal_n before_o the_o impression_n will_v perhaps_o have_v give_v we_o occasion_n to_o explain_v or_o interpret_v more_o at_o large_a if_o it_o prove_v so_o all_o we_o can_v do_v be_v to_o refer_v they_o to_o thy_o own_o candour_n and_o charity_n promise_v upon_o a_o re-impression_n all_o satisfaction_n possible_a and_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n request_v that_o our_o own_o good_a meaning_n and_o the_o judgement_n of_o our_o superior_n and_o approver_n may_v be_v our_o safeguard_n only_o one_o suit_n we_o make_v unto_o thou_o most_o reasonable_a and_o just_a which_o be_v that_o thou_o will_v not_o proceed_v to_o the_o censure_n of_o any_o passage_n till_o thou_o have_v read_v the_o whole_a book_n the_o same_o point_n and_o matter_n do_v occasional_o come_v in_o in_o several_a place_n and_o it_o will_v have_v be_v too_o great_a a_o tire_v of_o thou_o to_o repeat_v in_o every_o place_n all_o the_o circumstance_n and_o phrase_n necessary_a for_o explanation_n or_o prevention_n of_o suspicion_n and_o objection_n if_o it_o be_v for_o thy_o own_o good_a principal_o that_o thou_o be_v a_o reader_n we_o shall_v stand_v in_o little_a need_n of_o prepare_v thou_o with_o apology_n and_o if_o it_o be_v for_o our_o hurt_n that_o thou_o be_v a_o reader_n we_o thank_v god_n we_o be_v not_o guilty_a of_o the_o least_o ill_a design_n to_o make_v we_o fear_v except_o only_o in_o thy_o behalf_n all_o that_o we_o have_v to_o say_v be_v god_n almighty_a make_v thou_o whosever_v thou_o be_v a_o practiser_n of_o the_o good_a that_o thou_o will_v certain_o find_v in_o the_o follow_a treatise_n and_o then_o we_o shall_v have_v no_o cause_n to_o apprehend_v either_o for_o thou_o or_o ourselves_o 47._o thus_o true_o for_o aught_o appear_v to_o i_o devout_a reader_n thou_o may_v free_o and_o without_o the_o least_o apprehension_n of_o any_o danger_n peruse_v and_o make_v thy_o best_a benefit_n of_o these_o follow_a instruction_n the_o which_o moreover_o as_o thou_o see_v have_v pass_v the_o censure_n and_o deserve_v the_o approbation_n of_o several_a pious_a and_o learned_a person_n what_o ever_o opinion_n thou_o shall_v after_o read_v have_v of_o they_o at_o least_o i_o will_v oblige_v thou_o to_o acknouledge_v that_o here_o in_o the_o treatise_n that_o follow_v be_v no_o manner_n of_o covert_n indirect_a meaning_n or_o design_n according_a to_o the_o fashion_n new_a a_o day_n to_o broach_v any_o bold_a new-fangled_a invention_n and_o much_o less_o of_o maintain_v undue_o what_o shall_v be_v duâ—y_o find_v fault_n with_o since_o they_o be_v expose_v to_o the_o common_a view_v by_o one_o that_o as_o he_o hitherto_o have_v so_o here_o he_o do_v and_o by_o god_n grace_n ever_o will_v submit_v himself_o and_o his_o write_n to_o the_o authority_n and_o judgement_n of_o the_o sea_n apostolic_a in_o the_o first_o place_n and_o next_o to_o all_o other_o his_o superior_n this_o i_o profess_v as_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o a_o humble_a obedient_a son_n of_o the_o church_n and_o this_o if_o i_o do_v not_o moreover_o express_o signify_v with_o reference_n to_o the_o doctrine_n contain_v in_o the_o follow_a treatise_n i_o can_v not_o avoid_v some_o degree_n of_o guilt_n and_o imputation_n of_o not_o deliver_v candide_o and_o faithful_o our_o venerable_a author_n sense_n who_o in_o many_o place_n protest_v the_o like_a submission_n of_o all_o his_o write_n to_o all_o lawful_a authority_n whatsoever_o farewell_n dear_a reader_n oremus_fw-la invicens_fw-la ut_fw-la saluemur_fw-la amen_o the_o first_o treatise_n of_o a_o internal_a life_n in_o general_n the_o first_o treatise_n and_o first_o section_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n in_o general_n the_o nature_n and_o end_n thereof_o and_o general_a disposition_n require_v thereto_o cap._n i._n 1._o cap._n §_o 1._o 2._o 3._o continual_a union_n in_o spirit_n with_o god_n the_o end_n of_o man_n creation_n &_o practise_v by_o adam_n in_o innocence_n §_o 4._o 5._o man_n fall_n &_o misery_n through_o sin_n §_o 4._o 5._o which_o be_v transfuse_v into_o we_o &_o all_o his_o posterity_n §_o 8._o 9_o the_o reparation_n of_o mankind_n by_o christ_n §_o 10._o 11._o that_o all_o christian_n be_v oblige_v to_o aspire_v to_o perfection_n in_o divine_a love_n by_o the_o way_n of_o prayer_n etc._n etc._n as_o adam_n do_v 1._o it_o be_v only_o infinite_a goodness_n that_o move_v almighty_a god_n to_o create_v the_o world_n of_o nothing_o &_o particular_o in_o this_o inferior_a visible_a world_n to_o create_v man_n after_o his_o own_o image_n &_o similitude_n consist_v of_o a_o frail_a earthly_a body_n which_o be_v the_o prison_n of_o a_o immortal_a intellectual_a spirit_n to_o the_o end_n that_o by_o his_o understanding_n which_o be_v capable_a of_o a_o unlimited_a knowledge_n &_o by_o his_o will_n which_o can_v be_v replenish_v which_o any_o object_n of_o goodness_n less_o than_o infinite_a he_o may_v so_o govern_v &_o order_v himself_o &_o all_o other_o visible_a creature_n as_o thereby_o to_o arrive_v unto_o the_o end_n for_o which_o he_o be_v make_v to_o wit_n eternal_a beatitude_n both_o in_o soul_n &_o body_n in_o heaven_n the_o which_o consist_v in_o a_o return_v to_o the_o divine_a principle_n from_o who_o he_o flow_v &_o a_o inconceaveible_o happy_a union_n with_o he_o both_o in_o mind_n contemplate_v eternal_o his_o infinite_a perfection_n &_o in_o will_n &_o affection_n eternal_o love_v admire_a &_o enjoy_v the_o say_a perfection_n 2._o now_o to_o the_o end_n that_o man_n may_v not_o except_o by_o his_o own_o free_a &_o wilful_a choice_n of_o misery_n fail_v from_o attain_v to_o the_o only_a universal_a end_n of_o his_o creation_n god_n be_v please_v to_o the_o natural_a vast_a capacity_n of_o man_n understanding_n &_o wâ—ll_n to_o add_v a_o supernatural_a light_n illustrate_v his_o mind_n to_o believe_v &_o know_v he_o &_o divine_a charity_n in_o the_o will_n which_o be_v as_o it_o be_v a_o weight_n to_o incline_v &_o draw_v the_o soul_n with_o out_o any_o defect_n or_o interruption_n to_o love_n god_n &_o he_o only_o so_o that_o by_o a_o continual_a presence_n of_o this_o light_n &_o a_o uninterrupt_a exercise_n of_o this_o love_n the_o soul_n of_o man_n will_v in_o time_n have_v attein_v to_o such_o a_o measure_n of_o perfection_n of_o union_n with_o god_n in_o this_o world_n as_o with_o out_o die_v to_o merit_v a_o translation_n from_o hence_o to_o heaven_n there_o eternal_o to_o enjoy_v a_o far_o more_o incomprehensible_o perfect_a and_o beatify_a union_n with_o god_n 3._o hence_o it_o appear_v that_o the_o mean_n to_o happiness_n &_o the_o end_n itself_o be_v essential_o the_o same_o thing_n to_o wit_n union_n of_o the_o spirit_n with_o god_n and_o differ_v only_o in_o degree_n and_o the_o union_n which_o adam_n during_o his_o state_n of_o innocency_n do_v &_o will_v always_o have_v practise_v be_v in_o a_o sort_n perpetual_a never_o be_v interrupt_v except_o perhaps_o in_o sleep_n for_o love_v god_n only_o &_o pure_o for_o himself_o he_o have_v no_o strange_a affection_n to_o distract_v he_o and_o the_o image_n of_o creature_n which_o either_o by_o his_o consideration_n of_o they_o or_o operation_n about_o they_o do_v adhere_v to_o his_o internal_a sense_n do_v not_o at_o all_o divert_v his_o mind_n from_o god_n because_o he_o contemplate_v they_o only_o in_o order_n to_o god_n or_o rather_o he_o contemplate_v god_n alone_o in_o they_o love_v &_o serve_v he_o only_o in_o all_o his_o reflection_n on_o they_o or_o working_n about_o they_o so_o that_o creature_n and_o all_o office_n towards_o they_o serve_v as_o step_n to_o raise_v adam_n to_o a_o more_o sublime_a &_o more_o intime_fw-la union_n with_o god_n the_o which_o be_v both_o his_o duty_n &_o his_o present_a happiness_n beside_o that_o it_o be_v a_o disposition_n to_o his_o future_a eternal_a beatitude_n 4._o but_o our_o first_o parent_n by_o a_o wilful_a contempt_n &_o transgression_n of_o that_o one_o most_o easy_a command_n which_o god_n for_o a_o trial_n of_o their_o obedience_n have_v impose_v on_o they_o not_o only_o break_v the_o foresay_a union_n &_o deprive_v themselves_o of_o the_o hope_n of_o enjoy_v god_n eternal_o in_o the_o future_a life_n but_o moreover_o be_v utter_o deve_v of_o all_o supernatural_a grace_n &_o extreme_o weaken_v &_o disorder_v in_o all_o their_o natural_a gift_n so_o that_o have_v lose_v that_o
to_o she_o i_o say_v it_o be_v moral_o impossible_a for_o such_o a_o soul_n so_o love_v god_n deliberate_o &_o habitual_o to_o yield_v to_o the_o love_n of_o any_o thing_n but_o god_n only_o &_o in_o order_n to_o he_o or_o to_o stop_v in_o any_o inferior_a degree_n of_o love_n to_o he_o the_o frailty_n of_o nature_n &_o many_o unavoidable_a distraction_n &_o tentation_n may_v &_o general_o do_v hinder_v most_o soul_n from_o attain_v or_o even_o approach_v to_o such_o perfection_n to_o such_o uninterrupt_a attention_n &_o union_n with_o god_n as_o be_v practise_v by_o adam_n in_o innocency_n &_o by_o a_o few_o perfect_a soul_n in_o all_o age_n but_o nothing_o but_o the_o want_n of_o true_a sincere_a love_n will_v hinder_v the_o aspire_a thereto_o according_a to_o the_o measure_n &_o strength_n of_o grace_n that_o each_o soul_n in_o her_o order_n enjoy_v and_o both_o reason_n &_o experience_n witness_v this_o truth_n in_o all_o manner_n of_o love_n lawful_a or_o unlawful_a for_o we_o see_v that_o whersoever_o the_o love_n to_o riches_n honour_n empire_n or_o pleasure_n be_v the_o tyrannize_a affection_n so_o as_o to_o cause_v the_o person_n to_o place_v his_o suppose_a happiness_n in_o any_o of_o these_o such_o person_n neither_o will_n nor_o can_v be_v so_o dispose_v wilful_o surcease_v a_o continual_a progress_n in_o pursuinge_v their_o design_n endless_o neither_o can_v they_o admit_v a_o habitual_a &_o deliberate_a adherence_n with_o affection_n to_o any_o other_o object_n though_o not_o ruinous_a but_o in_o a_o inferior_a degree_n prejudicial_a to_o what_o they_o principal_o affect_v cap._n ii_o §_o 1._o common_o those_o only_a be_v say_v to_o aspire_v to_o perfection_n that_o consecrate_v themselves_o to_o god_n §_o 2._o a_o natural_a devotion_n &_o propension_n to_o seek_v god_n of_o which_o the_o degree_n be_v infinite_o various_a §_o 3._o 4._o 5._o yet_o all_o range_v under_o two_o state_n active_a &_o contemplative_a §_o 6._o 7._o general_o most_o soul_n be_v of_o a_o mix_v temper_n between_o both_o hence_o come_v the_o difficulty_n of_o the_o guide_n of_o soul_n §_o 8._o at_o the_o first_o entrance_n into_o internal_a way_n all_o soul_n seem_v to_o be_v of_o a_o active_a temper_n 1._o notwithstanding_o although_o all_o christian_n be_v oblige_v to_o aspire_v to_o perfection_n &_o to_o lead_v spiritual_a life_n sanctify_v all_o their_o action_n &_o employment_n by_o prayer_n yet_o the_o effectual_a practice_n of_o this_o obligation_n be_v so_o very_o rare_a that_o in_o ordinary_a speech_n those_o only_o be_v say_v to_o aspire_v unto_o perfection_n who_o have_v be_v so_o high_o favour_v by_o god_n as_o to_o have_v be_v call_v by_o he_o from_o all_o solicitous_a engagement_n in_o worldhy_a affair_n so_o as_o to_o make_v the_o only_a business_n &_o employment_n of_o their_o life_n to_o be_v the_o serve_v adore_a love_a meditate_v &_o pray_v unto_o god_n the_o attend_v to_o &_o follow_a his_o divine_a inspiration_n etc._n etc._n in_o a_o state_n of_o competent_a abstraction_n &_o solitude_n &_o this_o most_o ordinary_o &_o perfect_o in_o a_o religious_a profession_n or_o if_o in_o the_o world_n yet_o in_o a_o course_n of_o life_n divide_v &_o separate_v from_o the_o world_n 2._o there_o seem_v indeed_o to_o remain_v even_o natural_o in_o all_o soul_n a_o certain_a propension_n to_o seek_v god_n though_o not_o at_o all_o for_o himself_o but_o meerelie_o for_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o nature_n &_o selfe-end_n which_o be_v a_o kind_n of_o natural_a devotion_n &_o be_v to_o be_v find_v even_o in_o heretic_n yea_o jew_n &_o heathen_n &_o this_o more_o or_o less_o according_a to_o their_o several_a disposition_n &_o corporal_a complexion_n the_o variety_n of_o which_o be_v wonderful_a &_o almost_o incredible_a now_o when_o divine_a grace_n adjoin_v itself_o to_o such_o good_a propension_n it_o promote_v &_o increase_v they_o rectify_v what_o be_v amiss_o in_o they_o especial_o by_o purify_n the_o intention_n &_o make_v they_o to_o seek_v god_n only_o for_o god_n himself_o &_o no_o unworthy_a in_o feriour_a end_n of_o nature_n but_o it_o do_v not_o at_o all_o alter_v the_o complexion_n itself_o but_o conduct_n soul_n in_o spiritual_a way_n suitable_o to_o their_o several_a disposition_n by_o a_o almost_o infinite_a variety_n of_o path_n &_o fashion_n yet_o all_o tend_v to_o the_o same_o general_a end_n with_o be_v the_o union_n of_o our_o spirit_n with_o god_n by_o perfect_a love_n 3._o notwithstanding_o all_o these_o variety_n of_o disposition_n &_o way_n of_o which_o we_o shall_v treat_v more_o full_o when_o we_o come_v to_o speak_v of_o internal_a prayer_n may_v commodious_o enough_o be_v reduce_v in_o gross_a to_o two_o rank_n to_o wit_n active_a &_o contemplative_a spirit_n both_o which_o aspire_v to_o a_o perfection_n of_o union_n in_o spirit_n with_o god_n by_o perfect_a love_n &_o for_o that_o purpose_n in_o gross_a practice_n &_o make_v use_n of_o the_o same_o mean_v necessary_a to_o that_o end_n to_o wit_n mortification_n &_o prayer_n but_o yet_o the_o manner_n both_o of_o their_o union_n &_o prayer_n &_o consequent_o of_o their_o mortification_n also_o be_v very_o different_a and_o the_o root_n of_o such_o difference_n be_v the_o forementioned_a variety_n of_o propension_n &_o natural_a disposition_n to_o internal_a way_n 4._o for_o first_o the_o propension_n which_o be_v in_o some_o soul_n to_o devotion_n be_v of_o such_o a_o nature_n that_o it_o incline_v they_o much_o to_o buisy_n their_o imagination_n &_o to_o frame_v in_o their_o mind_n motive_n to_o the_o divine_a love_n by_o internal_a discourse_n so_o as_o that_o with_o out_o such_o reason_n &_o use_n of_o image_n they_o can_v seldom_o with_o any_o efficacy_n raise_v or_o fix_v their_o affection_n on_o god_n such_o disposition_n be_v not_o patient_a of_o much_o solitude_n or_o recollection_n more_o than_o shall_v be_v necessary_a to_o enable_v they_o to_o produce_v &_o maintain_v a_o right_a intention_n in_o outward_a do_n &_o work_n of_o charity_n to_o the_o which_o they_o be_v powerful_o incline_v and_o the_o mortification_n most_o willing_o practise_v by_o they_o be_v usual_o external_a &_o oftentimes_o voluntary_o assume_v the_o which_o make_v a_o great_a show_v &_o procure_v very_o great_a esteem_n from_o other_o and_o proportionable_o hereto_o the_o divine_a love_n &_o union_n produce_v by_o such_o mean_n be_v very_o vigorous_a but_o less_o pure_a &_o spiritual_a apt_a to_o express_v itself_o by_o much_o sensible_a devotion_n &_o tenderness_n the_o state_n therefore_o &_o perfection_n of_o these_o soul_n be_v call_v the_o state_n &_o perfection_n of_o a_o active_a life_n 3._o again_o other_o be_v natural_o of_o a_o propension_n to_o seek_v god_n in_o the_o obscurity_n of_o faith_n with_o a_o more_o profound_a introversion_n of_o spirit_n &_o with_o less_o activity_n &_o motion_n in_o sensitive_a nature_n &_o with_o out_o the_o use_n of_o grosser_n image_n yet_o with_o far_o great_a simplicity_n purity_n &_o efficacy_n and_o consequent_o such_o soul_n be_v not_o of_o themselves_o much_o incline_v to_o external_a work_n except_o when_o god_n call_v they_o thereto_o by_o secret_a inspiration_n or_o engage_v they_o therein_o by_o command_n of_o superior_n but_o they_o seek_v rather_o to_o purify_v themselves_o &_o inflame_v their_o heart_n in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n by_o internal_a quiet_a &_o pure_a actuation_n in_o spirit_n by_o a_o total_a abstraction_n from_o creature_n by_o solitude_n both_o externall_n and_o especial_o internal_a so_o dispose_v themselves_o to_o receive_v the_o influx_n &_o inspiration_n of_o god_n who_o guidance_n chief_o they_o endeavour_v to_o follow_v in_o all_o thing_n and_o the_o mortification_n practise_v by_o they_o though_o less_o remarkable_a yet_o be_v fair_a more_o efficacious_a be_v profound_a and_o penetrate_a even_o to_o the_o most_o secret_a deordination_n of_o the_o spirit_n by_o a_o constant_a pursuance_n of_o such_o exercise_n their_o spirit_n become_v naked_a &_o empty_a of_o all_o strange_a affection_n image_n &_o distraction_n the_o divine_a spirit_n only_o live_v &_o operate_v in_o they_o afford_v they_o light_n to_o perceive_v &_o strength_n to_o subdue_v self-love_n in_o its_o most_o secret_a and_o to_o all_o other_o imperceptible_a insinuation_n and_o by_o consequence_n they_o attain_v unto_o a_o union_n with_o god_n far_o more_o strict_a &_o immediate_a than_o the_o former_a by_o a_o love_n much_o more_o masculine_a pure_a &_o divine_a and_o the_o state_n and_o perfection_n of_o these_o happy_a soul_n be_v call_v the_o state_n and_o perfection_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n 6._o now_o though_o all_o internal_a disposition_n of_o soul_n by_o which_o mankind_n be_v more_o diversify_v then_o by_o outward_a feature_n may_v convenient_o enough_o be_v range_v under_o these_o two_o state_n yet_o we_o be_v not_o to_o conceive_v that_o each_o
soul_n be_v by_o its_o temper_n entire_o &_o absolute_o either_o contemplative_a or_o active_a for_o on_o the_o contrary_a the_o most_o part_n be_v of_o a_o disposition_n mix_v between_o both_o and_o partake_v somewhat_o more_o or_o less_o of_o each_o but_o they_o receive_v the_o denomination_n from_o that_o whereto_o the_o propension_n be_v more_o strong_a 7._o and_o from_o hence_o come_v that_o great_a difficulty_n that_o there_o be_v in_o the_o conduct_a and_o manage_n of_o soul_n in_o these_o internal_a way_n for_o each_o several_a disposition_n must_v be_v put_v in_o a_o way_n suitable_a to_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o party_n otherwise_o small_a progress_n can_v be_v expect_v now_o that_o wherein_o the_o diversity_n of_o spirit_n be_v principal_o discern_v be_v their_o prayer_n if_o therefore_o a_o active_a spirit_n shall_v be_v oblige_v to_o that_o internal_a solitude_n to_o that_o quiet_a affective_a prayer_n of_o the_o heart_n alone_o which_o be_v proper_a to_o contemplative_a soul_n or_o if_o a_o contemplative_a spirit_n shall_v be_v too_o long_o detain_v or_o fetter_v with_o the_o rule_n &_o busy_a method_n of_o discursive_a meditation_n which_o be_v a_o prayer_n chief_o of_o the_o head_n or_o imagination_n or_o last_o if_o a_o spirit_n of_o a_o mix_v disposition_n shall_v be_v strict_o confine_v to_o either_o of_o these_o sort_n of_o prayer_n &_o not_o allow_v to_o practice_v they_o interchangeable_o according_a as_o she_o find_v profitable_a to_o her_o present_a temper_n of_o mind_n etc._n etc._n they_o will_v entangle_v themselves_o with_o insuperable_a difficulty_n scrupulosity_n and_o unsatisfaction_n and_o be_v so_o far_o from_o any_o considerable_a advancement_n that_o they_o will_v be_v in_o danger_n of_o give_v over_o all_o thought_n of_o seek_v god_n internal_o 8._o notwithstanding_o although_o the_o propension_n of_o some_o soul_n to_o internal_a operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o consequent_o to_o contemplation_n be_v never_o so_o strong_a yet_o at_o their_o first_o entrance_n into_o a_o spiritual_a course_n they_o will_v ordinary_o speak_v seem_v to_o be_v of_o a_o active_a extroverted_a temper_n and_o consequent_o will_v not_o be_v capable_a of_o a_o long_o continue_v rigorous_a solitude_n nor_o of_o operation_n pure_o spiritual_a they_o will_v therefore_o be_v force_v to_o begin_v with_o exercise_n of_o the_o imagination_n and_o discursive_a prayer_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o by_o their_o former_a secular_a negligent_a &_o extroverted_a life_n their_o mind_n be_v so_o fill_v &_o paint_v all_o over_o with_o the_o image_n of_o creature_n &_o their_o heart_n so_o disorder_v &_o divide_v with_o inordinate_a affection_n &_o passion_n that_o the_o will_v alone_o with_o it_o actuation_n purpose_n and_o resolution_n have_v not_o power_n to_o expel_v the_o say_a image_n &_o to_o assuage_a the_o say_a passion_n so_o that_o there_o be_v a_o necessity_n by_o meditation_n &_o consideration_n of_o introduce_v good_a image_n to_o expel_v the_o vain_a &_o bad_a one_o and_o of_o invent_v motive_n to_o quiet_a passion_n by_o divert_v they_o upon_o god_n but_o this_o be_v once_o do_v by_o the_o exercise_n proper_a to_o a_o active_a life_n which_o to_o such_o soul_n will_v not_o need_v to_o last_v long_o they_o thence_o forward_o be_v to_o betake_v themselves_o and_o always_o to_o continue_v in_o such_o internal_a exercise_n as_o be_v suitable_a to_o their_o natural_a propension_n to_o wit_n the_o quiet_a solitary_a spiritual_a exercise_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n cap._n iii_o §_o 1._o the_o contemplative_a state_n more_o perfe_a §_o 2._o and_o also_o more_o easy_a &_o secure_a §_o 3._o of_o which_o yet_o the_o most_o simple_a &_o ignorant_a be_v capable_a §_o 4._o 5._o 6._o 7._o 8._o 9_o 10._o the_o end_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n supereminent_o excellent_a above_o that_o of_o the_o active_a and_o the_o union_n with_o god_n more_o divine_a §_o 11._o of_o passive_a union_n therein_o yet_o more_o supernatural_a 1._o of_o these_o two_o state_n the_o contemplative_a be_v by_o all_o acknowledged_a to_o be_v the_o more_o sublime_a and_o perfect_a in_o as_o much_o as_o the_o operation_n &_o exercise_n of_o it_o be_v more_o spiritual_a more_o abstract_v from_o the_o body_n and_o iâ—s_v sensual_a faculty_n and_o consequent_o more_o angelical_a &_o divine_a it_o be_v represent_v to_o we_o by_o our_o lord_n in_o the_o person_n of_o mary_n who_o be_v therefore_o say_v to_o have_v choose_v the_o best_a part_n which_o shall_v never_o be_v take_v from_o she_o be_v the._n beginning_n and_o imperfect_a practice_n of_o that_o which_o shall_v be_v our_o eternal_a employment_n and_o beatitude_n in_o heauâ—n_n as_o on_o the_o other_o side_n the_o active_a life_n be_v typify_v by_o the_o other_o sister_n martha_n who_o turmoil_v herself_o with_o many_o exterior_a buisiness_n &_o sollicitude_n which_o though_o they_o be_v in_o then selue_o good_a &_o laudable_a yet_o mary_n vacancy_n and_o inward_a attention_n to_o our_o lord_n be_v much_o prefer_v 2._o and_o as_o the_o contemplative_a state_n be_v of_o the_o two_o the_o more_o perfect_a so_o also_o be_v it_o far_o more_o easy_a more_o simple_a &_o more_o secure_a from_o all_o error_n &_o illusion_n which_o may_v be_v occasion_v by_o a_o indiscreet_a use_n of_o prayer_n and_o the_o reason_n or_o ground_n of_o such_o security_n be_v evident_a because_o a_o contemplative_a soul_n tend_v to_o god_n and_o work_v almost_o only_o with_o the_o heart_n &_o blind_a affection_n of_o the_o will_n pour_v themselves_o upon_o god_n apprehend_v only_o in_o the_o obscure_a notion_n of_o faith_n not_o inquire_v what_o he_o be_v but_o believe_v he_o to_o be_v that_o incomprehensible_a be_v which_o he_o be_v and_o which_o can_v only_o be_v comprehend_v by_o himself_o reject_v &_o strive_v to_o forget_v all_o image_n &_o representation_n of_o he_o or_o any_o thing_n else_o yea_o transcend_a all_n operation_n of_o the_o imagination_n and_o all_o subtlety_n &_o curiosity_n of_o reason_v and_o last_o seek_v a_o union_n with_o god_n only_o by_o the_o most_o pure_a &_o most_o intime_fw-la affection_n of_o theâ—_n spirit_n what_o possibility_n of_o illusion_n or_o error_n can_v there_o be_v to_o such_o a_o soul_n for_o if_o the_o devil_n shall_v suggest_v a_o image_n which_o be_v his_o only_a mean_a &_o way_n to_o seduce_v a_o soul_n to_o error_n &_o a_o sinful_a curiosity_n of_o hnowledge_n she_o be_v teach_v and_o exercise_v to_o reject_v all_o manner_n of_o image_n and_o to_o hold_v the_o internal_a sense_n almost_o whole_o vacant_a during_o her_o spiritual_a actuation_n or_o if_o by_o stir_v up_o unclean_a or_o other_o unlawful_a affection_n in_o sensitive_a nature_n he_o seek_v to_o assault_v she_o what_o more_o secure_a remedy_n be_v there_o then_o with_o the_o whole_a bent_n &_o affection_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o adhere_v &_o be_v unite_v to_o god_n neglect_v and_o scarce_o mark_v wht_v soever_o disorder_n may_v unwilling_o happen_v in_o inferior_a nature_n above_o which_o she_o be_v exalt_v into_o a_o region_n of_o light_n and_o peace_n 3._o now_o for_o a_o further_a proof_n of_o the_o excellency_n &_o security_n of_o contemplative_a prayer_n beyond_o active_a experience_n demonstrate_v that_o all_o the_o most_o sublime_a exercise_n of_o contemplation_n may_v as_o pure_o &_o perfect_o be_v perform_v by_o person_n the_o most_o ignorant_a and_o unlearned_a so_o they_o be_v sufficient_o instruct_v in_o the_o fundamental_a doctrine_n of_o catholic_a faith_n as_o by_o the_o learn_a doctor_n in_o as_o much_o as_o not_o any_o ability_n in_o the_o brain_n be_v requisite_a thereto_o but_o only_o a_o strong_a courageous_a affection_n of_o the_o heart_n hence_o it_o be_v theat_v we_o see_v that_o simple_a unlearned_a woman_n be_v more_o frequent_o grace_v by_o almighty_a god_n with_o the_o gist_n of_o high_a contemplation_n than_o man_n and_o especial_o such_o man_n as_o be_v much_o give_v to_o sublime_a speculation_n a_o reason_n whereof_o may_v be_v beside_o the_o god_n reveile_v himself_o more_o willing_o to_o humble_a and_o simple_a mind_n because_o by_o mean_n of_o that_o tenderness_n &_o compassionatnes_n which_o abound_v natural_o in_o woman_n they_o be_v dispose_v to_o a_o great_a fervour_n in_o charity_n and_o their_o affection_n be_v once_o fix_v on_o their_o only_a proper_a object_n which_o be_v god_n they_o do_v more_o vigorous_o &_o firm_o adhere_v thereunto_o and_o by_o consequence_n arrive_v both_o more_o easy_o and_o quick_o to_o the_o perfection_n of_o contemplation_n which_o consist_v as_o shall_v hereafter_o be_v show_v in_o the_o fervour_n &_o constancy_n of_o the_o will_v unite_v to_o god_n and_o scarce_o at_o all_o in_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o understanding_n 4._o now_o this_o present_a treatise_n be_v intend_v only_o for_o encourage_v &_o instruct_v of_o person_n that_o aspire_v to_o perfection_n in_o a_o contemplatine_a life_n and_o more_o
and_o likewise_o the_o security_n and_o benefitt_a of_o be_v but_o true_o in_o the_o way_n to_o perfection_n though_o she_o shall_v never_o attain_v to_o it_o in_o this_o life_n 6._o first_o therefore_o to_o demonstrate_v that_o the_o way_n to_o perfection_n must_v needs_o be_v long_o and_o tedious_a even_o to_o soul_n well_o dispose_v thereto_o both_o by_o nature_n and_o education_n for_o to_o other_o it_o be_v a_o way_n unpassable_a with_o out_o extreme_a difficulty_n this_o will_v easy_o be_v acknowledge_v by_o any_o well-minded_a soul_n that_o by_o she_o own_o experience_n will_v consider_v how_o obstinate_a inflexible_a and_o of_o how_o glewy_a &_o tenacious_a a_o nature_n corrupt_a self-love_n be_v in_o she_o how_o long_o a_o time_n must_v pass_v before_o she_o can_v subdue_v any_o one_o habitual_a ill_a inclination_n &_o affection_n in_o herself_o what_o fall_n &_o rise_v again_o there_o be_v in_o our_o passion_n &_o corrupt_a desire_n in_o somuch_o as_o when_o they_o seem_v to_o be_v quite_o mortify_v &_o almost_o forget_v they_o will_v again_o raise_v themselves_o &_o combat_v we_o with_o as_o great_a or_o perhaps_o great_a violence_n than_o before_o now_o till_o the_o poysonnous_a root_n of_o self-love_n be_v wither_v so_o as_o that_o we_o do_v not_o knowing_o and_o deliberate_o suffer_v it_o to_o spring_v forth_o &_o bear_v fruit_n for_o utter_o kill_v it_o never_o will_v be_v in_o this_o life_n till_o we_o have_v lose_v at_o least_o all_o affection_n to_o all_o our_o corrupt_a desire_n even_o the_o most_o venial_a which_o be_v almost_o infinite_a perfect_a charity_n will_v never_o reign_v in_o our_o soul_n and_o consequent_o perfect_a union_n in_o spirit_n with_o god_n can_v be_v expect_v for_o charity_n live_v &_o grow_n according_a to_o the_o measure_n that_o self-love_n be_v abate_v and_o no_o further_o 7._o soul_n that_o first_o enter_v into_o the_o internal_a way_n of_o the_o spirit_n or_o that_o have_v make_v no_o great_a progress_n in_o they_o be_v guide_v by_o a_o very_a dim_a light_n be_v able_a to_o discover_v and_o discern_v only_o a_o few_o grosser_n defect_n &_o inordination_n but_o by_o persevere_v in_o the_o exercice_n of_o mortification_n &_o prayer_n this_o light_n will_v be_v increase_v &_o then_o they_o will_v proportionable_o every_o day_n more_o &_o more_o discover_v a_o thousand_o secret_a and_o former_o invisible_a impurity_n in_o their_o intention_n selfe-sekings_a hypocrisy_n and_o close_a design_n of_o nature_n pursue_v she_o own_o corrupt_a design_n in_o the_o very_o best_a action_n cherish_v nature_n one_o way_n when_o she_o mortify_v it_o another_o and_o favour_a pride_n even_o when_o she_o exercise_v humility_n now_o a_o clear_a light_n to_o discover_v all_o these_o almost_o infinite_a depravation_n not_o only_o in_o our_o sensitive_a nature_n but_o also_o in_o the_o superior_a soul_n which_o be_v far_o more_o secret_a manifold_a &_o dangerous_a and_o a_o courage_n with_o success_n to_o combat_n &_o overcome_v they_o must_v be_v the_o effect_n of_o a_o long_a continue_a practice_n of_o prayer_n &_o mortification_n 8._o the_o want_n of_o a_o due_a knowledge_n or_o consideration_n hereof_o be_v the_o cause_n that_o some_o good_a soul_n after_o they_o have_v make_v some_o progress_n in_o internal_a way_n become_v dishearten_v and_o in_o danger_n to_o stop_v or_o quite_o leave_v they_o for_o though_o at_o the_o first_o be_v as_o usual_o they_o be_v prevent_v by_o god_n with_o a_o tender_a sensible_a devotion_n which_o our_o holy_a father_n call_v feruorem_fw-la novitium_fw-la they_o do_v with_o much_o zeal_n &_o as_o it_o seem_v to_o they_o with_o good_a effect_n begin_v the_o exercise_n of_o mortification_n &_o prayer_n yet_o afterward_o such_o sensible_a fervour_n &_o tenderness_n cease_v as_o it_o seldom_o fail_v to_o do_v by_o that_o new_a light_n which_o they_o have_v get_v they_o discern_v a_o world_n of_o defect_n former_o undiscovered_a which_o they_o erroneous_o think_v be_v not_o in_o they_o before_o whereupon_o fear_v that_o instead_o of_o make_v progress_n they_o be_v in_o a_o worse_a state_n than_o when_o they_o begin_v they_o will_v be_v apt_a to_o suspect_v that_o they_o be_v in_o a_o wrong_a way_n this_o proceed_v from_o a_o preconceive_a mistake_n that_o because_o in_o time_n of_o light_n &_o devotion_n the_o soul_n find_v herself_o carry_v with_o much_o fervour_n to_o god_n and_o perceive_v but_o small_a contradiction_n and_o rebellion_n in_o inferior_a nature_n that_o therefore_o she_o be_v very_o forward_o in_o the_o way_n to_o perfection_n whereas_o it_o be_v far_o otherwise_o for_o nature_n be_v not_o so_o easy_o conquer_v as_o she_o imagine_v neither_o be_v the_o way_n to_o perfection_n so_o easy_a and_o short_a many_o change_n she_o must_v expect_v many_o rise_n and_o fall_n some_o time_n light_a and_o some_o time_n darkness_n sometime_o calmness_n of_o passion_n and_o present_o after_o it_o may_v be_v fierce_a combat_n than_o before_o and_o these_o succession_n of_o change_n repeat_v god_n know_v how_o oft_o before_o the_o end_n approach_v 9_o yea_o it_o will_v likely_a happen_v to_o such_o soul_n that_o even_o the_o former_o well_o know_v grosser_n defect_n in_o they_o will_v seem_v to_o increase_v and_o to_o grow_v more_o hard_a to_o be_v quelld_v after_o they_o have_v be_v competent_o advance_v in_o internal_a way_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o have_v set_v themselves_o to_o combat_v corrupt_a nature_n in_o all_o her_o perverse_a crooked_a &_o impure_a desire_n and_o be_v sequester_v from_o the_o vanity_n of_o the_o world_n they_o find_v themselves_o in_o continual_a wrestle_n and_o agony_n and_o want_n those_o please_a diversion_n conversation_n &_o recreation_n with_o which_o while_o they_o live_v a_o secular_a negligent_a life_n they_o can_v interrupt_v or_o put_v of_o their_o melancholic_a thought_n and_o unquietnes_n but_o if_o they_o will_v take_v courage_n &_o instead_o of_o seek_v ease_n from_o nature_n further_a than_o discretion_n allow_v have_v recourse_n for_o remedy_n by_o prayer_n to_o god_n they_o will_v find_v that_o such_o violent_a tentation_n be_v a_o assure_a sign_n that_o they_o be_v in_o a_o secure_a &_o happy_a way_n and_o that_o when_o god_n see_v it_o be_v best_o for_o they_o they_o shall_v come_v of_o from_o such_o combat_n with_o victory_n &_o comfort_n 10._o now_o as_o from_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o tediousness_n of_o a_o perfect_a universal_a mortification_n of_o the_o corrupt_a affection_n of_o nature_n it_o do_v appear_v that_o hasty_a perfection_n be_v not_o ordinary_o to_o be_v expect_v and_o where_o there_o be_v appearance_n of_o extraordinary_a light_n &_o supernatural_a visit_n in_o soul_n not_o thorough_o mortify_v it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v that_o there_o have_v be_v some_o secret_a exorbitancy_n in_o the_o proceed_n of_o such_o soul_n some_o deep_o root_v pride_n etc._n etc._n which_o have_v expose_v they_o to_o the_o devil_n illusion_n so_o that_o then_o state_n be_v very_o dangerous_a the_o like_a will_v appear_v if_o we_o cast_v our_o eye_n upon_o the_o nature_n &_o degree_n of_o internal_a prayer_n in_o the_o perfection_n of_o which_o the_o end_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n which_o be_v perfect_a union_n in_o spirit_n with_o god_n do_v consist_v 11._o for_o a_o soul_n must_v 1._o ordinary_o speak_v pass_v through_o the_o way_n of_o external_a and_o imaginary_a exercise_n of_o prayer_n in_o the_o which_o she_o must_v tarry_v god_n know_v how_o long_a yea_o with_o out_o a_o discreet_a diligence_n and_o constancy_n in_o they_o she_o may_v perhaps_o end_v her_o day_n therein_o 2._o then_o when_o her_o affection_n do_v so_o abound_v and_o be_v sufficient_o ripe_a so_o as_o that_o discourse_n be_v not_o needful_a or_o become_v of_o little_a efficacy_n she_o be_v to_o betake_v herself_o to_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o will_n in_o the_o which_o a_o very_a long_a time_n must_v ordinary_o be_v spend_v before_o she_o can_v chase_v away_o distract_n grosser_n image_n and_o before_o the_o heart_n be_v so_o replenish_v with_o the_o divine_a spirit_n that_o without_o any_o election_n or_o deliberation_n it_o will_v of_o itself_o almost_o continual_o break_v forth_o into_o aspiration_n &_o pure_a elevation_n of_o the_o superior_a will_n 3._o be_v arrive_v to_o this_o happy_a state_n only_a god_n know_v for_o how_o long_o a_o time_n she_o be_v to_o continue_v therein_o there_o be_v almost_o infinite_a degree_n of_o aspiration_n each_o one_o exceed_v the_o former_a in_o purity_n before_o she_o be_v ripe_a for_o the_o divine_a inaction_n 4._o and_o have_v get_v that_o a_o very_a long_a time_n be_v like_a to_o be_v spend_v very_o oft_o in_o most_o woeful_a obscurity_n and_o desolation_n before_o she_o arrive_v 5._o to_o the_o state_n of_o perfection_n now_o all_o these_o degree_n of_o prayer_n be_v to_o be_v attend_v with_o proportionable_a degree_n
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
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
that_o so_o much_o talk_v of_o spirit_n of_o a_o order_n nor_o how_o several_a order_n though_o never_o so_o much_o distinguish_v by_o habit_n or_o certain_a external_a practice_n if_o their_o profession_n be_v to_o tend_v to_o contemplation_n can_v have_v any_o more_o than_o one_o spirit_n which_o direct_v they_o to_o make_v their_o principal_a design_n to_o be_v the_o seek_n of_o god_n in_o his_o internal_a way_n of_o divine_a love_n &_o for_o that_o only_a end_n beside_o conformable_a prayer_n to_o practice_v such_o observance_n &_o mortification_n as_o will_v best_o promote_v this_o design_n and_o sure_o this_o good_a spirit_n of_o religion_n &_o contemplation_n a_o good_a director_n of_o what_o profession_n soever_o will_v very_o studious_o endeavour_v to_o advance_v yea_o &_o moreover_o will_v no_o doubt_n oblige_v his_o disciple_n to_o be_v very_o regular_a &_o zealous_a in_o the_o observance_n of_o all_o good_a ordinance_n of_o the_o community_n &_o principal_o of_o the_o rule_n according_a to_o their_o profession_n make_v instruct_v they_o withal_o how_o they_o may_v use_v such_o thing_n for_o the_o advance_v of_o their_o spirit_n &_o the_o service_n of_o god_n although_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n perhaps_o he_o be_v not_o cunning_a in_o all_o the_o particular_a observance_n that_o belong_v to_o they_o and_o little_a or_o nothing_o at_o all_o to_o he_o 17._o all_o soul_n that_o live_v in_o contemplative_a order_n be_v nor_o natural_o fit_v for_o contemplative_a way_n nor_o the_o seek_n of_o god_n in_o spirit_n those_o therefore_o that_o have_v not_o &_o indeed_o be_v not_o capable_a of_o much_o light_n in_o their_o interiour_n and_o so_o be_v not_o so_o fit_a to_o be_v guide_v by_o divine_a inspiration_n do_v the_o more_o need_n to_o have_v certain_a rule_n from_o without_o at_o least_o for_o the_o exterior_a and_o for_o such_o it_o be_v god_n will_v and_o direction_n that_o they_o shall_v more_o depend_v on_o externall_n guide_v 18._o he_o that_o take_v upon_o he_o the_o office_n of_o a_o spiritual_a director_n say_v thauâ—erus_n aught_o for_o some_o reasonable_a space_n of_o time_n to_o converse_v with_o his_o disciple_n especial_o at_o the_o beginning_n for_o a_o few_o transitory_a conference_n will_v not_o suffice_v to_o give_v he_o light_v concern_v their_o propension_n &_o disposition_n that_o he_o may_v fit_v they_o with_o a_o degree_n of_o prayer_n proper_a for_o they_o both_o for_o the_o present_a &_o future_a and_o his_o principal_a care_n must_v be_v to_o set_v they_o in_o such_o a_o way_n as_o that_o they_o may_v not_o need_v to_o have_v much_o recourse_n unto_o he_o afterward_o the_o which_o be_v do_v by_o give_v they_o general_a direction_n about_o their_o prayer_n &_o especial_o how_o thereby_o to_o dispose_v themselves_o to_o receive_v light_n from_o god_n who_o inspiration_n ought_v for_o the_o future_a to_o â—e_v their_o principal_a rule_n especial_o for_o the_o interiour_n and_o for_o the_o practise_n in_o particular_a according_a to_o the_o general_a direction_n give_v the_o disciple_n must_v use_v their_o own_o judgement_n &_o for_o a_o help_n they_o may_v also_o make_v use_n of_o such_o instruction_n as_o they_o may_v find_v in_o book_n so_o far_o as_o they_o shall_v be_v proper_a for_o their_o spirit_n but_o in_o case_n when_o neither_o their_o own_o judgement_n nor_o book_n will_v help_v they_o if_o the_o difficulty_n be_v of_o great_a moment_n they_o may_v again_o have_v recourse_n unto_o their_o director_n 19_o and_o in_o this_o sort_n be_v writer_n that_o speak_v much_o of_o the_o necessity_n of_o a_o externall_n directour_n to_o be_v understand_v for_o if_o such_o necessity_n be_v to_o last_v always_o good_a soul_n shall_v be_v oblige_v to_o spend_v their_o whole_a life_n in_o confer_v with_o directour_n from_o whence_o will_v follow_v continual_a sollicitude_n scrupulosity_n &_o dangerous_a distraction_n &c._n &c._n most_o contrary_a to_o a_o internal_a spiritual_a life_n which_o ought_v to_o be_v a_o state_n of_o much_o repose_n cessation_n introversion_n &_o a_o continual_a attendance_n unto_o what_o god_n speak_v within_o unto_o a_o soul_n who_o if_o soul_n will_v humble_o &_o faithful_o depend_v on_o he_o will_v clear_v &_o resolve_v difficulty_n which_o externall_n master_n will_v never_o be_v able_a to_o penetrate_v into_o but_o it_o be_v too_o general_a a_o humour_n in_o directour_n now_o adays_o to_o make_v themselves_o seem_v necessary_a unto_o their_o disciple_n who_o hey_n endeavour_v to_o keep_v in_o a_o continual_a dependence_n to_o the_o great_a prejudice_n of_o their_o progress_n in_o spirit_n beside_o many_o other_o inconvenience_n not_o needful_a to_o be_v mention_v particular_o 20._o a_o soul_n thar_z have_v recourse_n to_o a_o instructor_n provide_v by_o god_n for_o she_o or_o that_o use_v her_o best_a advice_n she_o have_v make_v choice_n of_o must_v deal_v free_o plain_o &_o candid_o with_o he_o conceil_v nothing_o necessary_a to_o be_v know_v by_o he_o &_o his_o direction_n she_o must_v follow_v in_o all_o thing_n assure_v herself_o that_o if_o she_o do_v so_o in_o the_o simplicity_n of_o her_o heart_n &_o as_o in_o obedience_n to_o god_n himself_o god_n will_v enlighten_v he_o so_o that_o she_o shall_v not_o be_v mislead_v 21._o the_o gift_n of_o discern_a spirit_n be_v so_o necessary_a to_o a_o spiritual_a guide_n that_o except_o thereby_o he_o be_v able_a to_o fit_v a_o soul_n with_o a_o sort_n &_o degree_n of_o prayer_n suitable_a to_o her_o natural_a disposition_n not_o tie_v all_o soul_n to_o begin_v according_a to_o any_o general_a method_n for_o none_o such_o can_v be_v perscribe_v but_o will_v be_v prejudicial_a to_o some_o &_o unless_o he_o teach_v she_o how_o she_o may_v become_v illuminate_v without_o he_o by_o god_n alone_o by_o the_o mean_n of_o prayer_n &_o abstraction_n of_o life_n wherewith_o the_o mist_n of_o image_n &_o passion_n be_v dispel_v a_o light_n will_v spring_v forth_o in_o the_o soul_n far_o more_o clear_a &_o certain_a than_o any_o that_o can_v come_v from_o humane_a instruction_n not_o all_o the_o instruction_n of_o man_n &_o angel_n join_v with_o all_o mortification_n imaginable_a will_v be_v able_a to_o bring_v a_o soul_n to_o contemplation_n for_o seldom_o or_o never_o do_v god_n work_v contrary_a to_o our_o natural_a complexion_n and_o till_o soul_n come_v to_o exercise_n in_o spirit_n &_o prayer_n infuse_v by_o god_n alone_o they_o be_v far_o from_o contemplation_n 22._o now_o at_o the_o first_o it_o be_v very_o hard_a for_o any_o director_n to_o know_v exact_o the_o secret_a inclination_n of_o imperfect_a soul_n which_o be_v so_o infinite_o various_a and_o therefore_o for_o the_o most_o part_n their_o instruction_n about_o prayer_n &_o attendance_n to_o divine_a inspiration_n must_v be_v general_a the_o which_o the_o disciple_n themselves_o must_v make_v a_o particular_a use_n of_o by_o observe_v their_o own_o ability_n &_o inclination_n &_o by_o mark_v what_o more_o particular_a form_n of_o prayer_n etc._n etc._n suit_n best_o with_o they_o &_o do_v they_o most_o good_a and_o this_o if_o they_o be_v not_o able_a in_o a_o reasonable_a manner_n to_o do_v or_o if_o they_o have_v not_o the_o courage_n to_o abide_v in_o a_o way_n in_o which_o they_o be_v put_v it_o will_v be_v in_o vain_a for_o they_o to_o proceed_v in_o those_o secret_a internal_a way_n 23._o if_o the_o way_n wherein_o a_o soul_n be_v put_v &_o have_v make_v a_o reasonable_a progress_n be_v indeed_o proper_a for_o she_o there_o will_v be_v little_a need_n of_o frequent_a recourse_n unto_o her_o director_n neither_o ought_v he_o to_o examine_v she_o about_o her_o internal_a exercise_n of_o which_o he_o may_v judge_v well_o enough_o by_o her_o external_a comportment_n for_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o a_o soul_n to_o be_v in_o a_o wrong_a way_n interior_o but_o of_o itself_o it_o will_v break_v out_o exterior_o especial_o to_o the_o eye_n of_o those_o who_o themselves_o be_v in_o a_o right_a way_n as_o the_o spiritual_a director_n be_v suppose_v to_o be_v and_o there_o be_v scarce_o any_o more_o certain_a sign_n that_o a_o soul_n be_v not_o interior_o in_o a_o good_a way_n then_o be_v she_o be_v forward_o to_o trouble_v her_o director_n with_o multiplicity_n of_o question_n &_o doubt_n &_o her_o readiness_n to_o discover_v she_o interiour_n to_o other_o who_o she_o have_v hear_v or_o do_v believe_v to_o be_v skilful_a in_o spirituality_n 24._o the_o image_n &_o internal_a distraction_n raise_v by_o impertinent_a consultation_n about_o the_o interiour_n be_v of_o all_o other_o most_o pernicious_a for_o distraction_n from_o without_o be_v but_o superficial_a whereas_o those_o be_v hatch_v &_o breed_v within_o the_o soul_n from_o some_o secret_a ill_a quality_n as_o fear_v scrupulosity_n curiosity_n etc._n etc._n they_o be_v more_o profound_a &_o destructive_a to_o true_a recollection_n
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
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
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
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
herself_o likewise_o as_o be_v here_o teach_v for_o the_o better_a receive_n &_o discern_v of_o they_o 3._o the_o practice_n both_o of_o externall_n &_o internal_a mortification_n i_o mean_v those_o which_o through_o the_o divine_a providence_n be_v send_v she_o or_o do_v belong_v to_o her_o present_a state_n and_o condition_n of_o life_n and_o as_o for_o voluntary_a mortification_n she_o be_v likewise_o to_o behave_v herself_o according_a to_o the_o follow_a direction_n 4._o the_o exercise_n of_o internal_a prayer_n according_a to_o the_o several_a degree_n of_o it_o in_o these_o general_a duty_n there_o be_v little_a or_o no_o difference_n between_o the_o obligation_n of_o religious_a from_o that_o of_o secular_a person_n 3._o but_o whereas_o in_o the_o next_o place_n there_o be_v in_o this_o book_n many_o instruction_n that_o seem_v peculiar_a to_o soul_n of_o a_o religious_a profession_n such_o i_o mean_v as_o be_v ground_v upon_o and_o refer_v unto_o a_o life_n abstract_v from_o the_o world_n confine_v unto_o solitude_n and_o there_o limit_v with_o a_o strict_a enclosure_n of_o special_a law_n constitution_n observance_n etc._n etc._n even_o in_o these_o also_o a_o secular_a devout_a person_n tend_v to_o contemplation_n may_v think_v himself_o in_o some_o proportion_n &_o degree_n concern_v &_o interest_v and_o from_o they_o he_o may_v reap_v much_o benefit_n apply_v to_o his_o own_o use_n so_o much_o of_o the_o spirit_n of_o religion_n as_o discretion_n will_v show_v to_o be_v fruitful_a to_o he_o now_o for_o a_o better_a application_n of_o this_o advice_n i_o will_v exemplify_v in_o certain_a peculiar_a duty_n of_o a_o religious_a life_n and_o therein_o show_v in_o what_o sort_n a_o secular_a person_n may_v do_v well_o yea_o &_o in_o some_o proportion_n be_v oblige_v to_o imitate_v they_o 4._o first_o therefore_o such_o a_o soul_n though_o she_o be_v not_o oblige_v real_o &_o personal_o to_o withdraw_v herself_o from_o worldly_a conversation_n &_o to_o retire_v herself_o into_o a_o solitude_n as_o strict_a as_o that_o of_o religion_n yet_o so_o much_o solitude_n &_o silence_n she_o must_v needs_o allow_v herself_o daily_o as_o may_v be_v necessary_a for_o a_o due_a practice_n of_o internal_a prayer_n neither_o must_v she_o engage_v herself_o in_o any_o business_n of_o solicitude_n &_o distraction_n that_o do_v not_o necessary_o belong_v to_o her_o vocation_n and_o even_o those_o also_o must_v she_o perform_v with_o as_o much_o internal_a quietness_n &_o recollectednes_n as_o may_v be_v careful_o avoid_v all_o anxiety_n of_o mind_n care_v of_o multiply_a riches_n etc._n etc._n and_o as_o for_o vain_a conversation_n compliment_n all_o visit_n feast_n &c._n &c._n she_o must_v not_o think_v to_o permit_v unto_o herself_o such_o a_o free_a scope_n as_o other_o do_v &_o as_o former_o herself_o do_v but_o she_o must_v set_v a_o great_a value_n upon_o her_o precious_a time_n as_o much_o whereof_o as_o she_o can_v borrow_v from_o the_o necessary_a employment_n of_o her_o call_v aught_o to_o be_v spend_v upon_o the_o advance_v of_o her_o spirit_n in_o the_o way_n of_o contemplation_n and_o she_o indeed_o will_v find_v the_o great_a inconvenience_n that_o do_v attend_v vain_a conversation_n as_o dissipation_n of_o thought_n engagement_n in_o new_a unnecessary_a affair_n sensual_a friendship_n etc._n etc._n all_o which_o she_o ought_v careful_o to_o prevent_v &_o avoid_v 5._o second_o such_o a_o soul_n be_v by_o virtue_n of_o her_o new_a divine_a vocation_n oblige_v studious_o to_o imitate_v especial_o the_o internal_a solitude_n belong_v to_o a_o religious_a person_n abstract_v her_o spirit_n as_o much_o as_o may_v be_v both_o from_o all_o affection_n to_o outward_a thing_n as_o riches_n pleasure_n &c_n &c_n and_o like_o wise_a from_o the_o image_n of_o creature_n &_o worldly_a object_n for_o which_o purpose_n she_o be_v to_o perform_v all_o the_o duty_n of_o her_o external_a vocation_n in_o order_n to_o god_n &_o in_o subordination_n to_o her_o principal_a design_n which_o be_v the_o perfectionate_v of_o her_o spirit_n in_o the_o divine_a love._n she_o be_v therefore_o not_o to_o account_v herself_o as_o absolute_a mistress_n of_o the_o riches_n that_o god_n have_v give_v she_o but_o only_o as_o his_o steward_n to_o manage_v they_o so_o as_o may_v be_v most_o to_o his_o glory_n so_o that_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o she_o ought_v to_o exercise_v true_a poverty_n of_o spirit_n renounce_v all_o propriety_n join_v with_o affection_n to_o they_o so_o as_o not_o to_o be_v disquiet_v if_o god_n shall_v take_v they_o from_o she_o &_o make_v no_o more_o use_n of_o they_o for_o her_o own_o sensual_a contentment_n or_o for_o show_v in_o the_o world_n then_o shall_v in_o true_a discretion_n be_v necessary_a this_o internal_a solitude_n introversion_n &_o nakedness_n of_o spirit_n she_o must_v increase_v as_o much_o as_o may_v be_v both_o in_o her_o affection_n to_o it_o &_o practice_v of_o it_o so_o that_o it_o may_v become_v habitual_a to_o she_o because_o without_o it_o she_o will_v never_o be_v in_o a_o fit_a disposition_n to_o attend_v unto_o the_o divine_a inspiration_n or_o to_o exercise_v the_o internal_a duty_n of_o prayer_n etc._n etc._n belong_v to_o a_o state_n tend_v to_o contemplation_n 6._o three_o in_o conformity_n to_o religious_a obedience_n she_o be_v to_o behave_v herself_o to_o all_o those_o in_o the_o world_n who_o god_n have_v set_v over_o she_o with_o a_o most_o profound_a submission_n of_o spirit_n obey_v they_o or_o rather_o god_n in_o they_o with_o all_o purity_n of_o intention_n and_o moreover_o she_o be_v at_o the_o first_o especial_o to_o put_v herself_o under_o the_o government_n of_o a_o spiritual_a director_n if_o such_o a_o one_o be_v to_o be_v have_v who_o be_v to_o teach_v she_o how_o she_o may_v discern_v the_o exercise_n of_o prayer_n &_o mortification_n proper_a for_o she_o and_o in_o the_o choice_n of_o such_o a_o one_o she_o be_v to_o use_v the_o utmost_a of_o her_o prudence_n recommend_v withal_o a_o affair_n of_o such_o importance_n in_o her_o prayer_n to_o god_n that_o he_o will_v provide_v she_o one_o of_o sufficient_a ability_n &_o virtue_n &_o especial_o one_o that_o be_v experience_v in_o those_o internal_a way_n much_o exalt_v above_o the_o ordinary_a exercise_n of_o prayer_n common_o teach_v &_o practise_v and_o when_o god_n have_v find_v out_o such_o a_o one_o for_o she_o she_o be_v with_o all_o sincerity_n &_o humility_n to_o obey_v he_o yet_o without_o prejudice_n to_o the_o duty_n which_o she_o principal_o owe_v to_o her_o divine_a internal_a master_n as_o have_v be_v teach_v in_o the_o foregoe_v section_n the_o doctrine_n and_o practice_n whereof_o do_v as_o well_o belong_v to_o she_o as_o to_o any_o religious_a person_n 7._o four_o although_o such_o a_o soul_n be_v not_o by_o any_o vow_n or_o otherwise_o oblige_v to_o any_o rule_n or_o restrain_v by_o any_o constitution_n or_o regular_a observance_n notwthstanding_n she_o be_v to_o reduce_v the_o whole_a course_n of_o her_o action_n &_o behaviour_n to_o a_o certain_a order_n regularity_n and_o uniformity_n observe_v in_o her_o retirement_n read_v pray_v as_o also_o her_o refection_n sleep_n etc._n etc._n a_o orderly_a practice_n both_o for_o time_n &_o manner_n according_a as_o prudence_n &_o her_o spiritual_a guide_n shall_v ordain_v this_o order_n &_o uniformity_n observe_v discreet_o yet_o without_o any_o nice_a scrupulosity_n be_v very_o requisite_a in_o a_o internal_a course_n for_o otherwise_o a_o soul_n be_v leave_v at_o large_a will_v be_v unstable_a &_o uncertain_a in_o she_o most_o necessary_a duty_n 8._o it_o will_v not_o be_v necessary_a to_o exemplify_v in_o any_o more_o particular_n for_o the_o same_o reflection_n &_o the_o like_a application_n may_v a_o soul_n make_v from_o any_o other_o instruction_n &_o duty_n peculiar_o design_v for_o religious_a person_n beside_o if_o she_o pursue_v diligent_o &_o constant_o her_o internal_a prayer_n god_n will_v not_o be_v want_v to_o afford_v her_o sufficient_a internal_a light_n &_o likewise_o strong_a impulse_n &_o spiritual_a force_n to_o follow_v such_o light_n to_o the_o which_o if_o she_o faithful_o correspond_v she_o will_v find_v that_o since_o god_n have_v not_o give_v she_o a_o vocation_n to_o religion_n yet_o he_o have_v not_o deprive_v she_o of_o the_o mean_n of_o enjoy_v in_o the_o world_n in_o a_o sufficient_a manner_n the_o principal_a advantage_n of_o a_o religious_a state_n except_o the_o solemn_a vow_n themselves_o yea_o in_o this_o case_n she_o may_v not_o altogether_o unprobable_o think_v that_o it_o be_v for_o she_o own_o particular_a good_a that_o god_n do_v not_o give_v she_o a_o opportunity_n to_o enter_v into_o religion_n 9_o and_o whereas_o it_o be_v require_v of_o such_o soul_n that_o they_o shall_v quit_v all_o sollicitude_n about_o temporal_a riches_n let_v they_o not_o fear_v any_o great_a
of_o two_o most_o sublime_a contemplative_n thus_o therefore_o speak_v one_o of_o they_o in_o the_o conference_n cap._n 7._o finis_fw-la monachi_fw-la &_o totius_fw-la perfectionis_fw-la culmen_fw-la in_o orationis_fw-la consummatione_fw-la consistit_fw-la that_o be_v the_o end_n of_o a_o monastical_a profession_n and_o the_o supreme_a degree_n of_o all_o perfection_n consist_v in_o the_o perfection_n of_o prayer_n and_o in_o the_o ten_o confer_v cap._n 7._o another_o say_v hic_fw-la finis_fw-la totius_fw-la perfectionis_fw-la est_fw-la ut_fw-la eo_fw-la usque_fw-la extenuata_fw-la mens_fw-la ab_fw-la omni_fw-la situ_fw-la carnali_fw-la ad_fw-la spiritualia_fw-la quotidie_fw-la sublimetur_fw-la donec_fw-la omnis_fw-la eius_fw-la conuersatio_fw-la omnisque_fw-la volutatio_fw-la cordis_fw-la una_fw-la &_o iugis_fw-la efficiatur_fw-la oratio_fw-la that_o be_v this_o be_v the_o end_n of_o all_o perfection_n that_o the_o mind_n become_v so_o purify_v from_o all_o carnal_a defilement_n that_o it_o may_v be_v raise_v up_o daily_o to_o spiritual_a thing_n till_o its_o whole_a employment_n and_o every_o motion_n of_o the_o heart_n may_v become_v one_o uninterrupted_n prayer_n 11._o now_o what_o a_o kind_n of_o prayer_n this_o be_v that_o they_o aspire_v to_o how_o sublime_a in_o spirit_n though_o ofttimes_o join_v with_o their_o vocal_a prayer_n may_v appear_v from_o that_o description_n give_v of_o it_o by_o a_o holy_a hermit_n in_o these_o word_n in_o the_o 10._o confer_v cap._n 20._o ita_fw-la ad_fw-la illam_fw-la orationis_fw-la purissimam_fw-la perveniet_fw-la qualitatem_fw-la quae_fw-la non_fw-la solum_fw-la nullam_fw-la deitatis_fw-la effigiem_fw-la in_o sva_fw-la supplicatione_n miscebit_fw-la sed_fw-la nec_fw-la ullam_fw-la quidem_fw-la in_o se_fw-la memoriam_fw-la dicti_fw-la cuiusdam_fw-la vel_fw-la facti_fw-la speciem_fw-la seu_fw-la formam_fw-la characteris_fw-la admittet_fw-la that_o be_v thus_o by_o much_o practice_n the_o soul_n will_v arrive_v to_o that_o most_o sublime_a purity_n of_o praler_n wherein_o no_o image_n at_o all_o of_o the_o divinity_n be_v mingle_v and_o which_o will_v not_o admit_v the_o least_o memory_n nor_o a_o character_n or_o representation_n of_o anything_o either_o speak_v or_o do_v the_o strange_a subtlety_n &_o spirituality_n of_o which_o prayer_n consider_v there_o be_v apply_v unto_o it_o that_o say_v of_o s._n antony_n in_o the_o 9_o conf._n chap._n 31._o non_fw-fr est_fw-fr perfecta_fw-la oratio_fw-la in_fw-la qua_fw-la se_fw-la monachus_n vel_fw-la hoc_fw-la ipsum_fw-la quod_fw-la orat_fw-la intelligit_fw-la that_o be_v that_o prayer_n be_v not_o a_o perfect_a one_o unless_o the_o religious_a person_n that_o exercise_v it_o be_v not_o able_a to_o give_v a_o account_n of_o his_o own_o thought_n that_o pass_v in_o it_o or_o do_v not_o perceive_v that_o he_o pray_v 12._o what_o great_a advantage_n the_o ancient_a hermit_n &_o other_o religious_a person_n enjoy_v for_o the_o more_o certain_a and_o more_o speedy_a attain_n to_o this_o internal_a purity_n of_o prayer_n &_o wonderful_a cleanness_n of_o spirit_n the_o end_n of_o their_o profession_n how_o much_o more_o able_a their_o bodily_a complexion_n be_v to_o support_v that_o most_o rigorous_a solitude_n those_o long_a continue_a attention_n of_o mind_n &c_n &c_n and_o how_o much_o more_o efficacious_a herto_o be_v their_o manual_a labour_n beyond_o our_o employment_n in_o study_n and_o last_o how_o by_o such_o like_a mean_n they_o with_o the_o only_a exercise_n of_o vocal_a prayer_n attain_v to_o perfect_a contemplation_n shall_v be_v show_v more_o full_o when_o we_o come_v to_o the_o last_o treatise_n concern_v internal_a prayer_n 13._o in_o this_o place_n i_o will_v content_v myself_o with_o show_v that_o by_o the_o rule_n of_o our_o holy_a father_n s_o benedict_n all_o his_o disciple_n be_v oblige_v to_o propose_v to_o themselves_o no_o other_o end_n of_o their_o religious_a profession_n but_o only_o such_o purity_n both_o of_o soul_n and_o the_o operation_n of_o it_o in_o spiritual_a prayer_n so_o that_o how_o exact_a soever_o they_o be_v in_o outward_a observance_n unless_o they_o be_v refer_v unto_o and_o efficacious_a also_o for_o the_o produce_v of_o this_o internal_a purity_n in_o some_o reasonable_a measure_n they_o shall_v not_o be_v esteem_v by_o god_n to_o have_v comply_v with_o their_o vocation_n and_o profession_n 14._o to_o this_o purpose_n we_o may_v observe_v that_o it_o be_v from_o those_o ancient_a holy_a hermit_n &_o religious_a that_o our_o holy_a father_n borrow_v the_o great_a part_n of_o his_o rule_n and_o ordinance_n which_o in_o the_o conclusion_n he_o profess_v to_o be_v mean_v only_o by_o he_o as_o a_o disposition_n whereby_o we_o may_v be_v enable_v to_o imitate_v they_o in_o their_o most_o perfect_a internal_a practice_n it_o be_v from_o they_o that_o he_o borrow_n the_o phrase_n of_o oratio_fw-la pura_fw-la pure_a prayer_n in_o the_o 20._o chap._n the_o exercise_n whereof_o beside_o the_o recite_v of_o the_o office_n he_o appoint_v daily_o as_o appear_v both_o by_o the_o same_o chapter_n of_o the_o rule_n and_o also_o by_o the_o story_n relate_v by_o s._n gregory_n of_o one_o of_o his_o monk_n who_o the_o devil_n in_o the_o shape_n of_o a_o blackmore_n tempt_v out_o of_o the_o community_n in_o the_o time_n of_o such_o recollection_n by_o which_o may_v be_v perceive_v the_o great_a fruit_n and_o efficacy_n of_o such_o prayer_n for_o the_o devil_n can_v be_v content_v he_o shall_v be_v present_a at_o the_o office_n because_o during_o that_o exercise_n he_o can_v more_o easy_o distract_v his_o mind_n but_o know_v the_o force_n of_o internal_a prayer_n how_o recollective_a it_o be_v and_o what_o light_n it_o afford_v to_o discover_v the_o inward_a defect_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o to_o obtain_v grace_n to_o correct_v they_o his_o principal_a aim_n be_v to_o withdraw_v he_o from_o so_o profitable_a a_o exercise_n and_o therefore_o to_o countermine_v the_o devil_n malice_n our_o holy_a father_n think_v it_o worth_a a_o journey_n express_o to_o cure_v the_o infirmity_n and_o prevent_v the_o danger_n of_o one_o of_o his_o seduce_a monk_n 15._o for_o this_o end_v it_o be_v that_o our_o holy_a father_n in_o the_o 58._o c._n ordeine_n superior_n in_o the_o examination_n of_o the_o spirit_n &_o disposition_n of_o newcomer_n that_o they_o shall_v most_o especial_o have_v a_o eye_n to_o this_o most_o necessary_a condition_n si_fw-la deum_fw-la veer_fw-la quaerit_fw-la if_o he_o be_v such_o a_o one_o as_o true_o seek_v god_n and_o more_o particulary_a si_fw-la sollicitùs_fw-la est_fw-la ad_fw-la opus_fw-la dei_fw-la if_o he_o have_v a_o solicitous_a care_n due_o to_o perform_v the_o work_n of_o god_n which_o he_o interpret_v to_o be_v prayer_n and_o this_o so_o principal_a a_o work_n that_o he_o ordeine_n that_o nihil_fw-la operi_fw-la dei_fw-la praeponatur_fw-la nothing_o must_v be_v prefer_v before_o it_o 16._o for_o the_o advance_v of_o this_o prayer_n that_o it_o may_v become_v such_o as_o be_v suitable_a to_o a_o contemplative_a state_n all_o other_o exterior_a observance_n be_v appoint_v 1._o by_o the_o 12._o degree_n of_o humility_n by_o frequent_a prostration_n acknowledge_v of_o secret_a imperfection_n etc._n etc._n pride_n selfelove_n &_o all_o other_o our_o corrupt_a affection_n hinder_v our_o union_n in_o spirit_n with_o god_n be_v subdue_v &_o expel_v and_o as_o our_o holy_a father_n say_v at_o the_o end_n of_o the_o last_o degree_n that_o perfect_a charity_n which_o most_o immediate_o unite_v the_o soul_n to_o god_n be_v produce_v in_o the_o soul_n 2._o by_o perfect_a obedience_n self_n judgement_n &_o self_n will_v be_v abate_v 3._o by_o fast_n watch_n &_o other_o austerity_n sensuality_n be_v mortify_v 4._o by_o religious_a poverty_n all_o distract_n care_v about_o temporal_a thing_n be_v expel_v 5._o and_o for_o the_o gain_n of_o a_o habitual_a state_n of_o recollectednes_n and_o introversion_n so_o great_a silence_n and_o solitude_n be_v so_o rigorous_o enjoin_v and_o practise_v all_o object_n of_o sensual_a affection_n remove_v all_o conversation_n with_o the_o world_n all_o relate_n or_o harken_v to_o news_n severe_o prohibit_v all_o this_o sure_o for_o no_o other_o end_n but_o that_o soul_n may_v be_v bring_v to_o a_o fit_a disposition_n to_o imitate_v those_o solitary_a and_o devout_a saint_n propose_v by_o our_o holy_a father_n for_o our_o example_n in_o their_o continual_a conversation_n with_o god_n attend_v to_o his_o divine_a inspiration_n and_o uninterrupted_n union_n of_o spirit_n with_o he_o by_o pure_a spiritual_a contemplation_n 17._o therefore_o though_o our_o holy_a lawgiver_n do_v not_o in_o his_o rule_n give_v his_o disciple_n any_o special_a instruction_n for_o order_v their_o interiour_n spiritual_a prayer_n touch_v such_o matter_n refer_v they_o to_o the_o inspiration_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n as_o himself_o say_v as_o likewise_o to_o the_o advice_n of_o the_o ancient_a father_n and_o hermit_n profess_v contemplation_n yet_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o his_o principal_a design_n be_v to_o dispose_v his_o disciple_n by_o his_o ordinance_n to_o
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
great_a perfection_n of_o internal_a purity_n than_o we_o be_v former_o as_o christian_n answerable_a to_o the_o great_a help_n and_o advantage_n thereto_o afford_v in_o religion_n and_o particular_o we_o have_v a_o obligation_n to_o aspire_v to_o the_o perfection_n of_o internal_a contemplative_a prayer_n the_o practice_n whereof_o be_v at_o least_o of_o extreme_a difficulty_n in_o a_o ordinary_a distract_a solicitous_a secular_a state_n 23._o and_o from_o what_o have_v be_v say_v may_v be_v collect_v this_o most_o true_a and_o profitable_a observation_n to_o wit_n that_o whosoever_o will_v attempt_v the_o restore_n of_o the_o true_a spirit_n of_o religion_n which_o be_v contemplation_n miserable_o decay_v in_o these_o day_n will_v labour_v in_o vain_a if_o he_o think_v to_o compass_v his_o holy_a design_n by_o multiply_v of_o ceremony_n inlarge_v of_o office_n increase_v of_o externall_n austeritys_n rigorous_a regulate_v of_o diet_n and_o abstinence_n etc._n etc._n all_o which_o thing_n will_v have_v little_a or_o no_o effect_n unless_o the_o mind_n of_o religious_a person_n be_v true_o instruct_v in_o the_o doctrine_n of_o contemplative_a prayer_n &_o obligation_n to_o attend_v and_o follow_v the_o internal_a guidance_n of_o god_n spirit_n which_o be_v rather_o hinder_v then_o advance_v by_o the_o excessive_a multiplication_n of_o outward_a observance_n and_o for_o this_o reason_n s._n benedict_n who_o sure_o have_v a_o most_o perfect_a light_n &_o a_o equal_a zeal_n at_o least_o to_o advance_v the_o spirit_n of_o contemplation_n be_v very_o moderate_a in_o these_o thing_n and_o on_o the_o contrary_a very_o severe_a in_o require_v the_o observation_n of_o silence_n solitude_n and_o abstraction_n of_o life_n the_o which_o do_v most_o direct_o and_o efficacious_o beget_v a_o habitual_a introversion_n and_o recollectednesse_n of_o spirit_n the_o ineffectualnesse_n therefore_o of_o these_o new_a way_n of_o reformation_n we_o see_v daily_a proof_n of_o by_o the_o short_a continuance_n of_o they_o for_o mind_n that_o be_v not_o enlighten_v nor_o enable_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o contemplative_a prayer_n suitable_a to_o their_o state_n to_o make_v a_o due_a use_n of_o such_o great_a austeritys_n for_o the_o increase_n of_o the_o say_a spirit_n become_v in_o a_o short_a time_n after_o that_o the_o first_o zeal_n much_o cause_v by_o the_o novelty_n and_o reputation_n gain_v in_o the_o world_n be_v cool_v to_o grow_v weary_a not_o find_v that_o inward_a satisfaction_n &_o profit_n which_o they_o expect_v and_o so_o they_o return_v to_o their_o former_a tepidity_n &_o relaxation_n chap._n v._n §_o 1._o 2._o 3._o a_o religious_a person_n be_v not_o perfect_a by_o his_o profession_n §_o 4._o 5._o 6._o 7._o whether_o and_o how_o far_o ignorance_n of_o the_o true_a end_n of_o religion_n will_v excuse_v §_o 8._o 9_o the_o danger_n of_o those_o that_o know_a will_v not_o pursue_v internal_a way_n of_o recollection_n which_o be_v the_o true_a end_n of_o a_o religious_a state_n and_o much_o more_o of_o those_o that_o discountenance_n it_o §_o 10._o 11._o 12._o vain_a pretence_n of_o those_o that_o discountenance_n internal_a prayer_n etc._n etc._n §_o 13._o a_o description_n of_o a_o externall_n and_o a_o internal_a monk_n out_o of_o hesychius_n 1._o our_o obligation_n therefore_o to_o tend_v to_o perfect_a internal_a purity_n &_o simplicity_n be_v so_o great_a &_o so_o undispensable_a what_o account_n think_v we_o will_v some_o religious_a person_n be_v able_a to_o give_v to_o almighty_a god_n for_o their_o miserable_a deficienty_n in_o this_o so_o essential_a a_o condition_n 2._o religion_n be_v by_o all_o acknowledge_v for_o a_o state_n of_o perfection_n not_o that_o by_o the_o mere_a take_v a_o religious_a profession_n or_o habit_n a_o person_n be_v thereby_o more_o perfect_a than_o he_o be_v before_o but_o because_o by_o renounce_v those_o distractive_a impediment_n which_o be_v in_o the_o world_n he_o put_v himself_o into_o a_o condition_n in_o which_o he_o not_o only_o may_v far_o more_o easy_o aspire_v to_o the_o perfection_n of_o divine_a love_n but_o moreover_o by_o assume_v such_o a_o state_n he_o oblige_v himself_o to_o employ_v all_o those_o advantage_n which_o he_o find_v in_o religion_n as_o mean_n to_o approach_v near_o to_o this_o perfection_n daily_o more_o than_o if_o he_o have_v continue_v in_o the_o world_n he_o either_o can_v or_o be_v oblige_v the_o which_o if_o he_o do_v not_o he_o will_v be_v so_o far_o from_o enjoy_v any_o privilege_n in_o god_n sight_n by_o the_o perfection_n of_o his_o state_n as_o that_o he_o will_v be_v accountable_a to_o god_n so_o much_o the_o more_o for_o his_o ingratitude_n and_o negligence_n in_o make_v use_n of_o such_o advantage_n and_o talent_n give_v he_o 3._o s._n paulinus_n excellent_o illustrate_v this_o truth_n by_o this_o similitude_n he_o compare_v the_o world_n to_o a_o dry_a scorch_a and_o barren_a wilderness_n and_o celestial_a happiness_n to_o a_o most_o delicious_a paradise_n divide_v from_o this_o desert_n by_o a_o deep_a and_o tempestuous_a river_n which_o must_v necessary_o be_v pass_v by_o swim_v the_o secure_a way_n to_o pass_v over_o this_o river_n be_v by_o quit_v once_o clothes_n but_o few_o there_o be_v that_o have_v the_o courage_n to_o expose_v themselves_o to_o the_o injury_n of_o the_o weather_n for_o a_o while_n and_o therefore_o adventure_v over_o clothes_n and_o all_o and_o of_o they_o god_n know_n a_o world_n miscarry_v by_o the_o way_n some_o few_o other_o such_o be_v religious_a person_n see_v this_o danger_n take_v a_o good_a resolution_n to_o divest_v themselves_o of_o their_o clothes_n and_o to_o make_v themselves_o light_a and_o nimble_a by_o cast_v away_o all_o impediment_n how_o dear_a soever_o to_o flesh_n and_o blood_n but_o yet_o this_o be_v do_v it_o remain_v that_o they_o shall_v labour_v naked_a as_o they_o be_v with_o swim_v to_o pass_v the_o river_n but_o this_o they_o neglect_v to_o do_v or_o take_v so_o little_a pain_n and_o strive_v so_o negligent_o against_o the_o wave_n and_o stream_n that_o all_o they_o do_v come_v to_o nothing_o they_o be_v in_o as_o much_o danger_n and_o as_o far_o from_o paradise_n as_o they_o be_v before_o and_o whereas_o they_o glorify_v themselves_o because_o they_o be_v naked_a that_o will_v rather_o aggravate_v their_o folly_n and_o make_v their_o negligence_n far_o more_o culpable_a in_o that_o have_v so_o great_a a_o advantage_n they_o will_v not_o take_v a_o little_a pain_n to_o do_v that_o for_o which_o they_o cast_v of_o their_o clothes_n 4._o now_o the_o impediment_n either_o much_o delay_n or_o quite_o hinder_v many_o soul_n that_o live_v in_o religion_n and_o be_v natural_o apt_a enough_o for_o the_o exercise_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n from_o comply_v with_o this_o most_o necessary_a obligation_n be_v partly_o in_o the_o understanding_n and_o partly_o in_o the_o will_n concern_v this_o latter_a which_o be_v self-love_n a_o settle_a affection_n to_o creature_n negligence_n etc._n etc._n much_o have_v already_o be_v say_v and_o more_o will_v hereafter_o be_v add_v but_o concern_v the_o other_o impediment_n seat_v in_o the_o understanding_n which_o be_v ignorance_n of_o the_o true_a way_n lead_v to_o that_o perfection_n which_o be_v the_o proper_a end_n of_o a_o religious_a contemplative_a life_n i_o will_v here_o take_v into_o consideration_n whether_o and_o how_o far_o such_o ignorance_n may_v excuse_v a_o religious_a person_n that_o do_v not_o aspire_v to_o that_o perfection_n to_o which_o his_o state_n oblige_v he_o 5._o for_o the_o clear_n of_o this_o doubt_n we_o may_v observe_v that_o there_o may_v in_o this_o case_n be_v a_o twofold_a ignorance_n 1._o a_o ignorance_n in_o gross_a that_o there_o be_v any_o such_o obligation_n 2._o on_o supposition_n that_o a_o soul_n be_v inform_v that_o she_o have_v such_o a_o obligation_n a_o ignorance_n of_o the_o mean_n and_o way_n proper_a and_o necessary_a for_o the_o acquire_v of_o this_o perfection_n the_o which_o in_o the_o present_a case_n be_v mortification_n and_o principal_o internal_a prayer_n 6._o first_o therefore_o for_o the_o former_a sort_n of_o ignorance_n it_o be_v so_o gross_a and_o even_o wilful_a that_o there_o can_v scarce_o be_v imagine_v any_o excuse_n or_o qualification_n for_o it_o for_o what_o other_o thought_n can_v a_o soul_n have_v quit_v the_o world_n and_o all_o the_o pleasure_n and_o commodity_n therein_o to_o embrace_v poverty_n obedience_n solitude_n &c_n &c_n but_o thereby_o to_o consecrate_v herself_o entire_o to_o god_n show_v by_o the_o solemn_a circumstance_n of_o her_o admission_n and_o profession_n the_o question_n propose_v to_o she_o and_o her_o answer_n her_o habit_n tonsure_v representation_n of_o a_o death_n and_o burial_n solemn_a benediction_n of_o her_o habit_n and_o prayer_n of_o the_o community_n &_o c_o all_o that_o be_v witness_n and_o spectator_n of_o such_o a_o action_n do_v no_o otherwise_o
understand_v it_o and_o indeed_o except_o it_o be_v so_o what_o difference_n be_v there_o between_o a_o secular_a and_o religious_a state_n 7._o but_o in_o the_o next_o place_n touch_v the_o second_o sort_n of_o ignorance_n to_o wit_n of_o the_o way_n most_o proper_a and_o efficacious_a to_o bring_v a_o religious_a soul_n to_o perfection_n it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v that_o such_o a_o ignorance_n will_v be_v but_o a_o small_a excuse_n and_o that_o but_o to_o very_a few_o for_o since_o both_o faith_n and_o experience_n teach_v we_o with_o what_o great_a defect_n what_o inordinate_a affection_n etc._n etc._n we_o enter_v into_o religion_n with_o a_o intention_n there_o to_o abate_v and_o mortify_v they_o and_o since_o even_o natural_a reason_n &_o daily_a experience_n likewise_o show_v we_o that_o perfection_n of_o the_o soul_n can_v consist_v in_o externall_n observance_n which_o do_v not_o penetrate_v into_o the_o interiour_n yea_o without_o prayer_n and_o purity_n of_o intention_n to_o be_v have_v only_o by_o prayer_n they_o do_v rather_o nourish_v selfelove_n and_o self_n esteem_v since_o three_o the_o same_o experience_n convince_v we_o that_o such_o vocal_a prayer_n as_o we_o use_v and_o join_v to_o our_o other_o observance_n do_v not_o produce_v in_o we_o a_o sufficient_a purification_n of_o soul_n no_o nor_o that_o any_o other_o painful_a method_n of_o meditation_n unknow_v to_o the_o ancient_a contemplative_n do_v afford_v we_o sufficient_a light_n and_o grace_n for_o such_o a_o purpose_n because_o they_o pierce_v not_o deep_a enough_o into_o the_o spirit_n what_o reasonable_a soul_n but_o will_n hence_o conclude_v that_o there_o must_v needs_o be_v some_o other_o efficacious_a mean_n for_o the_o acquire_v of_o the_o end_n which_o we_o propose_v to_o ourselves_o and_o since_o god_n will_v infallible_o give_v light_n and_o grace_n to_o all_o those_o that_o have_v recourse_n unto_o he_o in_o spirit_n and_o truth_n it_o must_v necessary_o follow_v that_o the_o only_a culpable_a ground_n of_o such_o ignorance_n must_v needs_o be_v a_o neglect_n of_o such_o prayer_n and_o the_o root_n of_o such_o neglect_n a_o sensual_a tepid_a disposition_n of_o the_o will_n hate_v to_o raise_v itself_o too_o god_n and_o let_v any_o one_o judge_n whether_o a_o ignorance_n so_o ground_v can_v excuse_v we_o especial_o consider_v that_o our_o holy_a father_n require_v the_o practice_n of_o such_o prayer_n in_o all_o our_o small_a undertake_n and_o teach_v we_o that_o his_o rule_n be_v only_o a_o preparation_n to_o perfection_n he_o refer_v we_o further_o to_o the_o example_n of_o the_o ancient_a hermit_n who_o manner_n of_o prayer_n if_o we_o will_v imitate_v we_o shall_v make_v some_o approach_n at_o least_o to_o that_o perfection_n to_o the_o almost_o inconceivable_a sublimity_n and_o purity_n whereof_o they_o attain_v 8._o now_o if_o ignorance_n will_v not_o be_v a_o sufficient_a excuse_n to_o any_o religious_a person_n for_o either_o not_o endeavour_v after_o interiour_n purity_n of_o soul_n by_o prayer_n in_o spirit_n or_o endeavour_v after_o a_o wrong_n improper_a manner_n &_o way_n how_o much_o less_o excusable_a nay_o how_o deep_o culpable_a before_o god_n will_v those_o be_v who_o be_v sufficient_o instruct_v in_o the_o only_a true_a internal_a way_n lead_v to_o contemplation_n &_o withal_o be_v furnish_v with_o all_o help_n leisure_n &_o advantage_n for_o that_o purpose_n &_o yet_o out_o of_o a_o settle_a slothfullnes_n &_o fix_a love_n to_o sensual_a object_n have_v not_o the_o courage_n or_o will_n to_o walk_v in_o they_o yea_o perhaps_o have_v once_o comfortable_o walk_v in_o they_o do_v most_o ingrateful_o &_o perfidious_o forsake_v &_o turn_v out_o of_o they_o reap_v no_o other_o benefit_n by_o their_o knowledge_n but_o perhaps_o a_o ability_n to_o talk_v of_o they_o to_o the_o help_n of_o other_o it_o may_v be_v but_o to_o the_o increase_n of_o their_o own_o pride_n &_o self-love_n so_o that_o their_o knowledge_n of_o their_o obligation_n &_o end_n of_o their_o profession_n help_v to_o lead_v they_o further_o from_o it_o 9_o but_o above_o all_o most_o miserable_a will_v their_o condition_n be_v who_o live_v in_o contemplative_a order_n &_o not_o have_v either_o sufficient_a knowledge_n or_o grace_n to_o practice_v themselves_o the_o exercise_n of_o true_a internal_a prayer_n &_o abstraction_n of_o life_n shall_v deter_v other_o therefrom_o &_o discountenance_v or_o perhaps_o persecute_v those_o who_o god_n have_v inspire_v to_o renew_v the_o only_a proper_a exercise_n of_o contemplation_n the_o decay_n of_o which_o have_v be_v the_o decay_n of_o the_o true_a spirit_n of_o monastical_a religion_n 10._o true_a it_o be_v that_o to_o justify_v such_o undue_a proceed_n &_o to_o gain_v a_o esteem_n to_o their_o own_o inferior_a exercise_n partiality_n have_v suggest_v to_o they_o certain_a seem_a reason_n &_o pretence_n against_o the_o practice_n of_o contemplative_a prayer_n &_o if_o it_o be_v dangerous_a &_o do_v expose_v the_o exerciser_n of_o it_o to_o illusion_n or_o as_o if_o it_o be_v prejudicial_a to_o regular_a observance_n &_o obedience_n or_o that_o perhaps_o it_o may_v diminish_v the_o credit_n which_o some_o religious_a order_n have_v gain_v in_o the_o world_n by_o their_o long_a solemn_a office_n laborious_o celebrate_v but_o as_o i_o shall_v in_o due_a place_n in_o the_o last_o treatise_n demonstrate_v all_o these_o accusation_n make_v against_o contemplative_a prayer_n be_v most_o unjust_a and_o groundless_a on_o the_o contrary_a those_o that_o practise_v such_o prayer_n as_o they_o ought_v be_v most_o careful_a of_o conformity_n to_o religious_a duty_n &_o especial_o the_o divine_a office_n appoint_v by_o the_o church_n and_o this_o out_o of_o conscience_n &_o with_o great_a purity_n of_o intention_n 11._o indeed_o true_a internal_a liver_n be_v not_o very_o solicitous_a for_o gain_v credit_n &_o esteem_v with_o the_o world_n &_o much_o less_o will_v they_o make_v that_o a_o end_n of_o their_o religious_a observance_n on_o the_o contrary_a their_o cordial_a desire_n be_v to_o live_v unknow_v &_o exclude_v from_o the_o world_n approve_v their_o soul_n to_o god_n only_o neither_o be_v they_o forward_o to_o usurp_v office_n abroad_o not_o belong_v to_o they_o as_o of_o preach_v hear_v confession_n of_o secular_o &c_n &c_n by_o which_o the_o most_o necessary_a solitude_n &_o recollectednes_n which_o by_o their_o profession_n ought_v to_o be_v prise_v above_o all_o thing_n be_v interrupt_v &_o oft_o utter_o destroy_v and_o the_o more_o confident_o do_v they_o express_v a_o zeal_n for_o these_o essential_a thing_n as_o be_v assure_v that_o god_n will_v not_o be_v want_v to_o supply_v they_o sufficient_o with_o all_o thing_n necessary_a to_o their_o corporal_a sustenance_n as_o long_o as_o they_o prefer_v the_o care_n of_o purify_n their_o soul_n &_o comply_v with_o the_o obligation_n of_o their_o profession_n before_o such_o inferior_a thing_n s._n anthony_n be_v so_o careful_a of_o preserve_v this_o spirit_n of_o solitude_n &_o disingagement_n from_o all_o treat_v with_o the_o world_n that_o he_o forbid_v his_o monk_n to_o enter_v into_o church_n frequent_v by_o multitude_n and_o much_o less_o will_v he_o suffer_v they_o to_o invite_v &_o call_v secular_o into_o their_o own_o church_n and_o s._n stephen_n of_o grammont_n upon_o experience_n of_o what_o extreme_a prejudice_n the_o spirit_n of_o religion_n have_v receive_v by_o neglect_v a_o solitary_a abstract_a life_n forbid_v his_o disciple_n in_o his_o rule_n to_o have_v public_a church_n or_o to_o admit_v into_o their_o oratory_n the_o presence_n of_o secular_o or_o so_o much_o as_o to_o let_v they_o take_v holywater_n home_o with_o they_o or_o to_o quit_v their_o desert_n to_o preach_v to_o other_o he_o command_v they_o to_o avoid_v confraternity_n &c_n &c_n and_o to_o prevent_v complaint_n &_o fear_n least_o by_o so_o rigorous_a a_o sequestration_n from_o the_o world_n they_o shall_v be_v in_o danger_n of_o penury_n he_o most_o assure_o protest_v unto_o they_o that_o it_o be_v impossible_a that_o god_n shall_v neglect_v to_o provide_v for_o they_o that_o for_o his_o sake_n quit_v all_o pretension_n to_o the_o world_n 12._o but_o the_o true_a cause_n of_o bitterness_n show_v by_o some_o against_o internal_a prayer_n restore_v by_o several_a most_o illuminate_v &_o glorious_a saint_n in_o these_o latter_a time_n may_v be_v fear_v to_o proceed_v partly_o from_o some_o kind_n of_o pride_n &_o a_o unwillingness_n to_o acknowledge_v any_o religious_a exercise_n to_o be_v more_o perfect_a than_o those_o practise_v so_o long_o by_o themselves_o or_o to_o see_v that_o power_n which_o they_o have_v gain_v in_o the_o manage_n of_o the_o conscience_n of_o religious_a person_n &c_n &c_n to_o be_v in_o danger_n of_o cease_v 13._o to_o conclude_v this_o point_n those_o that_o place_n perfection_n of_o a_o religious_a profession_n in_o any_o thing_n but_o in_o the_o
purity_n &_o simplicity_n of_o spirit_n such_o may_v call_v themselves_o monk_n &_o contemplative_n be_v yet_o able_a to_o show_v no_o sign_n of_o such_o a_o profession_n but_o the_o habit_n &_o a_o certain_a outward_a formal_a solemn_a &_o severe_a comportment_n under_o which_o may_v be_v hide_v a_o secret_n most_o profound_a self_n love_n &_o pride_n and_o they_o may_v do_v well_o to_o meditate_v serious_o on_o that_o memorable_a say_n of_o hesychius_n a_o holy_a illuminate_v monk_n he_o that_o have_v renounce_v the_o world_n say_v he_o that_o be_v marriage_n possession_n &_o the_o like_a such_o a_o one_o indeed_o have_v make_v the_o exterior_a man_n a_o monk_n but_o not_o as_o yet_o the_o interiour_n but_o he_o that_o have_v renounce_v his_o own_o thought_n &_o affection_n such_o a_o one_o have_v make_v true_o the_o interiour_n man_n aÌ„_o monk_n also_o and_o very_o any_o one_o that_o have_v never_o so_o small_a desire_n thereunto_o may_v easy_o make_v the_o outward_a man_n a_o monk_n but_o it_o be_v a_o task_n of_o no_o small_a labour_n to_o make_v the_o interiour_n man_n so_o too_o now_o a_o sign_n of_o a_o interiour_n monk_n say_v he_o be_v the_o have_v attain_v to_o the_o dignity_n of_o pure_a spiritual_a prayer_n chap._n vi_o §_o 1._o that_o internal_a prayer_n be_v the_o practice_n of_o ancient_a hermit_n what_o kind_n of_o prayer_n that_o be_v §_o 2._o 3._o 4._o 5._o 6._o how_o it_o to_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o vocal_a prayer_n become_v to_o they_o internal_a &_o bring_v many_o soul_n ancient_o to_o perfection_n and_o why_o it_o will_v not_o now_o do_v so_o ordinary_o §_o 7._o 8._o 9_o 10._o the_o great_a help_n that_o the_o ancient_n find_v by_o external_a labour_n to_o bring_v they_o to_o recollection_n §_o 11._o 12._o 13._o how_o manual_a labour_n come_v to_o give_v place_n to_o study_n that_o which_o be_v defend_v §_o 14._o the_o late_a practice_n of_o internal_a prayer_n recompense_v other_o defect_n 1._o that_o internal_a spiritual_a prayer_n be_v serious_o &_o almost_o continual_o practise_v by_o the_o ancient_n be_v apparent_a both_o out_o of_o the_o live_v &_o conference_n of_o the_o ancient_a father_n but_o indeed_o there_o be_v but_o few_o proof_n extant_a that_o appoint_a time_n be_v set_v for_o the_o exercise_v it_o conuentual_o except_o in_o the_o foremencioned_n story_n of_o the_o monk_n tempt_v by_o the_o devil_n to_o retire_v himself_o from_o his_o brethren_n when_o they_o be_v in_o such_o prayer_n i_o suppose_v therefore_o that_o superior_n &_o directour_n of_o soul_n tend_v to_o contemplation_n be_v in_o these_o latter_a day_n oblige_v to_o enjoin_v daily_a recollection_n by_o reason_n that_o the_o daily_a private_a &_o continual_a employment_n of_o religious_a person_n be_v not_o so_o helpful_a &_o advantageous_a to_o the_o procure_n of_o that_o most_o necessary_a simplicity_n &_o purity_n of_o soul_n as_o ancient_o they_o be_v and_o therefore_o they_o be_v force_v to_o make_v some_o supply_n for_o this_o defect_n by_o such_o conuentuall_a recollection_n the_o which_o they_o institute_v to_o be_v perform_v in_o public_a because_o they_o perceive_v or_o fear_v that_o religious_a soul_n if_o they_o be_v leave_v to_o themselves_o will_v out_o of_o tepidity_n neglect_v a_o duty_n so_o necessary_a &_o so_o efficacious_a 2._o now_o to_o the_o end_n that_o by_o compare_v the_o manner_n of_o live_v observe_v ancient_o by_o religious_a person_n with_o the_o modern_a in_o these_o day_n it_o may_v appear_v what_o great_a advantage_n they_o enjoy_v towards_o the_o attain_n of_o perfection_n of_o prayer_n beyond_o we_o we_o may_v consider_v 1._o their_o set_a devotion_n what_o they_o be_v and_o 2._o their_o daily_a employment_n during_o the_o remainder_n of_o the_o day_n 3._o as_o concern_v the_o first_o their_o appoint_a devotion_n either_o in_o public_a or_o private_a be_v only_o recite_v â—he_n psalter_n to_o which_o they_o sometime_o adjoin_v a_o little_a read_n of_o other_o part_n of_o scripture_n for_o as_o for_o the_o foremencionâ—d_a conventuall_a mental_a exercise_n of_o prayer_n it_o be_v very_o short_a be_v only_o such_o short_a aspiration_n as_o god_n spirit_n do_v suggest_v unto_o they_o in_o particular_a as_o it_o be_v the_o flower_n of_o their_o public_a vocal_a prayer_n yea_o &_o in_o private_a when_o they_o do_v purposely_o apply_v themselves_o to_o prayer_n they_o seldom_o vary_v from_o the_o manner_n of_o their_o public_a devotion_n for_o than_o they_o also_o use_v the_o psalter_n 4._o now_o how_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o vocal_a prayer_n alone_o be_v in_o ancient_a time_n available_a to_o bring_v soul_n to_o perfect_a contemplation_n which_o in_o these_o day_n it_o neither_o do_v nor_o ordinary_o speak_v candoe_v i_o shall_v declare_v more_o full_o when_o i_o come_v hereafter_o to_o treat_v of_o prayer_n and_o in_o this_o place_n i_o will_v content_v myself_o to_o point_v only_o at_o the_o reason_n &_o ground_n of_o difference_n viz_o 1._o one_o reason_n be_v their_o incomparable_o more_o abstraction_n of_o life_n more_o rigorous_a solitude_n &_o almost_o perpetual_a silence_n of_o the_o practice_n of_o which_o in_o these_o day_n it_o be_v believe_v we_o be_v not_o capable_a 2._o a_o second_o be_v their_o fast_n abstinence_n &_o other_o austerity_n beyond_o the_o strength_n of_o our_o infirm_a corporal_a complexion_n 3._o a_o three_o be_v their_o externall_n employment_n out_o of_o the_o set_a time_n of_o prayer_n the_o which_o do_v far_o better_a dispose_n soul_n to_o recollection_n to_o attendance_n on_o the_o divine_a inspiration_n &c_n &c_n then_o those_o ordinary_o practise_v in_o these_o day_n 5._o no_o wonder_n then_o if_o vocal_a prayer_n exercise_v by_o such_o pure_a resign_v humble_a mortify_v &_o undistract_a soul_n have_v the_o efficacy_n to_o produce_v in_o they_o a_o habitual_a state_n of_o recollect_v introversion_n which_o doubtless_o in_o many_o of_o they_o be_v more_o profound_a not_o only_o while_o they_o be_v busy_v in_o their_o vocal_a exercise_n but_o also_o during_o their_o externall_n business_n than_o it_o be_v ordinary_o with_o we_o in_o the_o height_n of_o our_o best_a recollection_n 6._o but_o a_o more_o large_a handle_n of_o this_o matter_n i_o refer_v to_o the_o last_o treatise_n where_o we_o speak_v purposely_o of_o prayer_n and_o for_o the_o present_a i_o will_v only_o take_v into_o consideration_n the_o three_o forename_a advantage_n of_o corporal_a labour_n which_o to_o the_o ancient_n prove_v a_o help_n to_o contemplation_n far_o more_o efficacious_a than_o the_o general_a employment_n of_o religious_a in_o these_o day_n 7._o for_o the_o demonstrate_v whereof_o it_o be_v to_o be_v observe_v that_o ancient_o soul_n embrace_v a_o religious_a life_n be_v move_v thereto_o mere_o out_o of_o the_o spirit_n of_o penance_n without_o any_o regard_n at_o all_o to_o make_v use_n of_o their_o solitude_n for_o the_o get_n of_o learning_n or_o for_o the_o dispose_n themselves_o to_o holy_a order_n be_v likewise_o poor_a unprovided_a of_o annual_a rent_n or_o foundation_n the_o which_o they_o be_v so_o far_o from_o seek_v or_o desire_v that_o in_o our_o holy_a father_n expression_n cap._n 48._o they_o do_v then_o only_o account_v themselves_o to_o be_v verè_fw-la monachi_fw-la si_fw-la de_fw-fr labour_v manuum_fw-la suarum_fw-la viverent_fw-la true_a monk_n whilst_o they_o live_v by_o the_o labour_n of_o their_o hand_n they_o be_v both_o by_o necessity_n &_o choice_n oblige_v to_o corporal_a labour_n 8._o but_o their_o principal_a care_n above_o all_o other_o thing_n be_v to_o attend_v unto_o god_n &_o to_o aspire_v unto_o perfect_a union_n in_o spirit_n with_o he_o they_o ordinary_o make_v choice_n of_o such_o labour_n as_o be_v not_o distractive_a &_o such_o as_o may_v be_v perform_v in_o solitude_n &_o silence_n so_o that_o during_o the_o say_a labour_n they_o keep_v their_o mind_n continual_o fix_v on_o god_n such_o labour_n be_v the_o make_n of_o basket_n or_o some_o other_o work_n of_o the_o like_a nature_n that_o require_v no_o solicitude_n &_o very_o small_a exactness_n or_o attention_n and_o as_o ecclesiastical_a history_n inform_v we_o such_o be_v the_o charity_n of_o bishop_n &_o other_o good_a person_n their_o neighbour_n that_o to_o ease_v they_o of_o all_o care_n about_o the_o dispose_n or_o sell_v of_o their_o work_n as_o likewise_o to_o hinder_v they_o from_o have_v recourse_n to_o market_n for_o the_o sale_n thereof_o order_n be_v take_v that_o such_o work_n shall_v be_v take_v out_o of_o their_o hand_n &_o a_o competent_a price_n allow_v they_o for_o they_o 9_o by_o this_o mean_v it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o their_o externall_n labour_v be_v exercise_v in_o order_n to_o the_o advancement_n of_o their_o spirit_n prove_v a_o wonderful_a help_n thereto_o dispose_v they_o to_o prayer_n &_o almost_o continual_a conversation_n with_o god_n and_o indeed_o it_o
to_o many_o externall_n observance_n yet_o a_o view_v of_o the_o patience_n quietness_n and_o resignation_n show_v by_o they_o be_v more_o edify_v to_o soul_n under_o their_o care_n than_o all_o the_o most_o exact_a external_a regularity_n and_o severity_n of_o active_a spirit_n 6._o yea_o even_o in_o regard_n of_o temporal_a benefit_n to_o community_n contemplative_a spirit_n be_v more_o advantageous_a than_o active_a because_o they_o not_o put_v any_o confidence_n in_o their_o own_o industry_n prudence_n and_o activity_n but_o only_o in_o the_o divine_a providence_n which_o be_v never_o want_v to_o those_o that_o for_o temporal_a regard_n will_v not_o do_v any_o thing_n unseemly_a or_o misbecome_a their_o abstract_a state_n do_v enjoy_v the_o effect_n and_o blessing_n of_o god_n far_o more_o plentiful_o while_o they_o prefer_v his_o love_n and_o service_n before_o any_o humane_a distract_n sollicitude_n for_o outward_a thing_n memorable_a example_n of_o great_a blessing_n attend_v such_o a_o confidence_n in_o god_n we_o find_v abundant_o in_o the_o life_n of_o our_o holy_a father_n and_o of_o the_o ancient_a monk_n and_o more_o late_o in_o the_o life_n of_o suso_n joannes_n the_o cruse_n etc._n etc._n now_o the_o want_n of_o such_o confidence_n in_o active_a spirit_n proceed_v mere_o from_o defect_n in_o divine_a love_n and_o that_o from_o the_o want_n of_o internal_a prayer_n and_o hence_o proceed_v hurtful_a &_o unseemly_a compliance_n with_o the_o world_n a_o regard_n rather_o to_o wealth_n then_o good_a will_n to_o serve_v god_n in_o the_o soul_n that_o enter_v into_o religion_n etc._n etc._n 10._o a_o fearful_a example_n of_o the_o mischief_n follow_a the_o neglect_n of_o internal_a prayer_n in_o a_o superior_a we_o find_v in_o bernardinus_fw-la ochinus_n a_o superior_a in_o a_o most_o strict_a order_n who_o be_v a_o famous_a zealous_a preacher_n and_o as_o may_v be_v judge_v by_o outward_a appearance_n of_o more_o than_o ordinary_a sanctity_n yet_o withal_o to_o comply_v with_o those_o outward_a employment_n a_o great_a neglecter_n of_o internal_a conuentuall_a recollection_n and_o when_o he_o be_v sometime_o charitable_o admonish_v of_o such_o his_o tepidity_n his_o ordinary_a answer_n be_v do_v you_o not_o know_v that_o he_o who_o be_v always_o in_o a_o good_a action_n be_v always_o in_o prayer_n which_o say_v of_o his_o have_v be_v true_a if_o such_o good_a action_n have_v be_v perform_v in_o virtue_n of_o prayer_n and_o by_o grace_n obtain_v thereby_o for_o than_o they_o have_v be_v virtual_o prayer_n whereas_o action_n though_o in_o themselves_o never_o so_o good_a if_o they_o want_n that_o purity_n of_o intention_n which_o be_v only_o to_o be_v have_v by_o pure_a prayer_n be_v in_o god_n esteem_n of_o little_a or_o no_o value_v the_o principal_a motive_n of_o they_o be_v no_o other_o than_o such_o as_o corrupt_v nature_n be_v likely_a to_o suggest_v ochinus_n therefore_o continue_v in_o the_o same_o neglect_n be_v by_o one_o of_o his_o brethren_n prophetical_o warn_v that_o he_o must_v expect_v some_o terrible_a issue_n thereof_o in_o these_o word_n cave_n ne_fw-la te_fw-la ordo_fw-la 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
public_a good_a be_v concern_v 5._o general_o there_o be_v great_a fervour_n in_o soul_n at_o their_o first_o entrance_n into_o religion_n therefore_o if_o any_o one_o show_v unrulines_n obstinacy_n and_o indevotion_n during_o their_o noviceship_n small_a good_a be_v to_o be_v expect_v from_o they_o 6._o a_o little_a devoutnes_n will_v not_o serve_v to_o countervail_v ill_a inclination_n to_o lie_v dissemble_a factiousnes_n a_o humour_n of_o calummate_v &c_n &c_n for_o a_o great_a and_o scarce_o to_o be_v hope_v for_o measure_n of_o grace_n will_v be_v requisite_a to_o subdue_v such_o pernicious_a quality_n on_o the_o contrary_a a_o good_a nature_n even_o where_o there_o be_v not_o so_o much_o devotion_n yet_o will_v bear_v up_o a_o soul_n and_o make_v she_o a_o tolerable_a member_n of_o a_o community_n it_o be_v likewise_o a_o great_a disposition_n for_o grace_n which_o it_o may_v well_o be_v hope_v will_v one_o day_n follow_v and_o that_o such_o a_o one_o will_v become_v devout_a especial_o this_o may_v be_v hope_v for_o in_o those_o that_o have_v natural_o a_o good_a sound_a judgement_n which_o be_v much_o to_o be_v consider_v 7._o now_o by_o a_o good_a nature_n i_o mean_v not_o such_o a_o one_o as_o be_v general_o in_o the_o world_n style_v so_o to_o wit_n a_o facility_n and_o easiness_n to_o grant_v a_o request_n or_o to_o comply_v with_o other_o on_o the_o contrary_a for_o as_o much_o as_o regard_v a_o coenobiticall_a life_n i_o account_v such_o to_o be_v a_o ill_a nature_n be_v easy_o seduce_v and_o pervert_v by_o a_o good_a nature_n therefore_o in_o this_o place_n i_o mean_v such_o a_o one_o as_o be_v endue_v with_o modesty_n gentleness_n quietness_n humility_n patience_n love_n of_o truth_n and_o other_o such_o moral_o good_a quality_n which_o be_v good_a disposition_n for_o christian_a perfection_n now_o a_o person_n of_o a_o ill_a nature_n that_o will_v make_v a_o good_a show_v out_o of_o hope_n to_o steal_v a_o profession_n ought_v the_o rather_o for_o his_o dissimulation_n to_o be_v reject_v 8._o and_o indeed_o subtle_a nature_n be_v much_o to_o be_v take_v heed_n of_o some_o novice_n will_v behave_v themselves_o so_o cunning_o as_o at_o the_o end_n of_o their_o probation_n none_o can_v be_v able_a to_o produce_v any_o special_a accusation_n against_o they_o &_o yet_o they_o may_v in_o their_o conscience_n believe_v they_o to_o be_v unfit_a in_o this_o case_n every_o one_o be_v to_o follow_v their_o own_o judgement_n and_o especial_a heed_n be_v to_o be_v take_v of_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o master_n or_o mistress_n of_o the_o novice_n who_o be_v most_o to_o be_v credit_v as_o have_v the_o opportunity_n &_o mean_n to_o espy_v and_o penetrate_v more_o deep_o into_o their_o interiour_n disposition_n 9_o this_o goodness_n or_o virtuousness_n of_o nature_n be_v a_o essential_a point_n and_o far_o more_o to_o be_v regard_v then_o those_o accidental_a one_o as_o strength_n of_o bodily_a complexion_n acuteness_n of_o wit_n gracefullnes_n of_o behaviour_n skill_n in_o sing_v nobility_n portion_n etc._n etc._n and_o particular_o for_o this_o last_o how_o far_o religious_a soul_n ought_v to_o be_v from_o regard_v riches_n or_o gain_v in_o matter_n of_o this_o nature_n or_o for_o such_o carnal_a end_n to_o admit_v those_o that_o be_v unfit_a or_o who_o god_n have_v not_o send_v the_o general_n decree_n of_o the_o church_n in_o the_o first_o ecumenical_a council_n of_o lateran_n can_n 64._o will_v show_v beside_o the_o practice_n of_o antiquity_n as_o we_o may_v read_v in_o a_o epistle_n of_o s._n augustin_n sure_o the_o only_a way_n of_o sound_v conuent_v secure_o even_o in_o regard_n of_o temporality_n be_v by_o make_v choice_n only_o of_o those_o to_o who_o god_n have_v give_v fit_v disposition_n whereby_o we_o may_v engage_v his_o omnipotence_n in_o their_o preservation_n 10._o those_o therefore_o upon_o who_o suffrage_n the_o admission_n and_o profession_n of_o newcomer_n do_v depend_v be_v to_o consider_v that_o they_o be_v entrust_v by_o the_o whole_a congregation_n with_o a_o matter_n of_o such_o consequence_n as_o not_o only_o the_o present_a but_o future_a welfare_n or_o ruin_n of_o conuent_v be_v interest_v in_o their_o proceed_n all_o which_o trust_n they_o shall_v betray_v if_o any_o undue_a consideration_n of_o friendship_n kindred_n gain_n etc._n etc._n or_o a_o zeal_n of_o multiply_a conuent_v which_o be_v but_o carnal_a shall_v corrupt_v their_o judgment_n 11._o sure_o therefore_o in_o all_o reason_n none_o shall_v be_v admit_v into_o community_n profess_v the_o aspire_n to_o contemplation_n but_o only_o such_o as_o be_v dispose_v thereto_o and_o that_o be_v willing_a yea_o desirous_a to_o spend_v their_o whole_a life_n in_o solitude_n prayer_n &_o regular_a observance_n without_o any_o design_n or_o thought_n of_o ever_o be_v employ_v abroad_o yet_o always_o with_o a_o entire_a submission_n to_o the_o ordinance_n of_o superior_n 12._o and_o indeed_o as_o be_v say_v before_o concern_v superior_n that_o active_a spirit_n be_v to_o direct_v the_o contemplative_a do_v endanger_v the_o extinguish_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o contemplation_n so_o likewise_o if_o such_o be_v without_o choice_n admit_v the_o same_o mischief_n will_v follow_v yea_o i_o be_o persuade_v that_o many_o active_a spirit_n though_o of_o a_o good_a seemly_a outward_a carriage_n be_v no_o less_o harmful_a to_o a_o community_n than_o a_o lesser_a number_n of_o loose_a spirit_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o by_o their_o good_a exterior_a show_v they_o will_v seem_v worthy_a of_o superiority_n to_o which_o also_o their_o activity_n will_v incline_v they_o and_o those_o be_v they_o indeed_o say_v thaulerus_n that_o be_v persecutor_n of_o contemplation_n for_o have_v a_o good_a opinion_n of_o themselves_o and_o their_o own_o way_n which_o loose_a spirit_n have_v not_o they_o think_v themselves_o even_o oblige_v to_o depress_v those_o other_o good_a soul_n that_o do_v not_o judge_v those_o external_a exercise_n and_o fashion_n suitable_a to_o their_o profession_n and_o for_o this_o reason_n they_o will_v by_o faction_n seek_v to_o increase_v their_o number_n yea_o and_o to_o strengthen_v their_o own_o party_n they_o will_v not_o spare_v to_o join_v with_o loose_a spirit_n for_o their_o own_o interest_n yield_v to_o their_o disorder_n neither_o when_o they_o have_v compass_v their_o end_n by_o the_o ruin_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o contemplation_n will_v unquietness_n cease_v for_o in_o a_o community_n whole_o consist_v of_o active_a spirit_n faction_n and_o partiality_n for_o several_a end_n and_o design_n will_v never_o be_v want_v 13._o now_o the_o same_o care_n that_o superior_n ought_v to_o have_v about_o the_o choice_n and_o admission_n of_o virtuous_a and_o fit_a soul_n into_o community_n must_v be_v continue_v in_o the_o manage_n and_o direct_v of_o they_o be_v admit_v great_a care_n therefore_o be_v to_o be_v take_v that_o the_o misbehaviour_n of_o novice_n do_v not_o proceed_v from_o want_n of_o knowledge_n &_o instruction_n in_o matter_n of_o the_o spirit_n that_o so_o it_o may_v appear_v that_o if_o they_o do_v not_o well_o it_o be_v for_o want_n of_o good_a will_n and_o not_o of_o light_n now_o it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v expect_v that_o novice_n shall_v be_v perfect_a it_o will_v suffice_v that_o they_o serious_o tend_v to_o it_o by_o a_o constant_a pursuance_n of_o internal_a prayer_n and_o abstraction_n of_o life_n 14._o above_o all_o thing_n therefore_o superior_n ought_v to_o allow_v to_o their_o subject_n a_o competent_a time_n daily_o for_o their_o recollection_n which_o be_v the_o food_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o to_o deny_v which_o will_v be_v a_o great_a tyramny_n then_o to_o refuse_v corporal_a food_n to_o slave_n after_o their_o travail_n he_o deserve_v not_o the_o name_n of_o a_o religious_a man_n say_v caietan_n no_o not_o of_o a_o christian_a say_v thaulerus_n that_o do_v not_o every_o day_n spend_v some_o reasonable_a space_n in_o his_o interiour_n s._n bernard_n will_v not_o excuse_v even_o pope_n eugenius_n himself_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o those_o continual_o most_o distractive_a weighty_a affair_n of_o the_o popedom_n from_o this_o duty_n the_o want_n whereof_o be_v more_o harmful_a to_o the_o soul_n then_o that_o of_o corporal_a food_n be_v to_o the_o body_n for_o he_o that_o fast_v one_o day_n beside_o the_o present_a pain_n he_o find_v will_v the_o next_o have_v a_o better_a and_o more_o eager_a appetite_n but_o a_o soul_n that_o through_o neglect_n be_v deprive_v of_o her_o daily_a food_n of_o prayer_n will_v the_o next_o day_n have_v a_o less_o stomach_n and_o disposition_n to_o it_o and_o so_o in_o time_n will_v come_v willing_o and_o even_o with_o pleasure_n to_o starve_v in_o spirit_n and_o to_o such_o neglect_n and_o loathe_n of_o prayer_n she_o will_v come_v if_o superior_n do_v hinder_v or_o indeed_o not_o encourage_v she_o
sufficient_a for_o the_o person_n to_o propose_v the_o matter_n humble_o and_o modest_o to_o his_o superior_n yet_o withal_o with_o a_o entire_a resignation_n and_o almost_o a_o desire_n to_o be_v refuse_v if_o it_o be_v god_n will_v actual_o to_o make_v use_n of_o such_o a_o religious_a person_n in_o a_o employment_n of_o that_o nature_n he_o will_v no_o doubt_n facilitate_v the_o business_n and_o in_o his_o own_o time_n incline_v the_o will_n of_o the_o superior_a without_o the_o subject_n solicitation_n to_o permit_v he_o to_o go_v 11._o but_o what_o ever_o pretence_n be_v make_v by_o other_o for_o go_v into_o england_n whether_o it_o be_v convert_n of_o soul_n and_o particular_o of_o some_o special_a friend_n or_o kindred_n or_o of_o recovery_n of_o bodily_a health_n gain_v of_o temporal_a commodity_n to_o the_o community_n &c_n &c_n the_o true_a motiveâ—_n indeed_o ordinary_o proceed_v from_o tepidity_n the_o which_o tepidity_n ought_v to_o be_v correct_v by_o prayer_n and_o perseverance_n in_o religious_a duty_n and_o not_o further_o increase_v and_o perhaps_o change_v into_o open_a libertinage_n and_o profaneness_n by_o such_o a_o exemption_n from_o all_o regularity_n and_o order_n by_o which_o a_o poor_a unprovided_a sensual_a soul_n will_v become_v deep_o engage_v in_o the_o world_n expose_v to_o innumerable_a tentation_n without_o spiritual_a armour_n and_o as_o it_o be_v cast_v headlong_o into_o a_o pitt_n of_o darkness_n and_o of_o a_o forgetfulness_n of_o all_o thing_n that_o concern_v a_o holy_a religious_a life_n 12._o as_o for_o their_o obligation_n in_o the_o discharge_n of_o that_o so_o terrible_a a_o employment_n when_o they_o be_v once_o engage_v in_o it_o it_o will_v suffice_v to_o put_v they_o in_o mind_n that_o the_o say_a charge_n do_v not_o dispense_v with_o the_o essential_a obligation_n that_o lie_v upon_o they_o as_o religious_a if_o in_o their_o conuent_v they_o aught_o to_o be_v humble_a abstinent_a devout_a &c_n &c_n much_o more_o ought_v they_o be_v still_o religious_a but_o now_o expose_v to_o innumerable_a tentation_n to_o increase_v a_o vigilance_n over_o themselves_o to_o avoid_v all_o unnecessary_a vain_a conversation_n all_o sollicitude_n about_o external_a thing_n &c_n &c_n and_o to_o practice_v all_o possible_a abstraction_n of_o life_n solitude_n both_o externall_n and_o internal_a but_o especial_o not_o to_o neglect_v the_o principal_a duty_n of_o all_o which_o be_v pure_a spiritual_a prayer_n which_o alone_o can_v procure_v security_n to_o their_o own_o soul_n and_o blessing_n upon_o other_o for_o sure_o if_o prayer_n be_v necessary_a in_o a_o convent_n much_o more_o be_v it_o necessary_a to_o such_o person_n live_v in_o the_o world_n the_o end_n of_o the_o first_o treatise_n the_o second_o treatise_n of_o mortification_n the_o second_o treatise_n of_o the_o first_o instrument_n of_o perfection_n viz._n mortification_n the_o first_o section_n of_o mortification_n in_o general_n and_o of_o necessary_a &_o voluntary_a mortification_n chap._n i._n §_o 1._o 2._o 3._o 4._o 5._o all_o the_o duty_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n reduce_v to_o two_o head_n viz._n 1._o mortification_n 2._o prayer_n and_o the_o ground_n of_o that_o division_n §_o 6._o the_o necessity_n of_o each_o of_o these_o §_o 7._o how_o they_o do_v advance_v each_o the_o other_o §_o 8._o etc._n etc._n of_o the_o two_o prayer_n be_v the_o more_o noble_a 1._o have_v so_o large_o treat_v of_o the_o nature_n &_o end_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n in_o general_a as_o likewise_o of_o the_o only_a divine_a master_n from_o who_o it_o be_v to_o be_v learn_v &_o the_o school_n of_o solitude_n in_o which_o he_o give_v his_o direction_n order_n require_v that_o we_o now_o treat_v of_o the_o special_a instruction_n touch_v the_o mean_n or_o instrument_n conduce_v to_o the_o obtain_n of_o the_o supernatural_a end_n aspire_v to_o by_o us._n concern_v which_o our_o discourse_n will_v not_o need_v to_o be_v so_o diffuse_v consider_v the_o large_a scope_n that_o we_o have_v allow_v to_o ourselves_o in_o the_o first_o general_a treatise_n in_o which_o mention_n also_o be_v make_v of_o much_o of_o that_o which_o be_v to_o follow_v 2._o several_a mystical_a author_n each_o one_o abound_v in_o his_o own_o sense_n and_o raise_v a_o frame_n of_o spirituality_n as_o suit_v best_o to_o his_o own_o imagination_n and_o design_n have_v make_v several_a partition_n of_o the_o duty_n of_o a_o spiritual_a life_n and_o it_o be_v not_o a_o matter_n much_o considerable_a which_o of_o they_o shall_v be_v prefer_v but_o to_o the_o end_n the_o best_a ease_n and_o help_n may_v be_v afford_v to_o the_o devout_a reader_n memory_n the_o division_n of_o they_o shall_v be_v the_o short_a that_o may_v be_v yet_o sufficient_o and_o clear_o enough_o comprehend_v all_o necessary_a duty_n namely_o under_o these_o two_o head_n of_o 1._o mortification_n 2._o prayer_n 3._o now_o to_o the_o end_n that_o the_o ground_n of_o the_o fitness_n of_o this_o division_n may_v be_v better_o understand_v we_o be_v to_o remember_v that_o the_o glorious_a end_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n to_o wit_n union_n in_o spirit_n with_o god_n by_o love_n be_v entire_o supernatural_a and_o divine_a so_o that_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o man_n by_o any_o natural_a ability_n and_o strength_n although_o he_o be_v free_a from_o sin_n to_o attain_v unto_o it_o and_o much_o more_o be_v this_o impossible_a to_o he_o in_o his_o present_a state_n since_o he_o be_v natural_o most_o averse_a from_o it_o be_v whole_o possess_v and_o fill_v with_o nothing_o but_o self-love_n propriety_n and_o pride_n absolute_o inconsistent_a with_o such_o a_o union_n therefore_o the_o foundation_n of_o all_o our_o spiritual_a duty_n must_v be_v a_o true_a knowledge_n 1._o of_o ourselves_o our_o own_o nothing_o our_o unproffitablenes_n vileness_n and_o misery_n which_o be_v to_o be_v the_o object_n of_o our_o aversion_n and_o hatred_n and_o 2._o of_o the_o allsufficiency_n universal_a be_v infinite_a perfection_n and_o incomprehensible_a beauty_n and_o goodness_n of_o god_n who_o be_v to_o be_v the_o only_a object_n of_o our_o contemplation_n and_o love_n and_o consequent_o upon_o this_o knowledge_n all_o our_o endeavour_n towards_o this_o end_n be_v direct_v by_o a_o divine_a light_n and_o assist_v by_o divine_a grace_n must_v be_v employ_v first_o in_o remove_v those_o impediment_n and_o next_o consequent_o in_o approach_v direct_o to_o god_n a_o immediate_a union_n with_o who_o be_v aspire_v to_o as_o the_o only_a end_n of_o our_o creation_n &_o perfection_n of_o our_o intellective_a nature_n we_o must_v renounce_v &_o fly_v from_o ourselves_o that_o we_o may_v draw_v near_o unto_o god_n we_o must_v destroy_v self-love_n in_o our_o soul_n that_o so_o the_o divine_a love_n may_v be_v raise_v &_o increase_v in_o they_o now_o it_o be_v by_o mortification_n that_o self_n love_n &_o all_o other_o our_o natural_a deordination_n which_o hinder_v a_o divine_a union_n be_v remove_v and_o it_o be_v by_o prayer_n that_o we_o direct_o tend_v to_o a_o divine_a union_n by_o the_o former_a we_o exercise_v all_o duty_n &_o practice_v all_o virtue_n which_o regard_v ourselves_o for_o virtue_n be_v so_o far_o only_o to_o be_v esteem_v worthy_a of_o that_o name_n in_o as_o much_o &_o as_o far_o as_o they_o be_v mortificatory_a to_o our_o inordinate_a passion_n and_o affection_n as_o humility_n of_o pride_n patience_n of_o anger_n temperance_n of_o sensual_a desire_n &c._n &c._n and_o prayer_n in_o the_o notion_n in_o which_o it_o be_v here_o understand_v include_v all_o our_o duty_n direct_o pertain_v to_o god_n as_o comprehend_v all_o manner_n of_o internal_a actuation_n &_o operation_n of_o the_o soul_n towards_o god_n by_o the_o understanding_n contemplate_v &_o admire_v he_o by_o the_o will_n &_o affection_n adore_v obey_v love_a &_o adhere_v to_o he_o &_o in_o a_o word_n the_o whole_a soul_n resign_v &_o submit_v itself_o &_o the_o body_n also_o with_o all_o thing_n belong_v to_o eath_n of_o they_o to_o be_v dispose_v according_a to_o his_o divine_a will_n both_o for_o time_n &_o eternity_n 4._o this_o division_n deserve_v the_o rather_o to_o be_v approve_v because_o hesychius_n a_o ancient_n illuminate_v monk_n in_o his_o treatise_n de_fw-fr puritate_fw-la cordis_n have_v conformable_o reduce_v all_o spiritual_a duty_n to_o 1._o temperance_n 2._o and_o prayer_n by_o temperance_n understand_v the_o very_a same_o that_o be_v here_o mean_v by_o mortification_n for_o as_o he_o express_v his_o meaning_n this_o temperance_n be_v a_o general_a abstain_v from_o all_o thing_n that_o will_v any_o way_n disorder_v the_o affection_n or_o obscure_v the_o light_n of_o the_o soul_n he_o call_v it_o likewise_o custodiam_fw-la cordis_n a_o guard_n or_o watch_v set_v over_o the_o heart_n force_v it_o to_o repel_v all_o vain_a &_o unproffitable_a thought_n the_o which_o if_o they_o be_v too_o
of_o confession_n although_o the_o correct_a &_o abate_v of_o they_o ought_v to_o be_v the_o object_n of_o our_o daily_a care_n 3._o i_o will_v endeavour_v to_o explain_v my_o meaning_n more_o full_o in_o this_o matter_n because_o it_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o the_o whole_a follow_a discourse_n we_o must_v know_v then_o that_o the_o duty_n of_o a_o christian_a much_o more_o of_o a_o soul_n that_o aspire_v to_o perfection_n be_v to_o love_v nothing_o at_o all_o but_o god_n or_o in_o order_n to_o he_o that_o be_v as_o a_o mean_a &_o instrument_n to_o beget_v &_o increase_v his_o divine_a love_n in_o our_o soul_n all_o adhesion_n to_o creature_n by_o affection_n whether_o such_o affection_n be_v great_a or_o small_a be_v according_o sinful_a more_o or_o less_o so_o that_o if_o be_v deprive_v of_o any_o thing_n or_o person_n whatsoever_o or_o be_v pain_v by_o any_o thing_n we_o find_v a_o trouble_n &_o sorrow_v in_o our_o mind_n for_o the_o loss_n or_o suffer_v of_o the_o thing_n itself_o such_o trouble_n in_o what_o degree_n soever_o argue_v that_o our_o affection_n be_v sinful_a not_o only_o because_o the_o affection_n be_v excessive_a but_o because_o it_o be_v a_o affection_n the_o object_n whereof_o be_v not_o god_n 4._o but_o yet_o withal_o this_o affection_n which_o i_o say_v be_v unlawful_a be_v not_o simple_o such_o a_o one_o as_o reside_v &_o be_v confine_v to_o sensitive_a nature_n for_o that_o be_v impossible_a to_o be_v root_v out_o neither_o be_v there_o any_o fault_n at_o all_o in_o it_o consider_v as_o such_o for_o to_o adam_n in_o the_o state_n of_o innocency_n yea_o even_o to_o our_o lord_n himself_o many_o object_n be_v please_v &_o delightful_a to_o sense_n his_o fight_n &_o taste_n take_v contentment_n in_o pleasurable_a object_n &_o there_o be_v in_o nature_n a_o aversion_n from_o pain_n &_o a_o earnest_a desire_n to_o prolong_v natural_a life_n &_o in_o all_o this_o there_o be_v not_o the_o least_o imperfection_n the_o affection_n to_o creature_n therefore_o which_o we_o affirm_v to_o be_v sinful_a be_v such_o as_o be_v seat_v in_o the_o superior_a soul_n or_o rational_a will_n by_o which_o the_o mind_n &_o will_n consider_v &_o adhere_v unto_o creature_n &_o knowing_o &_o willing_o pursue_v the_o attain_n &_o enjoy_v of_o they_o as_o if_o they_o be_v the_o good_a not_o of_o sense_n only_o for_o so_o they_o be_v but_o of_o the_o person_n the_o which_o indeed_o they_o be_v not_o for_o the_o only_a good_a of_o a_o intellectual_a nature_n be_v god_n who_o be_v only_o exalt_v above_o it_o whereas_o all_o other_o creature_n be_v but_o equal_a or_o inferior_a to_o it_o to_o the_o superior_a will_n therefore_o all_o thing_n but_o god_n must_v be_v indifferent_a as_o in_o &_o for_o themselves_o &_o only_o to_o be_v love_v as_o they_o be_v serviceable_a to_o the_o spirit_n so_o that_o if_o thing_n which_o be_v unpleasant_a yea_o destructive_a to_o inferior_a nature_n do_v yet_o advance_v the_o spirit_n in_o her_o tendance_n to_o god_n or_o if_o by_o the_o will_n &_o providence_n of_o god_n they_o be_v present_v to_o she_o to_o suffer_v she_o must_v with_o all_o indifference_n &_o resignation_n accept_v of_o they_o though_o sensitive_a nature_n do_v never_o so_o much_o struggle_v &_o contradict_v 5._o a_o most_o perfect_a example_n hereof_o be_v give_v by_o our_o saviour_n the_o which_o we_o be_v oblige_v to_o the_o utmost_a of_o our_o capacity_n &_o enablement_n to_o imitate_v though_o sensitive_a nature_n in_o he_o take_v contentment_n in_o life_n &_o in_o the_o action_n &_o function_n thereof_o &_o above_o all_o thing_n do_v abhor_v a_o dissolution_n by_o death_n especial_o such_o a_o death_n accompany_v with_o such_o inexpressible_a torment_n &_o shame_n and_o though_o for_o our_o instruction_n he_o voluntary_o give_v way_n to_o inferior_a nature_n to_o express_v such_o her_o innocent_a inclinanation_n &_o aversion_n yet_o when_o the_o will_n of_o his_o father_n oppose_v itself_o &_o present_v he_o a_o cup_n in_o the_o high_a degree_n mortal_a to_o nature_n &_o all_o the_o inclination_n thereof_o he_o most_o willing_o quiet_o &_o cheerful_o accept_v it_o than_o subdue_a all_o reluctance_n in_o nature_n the_o which_o reluctance_n in_o he_o be_v to_o the_o thing_n itself_o consider_v in_o itself_o &_o not_o at_o all_o to_o the_o dictate_v of_o the_o superior_a soul_n the_o which_o have_v so_o absolute_a a_o dominion_n over_o sensitive_a nature_n that_o it_o never_o oppose_v itself_o or_o express_v the_o least_o unwillingnes_n to_o conform_v itself_o to_o the_o dictate_v of_o reason_n though_o with_o its_o own_o destruction_n 6._o whereas_o therefore_o there_o be_v continual_o present_v to_o our_o outward_a &_o inward_a sense_n infinite_a object_n please_v &_o displease_v to_o they_o and_o that_o the_o function_n of_o of_o life_n which_o we_o be_v bind_v to_o preserve_v can_v be_v exercise_v without_o admit_v the_o use_n of_o many_o thing_n delightful_a to_o sensitive_a nature_n meat_n drink_n recreative_a conversatious_a &_o relaxation_n of_o mind_n &c_n &c_n we_o be_v to_o consider_v &_o resolve_v that_o none_o of_o these_o thing_n please_v to_o the_o appetite_n be_v give_v to_o be_v possess_v with_o any_o affection_n at_o all_o or_o fruition_n but_o the_o mere_a simple_a use_n of_o they_o be_v allow_v we_o for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o soul_n &_o the_o contentment_n that_o the_o appetite_n natural_o take_v in_o they_o be_v no_o further_o nor_o with_o other_o intention_n to_o be_v admit_v then_o in_o as_o much_o as_o thereby_o the_o spirit_n or_o rational_a will_n be_v or_o may_v be_v enable_v more_o cheerful_o to_o pursue_v its_o supreme_a good_n and_o with_o this_o end_n &_o intention_n to_o admit_v sometime_o with_o caution_n &_o discretion_n of_o moderate_a comfort_n &_o contentment_n to_o inferior_a nature_n be_v not_o in_o itself_o at_o all_o unlawful_a on_o the_o contrary_a it_o be_v fit_v requisite_a &_o necessary_a 7._o but_o withal_o consider_v the_o most_o miserable_a and_o inexpressible_a corruption_n of_o our_o nature_n the_o violent_a adhesion_n of_o our_o appetite_n to_o sensual_o please_a object_n the_o uncertain_a &_o weak_a dominion_n that_o the_o superior_a faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n have_v over_o sensitive_a nature_n it_o be_v our_o duty_n &_o obligation_n not_o only_o to_o be_v watchful_a over_o the_o sensitive_a appetite_n that_o it_o do_v not_o with_o too_o much_o greediness_n pursue_v the_o contentment_n proper_a and_o necessary_a to_o it_o but_o also_o as_o much_o as_o may_v be_v to_o abridge_v the_o number_n of_o they_o make_v as_o few_o necessary_a as_o may_v be_v &_o not_o suffer_v it_o to_o accept_v all_o the_o lawful_a contentment_n offer_v to_o it_o yea_o oft_o to_o restrain_v &_o contradict_v the_o inclination_n of_o it_o in_o a_o word_n to_o use_v all_o the_o industry_n we_o can_v not_o to_o suffer_v it_o to_o run_v on_o blind_o before_o or_o without_o the_o conduct_n of_o reason_n to_o thing_n please_v to_o it_o &_o when_o we_o perceive_v it_o do_v so_o to_o call_v it_o back_o however_v not_o to_o suffer_v reason_n to_o favour_v it_o and_o join_v with_o it_o in_o its_o desire_n but_o to_o reserve_v all_o our_o rational_a inclination_n and_o affection_n to_o god_n only_o 8._o for_o the_o case_n with_o we_o be_v far_o different_a from_o that_o it_o be_v with_o adam_n during_o his_o state_n of_o innocency_n for_o than_o it_o be_v no_o inconvenience_n but_o rather_o perhaps_o a_o help_n to_o he_o free_o to_o make_v use_n of_o the_o pleasure_n afford_v he_o in_o paradise_n because_o though_o sensual_a pleasure_n be_v to_o he_o consider_v the_o exquisiteness_n of_o his_o temper_n far_o more_o pleasurable_a than_o they_o can_v be_v to_o we_o yet_o his_o appetite_n do_v not_o so_o much_o as_o desire_v or_o wish_v the_o least_o excess_n and_o his_o spirit_n be_v so_o replenish_v with_o divine_a love_n that_o by_o admit_v of_o such_o innocent_a satisfaction_n to_o nature_n it_o rather_o increase_v then_o diminish_v or_o interrupt_v its_o fervour_n in_o tend_v to_o god_n and_o express_v its_o gratitude_n love_n &_o obedience_n to_o he_o whereas_o we_o find_v all_o the_o contrary_a effect_n &_o therefore_o must_v take_v a_o quite_o contrary_a course_n 9_o this_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o mortification_n so_o proper_a &_o necessary_a in_o a_o spiritual_a life_n and_o these_o be_v the_o venial_a sin_n or_o imperfection_n that_o we_o be_v continual_o to_o combat_v against_o in_o this_o point_n of_o distinction_n between_o the_o use_n of_o creature_n for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o enjoy_n of_o creature_n for_o the_o pleasure_n of_o sense_n without_o regard_n to_o the_o soul_n good_a &_o advancement_n lie_v the_o difference_n between_o the_o child_n of_o god_n &_o the_o child_n of_o belial_n yea_o in_o
be_v make_v of_o prosperity_n §_o 8._o 9_o the_o great_a benefit_n of_o mortification_n §_o 10._o a_o great_a courage_n be_v necessary_a to_o the_o due_a practice_n of_o mortification_n §_o 11._o 12._o 13._o 14._o the_o advice_n of_o some_o writer_n to_o raise_v passion_n to_o the_o end_n afterward_o to_o repress_v they_o be_v dangerous_a 1._o natural_o we_o love_v &_o seek_v nothing_o but_o ourselves_o in_o all_o thing_n whatsoever_o we_o love_v &_o seek_v we_o be_v our_o own_o last_o end_n refer_v all_o thing_n even_o supernatural_a yea_o god_n himself_o to_o our_o own_o interest_n &_o commodity_n we_o seek_v thing_n please_v only_o to_o our_o sense_n outward_a or_o inward_a as_o if_o the_o felicity_n of_o our_o soul_n &_o person_n consist_v in_o sensual_a pleasure_n opinion_n of_o honour_n profit_n or_o curiosity_n of_o knowledge_n &c_n &c_n therefore_o there_o can_v be_v no_o merit_n in_o nature_n or_o action_n proceed_v from_o nature_n 2._o yea_o they_o who_o natural_o have_v much_o interior_a composednes_n &_o stillnes_n of_o passion_n &_o seem_v not_o much_o to_o be_v trouble_v with_o rebellion_n in_o sensuality_n &_o that_o moreover_o have_v in_o they_o a_o kind_n of_o natural_a devotion_n yet_o even_o these_o whatsoever_o they_o appear_v outward_o in_o show_v be_v full_a of_o self_n love_n which_o be_v the_o principle_n of_o all_o their_o action_n if_o they_o love_v quietness_n it_o be_v because_o nature_n take_v a_o contentment_n in_o it_o and_o their_o self-love_n be_v more_o abstruse_a &_o more_o deep_o seat_v in_o the_o root_n of_o the_o spirit_n itself_o and_o therefore_o ofttimes_o it_o be_v hard_o to_o be_v cure_v because_o not_o so_o easy_o discover_v neither_o indeed_o be_v there_o any_o hope_n of_o remedy_n till_o by_o prayer_n they_o get_v a_o light_n to_o discover_v the_o say_a secret_a self_n love_n and_o grace_n by_o mortification_n to_o subdue_v it_o 3._o it_o be_v true_a such_o good_a natural_a disposition_n may_v be_v beneficial_a to_o soul_n in_o two_o respect_n especial_o first_o in_o that_o by_o mean_n thereof_o they_o fall_v into_o fewer_n sin_n then_o more_o passionate_a impetuous_a nature_n do_v &_o consequent_o do_v not_o put_v so_o many_o impediment_n to_o grace_n but_o yet_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v unless_o they_o practise_v prayer_n &_o mortification_n they_o will_v increase_v in_o spiritual_a pride_n for_o certain_a it_o be_v that_o nature_n not_o restrain_v will_v one_o way_n or_o other_o grow_v more_o &_o more_o inordinate_a 2._o a_o second_o benefit_n be_v that_o such_o disposition_n be_v better_o fit_v for_o internal_a prayer_n yea_o to_o the_o perfect_a kind_n of_o it_o which_o be_v prayer_n of_o aspiration_n so_o that_o they_o may_v with_o less_o labour_n get_v out_o of_o nature_n elevate_n themselves_o to_o god_n 4._o a_o absolute_a necessity_n therefore_o there_o be_v for_o all_o soul_n to_o mortify_v nature_n &_o especial_o to_o rectify_v this_o general_a depravednes_n of_o propriety_n by_o which_o we_o be_v to_o ourselves_o our_o last_a end_n the_o which_o be_v do_v by_o the_o infusion_n of_o divine_a charity_n by_o which_o ourselves_o be_v direct_v to_o god_n as_o our_o last_o end_n and_o a_o necessary_a disposition_n thereto_o be_v the_o mortification_n of_o self_n love_n and_o thus_o far_o all_o christian_n be_v oblige_v to_o mortify_v themselves_o namely_o to_o cure_v the_o mortal_o sinful_a disorder_n of_o their_o soul_n a_o necessity_n likewise_o there_o be_v upon_o supposition_n of_o aspire_v to_o perfection_n to_o mortify_v all_o deliberate_a affection_n to_o any_o the_o least_o venial_a defect_n and_o deordination_n of_o our_o soul_n the_o which_o duty_n of_o mortification_n require_v of_o we_o that_o deliberate_o and_o customary_o we_o neither_o admit_v into_o our_o mind_n internal_o vain_a thought_n nor_o outward_o speak_v or_o exercise_v act_n of_o vain_a love_n vain_a hope_n vain_a fear_n or_o vain_a sorrow_o &_o all_o be_v vain_a that_o be_v not_o refer_v to_o god_n or_o be_v not_o do_v for_o he_o 5._o mortification_n tend_v to_o subject_v the_o body_n to_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o spirit_n to_o god_n and_o this_o it_o do_v by_o cross_v the_o inclination_n of_o sense_n which_o be_v quite_o contrary_a to_o those_o of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n which_o ought_v to_o be_v our_o chief_a &_o only_a principle_n for_o by_o such_o cross_n &_o afflict_v of_o the_o body_n self-love_n &_o selfewill_n the_o poison_n of_o our_o spirit_n be_v abate_v &_o in_o time_n in_o a_o sort_n destroy_v &_o instead_o of_o they_o there_o enter_v into_o the_o soul_n the_o divine_a love_n &_o divine_a will_n &_o take_v possession_n thereof_o and_o therein_o consist_v our_o perfection_n &_o happiness_n 6._o for_o this_o reason_n the_o soul_n be_v in_o a_o far_o more_o secure_a state_n when_o cross_n &_o affliction_n do_v exceed_v world_o contentment_n &_o sensual_a ease_n for_o wonderful_a seldom_o it_o happen_v that_o a_o soul_n make_v any_o progress_n in_o a_o spiritual_a course_n by_o mean_n of_o outward_a prosperity_n some_o perfect_a soul_n may_v perhaps_o keep_v the_o station_n in_o which_o they_o be_v not_o withstand_v a_o casefull_a content_v &_o abound_a condition_n in_o the_o world_n but_o it_o be_v almost_o miraculous_a if_o they_o thereby_o advance_v themselves_o in_o spirit_n so_o natural_o &_o almost_o necessary_o do_v case_n of_o nature_n nourish_v self-love_n pride_n security_n a_o spiritual_a sloth_n &_o a_o distaste_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n 7._o indeed_o the_o only_a possible_a way_n for_o a_o soul_n to_o make_v prosperity_n a_o occasion_n of_o improvement_n to_o she_o be_v by_o a_o voluntary_a cross_n &_o diminish_v of_o it_o that_o be_v by_o take_v advantage_n even_o from_o thence_o to_o mortify_v nature_n as_o for_o example_n in_o case_n of_o riches_n &_o honour_n by_o carry_v ourselves_o both_o exterior_o &_o interior_o to_o god_n &_o man_n with_o more_o humility_n &_o modesty_n as_o if_o we_o be_v not_o at_o all_o in_o such_o plenty_n &_o eminency_n also_o by_o suppress_v vain_a joy_n &_o complacency_n in_o such_o thing_n by_o acknowledge_v that_o we_o be_v not_o lord_n &_o proprietaire_n but_o only_a steward_n &_o dispenser_n of_o such_o thing_n from_o who_o a_o severe_a account_n shall_v be_v require_v for_o the_o talent_n entrust_v to_o we_o for_o other_o sake_n &_o not_o our_o own_o so_o that_o it_o be_v most_o true_a that_o all_o the_o security_n solidity_n &_o fullnes_n of_o our_o soul_n good_a consist_v in_o a_o right_a use_n of_o those_o thing_n which_o be_v contrary_a &_o afflict_v to_o our_o nature_n 8._o in_o general_n mortification_n include_v the_o exercise_n of_o all_o virtue_n for_o in_o every_o act_n of_o virtue_n we_o mortify_v some_o inordinate_a passion_n &_o inclination_n of_o nature_n or_o other_o so_o that_o to_o attain_v to_o perfect_a mortification_n be_v to_o be_v possess_v of_o all_o virtue_n 9_o the_o benefit_n &_o blessing_n that_o come_v to_o our_o soul_n by_o exercise_v of_o mortification_n be_v many_o &_o most_o precious_a as_o 1._o there_o be_v thereby_o avoid_v that_o sin_n which_o otherwise_o will_v have_v be_v commit_v 2._o it_o cause_v a_o degree_n of_o purity_n to_o the_o soul_n 3._o it_o procure_v great_a grace_n &_o spiritual_a strength_n 4._o one_o act_n of_o mortification_n enable_v to_o another_o as_o on_o the_o contrary_a by_o yield_v any_o time_n to_o our_o corrupt_a nature_n we_o be_v enfeeble_v &_o less_o able_a to_o resist_v another_o time_n 5._o it_o diminish_v our_o suffer_v in_o purgatory_n because_o so_o much_o of_o suffer_v be_v past_a &_o a_o little_a pain_n for_o the_o present_n will_v countervail_v &_o prevent_v sharp_a &_o long_a pain_n for_o the_o future_a 6._o it_o procure_v internal_a light_n by_o dispel_v &_o calm_v the_o unrulines_n of_o passion_n 7._o it_o produce_v great_a peace_n to_o the_o soul_n the_o which_o be_v disturb_v only_o by_o unquiet_a passion_n 8._o it_o help_v the_o soul_n much_o in_o her_o advancement_n in_o spiritual_a prayer_n &_o contemplation_n the_o end_n of_o all_o our_o religious_a &_o spiritual_a exercise_n 9_o it_o be_v of_o great_a edification_n to_o our_o brethren_n &_o neighbour_n 10._o it_o increase_v all_o these_o way_n our_o future_a happiness_n &_o glory_n 10._o the_o duty_n of_o mortification_n be_v so_o absolute_o necessary_a &_o so_o infinite_o beneficial_a &_o moreover_o so_o large_o extend_v as_o that_o it_o reach_v to_o all_o manner_n of_o natural_a inclination_n in_o so_o much_o as_o nothing_o do_v a_o imperfect_a soul_n any_o good_a further_o than_o it_o be_v cross_v &_o mortify_v to_o some_o inordination_n in_o her_o natural_a inclination_n it_o follow_v from_o hence_o that_o a_o soul_n that_o intend_v to_o walk_v in_o these_o way_n of_o contemplation_n have_v need_n have_v a_o great_a courage_n since_o her_o design_n must_v be_v to_o combat_v
unexpressible_a mortification_n most_o subtle_a tentation_n privation_n &_o desolation_n the_o which_o be_v worthy_o undergo_v do_v wonderful_o purify_v the_o spirit_n the_o former_a mortification_n s._n paul_n express_v thus_o there_o have_v no_o tentation_n take_v you_o but_o such_o as_o be_v according_a to_o ordinary_a humane_a nature_n &c_n &c_n but_o the_o latter_a thus_o our_o wrestle_n be_v not_o against_o flesh_n &_o blood_n the_o usual_a tentation_n of_o god_n imperfect_a child_n but_o against_o principality_n &_o power_n against_o the_o governor_n of_o the_o darkness_n of_o this_o world_n against_o spiritual_a wickedness_n in_o high_a place_n or_o thing_n 12._o every_o act_n of_o mortification_n perform_v by_o virtue_n of_o internal_a prayer_n do_v increase_v in_o we_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n &_o dispose_v we_o to_o a_o more_o perfect_a future_a prayer_n as_o on_o the_o contrary_a every_o act_n of_o immortification_n do_v increase_v in_o we_o self-love_n &_o do_v make_v we_o more_o indispose_v for_o future_a internal_a prayer_n again_o prayer_n enable_v we_o for_o future_a mortification_n teach_v we_o how_o to_o undertake_v &_o support_v they_o so_o that_o these_o duty_n must_v never_o be_v separate_v these_o contain_v all_o that_o a_o internal_a liver_n be_v oblige_v to_o 13._o i_o will_v conclude_v this_o discourse_n concern_v mortification_n in_o gross_a with_o one_o observation_n which_o may_v serve_v for_o a_o caution_n to_o a_o wellminded_n soul_n that_o live_v a_o internal_a life_n to_o prevent_v a_o inconvenience_n which_o otherwise_o may_v perhaps_o surprise_v she_o it_o be_v this_o that_o it_o may_v happen_v that_o religious_a or_o spiritual_a person_n will_v find_v a_o great_a difficulty_n in_o mortify_v &_o renounce_v some_o sensual_a contentment_n after_o they_o have_v enter_v into_o a_o spiritual_a course_n than_o they_o former_o find_v while_o they_o lead_v a_o extrovert_v secular_a life_n in_o the_o world_n now_o this_o happen_v to_o they_o may_v perhaps_o suggest_v either_o scrupulous_a or_o at_o least_o disquiet_v thought_n as_o if_o the_o change_n that_o they_o have_v make_v be_v not_o for_o the_o better_a or_o as_o if_o some_o thing_n they_o well_o know_v not_o what_o be_v amiss_o with_o they_o but_o if_o they_o will_v well_o consider_v of_o the_o matter_n they_o will_v find_v that_o this_o be_v no_o strange_a thing_n nor_o deserve_v that_o they_o shall_v much_o trouble_v themselves_o about_o it_o 14._o for_o the_o reason_n hereof_o be_v 1._o because_o if_o such_o a_o one_o have_v not_o pursue_v a_o internal_a life_n he_o will_v have_v perhaps_o enable_v himself_o to_o quit_v one_o pleasure_n by_o divert_v himself_o from_o thence_o to_o some_o other_o which_o will_v have_v recompense_v &_o satisfy_v for_o that_o loss_n take_v away_o the_o present_a difficulty_n whereas_o in_o a_o spiritual_a life_n a_o soul_n have_v in_o resolution_n abandon_v all_o sensual_a pleasure_n as_o such_o that_o can_v be_v abandon_v she_o can_v recompense_v the_o bitterness_n find_v in_o mortify_v one_o by_o a_o deliberate_a yield_n to_o another_o the_o pleasure_n feel_v in_o enjoy_v whereof_o might_n make_v she_o less_o sensible_a of_o the_o loss_n of_o the_o other_o 2._o again_o a_o imperfect_a soul_n will_v judge_v it_o necessary_a for_o the_o sustain_n of_o corporal_a infirmity_n &_o to_o prevent_v a_o unchearfull_a discontent_a habit_n of_o mind_n to_o allow_v unto_o herself_o some_o contentment_n recreative_a to_o sense_n and_o therefore_o when_o such_o be_v deny_v she_o she_o will_v be_v apt_a to_o be_v impatient_a or_o if_o she_o endeavour_v to_o contradict_v &_o resist_v such_o impatience_n of_o nature_n she_o will_v do_v it_o more_o feeble_o &_o faint_o 3._o because_o it_o be_v impossible_a that_o a_o soul_n can_v live_v &_o not_o take_v pleasure_n in_o something_o or_o other_o that_o assord_n contentment_n either_o to_o the_o sense_n or_o the_o spirit_n now_o a_o spiritual_a person_n be_v yet_o in_o a_o imperfect_a state_n have_v but_o little_a present_a sensible_a pleasure_n in_o the_o exercise_n proper_a to_o his_o way_n except_o god_n now_o &_o then_o visit_v he_o with_o sensible_a devotion_n for_o the_o chief_a pleasure_n that_o spirituality_n afford_v be_v in_o hope_n only_o &_o that_o without_o any_o regard_n to_o the_o body_n it_o regard_v the_o spirit_n alone_o now_o hope_n be_v not_o so_o attractive_a as_o present_v sensual_a contentment_n be_v 4._o beside_o all_o this_o such_o a_o soul_n not_o have_v yet_o chase_v out_o of_o the_o superior_a faculty_n all_o affection_n to_o sensual_a pleasure_n &_o find_v for_o the_o present_a little_a or_o nothing_o but_o pain_n in_o all_o her_o exercise_n both_o of_o mortification_n &_o prayer_n no_o marvel_v if_o when_o pleasure_n sometime_o come_v in_o her_o way_n that_o she_o find_v difficulty_n in_o reject_v it_o indeed_o the_o great_a pain_n come_v not_o from_o the_o particular_a object_n of_o mortification_n but_o rather_o from_o tediousness_n &_o irkesomenes_n in_o be_v continual_o in_o a_o condition_n of_o suffer_v which_o she_o judge_n must_v last_v to_o her_o life_n end_n this_o be_v very_o painful_a to_o a_o imperfect_a soul_n but_o yet_o by_o a_o constant_a practice_n of_o mortification_n &_o prayer_n she_o will_v find_v daily_o a_o abatement_n of_o this_o tediousness_n &_o in_o the_o end_n the_o renounce_n of_o all_o contentment_n of_o sense_n &_o nature_n for_o themselves_o will_v become_v easy_a &_o pleasurable_a to_o she_o 5._o â—astly_a such_o a_o soul_n be_v to_o consider_v that_o it_o be_v a_o proof_n of_o god_n goodness_n to_o she_o to_o suffer_v she_o to_o feel_v so_o much_o difficulty_n now_o not_o experience_v before_o to_o the_o end_n to_o humble_v she_o &_o to_o teach_v she_o not_o at_o all_o to_o rely_v upon_o herself_o nor_o to_o promise_v herself_o the_o least_o good_a from_o her_o own_o force_n chap._n v._n §_o 1._o 2._o 3._o 4._o 5._o mortification_n divide_v into_o 1._o necessary_a 2._o and_o voluntary_a and_o what_o each_o of_o these_o be_v §_o 6._o 7._o 8._o 9_o extraordinary_a or_o supernumerary_a mortification_n be_v not_o to_o be_v assume_v without_o great_a advice_n they_o be_v seldom_o allow_v in_o the_o rule_n of_o s._n benedict_n §_o 10._o 11._o the_o advice_n of_o some_o that_o we_o shall_v always_o in_o every_o thing_n be_v cross_v our_o natural_a inclination_n dangerous_a §_o 12._o 13._o the_o inconvenience_n of_o extraordinary_a mortification_n unaduised_o assume_v §_o 14._o 15._o what_o extraordinary_a one_o be_v least_o dangerous_a §_o 16._o sign_n by_o which_o to_o discern_v when_o such_o be_v proper_a &_o beneficial_a §_o 17._o general_o speak_v there_o be_v little_a need_n that_o extraordinary_a mortification_n shall_v be_v assume_v 1._o have_v speak_v in_o general_a of_o mortification_n come_v we_o now_o to_o the_o division_n &_o kind_n of_o it_o and_o the_o most_o general_a division_n of_o mortification_n be_v into_o those_o which_o be_v 1._o necessary_a 2._o voluntary_a this_o be_v a_o division_n of_o which_o we_o shall_v have_v great_a use_n through_o this_o whole_a treatise_n &_o therefore_o it_o deserve_v to_o be_v explain_v more_o distinct_o &_o accurate_o 2._o first_o therefore_o within_o the_o notion_n of_o necessary_a mortification_n be_v comprehend_v 1._o not_o only_o such_o cross_n &_o affliction_n to_o nature_n as_o we_o can_v though_o we_o will_v avoid_v whether_o they_o be_v external_a or_o internal_a as_o sickness_n want_n disgrace_n loss_n of_o friend_n tentation_n desolation_n etc._n etc._n the_o which_o indeed_o be_v the_o most_o proper_a &_o beneficial_a mortification_n of_o all_o other_o as_o be_v send_v or_o suffer_v to_o come_v upon_o we_o by_o the_o most_o wise_a &_o good_a providence_n of_o god_n for_o our_o good_a 2._o but_o those_o also_o that_o we_o do_v or_o suffer_v by_o virtue_n of_o our_o assume_v state_n of_o life_n either_o by_o occasion_n of_o any_o law_n or_o humane_a constitution_n or_o by_o obedience_n &_o subjection_n to_o our_o superior_n conversation_n with_o our_o equal_n inferior_n etc._n etc._n 3._o those_o also_o that_o we_o undertake_v by_o the_o direction_n of_o our_o confessarius_fw-la or_o spiritual_a guide_n to_o who_o notwithstanding_o our_o obedience_n be_v but_o voluntary_a be_v to_o last_v only_o as_o long_o as_o we_o think_v good_a 4._o those_o work_v that_o true_a discretion_n require_v of_o we_o &_o which_o to_o leave_v undo_v or_o to_o do_v contrary_a will_v be_v against_o prudence_n 5._o likewise_o whatsoever_o it_o befall_v we_o to_o suffer_v from_o any_o creature_n whatsoever_o not_o except_v the_o devil_n himself_o yea_o though_o it_o be_v by_o our_o own_o fault_n that_o such_o thing_n happen_v to_o we_o or_o be_v bring_v upon_o us._n 6._o last_o those_o thing_n that_o we_o accept_v willing_o of_o by_o virtue_n of_o a_o interiour_n divine_a impulse_n with_o the_o approbation_n of_o our_o spiritual_a father_n 3._o second_o
nor_o afford_v so_o great_a edification_n &c_n &c_n 12._o it_o be_v folly_n &_o inexcusable_a pride_n for_o soul_n not_o diligent_o &_o faithful_o pursue_v internal_a prayer_n &_o not_o yet_o perfect_o practise_v patience_n &_o resignation_n in_o cross_n &_o necessary_a mortification_n send_v by_o god_n or_o attend_v their_o present_a condition_n of_o life_n to_o attempt_v the_o undertake_n of_o those_o which_o belong_v not_o to_o they_o but_o be_v mere_o devise_v by_o themselves_o for_o want_v a_o divine_a light_n how_o can_v they_o perceive_v or_o judge_v they_o to_o be_v proper_a for_o they_o and_o if_o they_o be_v unable_a to_o encounter_v difficulty_n which_o be_v ordinary_a &_o necessary_a why_o shall_v they_o think_v themselves_o prepare_v for_o extraordinary_a one_o so_o that_o there_o be_v nothing_o which_o make_v these_o to_o be_v supportable_a but_o only_o that_o they_o proceed_v from_o selfe-iudgment_n &_o self-will_a &_o by_o consequence_n be_v more_o please_v then_o distasteful_a to_o nature_n 13._o the_o inconvenience_n attend_v the_o indiscreet_a passionate_a use_n of_o such_o mortification_n be_v much_o great_a in_o a_o internal_a life_n tend_v to_o contemplation_n then_o in_o a_o active_a because_o liberty_n of_o spirit_n be_v much_o more_o necessary_a in_o the_o former_a then_o in_o this_o latter_a the_o which_o liberty_n be_v extreme_o prejudice_v by_o such_o unnecessary_a obligation_n and_o fetter_n lay_v by_o a_o soul_n upon_o herself_o 14._o and_o for_o this_o reason_n the_o supernumerary_a mortification_n which_o may_v prove_v more_o useful_a &_o which_o be_v least_o prejudicial_a to_o this_o liberty_n be_v those_o that_o least_o work_n upon_o the_o mind_n as_o corporal_a labour_n not_o of_o obligation_n be_v more_o beneficial_a than_o the_o over-multiplying_a of_o voluntary_a vocal_a prayer_n the_o practice_n whereof_o will_v probable_o prejudice_n the_o true_a exercise_n not_o only_o of_o internal_a recollection_n but_o also_o of_o such_o vocal_a prayer_n as_o be_v of_o obligation_n aod_a of_o all_o other_o the_o most_o beneficial_a be_v those_o that_o regard_v not-doing_a as_o more_o silence_n more_o solitude_n etc._n etc._n than_o a_o person_n by_o regular_a ordinance_n be_v oblige_v to_o such_o mortification_n as_o these_o if_o the_o person_n use_v discretion_n &_o abstain_v from_o impose_v on_o himself_o a_o oblige_a necessity_n may_v sometime_o be_v proffitable_o undertake_v by_o more_o imperfect_a soul_n 15._o i_o do_v not_o therefore_o whole_o exclude_v even_o imperfect_a soul_n from_o the_o use_n of_o extraordinary_a mortification_n for_o such_o may_v be_v god_n will_n that_o they_o may_v undertake_v they_o and_o upon_o that_o supposition_n most_o certain_a it_o be_v that_o they_o will_v much_o hasten_v their_o advancement_n to_o perfection_n as_o he_o that_o run_v if_o he_o be_v able_a to_o hold_v on_o will_v soon_o come_v to_o his_o journey_n end_n than_o he_o that_o content_v himself_o with_o a_o ordinary_a travel_a pace_n but_o if_o indiscreet_o he_o will_v force_v himself_o to_o run_v beyond_o his_o breath_n and_o strength_n that_o advantage_n which_o he_o get_v for_o a_o little_a while_n will_v not_o countervail_v the_o loss_n he_o sustain_v afterward_o 16._o now_o the_o sign_n and_o mark_n by_o which_o a_o soul_n may_v inform_v herself_o whether_o the_o extraordinary_a mortification_n assume_v by_o she_o do_v proceed_v from_o a_o safe_a &_o good_a principle_n that_o be_v from_o a_o divine_a motive_n &_o not_o a_o impulse_n of_o nature_n &_o passion_n may_v be_v these_o she_o may_v esteem_v they_o to_o come_v from_o god_n 1._o if_o she_o bear_v herself_o well_o in_o the_o ordinary_a mortification_n of_o necessity_n support_v cheerful_o &_o courageous_o both_o the_o usual_a austerity_n of_o her_o religious_a state_n &_o also_o all_o accidental_a cross_n 2._o in_o case_n it_o be_v with_o the_o advice_n &_o approbation_n of_o her_o spiritual_a director_n that_o be_v skilful_a in_o discern_v of_o spirit_n 3._o if_o the_o soul_n in_o the_o continuance_n of_o it_o find_v a_o chearfullnes_n &_o resolutenes_n for_o if_o there_o follow_v any_o discontentednes_n or_o melancholy_n that_o be_v a_o very_a ill_a sign_n 4._o if_o the_o occasion_n of_o undertake_v it_o be_v a_o quiet_a constant_a internal_a invitation_n &_o not_o some_o sudden_a humour_n of_o passion_n remorse_n or_o some_o fit_n of_o sensible_a devotion_n or_o a_o ambition_n to_o imitate_v other_o &c_n &c_n especial_o if_o the_o matter_n of_o the_o mortification_n have_v any_o peril_n in_o it_o to_o corporal_a health_n &c_n &c_n for_o then_o the_o impulse_n to_o undertake_v it_o have_v need_n be_v very_o certain_a &_o strong_a 5._o if_o by_o perseverance_n in_o it_o the_o virtue_n of_o humility_n be_v increase_v 6._o last_o if_o it_o dispose_v the_o soul_n to_o better_a recollection_n &_o to_o a_o great_a constancy_n &_o fervour_n in_o prayer_n 17._o but_o to_o conclude_v this_o point_n there_o be_v very_o few_o that_o need_v complain_v of_o want_n of_o mortification_n or_o that_o be_v put_v to_o a_o necessity_n of_o seek_v they_o all_o observance_n whatsoever_o even_o the_o least_o that_o be_v practise_v in_o religion_n or_o in_o the_o submission_n to_o a_o spiritual_a director_n and_o much_o more_o all_o contradiction_n humiliation_n &_o pennance_n be_v profitable_a mortification_n yea_o even_o the_o act_n of_o authority_n practise_v by_o superior_n if_o they_o be_v do_v not_o out_o of_o nature_n or_o a_o love_n of_o command_v but_o in_o obedience_n to_o the_o rule_n &_o with_o a_o foresight_n that_o god_n will_v expect_v a_o account_n concern_v they_o be_v such_o also_o and_o if_o all_o these_o be_v too_o little_a a_o faithful_a pursuance_n of_o internal_a prayer_n together_o with_o abstraction_n of_o life_n will_v sufficient_o abate_v nature_n &_o will_v no_o doubt_n general_o speak_v be_v effectual_a to_o bring_v soul_n to_o perfection_n if_o they_o live_v out_o their_o due_a time_n and_o if_o not_o yet_o death_n find_v they_o in_o the_o right_a way_n will_v bring_v they_o to_o their_o desire_a end_n and_o last_o such_o be_v the_o care_n &_o tenderness_n of_o god_n towards_o soul_n that_o true_o &_o cordial_o consecrate_v themselves_o to_o he_o that_o if_o these_o mortification_n be_v not_o sufficient_a he_o will_v by_o a_o special_a providence_n procure_v other_o &_o such_o as_o shall_v be_v most_o proper_a yea_o a_o very_a sublime_a mystic_a author_n confident_o protest_v that_o rather_o than_o such_o a_o soul_n shall_v receive_v prejudice_n by_o the_o want_n of_o they_o god_n will_v by_o a_o miracle_n immediate_o provide_v they_o or_o by_o a_o supernatural_a light_n &_o forcible_a impulse_n direct_v &_o move_v she_o to_o find_v they_o chap._n vi_o §_o 1._o of_o certain_a sort_n of_o mortification_n which_o be_v more_o general_a §_o 2._o 3._o 4._o the_o first_o be_v abstraction_n of_o life_n wherein_o it_o consist_v etc._n etc._n §_o 5._o 6._o etc._n etc._n the_o second_o be_v solitude_n several_a kind_n of_o solitude_n the_o benefit_n of_o it_o and_o the_o mean_n to_o procure_v it_o the_o strictness_n of_o s._n benedict_v rule_n in_o require_v it_o perfect_a solitude_n be_v only_o for_o such_o as_o be_v perfect_a 1._o after_o this_o general_a distinction_n of_o mortification_n before_o we_o come_v to_o the_o special_a kind_n regard_v the_o several_a passion_n or_o affection_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o be_v mortify_v for_o indeed_o the_o only_a subject_n of_o mortification_n be_v our_o affection_n &_o not_o any_o other_o faculty_n but_o only_o in_o order_n to_o our_o affection_n i_o will_v brief_o set_v down_o more_o universal_a &_o unlimited_a mortification_n that_o be_v such_o as_o regard_v not_o any_o one_o single_a passion_n but_o many_o yea_o either_o the_o whole_a person_n or_o some_o member_n that_o be_v the_o instrument_n of_o many_o passion_n as_o the_o tongue_n such_o indefinite_a mortification_n be_v these_o 1_o abstraction_n of_o life_n 2._o solitude_n 3._o silence_n &_o 4._o peace_n or_o tranquillity_n of_o mind_n 2._o first_o therefore_o for_o abstraction_n the_o duty_n thereof_o consist_v in_o this_o that_o we_o abstain_v 1._o from_o intermeddle_v with_o thing_n not_o pertain_v to_o we_o and_o 2._o for_o such_o thing_n as_o belong_v to_o we_o to_o do_v that_o we_o do_v they_o with_o a_o reseruednes_n of_o our_o affection_n not_o pour_v they_o out_o upon_o they_o be_v due_a only_o to_o god_n himself_o yet_o this_o do_v not_o hinder_v we_o from_o do_v our_o duty_n with_o a_o sufficient_a attention_n &_o care_n 3._o that_o we_o not_o only_o relinquish_v all_o unnecessary_a conversation_n &_o correspondency_n complemental_a visit_n &c_n &c_n but_o likewise_o all_o engagement_n of_o affection_n in_o particular_a freindships_n this_o last_o be_v necessary_a in_o religious_a community_n because_o from_o such_o freindships_n proceed_v parciality_n faction_n murmur_n &_o most_o dangerous_a distraction_n &_o multiplicity_n for_o the_o avoid_n
herself_o in_o the_o point_n of_o gluttony_n and_o the_o main_a mischief_n of_o the_o tentation_n be_v prevent_v when_o we_o be_v come_v to_o cast_v of_o the_o habitual_a affection_n to_o eat_v &_o drink_v especial_o to_o feast_v the_o which_o bring_v many_o inconvenience_n to_o a_o internal_a liver_n as_o 1._o loss_n of_o time_n 2._o peril_n of_o intemperance_n &_o other_o misbehaviour_n 3._o hurtful_a distraction_n 4._o indisposition_n to_o prayer_n 5._o intemperance_n likewise_o in_o another_o use_n of_o the_o tongue_n to_o wit_n talk_v etc._n etc._n 4._o imperfect_a soul_n therefore_o must_v make_v it_o their_o care_n in_o refection_n to_o avoid_v these_o special_a defect_n to_o wit_n eat_v or_o drink_v 1._o too_o much_o 2._o with_o too_o great_a earnestness_n 3._o too_o hasty_o prevent_v the_o due_a time_n 4._o delicate_o 5._o with_o a_o precedent_a studiousnes_n to_o provide_v please_a meat_n etc._n etc._n in_o respect_n of_o the_o two_o first_o quality_n or_o defect_n such_o soul_n may_v happen_v to_o offend_v who_o yet_o in_o a_o good_a measure_n have_v attain_a to_o a_o spiritual_a disesteem_v &_o neglect_v of_o those_o thing_n that_o please_v sensuality_n for_o they_o on_o occasion_n may_v be_v tempt_v to_o eat_v with_o some_o excess_n and_o ardour_n but_o rare_o do_v such_o offend_v in_o the_o follow_a quality_n 5._o now_o the_o mark_v by_o which_o a_o soul_n may_v discern_v whether_o she_o have_v in_o she_o a_o disaffection_n to_o sensual_a pleasure_n be_v 1._o if_o her_o chief_a delight_n &_o esteem_v be_v in_o exercise_n of_o the_o spirit_n &_o that_o she_o diligent_o pursue_v they_o 2._o if_o she_o seek_v not_o after_o nor_o willing_o admit_v extraordinary_a feast_n 3._o if_o be_v alone_o she_o do_v not_o entertain_v herself_o with_o the_o thought_n of_o such_o thing_n nor_o talk_v of_o they_o with_o gust_n 4._o if_o when_o she_o be_v force_v to_o take_v refection_n she_o take_v they_o as_o of_o necessity_n &_o duty_n 5._o if_o she_o can_v be_v content_a so_o that_o god_n will_v be_v such_o to_o be_v deprive_v of_o all_o thing_n that_o may_v please_v taste_n etc._n etc._n 6._o in_o case_n that_o necessary_a civility_n shall_v oblige_v a_o spiritual_a person_n to_o be_v present_a at_o a_o feast_n he_o may_v do_v well_o to_o be_v watchful_a over_o himself_o at_o the_o beginning_n and_o this_o he_o may_v the_o more_o easy_o do_v because_o than_o other_o being_n more_o eager_a to_o their_o meat_n will_v less_o mark_v he_o and_o to_o entertain_v the_o time_n which_o be_v ordinary_o long_a let_v he_o choose_v such_o meat_n as_o be_v the_o light_a &_o of_o the_o easy_a digestion_n for_o so_o do_v he_o may_v both_o seem_v to_o avoid_v singularity_n in_o abstain_v more_o than_o other_o &_o yet_o in_o effect_n eat_v far_o less_o in_o a_o word_n let_v he_o go_v thither_o with_o a_o mind_n &_o affection_n to_o abstinence_n &_o retain_v such_o affection_n 7._o this_o one_o unavoidable_a misery_n there_o be_v in_o eat_v &_o drink_v how_o temperate_o soever_o that_o a_o soul_n for_o such_o a_o time_n &_o for_o some_o space_n afterward_o be_v force_v to_o descend_v from_o that_o height_n of_o spirit_n that_o she_o have_v attain_a to_o by_o virtue_n of_o her_o precedent_a recollection_n so_o that_o if_o before_o she_o have_v a_o sight_n &_o experimental_a perception_n that_o god_n be_v all_o &_o herself_n nothing_o she_o will_v afterward_o have_v no_o other_o sight_n of_o this_o but_o her_o ordinary_a sight_n of_o faith_n by_o reason_n that_o her_o spirit_n be_v more_o active_a &_o her_o internal_a sense_n fill_v with_o image_n &_o vapour_n 8._o yet_o a_o soul_n be_v not_o to_o abridge_v herself_o of_o a_o necessary_a quantity_n in_o refection_n for_o her_o prayer_n sake_n or_o other_o internal_a exercise_n for_o that_o will_v for_o a_o long_a time_n after_o do_v more_o harm_n to_o the_o spirit_n by_o too_o much_o enfeeble_v the_o body_n neither_o be_v she_o to_o judge_v that_o she_o have_v offend_v by_o excess_n because_o she_o find_v a_o heaviness_n and_o perhaps_o some_o indigestion_n for_o some_o space_n after_o refection_n for_o this_o may_v proceed_v from_o that_o debility_n of_o complexion_n which_o ordinary_o attend_v a_o spiritual_a life_n since_o as_o s._n hildegardis_n say_v the_o love_n of_o god_n do_v not_o usual_o dwell_v in_o robustious_a body_n 9_o it_o be_v not_o our_o petty_a fail_n through_o frailty_n or_o ignorance_n and_o much_o loss_n our_o suppose_a fail_n judge_v so_o by_o our_o scrupulosity_n that_o can_v cause_n god_n to_o be_v avert_v from_o we_o or_o that_o will_v hinder_v our_o union_n with_o he_o for_o for_o such_o defect_n we_o shall_v be_v attoan_v with_o god_n in_o our_o next_o recollection_n or_o it_o may_v be_v soon_o but_o those_o be_v indeed_o prejudicial_a defect_n which_o proceed_v from_o a_o settle_a affection_n to_o sensual_a object_n 10._o to_o correct_v the_o vice_n of_o eagerne_n in_o eat_v abbot_n isacius_n advise_v his_o monk_n that_o when_o they_o stretch_v forth_o their_o hand_n for_o the_o receive_n of_o their_o meat_n or_o drink_v they_o shall_v do_v it_o with_o a_o certain_a mental_a unwillingnes_n 11._o let_v every_o one_o content_a himself_o with_o what_o god_n by_o superior_n provide_v for_o he_o account_v that_o how_o mean_a or_o course_n soever_o to_o be_v the_o very_o best_a for_o he_o &_o not_o that_o which_o can_v be_v procure_v without_o solicitude_n &_o impatience_n neither_o ought_v any_o to_o justify_v or_o excuse_v his_o impatience_n out_o of_o a_o opinion_n of_o obligation_n that_o every_o one_o have_v to_o take_v care_n of_o the_o body_n for_o the_o service_n of_o the_o spirit_n for_o the_o spirit_n be_v far_o more_o endamage_v by_o such_o impatience_n &_o solicitude_n than_o any_o thing_n they_o can_v desire_v for_o the_o body_n can_v do_v it_o good_a 12._o we_o have_v small_a reason_n to_o love_v the_o body_n for_o it_o be_v that_o which_o one_o way_n or_o other_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o almost_o all_o the_o sin_n which_o the_o soul_n commit_v to_o cherish_v therefore_o &_o satisfy_v its_o inordinate_a desire_n be_v to_o make_v provision_n for_o sin_n as_o if_o our_o natural_a corruption_n do_v not_o sufficient_o incline_v we_o thereto_o 13._o the_o infirmity_n of_o our_o body_n may_v sometime_o require_v not_o only_o healthy_a but_o also_o well_o taste_v meat_n not_o for_o the_o satisfy_n of_o our_o sensuality_n but_o the_o uphold_v of_o our_o strength_n as_o s._n augustin_n say_v in_o which_o case_n meat_n of_o good_a relish_n even_o as_o such_o may_v be_v seek_v for_o yea_o ought_v to_o be_v so_o &_o this_o for_o the_o recreate_v and_o comfort_v of_o nature_n and_o such_o corporal_a consolation_n may_v also_o have_v a_o good_a effect_n upon_o the_o spirit_n but_o where_o no_o such_o necessity_n be_v to_o seek_v for_o such_o meat_n be_v against_o the_o rule_n of_o religious_a temperance_n and_o even_o during_o such_o necessity_n to_o seek_v they_o either_o with_o solicitude_n or_o so_o as_o may_v be_v prejudicial_a to_o the_o community_n be_v contrary_a to_o religious_a poverty_n &_o resignation_n 14._o as_o many_o defect_n &_o hindrance_n to_o spiritual_a progress_n do_v flow_v by_o occasion_n of_o refection_n so_o on_o the_o contrary_a to_o wellminded_n soul_n it_o may_v be_v the_o occasion_n of_o some_o advantage_n for_o their_o progress_n in_o spirit_n for_o 1._o it_o oblige_v a_o soul_n to_o watch_n &_o pray_v that_o she_o be_v not_o overcome_v by_o the_o tentation_n 2._o it_o may_v give_v occasion_n for_o the_o exercise_n of_o patience_n in_o case_n of_o the_o want_n of_o thing_n contentful_a to_o nature_n as_o likewise_o of_o temperance_n in_o the_o use_n of_o they_o 3._o the_o experience_n of_o our_o frequent_a excess_n beyond_o true_a necessity_n may_v afford_v great_a matter_n for_o the_o exercise_n of_o humility_n 4._o by_o the_o mean_n of_o resection_n there_o be_v give_v to_o soul_n certain_a pausing_n &_o diversion_n from_o spiritual_a working_n necessary_a to_o enable_v they_o make_v good_a use_n thereof_o to_o work_v afterward_o more_o vigorous_o &_o intense_o 15._o vix_fw-la perfectus_fw-la discernit_fw-la etc._n etc._n sâ—ith_n s._n gregory_n a_o perfect_a soul_n do_v scarce_o discern_v the_o secret_a tentation_n &_o subtle_a subreption_n of_o sensuality_n urge_v soul_n to_o take_v more_o than_o necessity_n or_o obedience_n require_v &_o the_o only_a light_n necessary_a for_o such_o discern_a come_v from_o internal_a prayer_n and_o moreover_o till_o the_o soul_n by_o prayer_n be_v raise_v above_o sensuality_n she_o can_v have_v strength_n enough_o to_o resist_v all_o the_o inordinate_a desire_n thereof_o which_o she_o do_v discern_v and_o when_o soul_n be_v arrive_v to_o perfect_a prayer_n of_o contemplation_n they_o oppose_v such_o desire_n rather_o by_o neglect_v &_o forget_v the_o body_n then_o by_o
whereas_o by_o progress_n it_o gather_v such_o strength_n disorder_v the_o imagination_n disquiet_v the_o passion_n and_o corrupt_v even_o the_o judgement_n also_o that_o it_o be_v scarce_o possible_a to_o find_v a_o remedy_n 10._o now_o to_o the_o end_n that_o the_o follow_a advice_n may_v be_v more_o clear_a and_o distinct_a we_o will_v sort_v they_o according_a to_o the_o several_a ground_n from_o which_o usual_o scrupulosity_n do_v proceed_v the_o which_o be_v 1._o either_o interval_n tentation_n by_o suspect_a sinful_a thought_n and_o imagination_n 2._o or_o certain_a defect_n or_o suppose_a defect_n incur_v about_o externall_n obligation_n as_o sâ—yâ—ng_v the_o office_n fast_v etc._n etc._n in_o both_o whiâ—h_o case_n there_o be_v a_o strong_a suspicion_n of_o sin_n incur_v and_o a_o uncertainty_n of_o what_o heynousnes_n that_o sin_n in_o from_o whenâ—e_o follow_v unquiet_a examination_n scrupulous_a confession_n often_o repeat_v &c_n &c_n first_o therefore_o we_o will_v treat_v of_o fear_n &_o scrupulosity_n arise_v from_o inward_a tentation_n by_o ill_a imagination_n or_o thought_n and_o afterward_o of_o the_o other_o chap._n ix_o §_o 1._o of_o scrupulosity_n arise_v from_o certain_a inward_a tentation_n §_o 2._o 3._o tentation_n be_v not_o in_o themselves_o ill_a but_o rather_o a_o mark_n of_o god_n love_n yet_o they_o be_v not_o to_o be_v seek_v §_o 4._o internal_a tentation_n very_a purify_n §_o 5._o 6._o 7._o 8._o of_o inward_a tentation_n rest_v only_o in_o the_o mind_n and_o advice_n against_o they_o §_o 9_o likewise_o touch_v those_o that_o cause_n also_o effect_n and_o motion_n in_o corporal_a nature_n §_o 10._o 11._o 12._o 13._o 14._o 15._o prayer_n be_v by_o no_o mean_n to_o be_v omit_v for_o tentation_n as_o be_v the_o best_a and_o secure_a remedy_n in_o as_o much_o as_o all_o tentation_n be_v most_o efficacious_o and_o perfect_o resist_v by_o conversion_n of_o the_o soul_n with_o love_n to_o god_n 1._o the_o special_a kind_n of_o inward_a tentation_n which_o do_v ordinary_o afford_v matter_n of_o fear_n &_o scrupulosity_n to_o wellminded_n tender_a soul_n be_v first_o either_o such_o ill_a imagination_n or_o thought_n as_o rest_v in_o the_o mind_n alone_o without_o any_o other_o outward_a effect_n such_o be_v thought_n 1._o of_o infidelity_n 2._o of_o blasphemy_n 3._o of_o despair_n etc._n etc._n or_o second_o such_o as_o withal_o have_v or_o may_v cause_v a_o alteration_n in_o the_o body_n such_o be_v thought_n of_o impurity_n anger_n etc._n etc._n 2._o now_o concern_v tentation_n in_o general_a the_o devout_a soul_n be_v to_o consider_v that_o it_o be_v no_o sin_n to_o have_v they_o yea_o being_n send_v we_o by_o god_n they_o be_v mean_v for_o our_o good_a and_o to_o give_v we_o occasion_n to_o merit_v by_o they_o and_o those_o which_o god_n send_v we_o be_v the_o most_o proper_a for_o us._n for_o if_o they_o be_v in_o our_o own_o choice_n we_o shall_v choose_v least_o and_o last_o of_o all_o those_o that_o be_v most_o fit_a to_o humble_v we_o and_o to_o withdraw_v our_o affection_n from_o ourselves_o and_o creature_n so_o that_o the_o more_o displease_v to_o we_o and_o afflict_v that_o any_o tentation_n be_v the_o more_o profitable_a be_v they_o let_v none_o therefore_o be_v dismay_v at_o the_o approach_n of_o tentation_n but_o since_o self-love_n can_v be_v cure_v but_o by_o application_n of_o thing_n contrary_a thereto_o let_v we_o accept_v of_o they_o as_o a_o special_a gift_n of_o god_n assure_v ourselves_o that_o it_o will_v be_v perilous_a to_o be_v long_o without_o they_o and_o if_o we_o can_v clear_o see_v how_o our_o present_a tentation_n can_v turn_v to_o our_o profit_n we_o ought_v to_o content_v ourselves_o that_o god_n see_v it_o &_o otherwise_o he_o who_o be_v infinite_a wisdom_n and_o goodness_n will_v never_o have_v permit_v they_o to_o befall_v we_o therefore_o let_v faith_n supply_v knowledge_n or_o curiosity_n 3._o nevertheless_o we_o must_v not_o voluntary_o seek_v tentation_n for_o qui_fw-la amat_fw-la periculum_fw-la peribit_fw-la in_o eo_fw-la he_o that_o love_v danger_n shall_v perish_v therein_o say_v the_o wiseman_n god_n will_v not_o deny_v spiritual_a strength_n to_o resist_v &_o make_v good_a use_n of_o tentation_n that_o by_o his_o providence_n befall_v we_o yea_o although_o it_o be_v by_o some_o precedent_a fault_n &_o negligence_n of_o we_o that_o they_o befall_v we_o but_o he_o have_v make_v no_o promise_n to_o secure_v we_o in_o a_o danger_n into_o which_o we_o voluntary_o run_v 4._o more_o particular_o internal_a tentation_n be_v more_o beneficial_a and_o purify_n and_o they_o do_v more_o profound_o humble_v we_o then_o do_v outward_a pain_n or_o persecution_n 1._o because_o they_o discover_v unto_o we_o not_o the_o malice_n of_o other_o but_o our_o own_o sinful_a nature_n prone_a of_o themselves_o to_o all_o abomination_n 2._o and_o by_o they_o we_o come_v to_o be_v deliver_v not_o from_o other_o creature_n but_o from_o ourselves_o in_o which_o separation_n our_o chief_a &_o last_o conquer_v difficulty_n consist_v 3._o they_o send_v we_o for_o remedy_n to_o none_o but_o god_n for_o what_o effect_n can_v any_o assistance_n medicine_n or_o other_o help_n of_o creature_n have_v against_o our_o own_o thought_n 5._o and_o as_o for_o the_o special_a forenamed_a tentation_n a_o wellminded_n soul_n ought_v to_o consider_v that_o the_o simple_a pass_v of_o such_o thought_n or_o imagination_n in_o the_o mind_n be_v no_o sin_n at_o all_o though_o they_o shall_v rest_v there_o never_o so_o long_o without_o advertence_n but_o only_o the_o give_v a_o deliberate_a consent_n unto_o they_o neither_o be_v it_o in_o the_o power_n of_o a_o soul_n either_o to_o prevent_v or_o banish_v they_o at_o pleasure_n because_o the_o imagination_n be_v not_o so_o subject_a to_o reason_n as_o that_o it_o can_v be_v command_v to_o entertain_v no_o image_n but_o such_o as_o reason_n will_v allow_v but_o it_o be_v distemper_v according_a to_o the_o disposition_n of_o the_o humour_n and_o spirit_n in_o the_o body_n and_o sometime_o the_o devil_n also_o be_v permit_v to_o iniect_v or_o raise_v image_n to_o the_o disquiet_v of_o tender_a soul_n but_o he_o can_v force_v none_o to_o consent_v to_o the_o suggestion_n proceed_v from_o they_o 6._o there_o be_v less_o danger_n of_o consent_v unto_o tentation_n mere_o spiritual_a such_o as_o be_v thought_n of_o blasphemy_n despair_v &c_n &c_n and_o consequent_o less_o likelihood_n of_o scrupulosity_n from_o a_o suspicion_n of_o such_o consent_n though_o sometime_o they_o may_v be_v so_o violent_a and_o so_o obstinate_o adhere_v that_o the_o fancy_n will_v become_v extreme_o disorder_v and_o the_o soul_n will_v think_v herself_o to_o be_v in_o a_o kind_n of_o hell_n where_o there_o be_v nothing_o but_o blaspheme_v and_o hate_v of_o god_n 7._o her_o best_a remedy_n be_v quiet_o to_o turn_v her_o thought_n some_o other_o way_n and_o rather_o neglect_v then_o force_v herself_o to_o combat_v they_o with_o contrary_a thought_n for_o by_o neglect_v of_o they_o the_o impression_n that_o they_o make_v in_o the_o imagination_n will_v be_v diminish_v she_o may_v do_v well_o also_o by_o word_n or_o outward_a gesture_n to_o signify_v her_o renounce_n and_o detestation_n of_o they_o as_o in_o a_o tentation_n of_o blasphemy_n let_v she_o pronounce_v word_n and_o express_a posture_n of_o adoration_n of_o god_n praise_n love_v &c_n &c_n let_v she_o be_v also_o the_o more_o diligent_a in_o frequent_v the_o choir_n continue_v more_o careful_o in_o posture_n of_o humility_n before_o he_o and_o do_v thus_o let_v she_o banish_v all_o suspicion_n of_o have_v consent_v as_o be_v moral_o impossible_a 8._o certain_a it_o be_v that_o how_o troublesome_a &_o horrible_a soever_o such_o tentation_n may_v seem_v to_o be_v yet_o they_o be_v quiet_o resist_v or_o rather_o neglect_v do_v wonderful_o purify_v the_o soul_n establish_v divine_a love_n most_o firm_o and_o deep_o in_o the_o spirit_n moreov_a by_o occasion_n of_o they_o the_o superior_a soul_n be_v enable_v to_o transcend_v all_o the_o disorder_n and_o tumult_n in_o inferior_a nature_n adhere_v to_o god_n during_o the_o great_a contradiction_n of_o sensuality_n 9_o as_o for_o the_o other_o sort_n of_o interiour_n tentation_n which_o be_v more_o gross_a cause_v oft_o disorderly_a motion_n and_o effect_n in_o corporal_a nature_n it_o will_v be_v more_o difficult_a to_o persuade_v timorous_a soul_n that_o they_o have_v not_o consent_v both_o by_o reason_n that_o such_o imagination_n be_v more_o pertinacious_a and_o stick_v to_o the_o corporal_a humour_n and_o spirit_n and_o also_o because_o inferior_a nature_n be_v powerful_o incline_v to_o a_o like_n of_o they_o in_o somuch_o as_o that_o real_a effect_n &_o alteration_n may_v be_v wrought_v in_o the_o body_n before_o that_o reason_n be_v full_o awake_a to_o resist_v they_o yea_o and_o after_o the_o resistance_n make_v
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
prayer_n either_o vocal_a or_o discoursive_o mental_a the_o which_o virtue_n be_v indeed_o admirable_a &_o inestimable_a deserve_v to_o be_v purchase_v with_o all_o the_o care_n &_o endeavour_n of_o our_o whole_a life_n 10._o the_o first_o excellency_n of_o internal_a affective_a prayer_n above_o all_o other_o be_v that_o only_o by_o such_o prayer_n our_o union_n in_o spirit_n with_o god_n in_o which_o our_o essential_a happiness_n consist_v be_v perfect_o obtain_v for_o therein_o the_o will_n with_o all_o the_o power_n &_o affection_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v apply_v and_o fix_v to_o the_o love_a adore_a &_o glorify_v this_o only_a beatify_a object_n whereas_o in_o vocal_a prayer_n there_o be_v a_o continual_a variety_n &_o succession_n of_o image_n of_o creature_n suggest_v the_o which_o do_v distract_v the_o soul_n of_o the_o imperfect_a from_o such_o a_o application_n and_o meditation_n in_o which_o discourse_n be_v employ_v be_v so_o far_o little_o more_o than_o a_o philosophical_a contemplation_n of_o god_n delay_v this_o fix_v of_o the_o heart_n and_o affection_n on_o god_n the_o which_o be_v only_o acceptable_a to_o he_o 11._o the_o second_o virtue_n be_v this_o that_o by_o this_o prayer_n of_o the_o will_v the_o soul_n enter_v far_o more_o profound_o into_o god_n the_o fountain_n of_o light_n partake_v of_o the_o beam_n of_o his_o divine_a light_n far_o more_o plentiful_o by_o which_o she_o both_o discover_v god_n perfection_n more_o clear_o &_o also_o see_v the_o way_n wherein_o she_o be_v to_o walk_v more_o perfect_o then_o by_o any_o other_o prayer_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o when_o the_o soul_n endeavour_n to_o apply_v all_o her_o affection_n entire_o on_o god_n then_o only_o it_o be_v that_o be_v profound_o introvert_v a_o world_n of_o impurity_n of_o intention_n &_o inordinate_a affection_n lurk_v in_o she_o do_v discover_v themselves_o &_o the_o obscure_a mist_n of_o they_o be_v dispel_v the_o soul_n then_o find_v by_o a_o real_a perception_n &_o feel_n how_o prejudicial_a they_o be_v to_o her_o present_a union_n in_o will_n with_o god_n whereas_o when_o the_o understanding_n alone_o or_o principal_o be_v busy_v in_o the_o consideration_n of_o god_n or_o of_o the_o soul_n herself_o the_o imagination_n which_o be_v very_o active_a &_o subtle_a will_v not_o represent_v to_o the_o soul_n either_o god_n or_o herself_o so_o liquid_o &_o sincere_o but_o be_v blind_v &_o seduce_v by_o natural_a self-love_n will_v invent_v a_o hundred_o excuse_n &_o pretext_n to_o deceive_v the_o soul_n &_o to_o make_v she_o believe_v that_o many_o thing_n be_v intend_v &_o do_v pure_o for_o god_n which_o proceed_v principal_o if_o not_o total_o from_o the_o root_n of_o concupiscence_n &_o self-love_n 12._o a_o three_o admirable_a perfection_n of_o internal_a affective_a prayer_n be_v this_o that_o not_o only_o divine_a light_n but_o also_o grace_n &_o spiritual_a strength_n to_o put_v in_o practice_v all_o thing_n to_o which_o supernatural_a light_n direct_v be_v obtain_v principal_o by_o this_o internal_a prayer_n of_o the_o heart_n and_o this_o by_o a_o double_a causality_n &_o virtue_n to_o wit_n 1._o by_o way_n of_o impetration_n ground_v on_o the_o rich_a &_o precious_a promise_n make_v by_o god_n to_o prayer_n above_o all_o other_o good_a action_n 2._o by_o a_o direct_a &_o proper_a efficiency_n for_o since_o all_o the_o virtue_n &_o merit_n of_o our_o external_a action_n do_v depend_v upon_o and_o flow_v from_o the_o internal_a disposition_n &_o operation_n of_o the_o soul_n exercise_v charity_n &_o purity_n of_o intention_n in_o they_o &_o conquer_a the_o resistance_n of_o nature_n and_o since_o all_o internal_a exercise_n of_o all_o virtue_n whatsoever_o be_v true_o &_o in_o propriety_n of_o speech_n direct_a prayer_n of_o the_o spirit_n hence_o be_v follow_v that_o as_o all_o habit_n be_v get_v by_o frequency_n &_o constancy_n of_o exercise_n therefore_o by_o the_o persevere_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o internal_a prayer_n the_o soul_n be_v enable_v with_o facility_n to_o practice_v perfect_o all_o virtue_n 13._o to_o this_o may_v be_v add_v that_o such_o prayer_n be_v universal_a mortification_n &_o a_o mortification_n the_o most_o profound_a intime_fw-la &_o perfect_a that_o a_o soul_n can_v possible_o perform_v entire_o destructive_a to_o sensual_a satisfaction_n for_o therein_o the_o will_n force_v inferior_a nature_n &_o all_o the_o power_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o avert_v themselves_o from_o all_o other_o object_n please_v to_o they_o and_o to_o concur_v to_o her_o internal_a actuation_n towards_o god_n &_o this_o ofttimes_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o distraction_n by_o vain_a image_n during_o a_o torpide_a dullnes_n of_o the_o heart_n yea_o a_o violent_a contradiction_n of_o sensuality_n when_o there_o be_v according_a to_o any_o sensible_a perception_n a_o total_a disgust_n in_o the_o soul_n to_o such_o a_o exercise_n yea_o when_o the_o spirit_n itself_o be_v in_o obscurity_n &_o can_v by_o any_o reflexed_a act_n reap_v any_o consolation_n from_o such_o a_o exercise_n such_o a_o exilium_fw-la cordis_fw-la such_o a_o desertion_n &_o internal_a desolation_n be_v a_o mortification_n to_o the_o purpose_n yet_o as_o of_o extreme_a bitterness_n so_o of_o unexpressible_a efficacy_n to_o the_o purify_n &_o universal_a perfect_a of_o the_o soul_n &_o spirit_n therefore_o s._n chrysostome_n tract_n de_fw-fr oratione_fw-la have_v good_a reason_n to_o say_v it_o be_v impossible_a again_o i_o say_v it_o be_v utter_o impossible_a that_o a_o soul_n which_o with_o a_o due_a care_n &_o assiduity_n pray_v unto_o god_n shall_v ever_o sin_v 17._o a_o four_o excellence_n of_o internal_a affective_a prayer_n be_v that_o it_o be_v the_o only_a action_n that_o can_v possible_o want_v purity_n of_o intention_n soul_n may_v from_o a_o impulse_n of_o nature_n and_o its_o satirfaction_n exact_o observe_v fast_n perform_v obedience_n keep_v the_o choir_n approach_v to_o sacrament_n yea_o exercise_v themselves_o in_o curious_a speculation_n during_o meditation_n or_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o sensible_a devotion_n they_o may_v comply_v with_o self-love_n etc._n etc._n and_o indeed_o they_o have_v no_o far_o any_o purity_n of_o intention_n in_o any_o of_o these_o duty_n then_o as_o they_o do_v proceed_v from_o internal_a affective_a prayer_n that_o be_v the_o will_v fix_v by_o charity_n on_o god_n whereas_o if_o any_o oblique_a intention_n shall_v endeavour_v to_o insinuate_v itself_o into_o internal_a prayer_n of_o the_o will_n it_o will_v present_o be_v observe_v &_o unless_o it_o be_v contradict_v &_o expel_v there_o can_v be_v no_o progress_n in_o such_o prayer_n so_o that_o it_o be_v not_o possible_a to_o find_v a_o exercise_n either_o more_o secure_a or_o more_o profitable_a since_o it_o be_v by_o the_o virtue_n of_o it_o alone_o that_o all_o other_o exercise_n have_v any_o concurrence_n towards_o the_o perfectionate_v of_o the_o soul_n 15._o last_o affective_a prayer_n of_o the_o will_n be_v that_o alone_a which_o make_v all_o other_o sort_n of_o prayer_n to_o deserve_v the_o name_n of_o prayer_n for_o be_v that_o exclude_v meditation_n be_v but_o a_o useless_a speculation_n and_o curiosity_n of_o the_o understanding_n and_o vocal_a prayer_n but_o a_o empty_a sound_n of_o word_n for_o god_n only_o desire_v our_o heart_n or_o affection_n without_o which_o our_o tongue_n or_o brain_n be_v of_o no_o esteem_n at_o all_o yea_o there_o be_v not_o so_o much_o as_o any_o profitable_a attention_n in_o any_o prayer_n further_o than_o the_o heart_n concurre_v for_o if_o the_o attention_n be_v only_o of_o the_o mind_n that_o will_v not_o constitute_v prayer_n for_o then_o study_n or_o disputation_n about_o divine_a thing_n may_v be_v call_v prayer_n hence_o say_v a_o ancient_a holy_a hermit_n nunquam_fw-la verè_fw-la orat_fw-la quisquis_fw-la etiam_fw-la flexis_fw-la genibus_fw-la evagatione_fw-la cordis_fw-la etiam_fw-la qualicumque_fw-la distrahitur_fw-la that_o be_v that_o man_n do_v never_o true_o pray_v who_o though_o he_o be_v upon_o his_o knes_n be_v distract_v with_o any_o wander_a or_o unattention_n of_o his_o heart_n and_o likewise_o the_o learned_a soto_n to_o the_o same_o purpose_n conclusive_o affirm_v orationi_fw-la mentali_fw-la deesse_fw-la non_fw-la potest_fw-la attentio_fw-la cum_fw-la ipsa_fw-la attentio_fw-la &c_n &c_n that_o be_v attention_n can_v possible_o be_v want_v to_o mental_a prayer_n of_o the_o heart_n since_o the_o attention_n itself_o be_v the_o very_a prayer_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v a_o contradiction_n to_o say_v that_o one_o pray_v mental_o &_o be_v not_o attentive_a as_o be_v of_o itself_o manifest_a for_o as_o soon_o as_o ever_o the_o mind_n begin_v to_o wander_v it_o cease_v to_o pray_v therefore_o vocal_a prayer_n be_v only_o that_o prayer_n which_o may_v want_v attention_n namely_o when_o the_o thought_n divert_v themselves_o to_o other_o object_n the_o tongue_n without_o the_o concurrence_n of_o the_o mind_n give_v a_o uncertain_a
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
practice_n we_o can_v so_o rectify_v our_o desire_n as_o to_o place_v they_o upon_o their_o only_a true_a &_o proper_a object_n which_o be_v god_n it_o will_v necessary_o follow_v that_o the_o soul_n shall_v be_v in_o continual_a prayer_n si_fw-mi semper_fw-la desideras_fw-la semper_fw-la oras_fw-la say_v s._n augustine_n if_o thou_o do_v continual_o desire_v god_n thou_o do_v continual_o pray_v such_o desire_n by_o custom_n will_v become_v easy_a &_o as_o it_o be_v natural_a to_o the_o soul_n and_o consequent_o without_o any_o force_n use_v on_o the_o imagination_n or_o understanding_n they_o may_v be_v continue_v without_o interruption_n for_o they_o will_v flow_v as_o free_o as_o breath_n from_o the_o lung_n and_o where_o such_o desire_n do_v abound_v flow_a from_o a_o holy_a inward_a temper_n of_o soul_n there_o no_o employment_n will_v be_v undertake_v that_o shall_v cross_v or_o prejudice_n such_o desire_n on_o the_o contrary_a they_o will_v give_v a_o tincture_n to_o all_o action_n direct_v they_o to_o the_o object_n of_o those_o desire_n &_o thereby_o add_v to_o the_o fervency_n of_o they_o 13._o now_o a_o question_n may_v be_v make_v whether_o in_o contemplative_a order_n where_o likewise_o there_o be_v use_v much_o abstraction_n solitude_n &_o other_o austerity_n soul_n may_v attain_v to_o this_o uninterrupt_a prayer_n by_o the_o way_n of_o meditation_n or_o else_o of_o long_o continue_v vocal_a prayer_n alone_o without_o appoint_a recollection_n of_o internal_a affective_a prayer_n constant_o exercise_v 14_o hereto_o it_o may_v be_v answer_v first_o that_o as_o for_o meditation_n it_o be_v a_o exercise_n so_o disproportionable_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o such_o a_o state_n except_o as_o a_o preparation_n for_o awhile_o in_o the_o beginning_n that_o it_o be_v not_o possible_a to_o be_v the_o constant_a &_o continue_a exercise_n of_o such_o person_n for_o as_o shall_v be_v show_v the_o imagination_n &_o understanding_n by_o much_o exercise_n thereof_o in_o a_o undistract_a life_n will_v become_v so_o barren_a &_o it_o will_v ptoduce_v so_o small_a or_o no_o effect_n in_o good_a affection_n in_o the_o will_n that_o it_o will_v be_v disgustful_a &_o insupportable_a so_o that_o all_o use_n of_o meditation_n must_v be_v for_o a_o long_a space_n pass_v &_o relinquish_v before_o the_o soul_n will_v be_v bring_v to_o this_o good_a state_n of_o have_v a_o continual_a flux_n of_o holy_a desire_n 15._o but_o in_o the_o second_o place_n touch_v long_o continue_v vocal_a prayer_n and_o office_n without_o any_o set_a exercise_n of_o internal_a recollection_n no_o doubt_n it_o be_v but_o by_o they_o such_o religious_a person_n may_v be_v bring_v to_o this_o habit_n of_o continual_a prayer_n so_o that_o 1._o they_o hold_v their_o mind_n to_o as_o much_o attention_n as_o reasonable_o they_o can_v 2._o so_o that_o out_o of_o choir_n they_o keep_v their_o mind_n from_o distractive_a affection_n or_o sollicitude_n either_o about_o study_n or_o any_o other_o employment_n voluntary_a or_o impose_v 3._o so_o they_o be_v watchful_a over_o themselves_o not_o to_o give_v scope_n to_o thought_n which_o may_v be_v harmful_a to_o they_o thus_o the_o ancient_a hermit_n arrive_v to_o this_o perfection_n 4._o a_o four_o condition_n may_v be_v that_o such_o person_n content_v themselves_o with_o the_o public_a office_n &_o not_o over-burden_n themselves_o with_o a_o surcharge_n of_o voluntary_a vocal_a prayer_n for_o turrecremata_fw-la say_v well_o on_o the_o decr._n d._n 92._o that_o the_o voice_n &_o other_o external_a do_n be_v in_o prayer_n to_o be_v use_v only_o so_o far_o as_o by_o they_o to_o raise_v internal_a devotion_n so_o that_o if_o by_o the_o excess_n of_o they_o it_o shall_v be_v hinder_v or_o the_o mind_n distract_v they_o ought_v to_o be_v abstain_v from_o and_o s._n augustin_n no_o doubt_n from_o experience_n as_o well_o as_o judgement_n say_v qu_n vitum_fw-la proficis_fw-la ad_fw-la videndam_fw-la sapientiam_fw-la tantò_fw-la minus_fw-la est_fw-la vox_fw-la necessaria_fw-la that_o be_v the_o great_a progress_n thou_o make_v in_o contemplative_a wisdom_n so_o much_o less_o necesary_a will_n vocal_a pray_v be_v such_o person_n therefore_o if_o in_o their_o solitude_n they_o do_v not_o appoint_v to_o themselves_o any_o set_v recollection_n yet_o ought_v they_o to_o keep_v their_o mind_n in_o a_o state_n of_o as_o much_o recollectednes_n as_o may_v be_v by_o interrupt_a good_a desire_n at_o least_o beget_v in_o their_o mind_n a_o affection_n to_o prayer_n &_o a_o appetite_n to_o the_o succeed_a office_n 16._o notwithstanding_o certain_a it_o be_v that_o vocal_a prayer_n though_o never_o so_o much_o prolong_v &_o in_o never_o so_o great_a solitude_n yet_o will_v never_o produce_v this_o effect_n where_o the_o true_a spirit_n of_o contemplative_a prayer_n be_v not_o know_v &_o such_o ignorance_n have_v be_v even_o in_o order_n of_o the_o great_a abstraction_n &_o austerity_n thus_o we_o see_v that_o germanus_n &_o cassianus_n though_o practise_v many_o year_n in_o a_o striâ—t_o coenobiticall_a life_n yet_o be_v astonish_v when_o they_o hear_v the_o holy_a hermit_n discourse_n of_o pure_a spiritual_a prayer_n free_a from_o image_n &c_n &c_n 17._o it_o remain_v therefore_o that_o ordinary_o speak_v the_o only_a efficacious_a &_o immediate_a disposition_n to_o the_o habit_n of_o uninterrupt_a prayer_n be_v a_o constant_a exercise_n of_o internal_a prayer_n of_o the_o will_n by_o which_o the_o soul_n be_v daily_o force_v to_o a_o serious_a attendance_n &_o tendance_n to_o god_n in_o spirit_n by_o little_a &_o little_o become_v more_o &_o better_o affect_v to_o a_o frequent_a conversation_n with_o he_o &_o in_o time_n lose_v all_o relish_n or_o taste_v of_o pleasure_n in_o creature_n 18._o this_o i_o say_v will_v be_v the_o effect_n of_o such_o constant_a &_o fervent_a exercise_n of_o recollection_n for_o as_o for_o those_o which_o be_v common_o call_v elaculatory_a prayer_n that_o be_v good_a affection_n now_o and_o then_o by_o fit_n &_o with_o frequent_a interruption_n exercise_v though_o they_o be_v very_o good_a &_o profitable_a &_o withal_o very_o fit_a to_o be_v use_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o read_v especial_o or_o any_o other_o external_a employment_n yet_o they_o alone_o will_v though_o join_v to_o the_o ordinary_a use_n of_o the_o divine_a office_n be_v insufficient_a to_o produce_v such_o a_o habit_n of_o soul_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o be_v so_o short_a &_o with_o such_o interruption_n exercise_v the_o virtue_n of_o they_o be_v present_o spend_v &_o will_v have_v little_a or_o no_o effect_n upon_o subsequent_a action_n but_o as_o for_o the_o eiaculatory_a prayer_n mention_v &_o worthy_o commend_v by_o the_o holy_a hermit_n in_o cassian_n the_o nature_n of_o they_o be_v quite_o different_a from_o those_o foremention_v for_o they_o be_v indeed_o not_o different_a from_o infuse_a aspiration_n be_v the_o effect_n flow_a from_o the_o habit_n of_o continual_a prayer_n already_o acquire_v &_o not_o imperfect_a preparation_n thereto_o 19_o to_o conclude_v none_o can_v account_v themselves_o to_o have_v satisfy_v in_o that_o perfection_n that_o they_o ought_v the_o obligation_n impose_v on_o they_o by_o this_o necessary_a precept_n of_o our_o lord_n oportet_fw-la semper_fw-la orare_fw-la &_o non_fw-la deficere_fw-la but_o 1._o such_o as_o do_v actual_o exercise_v as_o much_o prayer_n as_o may_v consist_v with_o their_o ability_n &_o as_o be_v necessary_a to_o produce_v contemplation_n if_o such_o be_v their_o state_n of_o life_n and_o moreover_o such_o actual_a prayer_n as_o be_v suitable_a thereto_o yet_o not_o indiscreet_o strein_v themselves_o beyond_o their_o power_n to_o perform_v it_o perfect_o at_o first_o lest_o it_o happen_v unto_o they_o according_a to_o the_o say_v of_o the_o prophet_n jerem._n 28._o c._n quia_fw-la plus_fw-la fecit_fw-la quam_fw-la potuit_fw-la idcirco_fw-la perijt_fw-la that_o be_v because_o he_o do_v more_o than_o he_o be_v able_a therefore_o he_o perish_v 2._o such_o as_o when_o discretion_n or_o other_o necessary_a employment_n do_v withdraw_v they_o from_o actual_a prayer_n yet_o do_v preserve_v in_o their_o mind_n a_o love_n &_o desire_v of_o it_o &_o a_o firm_a resolution_n courageous_o to_o break_v through_o all_o discouragemenâ—s_n &_o hindrance_n to_o it_o 3._o such_o as_o do_v endeavour_v to_o do_v all_o their_o action_n in_o virtue_n of_o prayer_n that_o be_v with_o the_o same_o holy_a &_o pure_a intention_n as_o god_n give_v they_o in_o their_o precedent_a prayer_n 4._o such_o as_o do_v abstain_v from_o all_o voluntary_a employment_n as_o do_v indispose_v their_o mind_n for_o prayer_n keep_v their_o soul_n in_o such_o a_o disposition_n as_o to_o be_v able_a present_o to_o correspond_v to_o a_o interiour_n divine_a invitation_n to_o prayer_n if_o god_n shall_v send_v it_o &_o to_o be_v in_o a_o capacity_n of_o receive_v &_o perceive_v such_o invitation_n now_o this_o be_v do_v by_o keep_v a_o continual_a guard_n
over_o our_o passion_n that_o they_o break_v not_o forth_o so_o as_o to_o indispose_v we_o even_o for_o present_a recollection_n &_o much_o less_o for_o the_o appoint_a recollection_n which_o be_v to_o follow_v 6._o such_o as_o do_v practice_v mortification_n in_o a_o measure_n suitable_a to_o their_o state_n thereby_o root_a out_o those_o inordinate_a assection_n which_o cause_n distraction_n in_o prayer_n &_o be_v hindrance_n to_o a_o state_n of_o recollectednes_n for_o as_o that_o fundamental_a precept_n of_o love_a god_n oblige_v a_o soul_n at_o least_o never_o to_o do_v any_o thing_n contrary_a thereto_o so_o do_v that_o of_o prayer_n oblige_v that_o we_o shall_v always_o be_v in_o a_o disposition_n &_o readiness_n to_o it_o 20._o therefore_o let_v soul_n consider_v in_o what_o a_o unsecure_a and_o dangerous_a state_n they_o remain_v that_o content_n themselves_o with_o a_o few_o heartless_a distract_a vocal_a prayer_n since_o not_o any_o tentation_n can_v be_v resist_v without_o a_o actual_a exercise_n of_o prayer_n &_o that_o the_o best_a prayer_n that_o the_o soul_n can_v make_v beside_o it_o be_v not_o with_o prayer_n as_o with_o other_o art_n or_o habit_n a_o student_n by_o cessation_n from_o study_n do_v not_o present_o loose_v nor_o so_o much_o as_o diminish_v the_o knowledge_n that_o he_o have_v before_o but_o a_o soul_n that_o be_v not_o in_o actual_a prayer_n or_o at_o least_o in_o a_o immediate_a disposition_n &_o a_o habitual_a desire_n of_o prayer_n sink_v present_o into_o nature_n &_o lose_v much_o of_o that_o strength_n that_o she_o have_v former_o there_o be_v not_o always_o occasion_n to_o exercise_v particular_a virtue_n as_o temperance_n patience_n chastity_n &c_n &c_n because_o tentation_n do_v not_o always_o assault_v we_o but_o we_o may_v always_o pray_v &_o always_o we_o have_v need_v so_o to_o do_v for_o a_o soul_n except_o she_o be_v in_o prayer_n or_o that_o the_o virtue_n of_o prayer_n be_v alive_a in_o she_o be_v in_o a_o state_n of_o distraction_n &_o disunion_n from_o god_n &_o consequent_o expose_v to_o all_o manner_n of_o enemy_n be_v withal_o deprive_v of_o the_o only_a mean_n to_o resist_v they_o so_o that_o the_o danger_n &_o misery_n of_o a_o unrecollected_a life_n be_v inexplicable_a chap._n v._n §_o 1._o the_o second_o condition_n requisite_a in_o affective_a prayer_n to_o wit_n fervour_n or_o devotion_n §_o 2._o 3._o 4._o the_o seat_n of_o this_o devotion_n be_v not_o necessary_o the_o sensitive_a part_n of_o the_o soul_n §_o 5._o 6._o 7._o of_o a_o twofold_a sensible_a devotion_n §_o 7._o it_o be_v neither_o to_o be_v neglect_v nor_o too_o much_o prise_v §_o 8._o 9_o certain_a exterior_a effect_n of_o sensible_a devotion_n from_o which_o great_a inconvenience_n may_v ensue_v §_o 10._o sensible_a devotion_n no_o sure_a sign_n of_o true_a grace_n a_o fearful_a example_n thereof_o §_o 11._o 12._o 23._o what_o use_v imperfect_a soul_n be_v to_o make_v of_o it_o §_o 14._o fear_n be_v to_o be_v repress_v §_o 15._o perfect_a soul_n in_o small_a danger_n by_o it_o §_o 16._o of_o the_o prayer_n of_o aridity_n quite_o contrary_a to_o sensible_a yet_o not_o to_o true_a devotion_n §_o 17._o 18._o 19_o the_o excellent_a benefit_n that_o may_v come_v from_o the_o prayer_n of_o aridity_n §_o 20._o the_o cause_n of_o aridity_n §_o 21_o 22._o vocal_a prayer_n &_o meditation_n not_o so_o much_o subject_n thereto_o §_o 23._o 24._o more_o good_a come_v from_o prayer_n of_o aridity_n courageous_o pursue_v then_o from_o the_o prayer_n of_o sensible_a devotion_n §_o 25._o the_o superior_a soul_n &_o its_o good_a disposition_n do_v not_o depend_v on_o the_o temper_n of_o sensitive_a nature_n §_o 26._o 27._o mean_v to_o beget_v courage_n in_o the_o prayer_n of_o aridity_n §_o 25._o how_o a_o soul_n be_v to_o behave_v herself_o in_o the_o most_o violent_a distress_n in_o prayer_n §_o 29._o the_o prayer_n exercise_v by_o imperfect_a soul_n during_o aridity_n be_v not_o proper_o in_o spirit_n 1._o as_o 1._o prayer_n for_o the_o quantity_n or_o extension_n of_o it_o be_v to_o be_v incessant_a at_o least_o the_o virtue_n of_o it_o be_v to_o be_v a_o ingredient_n in_o all_o other_o work_n whether_o they_o be_v study_v labour_n conversation_n &c._n &c._n the_o which_o may_v be_v without_o any_o prejudice_n at_o all_o to_o the_o work_n yea_o to_o the_o great_a improvement_n &_o supernaturalize_v of_o it_o so_o far_o that_o where_o prayer_n be_v want_v the_o most_o specious_a work_n be_v of_o no_o value_n at_o all_o so_o in_o the_o next_o place_n 2._o as_o to_o the_o quality_n or_o intention_n of_o it_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v instantissima_fw-la say_v our_o holy_a father_n in_o prologue_n with_o all_o possible_a fervour_n &_o earnestness_n for_o prayer_n be_v the_o most_o immediate_a &_o most_o perfect_a act_n of_o charity_n to_o god_n aught_o like_o charity_n itself_o to_o proceed_v ex_fw-la toto_fw-la cord_n ex_fw-la tota_fw-la anima_fw-la &_o ex_fw-la totis_fw-la viribus_fw-la from_o the_o whole_a heart_n the_o whole_a soul_n &_o the_o whole_a strength_n therefore_o as_o he_o offend_v against_o the_o precept_n of_o charity_n that_o employ_v either_o his_o spirit_n sensitive_a soul_n or_o corporal_a strength_n on_o any_o thing_n but_o god_n or_o which_o have_v respect_n to_o god_n his_o love_n or_o glory_n so_o if_o in_o our_o prayer_n we_o do_v willing_o suffer_v our_o thought_n to_o wander_v upon_o any_o thing_n but_o god_n or_o if_o we_o harbour_v any_o desire_n in_o sensitive_a nature_n that_o will_v hinder_v the_o free_a tendance_n of_o our_o spirit_n to_o god_n in_o prayer_n or_o if_o we_o employ_v our_o corporal_a strength_n about_o any_o other_o matter_n but_o such_o as_o may_v &_o aught_o to_o be_v intend_v for_o god_n in_o our_o prayer_n we_o do_v so_o far_o neglect_v to_o correspond_v to_o this_o duty_n of_o fervour_n &_o instance_n which_o ought_v to_o be_v in_o prayer_n 2._o notwithstanding_o this_o be_v not_o so_o to_o be_v understand_v as_o if_o we_o be_v oblige_v either_o to_o employ_v our_o corporal_a force_n or_o member_n or_o to_o force_v our_o sensible_a affection_n to_o concur_v in_o our_o prayer_n to_o god_n or_o as_o if_o god_n do_v require_v that_o this_o fervour_n shall_v always_o be_v in_o sensitive_a nature_n for_o that_o be_v not_o always_o in_o our_o power_n yea_o on_o the_o contrary_a the_o sensual_a part_n move_v often_o against_o our_o will_n be_v insensible_a averse_a &_o impatient_a of_o accompany_v our_o spiritual_a actuation_n which_o common_o do_v mortify_v &_o contradict_v the_o desire_n of_o nature_n 2._o and_o moreover_o when_o sensible_a fervour_n &_o devotion_n do_v insinuate_v itself_o in_o our_o recollection_n especial_o in_o imperfect_a soul_n it_o do_v rather_o endanger_v to_o depress_v the_o operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n then_o advance_v they_o &_o do_v perhaps_o more_o nourish_v self-love_n then_o contribute_v to_o the_o increase_n of_o divine_a love_n 3._o it_o be_v sufficient_a therefore_o if_o this_o fervour_n be_v in_o our_o superior_a will_n alone_o though_o sensitive_a nature_n seem_v to_o partake_v nothing_o of_o it_o so_o that_o our_o prayer_n may_v then_o be_v say_v to_o be_v instant_a &_o feruorous_a when_o the_o will_v out_o of_o a_o worthy_a &_o high_a esteem_n of_o this_o most_o necessary_a &_o most_o excellent_a duty_n resolute_o &_o with_o perseverance_n pursue_v they_o notwithstanding_o any_o contradiction_n in_o nature_n or_o discouragement_n from_o without_o for_o that_o must_v needs_o be_v a_o great_a fervour_n of_o spirit_n that_o contradict_v the_o contrary_a malignant_a fervour_n of_o nature_n &_o underualewe_n all_o sensible_a case_n &_o contentment_n compare_v with_o the_o spiritual_a good_a that_o be_v cause_v by_o prayer_n 4._o this_o be_v that_o good_a quality_n which_o our_o saviour_n in_o the_o parable_n of_o he_o who_o at_o midnight_n go_v to_o his_o neighbour_n to_o borrow_v three_o loaf_n of_o bread_n for_o the_o entertainment_n of_o a_o friend_n that_o be_v then_o arrive_v call_v by_o a_o homely_a name_n to_o wit_n improbitatem_fw-la or_o as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o original_a impudence_n the_o which_o quality_n notwithstanding_o he_o require_v in_o our_o prayer_n to_o god_n &_o promise_v a_o infallible_a success_n thereto_o now_o that_o improbity_n or_o impudence_n imply_v a_o importunate_a earnestness_n a_o resolution_n to_o take_v no_o denial_n nor_o to_o stand_v upon_o nice_a civility_n but_o ra_o she_o then_o to_o return_v empty_a to_o force_v out_o a_o grant_n even_o by_o weary_v out_o the_o person_n to_o who_o we_o address_v ourselves_o so_o that_o it_o include_v both_o a_o great_a fervour_n &_o a_o uncessant_a perseverance_n in_o such_o fervour_n the_o which_o be_v in_o a_o high_a degree_n in_o those_o who_o spend_v their_o whole_a life_n as_o it_o be_v in_o one_o continual_a prayer_n yea_o in_o one_o only_a petition_n
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
tempt_a of_o god_n and_o a_o savour_v of_o the_o error_n of_o the_o heretic_n call_v illuminate_v 20._o the_o answer_n be_v that_o this_o prayer_n exercise_v mere_o by_o holy_a affection_n without_o mental_a discourse_n can_v be_v practise_v but_o by_o such_o as_o have_v a_o long_a time_n be_v exercise_v in_o the_o inferior_a degree_n of_o discursive_a prayer_n except_o it_o be_v when_o god_n prevent_v soul_n extraordinary_o by_o a_o special_a invitation_n and_o enablement_n and_o those_o likewise_o that_o from_o meditation_n do_v ascend_v to_o this_o quiet_a prayer_n do_v it_o by_o the_o guidance_n of_o a_o supernatural_a light_n and_o be_v in_o it_o they_o exercise_v themselves_o theâ—â—n_v not_o by_o desire_v or_o expect_v revelation_n but_o by_o acknowledge_v the_o divine_a presence_n in_o the_o soul_n and_o produce_v the_o foresay_a holy_a affection_n to_o he_o neither_o be_v here_o any_o affinity_n with_o the_o do_n of_o the_o illuminate_v who_o without_o any_o call_n from_o god_n without_o any_o preparation_n do_v arrogant_o presume_v to_o pray_v as_o they_o do_v remain_v in_o a_o distract_a idleness_n &_o mispend_v the_o time_n in_o expectation_n of_o extraordinary_a visit_n without_o any_o good_a effect_n at_o all_o towards_o the_o reformation_n of_o their_o inordinate_a affection_n whereas_o if_o a_o immortified_a soul_n shall_v presume_v to_o betake_v herself_o to_o this_o prayer_n she_o will_v be_v force_v to_o quit_v it_o for_o none_o can_v appear_v with_o a_o secure_a peacefullnes_n before_o god_n presence_n that_o do_v deliberate_o resist_v his_o spirit_n which_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o purity_n sanctity_n humiliation_n and_o conformity_n to_o the_o divine_a will_n 21._o in_o the_o three_o place_n it_o be_v object_v that_o there_o be_v no_o way_n to_o discern_v when_o one_o undertake_v this_o prayer_n by_o a_o divine_a inspiration_n and_o when_o this_o be_v do_v out_o of_o presumption_n and_o a_o desire_n to_o enjoy_v spiritual_a gust_n which_o nourish_v self-love_n 22._o it_o be_v answer_v that_o this_o will_v evident_o enough_o be_v know_v by_o the_o effect_n as_o a_o tree_n by_o its_o fruit_n now_o the_o effect_n of_o this_o prayer_n when_o it_o be_v practise_v upon_o a_o divine_a call_n be_v a_o softness_n and_o flexibility_n of_o the_o heart_n to_o the_o divine_a will_n a_o resign_v acceptation_n of_o all_o thing_n from_o his_o hand_n a_o confidence_n of_o obtain_v all_o good_a from_o he_o upon_o who_o the_o soul_n have_v entire_o bestow_v herself_o a_o imitation_n of_o the_o pattern_n of_o all_o perfection_n our_o lord_n jesus_n a_o renounce_n of_o self-will_a etc._n etc._n now_o sure_o that_o prayer_n which_o teach_v these_o thing_n be_v doubtless_o from_o god_n 23._o but_o fourthly_a it_o be_v reply_v that_o those_o which_o practise_v this_o kind_n of_o prayer_n be_v selfe-opinioned_n adhere_v to_o their_o own_o way_n &_o out_o of_o a_o presumptuous_a conceit_n of_o be_v spiritual_a despise_v other_o &_o refuse_v to_o submit_v themselves_o to_o the_o judgement_n of_o superior_n 24._o the_o answer_n be_v that_o such_o defect_n &_o miscarriage_n as_o these_o be_v not_o to_o be_v impute_v to_o the_o prayer_n itself_o which_o teach_v the_o quite_o contrary_a but_o to_o the_o imperfection_n &_o frailty_n of_o those_o that_o do_v not_o practice_v it_o as_o they_o ought_v and_o therefore_o this_o be_v not_o a_o ground_n sufficient_a to_o condemn_v the_o prayer_n itself_o no_o more_o than_o meditation_n ought_v to_o be_v condemn_v because_o the_o like_a or_o great_a fault_n be_v commit_v by_o some_o that_o practise_v it_o who_o be_v more_o obnoxious_a to_o a_o vain_a esteem_n of_o themselves_o upon_o occasion_n of_o some_o curious_a invention_n find_v out_o by_o their_o internal_a reason_n therein_o yea_o the_o sacrement_n we_o see_v be_v abuse_v but_o yet_o not_o therefore_o forbid_v as_o for_o superior_n none_o of_o they_o except_o it_o be_v sometime_o for_o a_o trial_n aught_o to_o prohibit_v their_o subject_n from_o pray_v according_a as_o god_n by_o his_o inspiration_n direct_v they_o and_o if_o they_o shall_v absolute_o prohibit_v this_o they_o must_v expect_v that_o god_n will_v require_v a_o account_n of_o they_o however_o in_o such_o a_o case_n it_o will_v be_v a_o fault_n in_o subject_n to_o disobey_v they_o but_o yet_o till_o such_o a_o prohibition_n do_v issue_n forth_o the_o subject_n sure_o may_v lawful_o yea_o ought_v to_o follow_v the_o internal_a direction_n of_o god_n neither_o be_v it_o presumption_n in_o they_o if_o by_o the_o advantage_n of_o experience_n they_o shall_v think_v themselves_o capable_a of_o judge_v of_o such_o matter_n better_a than_o those_o that_o have_v no_o experience_n at_o all_o in_o they_o nor_o be_v it_o pride_n to_o acknowledge_v the_o gift_n give_v we_o of_o god_n as_o the_o apostle_n say_v 25._o five_o it_o be_v object_v that_o some_o be_v so_o wholâ—y_o give_v up_o to_o this_o fashion_n of_o prayer_n that_o they_o be_v always_o in_o a_o kind_n of_o ecstasy_n be_v so_o delight_v with_o the_o gust_n which_o they_o find_v in_o it_o that_o they_o quite_o forget_v their_o obligation_n of_o charity_n obedience_n &_o exercise_v of_o virtue_n from_o which_o they_o retire_v themselves_o to_o the_o end_n they_o may_v immerse_n themselves_o in_o a_o prayer_n that_o afford_v they_o no_o rrueth_n which_o may_v proffitable_o be_v communicate_v to_o their_o neighbour_n now_o all_o this_o be_v direct_o contrary_a to_o the_o institute_n of_o s._n ignatius_n moreover_o by_o this_o kind_n of_o prayer_n many_o of_o the_o practiser_n of_o it_o become_v subject_a to_o diverse_a corporal_a infirmity_n which_o render_v they_o incapable_a to_o comply_v with_o the_o obligation_n of_o their_o state_n of_o life_n 26._o the_o answer_n be_v that_o it_o be_v no_o wonder_n if_o some_o defect_n be_v sound_a in_o these_o person_n since_o none_o be_v entire_o free_a but_o however_o the_o say_a defect_n be_v not_o to_o be_v impute_v to_o the_o prayer_n but_o undue_a use_n of_o it_o for_o contemplation_n itself_o do_v even_o urge_v soul_n to_o the_o exercise_n of_o charity_n whensoever_o necessity_n and_o duty_n require_v it_o not_o otherwise_o hence_o be_v that_o say_n of_o s._n augustine_n lib._n 19_o de_fw-fr civit._n d._n c._n 19_o otium_fw-la sanctum_fw-la quaerit_fw-la charitas_fw-la veritatis_fw-la &c_n &c_n love_n of_o verity_n seek_v a_o holy_a vacancy_n necessity_n of_o charity_n undertake_v due_a employment_n the_o which_o charge_n if_o it_o be_v not_o impose_v one_o ought_v to_o remain_v in_o the_o fruition_n &_o contemplation_n of_o verity_n and_o agreeable_a herto_o be_v the_o doctrine_n of_o s._n gregor_n in_o cap._n 7._o job._n &_o s._n bernard_n ser_z 57_o in_o cant._n moreover_o a_o soul_n by_o meditation_n may_v perhaps_o find_v out_o fine_a conceit_n but_o the_o will_n be_v more_o enrich_v with_o virtue_n by_o this_o prayer_n now_o it_o be_v virtue_n alone_o that_o render_v a_o soul_n acceptable_a to_o god_n and_o as_o for_o corporal_a infirmity_n they_o proceed_v only_o from_o a_o indiscreet_a use_n of_o this_o prayer_n for_o otherwise_o it_o be_v a_o prayer_n of_o stillnes_n &_o repose_n be_v far_o less_o dangerous_a to_o the_o head_n &_o health_n than_o the_o laborious_a imaginative_a exercise_n of_o meditation_n and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o those_o holy_a person_n that_o practise_v it_o be_v enable_v much_o long_o to_o continue_v in_o it_o 27._o a_o six_o objection_n be_v that_o this_o manner_n of_o prayer_n do_v draw_v soul_n so_o whole_o to_o itself_o that_o all_o devotion_n to_o saint_n &_o all_o pray_v for_o common_a or_o particular_a necessity_n become_v too_o much_o neglect_v &_o forget_v 28._o it_o be_v answer_v that_o since_o such_o vocal_a prayer_n and_o voluntary_a exercise_n be_v only_a mean_n to_o bring_v soul_n to_o perfect_a prayer_n of_o quietness_n according_a to_o s._n thomas_n his_o doctrine_n 22._o q._n 83._o a._n 13._o they_o ought_v to_o cease_v when_o the_o soul_n find_v herself_o full_a of_o fervent_a affection_n neither_o be_v this_o any_o proof_n of_o disesteem_v of_o such_o mean_n but_o a_o right_a understanding_n and_o use_n of_o they_o it_o be_v say_v of_o s._n ignatius_n that_o by_o long_a practice_n of_o vocal_a prayer_n etc._n etc._n he_o be_v bring_v to_o such_o inward_a familiarity_n with_o god_n that_o he_o can_v not_o proceed_v in_o the_o say_n of_o his_o office_n by_o reason_n of_o the_o copious_a communication_n of_o ardent_a affection_n &_o grace_n that_o god_n bestow_v on_o he_o in_o so_o much_o as_o his_o companion_n be_v force_v to_o obtain_v for_o he_o a_o dispensation_n from_o that_o obligation_n because_o the_o performance_n of_o his_o office_n take_v up_o almost_o the_o whole_a day_n so_o abundant_a be_v the_o divine_a visitation_n in_o it_o towards_o he_o neither_o be_v we_o to_o think_v that_o a_o soul_n by_o follow_a the_o divine_a conduct_n in_o
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
able_a to_o heave_v up_o herself_o unto_o god_n in_o darkness_n and_o vacancy_n of_o image_n and_o be_v likewise_o a_o spiritual_a faculty_n be_v exempt_v from_o the_o devil_n influence_n who_o have_v great_a dominion_n over_o our_o corporeal_a power_n to_o suggest_v representation_n etc._n etc._n for_o these_o reason_n it_o be_v good_a to_o make_v the_o discourse_v part_n of_o meditation_n as_o short_a as_o may_v be_v so_o as_o that_o if_o the_o mere_a reflection_n on_o a_o mystery_n will_v suffice_v to_o produce_v a_o good_a affection_n the_o person_n be_v to_o restrain_v the_o imagination_n 11._o to_o conclude_v the_o great_a and_o inexplicable_a variety_n that_o be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o the_o disposition_n of_o soul_n be_v consider_v and_o likewise_o the_o great_a inconvenience_n that_o necessary_o follow_n a_o misapplication_n of_o spirit_n to_o exercise_n improper_a for_o they_o the_o sad_a condition_n of_o those_o good_a soul_n can_v sufficient_o be_v bewail_v who_o by_o their_o profession_n be_v as_o it_o be_v imprison_v in_o a_o solitary_a religious_a life_n and_o be_v natural_o unapt_a for_o discourse_n be_v yet_o kepd_v all_o their_o life_n in_o meditation_n repeat_v over_o and_o over_o again_o the_o same_o toilsome_a method_n without_o any_o progress_n in_o spirit_n to_o their_o great_a anguish_n and_o disquietness_n and_o this_o misery_n be_v much_o great_a in_o religious_a woman_n who_o have_v no_o diversion_n of_o study_n or_o employment_n can_v possible_o find_v exercise_n for_o their_o imagination_n and_o therefore_o see_v great_a defect_n and_o unsatisfaction_n in_o themselves_o and_o not_o know_v the_o only_a cure_n of_o they_o which_o be_v by_o ascend_v to_o the_o internal_a exercise_n of_o the_o will_n their_o imperfection_n increase_v and_o their_o anguish_n proportionable_o without_o any_o know_a mean_n to_o amend_v they_o chap._n iii_o §_o 11._o how_o a_o soul_n be_v to_o exercise_n meditation_n §_o 2._o 3._o 4._o etc._n etc._n what_o inconvenient_a practice_n &_o method_n therein_o be_v to_o be_v avoid_v §_o 9_o 10._o etc._n etc._n what_o order_n be_v positive_o to_o be_v observe_v §_o 15._o the_o ground_n of_o those_o advice_n §_o 16._o 17._o etc._n etc._n further_n special_a instruction_n to_o the_o same_o purpose_n §_o 23._o a_o particular_a way_n of_o meditation_n in_o blosius_n 1._o intend_v now_o to_o set_v down_o more_o particular_a instruction_n and_o advice_n how_o and_o in_o what_o manner_n a_o soul_n by_o her_o choice_n or_o profession_n aspire_v to_o contemplation_n ought_v in_o order_n thereto_o to_o practice_v the_o low_a &_o most_o imperfect_a degree_n of_o internal_a prayer_n which_o be_v meditation_n i_o will_v first_o show_v such_o a_o beginner_n what_o he_o be_v not_o to_o do_v that_o be_v what_o practice_n and_o order_n he_o be_v to_o avoid_v 2._o and_o next_o how_o he_o be_v to_o behave_v himself_o in_o the_o exercise_n thereof_o 2._o as_o to_o the_o former_a therefore_o i_o shall_v be_v so_o far_o from_o commend_v that_o i_o will_v scarce_o permit_v soul_n live_v a_o contemplative_a life_n as_o all_o enclose_a religious_a woman_n do_v etc._n etc._n to_o be_v strict_o oblige_v to_o a_o prescribe_a method_n in_o meditation_n or_o to_o those_o many_o and_o nice_a rule_n which_o be_v ordain_v by_o some_o modern_a author_n as_o 1._o that_o a_o soul_n shall_v put_v herself_o in_o the_o divine_a presence_n 2._o that_o she_o shall_v make_v act_n of_o contrition_n 3._o that_o she_o shall_v select_v point_n of_o meditation_n 4._o that_o she_o shall_v consider_v they_o in_o such_o a_o order_n with_o such_o frame_n of_o representation_n of_o the_o person_n time_n place_n posture_n etc._n etc._n 5._o that_o thence_o she_o shall_v draw_v motive_n of_o good_a affection_n 6._o that_o thereupon_o she_o shall_v draw_v petition_n 7._o that_o afterward_o she_o shall_v make_v purpose_n 8._o that_o thereto_o she_o shall_v adjoine_v thanksgiving_n 9_o morevoer_n that_o she_o shall_v have_v a_o list_n of_o imperfection_n or_o fault_n commit_v the_o day_n &c_n &c_n before_o and_o make_v expunction_n of_o fault_n amend_v 10._o that_o in_o conclusion_n she_o shall_v make_v a_o examen_fw-la how_o her_o meditation_n have_v be_v perform_v to_o the_o end_n she_o may_v give_v a_o account_n thereof_o to_o her_o spiritual_a director_n etc._n etc._n 3._o it_o be_v far_o from_o my_o intention_n to_o speak_v against_o the_o use_n of_o such_o method_n and_o order_n among_o those_o where_o they_o be_v first_o invent_v &_o be_v still_o practise_v for_o they_o may_v well_o enough_o agree_v with_o their_o institute_n which_o be_v far_o more_o active_a than_o contemplative_a but_o among_o solitary_a contemplative_a spirit_n such_o order_n be_v indeed_o a_o disorder_n and_o a_o nice_a observance_n of_o such_o ceremonious_a method_n will_v be_v more_o distractive_a and_o painful_a than_o the_o simple_a exercise_n itself_o and_o particular_o the_o expectation_n that_o a_o account_n be_v to_o be_v give_v of_o one_o thought_n during_o meditation_n will_v afford_v more_o business_n to_o a_o soul_n than_o the_o mystery_n on_o which_o she_o meditate_v so_o that_o she_o will_v be_v more_o solicitous_a to_o give_v satisfaction_n to_o her_o director_n then_o to_o perform_v her_o duty_n to_o god_n and_o therefore_o s._n theresa_n with_o just_a reason_n complain_v against_o those_o directour_n which_o fetter_v and_o encumber_v their_o disciple_n mind_n with_o order_n and_o rule_n which_o require_v more_o attention_n than_o the_o matter_n of_o the_o prayer_n itself_o 4._o how_o to_o meditate_v proffitable_o though_o not_o curious_o be_v quick_o and_o without_o much_o difficulty_n learn_v by_o such_o as_o be_v fit_a for_o it_o but_o to_o observe_v all_o the_o say_a prescript_n be_v both_o difficult_a incombr_v and_o unproffitable_a be_v indeed_o little_o better_a than_o a_o mispending_a of_o the_o time_n i_o mean_v for_o soul_n tend_v to_o contemplation_n 5._o moreover_o in_o meditation_n i_o will_v not_o tie_v the_o will_n that_o it_o shall_v not_o go_v beside_o or_o beyond_o the_o understanding_n on_o the_o contrary_a my_o advice_n and_o request_n be_v that_o the_o will_n so_o it_o be_v carry_v towards_o god_n shall_v be_v suffer_v to_o go_v as_o far_o as_o it_o can_v and_o that_o scope_n shall_v be_v give_v to_o any_o good_a affection_n not_o care_v whether_o such_o affection_n be_v pertinent_a to_o the_o present_a subject_n to_o be_v consider_v on_o at_o that_o time_n upon_o condition_n that_o the_o soul_n find_v that_o she_o bestow_v herself_o more_o efficacious_o on_o god_n by_o such_o affection_n then_o by_o those_o which_o will_v proper_o flow_v from_o the_o present_a motive_n consider_v 6._o neither_o will_v i_o that_o when_o a_o soul_n have_v choose_v one_o point_n or_o mystery_n to_o meditate_v on_o she_o shall_v strict_o oblige_v herself_o to_o proceed_v on_o with_o it_o but_o that_o if_o without_o a_o voluntary_a rove_a and_o seek_v any_o other_o shall_v offer_v itself_o to_o the_o mind_n more_o grateful_a and_o more_o gustfull_a to_o the_o soul_n she_o shall_v entertain_v the_o latter_a hold_v herself_o to_o it_o as_o long_o as_o the_o virtue_n of_o it_o well_o last_v and_o it_o cease_v then_o lâ—t_v she_o return_v to_o the_o first_o propose_v subject_n and_o the_o like_a liberty_n i_o recommend_v in_o the_o follow_a exercise_n of_o immediate_a act_n whensoever_o any_o act_n or_o good_a affection_n be_v suggest_v to_o the_o mind_n beside_o those_o which_o the_o soul_n find_v in_o her_o paper_n propose_v for_o the_o present_a recollection_n 7._o notwithstanding_o in_o case_n that_o the_o new_a matter_n or_o affection_n occur_v by_o such_o as_o that_o it_o do_v feed_v some_o over-abounding_a humour_n or_o passion_n in_o the_o soul_n as_o fear_v even_o of_o god_n himself_o tenderness_n shed_v of_o tear_n scrupulosity_n or_o deiectednes_n of_o spirit_n etc._n etc._n i_o will_v by_o no_o mean_n permit_v a_o soul_n to_o entertain_v her_o mind_n with_o such_o matter_n because_o she_o will_v thereby_o only_o plunge_v herself_o more_o deep_o into_o nature_n and_o immortification_n and_o not_o at_o all_o purify_v her_o inordinate_a affection_n such_o soul_n even_o in_o the_o beginning_n ought_v not_o to_o choose_v such_o matter_n for_o their_o prayer_n and_o much_o less_o ought_v they_o to_o be_v permit_v to_o quit_v other_o good_a matter_n for_o that_o this_o advice_n extend_v likewise_o to_o the_o exercise_n of_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n for_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v the_o matter_n of_o they_o 8._o now_o such_o freedom_n of_o spirit_n and_o permission_n to_o change_v the_o present_a matter_n or_o affection_n be_v to_o be_v suppose_v to_o be_v allow_v only_o when_o the_o say_a change_n proceed_v not_o out_o of_o sloth_n inconstancy_n a_o vain_a please_a of_o the_o fancy_n or_o affection_n but_o out_o of_o a_o judicious_a election_n or_o from_o a_o interior_a invitation_n the_o
contemplative_n to_o who_o a_o due_a observance_n of_o the_o choir_n be_v both_o far_o more_o proper_a and_o efficacious_a to_o all_o end_v pretend_v to_o by_o such_o exercise_n than_o they_o be_v yea_o moreover_o great_a harm_n may_v come_v to_o soul_n profess_v contemplation_n by_o they_o for_o so_o great_a attention_n such_o a_o exact_a performance_n of_o nice_a observance_n and_o such_o a_o captivity_n of_o spirit_n be_v require_v that_o when_o all_o be_v pass_v soul_n thereby_o ofttimes_o become_v disable_v to_o continue_v the_o internal_a prayer_n proper_a for_o they_o or_o to_o comply_v with_o many_o regular_a duty_n to_o these_o we_o may_v add_v the_o great_a inconvenience_n which_o may_v come_v from_o strict_a examan_n of_o conscience_n repetition_n of_o general_n confession_n etc._n etc._n very_o prejudicial_a to_o tender_a soul_n 7._o therefore_o as_o touch_v contemplative_a person_n who_o live_v perhaps_o under_o the_o conduct_n of_o those_o that_o be_v whole_o devote_a to_o the_o active_a way_n shall_v be_v oblige_v to_o such_o retirement_n and_o therein_o to_o exercise_n very_o unsuitable_a to_o their_o state_n my_o advice_n to_o they_o be_v that_o they_o shall_v keep_v themselves_o in_o as_o much_o stillnes_n of_o mind_n as_o may_v be_v and_o have_v receive_v instruction_n for_o their_o prayer_n let_v they_o in_o practice_n give_v as_o much_o scope_n as_o they_o well_o can_v to_o their_o good_a affection_n not_o much_o trouble_v themselves_o whether_o the_o say_v affection_n be_v proper_a to_o the_o matter_n propose_v for_o meditation_n or_o no_o nor_o distract_n themselves_o with_o reflection_n upon_o their_o prayer_n to_o the_o end_n to_o give_v a_o account_n of_o it_o to_o other_o let_v they_o likewise_o endeavour_v to_o preserve_v all_o due_a liberty_n in_o spirit_n in_o their_o examination_n and_o confession_n therein_o proceed_v no_o further_a than_o may_v consist_v with_o their_o spiritual_a profit_n and_o by_o all_o mean_n avoid_v such_o particular_n as_o be_v likely_a to_o nourish_v fear_n and_o scrupulosity_n or_o to_o disturb_v the_o peace_n of_o their_o mind_n 8._o and_o as_o for_o secular_a liver_n to_o who_o indeed_o the_o say_a retraite_n according_a to_o custom_n undertake_v at_o set_a time_n may_v prove_v of_o admirable_a profit_n and_o benefit_n to_o the_o end_n the_o virtue_n of_o they_o may_v not_o quick_o expire_v they_o ought_v to_o be_v careful_a afterward_o to_o make_v good_a use_n of_o the_o light_n receive_v in_o they_o and_o to_o put_v in_o execution_n the_o good_a purpose_n make_v during_o such_o retirement_n for_o they_o must_v not_o expect_v by_o a_o few_o day_n solitude_n and_o prayer_n to_o get_v a_o habit_n of_o sanctity_n but_o only_o a_o transient_a good_a passion_n and_o disposition_n thereto_o which_o without_o future_a care_n to_o cherish_v and_o increase_v it_o will_v quick_o vanish_v and_o their_o fervour_n will_v be_v cool_v 9_o moreover_o perceive_v evident_o by_o this_o experience_n the_o good_a effect_n of_o mental_a prayer_n they_o ought_v to_o resolve_v the_o best_a they_o can_v to_o allow_v some_o reasonable_a time_n to_o the_o prosecution_n of_o it_o when_o they_o return_v to_o their_o secular_a vocation_n use_v likewise_o as_o much_o abstraction_n as_o their_o state_n of_o life_n will_v permit_v otherwise_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v they_o will_v not_o only_o return_v to_o all_o their_o former_a defectuousnes_n &_o sin_n but_o will_v moreover_o thereto_o add_v the_o guilt_n of_o ingratitude_n to_o god_n that_o so_o effectual_o call_v they_o from_o sin_n and_o their_o follow_a sin_n will_v be_v sin_n against_o clear_a light_n 10._o certain_a it_o be_v that_o if_o soul_n shall_v so_o rely_v upon_o the_o repeat_v such_o retirement_n and_o new_a take_n of_o the_o same_o practice_n of_o meditation_n etc._n etc._n as_o by_o they_o to_o make_v amends_o toties_fw-la quoties_fw-la for_o all_o fault_n past_a they_o will_v be_v in_o great_a danger_n to_o find_v themselves_o deceive_v for_o though_o in_o itself_o it_o be_v very_o good_a to_o seek_v all_o good_a mean_n to_o procure_v remorse_n and_o contrition_n for_o past_a sin_n yet_o if_o a_o soul_n upon_o a_o consideration_n that_o she_o have_v such_o a_o special_a remedy_n in_o a_o readiness_n shall_v neglect_v the_o care_n &_o watchfullnes_n over_o herself_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v &_o not_o without_o just_a ground_n that_o that_o which_o she_o take_v for_o contrition_n will_v prove_v to_o be_v no_o more_o than_o a_o natural_a remorse_n for_o it_o be_v not_o likely_a that_o god_n will_v shower_n down_o his_o grace_n upon_o a_o soul_n so_o corrupt_v in_o her_o intention_n chap._n v._n §_o 1._o a_o change_n from_o meditation_n to_o a_o prayer_n of_o the_o will_n be_v necessary_a in_o a_o internal_a life_n §_o 2._o it_o be_v otherwise_o in_o active_a liver_n §_o 3._o a_o soul_n of_o a_o contemplative_a profession_n when_o to_o leave_v operate_n with_o the_o understanding_n §_o 4._o exercise_n of_o the_o will_v more_o perfect_a than_o those_o of_o the_o understanding_n §_o 5._o whether_o meditation_n on_o the_o passion_n may_v be_v leave_v §_o 6._o 7._o 8._o etc._n etc._n reason_n to_o prove_v the_o affirmative_a §_o 12._o 13._o etc._n etc._n advice_n show_v when_o a_o change_n of_o prayer_n be_v seasonable_a §_o 18._o 19_o more_o particular_a sign_n show_v the_o proper_a time_n of_o a_o change_n §_o 20._o the_o wonderful_a variety_n of_o change_n in_o a_o internal_a life_n 1._o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o a_o soul_n that_o lead_v a_o abstract_a life_n and_o diligent_o pursue_v internal_a prayer_n to_o fix_v continual_o in_o meditation_n or_o to_o rest_v in_o any_o degree_n of_o affective_a prayer_n because_o the_o nature_n of_o such_o intellectual_a &_o spiritual_a operation_n be_v to_o become_v more_o and_o more_o pure_a abstract_a &_o universal_a and_o to_o carry_v the_o will_n and_o affection_n of_o the_o soul_n still_o high_o and_o further_o into_o god_n the_o activity_n of_o the_o imagination_n &_o understanding_n continual_o abate_v &_o the_o activity_n of_o the_o will_v continual_o increase_v and_o get_v ground_n upon_o the_o understanding_n till_o at_o last_o all_o its_o operation_n become_v so_o quiet_v and_o silence_v that_o they_o cease_v or_o at_o least_o become_v unperceptible_a 2._o a_o soul_n therefore_o be_v thus_o invite_v and_o dispose_v to_o approach_v continual_o near_a and_o near_o unto_o god_n if_o she_o be_v either_o by_o she_o own_o or_o other_o ignorance_n so_o fetter_v with_o custom_n or_o rule_n that_o she_o be_v deprive_v of_o due_a liberty_n of_o spirit_n to_o correspond_v to_o such_o a_o invitation_n and_o to_o quit_v inferior_a exercise_n she_o will_v find_v no_o profit_n at_o all_o by_o her_o prayer_n but_o on_o the_o contrary_a extreme_a pain_n which_o will_v endanger_v to_o force_v she_o to_o relinquish_v her_o recollection_n 3._o it_o be_v otherwise_o with_o those_o who_o profession_n be_v to_o live_v active_a distract_a life_n though_o they_o do_v serious_o aspire_v to_o the_o perfection_n answerable_a to_o that_o state_n for_o such_o may_v continue_v all_o their_o life_n in_o meditation_n and_o follow_v the_o method_n of_o it_o because_o what_o they_o lose_v by_o their_o distraction_n they_o may_v recover_v by_o their_o follow_a meditation_n the_o good_a image_n use_v therein_o expelling_a the_o vain_a image_n contract_v in_o their_o externall_n employment_n true_a it_o be_v that_o to_o such_o person_n meditation_n will_v grow_v more_o and_o more_o pure_a and_o more_o in_o spirit_n yet_o never_o so_o as_o to_o exclude_v a_o direct_a use_n of_o the_o imagination_n 4._o when_o a_o contemplative_a soul_n therefore_o have_v for_o some_o reasonable_a time_n practise_v meditation_n and_o come_v to_o perceive_v that_o a_o further_a exercise_n thereof_o be_v become_v dry_a and_o ungrateful_a to_o her_o spirit_n cause_v great_a disgust_n and_o little_a or_o no_o profit_n she_o ought_v then_o to_o forbear_v meditation_n and_o to_o betake_v herself_o to_o the_o exercise_n of_o immediate_a act_n which_o she_o will_v then_o doubtless_o perform_v with_o great_a gust_n and_o facility_n to_o her_o notable_a profit_n in_o spirit_n 5._o it_o be_v a_o great_a mistake_n in_o some_o writer_n who_o think_v the_o exercise_n of_o the_o will_v to_o be_v mean_a and_o base_a in_o comparison_n of_o inuentive_a meditation_n and_o curious_a speculation_n of_o divine_a mystery_n in_o as_o much_o as_o none_o but_o elevate_v spirit_n can_v perform_v this_o whereas_o the_o most_o ignorant_a and_o simple_a person_n can_v exercise_v act_n or_o affection_n of_o the_o will_n on_o the_o contrary_a it_o be_v most_o certain_a that_o no_o act_n of_o the_o understanding_n as_o speculation_n consideration_n deduction_n of_o conclusion_n &c._n &c._n in_o matter_n pertain_v to_o god_n be_v of_o themselves_o of_o any_o virtue_n to_o give_v true_a perfection_n to_o a_o soul_n further_o than_o as_o they_o do_v excite_v
the_o will_n to_o love_v he_o and_o by_o love_n to_o be_v unite_v to_o he_o and_o this_o union_n by_o exercise_n may_v be_v obtain_v in_o perfection_n by_o soul_n that_o be_v not_o at_o all_o capable_a of_o discourse_n and_o that_o have_v no_o more_o knowledge_n of_o god_n then_o what_o be_v afford_v from_o a_o belief_n of_o the_o fundamental_a verity_n of_o christian_a faith_n so_o that_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o the_o end_n of_o all_o meditation_n &c_n &c_n be_v the_o produce_v act_n of_o the_o will._n therefore_o let_v no_o man_n neglect_v or_o scorn_v the_o exercise_n proper_a for_o he_o out_o of_o a_o conceit_n that_o it_o be_v too_o mean_a but_o let_v he_o first_o try_v the_o profit_n of_o it_o and_o not_o till_o then_o make_v a_o judgement_n 6._o other_o there_o be_v that_o do_v indeed_o persuade_v soul_n in_o due_a time_n to_o quit_v the_o exercise_n of_o the_o understanding_n for_o those_o of_o the_o will_n but_o yet_o always_o with_o one_o exception_n and_o reservation_n to_o wit_n of_o the_o meditation_n on_o the_o passion_n of_o our_o lord_n this_o say_v they_o be_v never_o to_o be_v say_v aside_o but_o will_v be_v a_o subject_a fit_n for_o the_o contemplation_n of_o the_o most_o perfect_a what_o a_o ingratitude_n will_v it_o be_v to_o god_n say_v they_o &_o what_o a_o neglect_n of_o our_o soul_n good_a purposely_o to_o forbear_v a_o frequent_a meditation_n of_o this_o mystery_n the_o ground_n of_o all_o our_o happiness_n the_o root_n of_o all_o merit_n the_o supreme_a testimony_n of_o divine_a love_n towards_o we_o the_o most_o invite_a and_o win_v object_n of_o love_n from_o we_o to_o god_n the_o terror_n of_o all_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n &_o c_o this_o be_v the_o position_n of_o many_o spiritual_a author_n and_o particular_o of_o f._n benet_n canfield_n 7._o nottwithstand_v i_o can_v join_v with_o these_o author_n in_o this_o position_n nor_o agree_v that_o a_o due_a liberty_n of_o spirit_n shall_v be_v abridge_v for_o any_o pretext_n whatsoever_o the_o ground_n of_o which_o liberty_n be_v this_o that_o a_o soul_n be_v to_o make_v the_o experience_n and_o proof_n of_o her_o own_o spiritual_a profit_n to_o be_v the_o rule_n and_o measure_n of_o all_o her_o spiritual_a exercise_n and_o upon_o no_o colour_n or_o conceit_n of_o perfection_n in_o any_o subject_n or_o exercise_n to_o oblige_v herself_o thereto_o further_a than_o she_o find_v it_o helpful_a and_o gustfull_a to_o her_o spirit_n 8._o as_o for_o the_o mystery_n of_o the_o passion_n it_o do_v doubtless_o deserve_v all_o the_o title_n give_v unto_o it_o but_o yet_o soul_n be_v not_o to_o be_v discourage_v if_o they_o find_v in_o themselves_o a_o disability_n to_o meditate_v on_o it_o whether_o this_o disability_n proceed_v from_o some_o natural_a temper_n of_o the_o internal_a sense_n or_o from_o abundance_n of_o affection_n in_o the_o heart_n that_o can_v expect_v because_o they_o do_v not_o need_v curious_o to_o search_v motive_n from_o the_o understanding_n and_o discourse_n neither_o be_v it_o to_o be_v suppose_v that_o such_o person_n exercise_v immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n towards_o god_n without_o discourse_v on_o the_o passion_n be_v therefore_o bereave_v of_o the_o true_a yea_o only_a true_a exercise_v of_o our_o lord_n passion_n on_o the_o contrary_a in_o such_o exercise_n of_o the_o will_n be_v contain_v the_o virtue_n of_o all_o precedent_a meditation_n neither_o be_v the_o person_n drive_v to_o the_o pain_n &_o expense_n of_o time_n in_o find_v out_o reason_n and_o motive_n to_o raise_v their_o affection_n to_o our_o lord_n but_o immediate_o and_o without_o more_o a_o do_v suffer_v the_o affection_n to_o flow_v and_o they_o do_v far_o more_o true_o efficacious_o and_o proffitable_o exercise_v and_o as_o it_o be_v exemplify_v the_o passion_n itself_o and_o this_o in_o two_o manner_n viz._n 1._o in_o their_o internal_a prayer_n wherein_o they_o produce_v the_o same_o affection_n and_o act_n of_o love_n humility_n and_o patience_n of_o which_o our_o lord_n give_v they_o a_o pattern_n in_o his_o passion_n 2._o in_o their_o externall_n do_n real_o on_o occasion_n practise_v the_o same_o virtue_n which_o be_v proper_a to_o the_o passion_n with_o far_o more_o perfection_n in_o virtue_n of_o such_o prayer_n than_o they_o can_v by_o meditation_n and_o so_o do_v show_v themselves_o to_o be_v more_o true_a disciple_n of_o he_o 9_o this_o divine_a object_n therefore_o be_v far_o from_o be_v lose_v or_o forget_v by_o such_o proceed_n in_o prayer_n yea_o it_o be_v in_o a_o far_o more_o noble_a manner_n both_o commemorate_a and_o imitate_v and_o sure_o to_o tie_v the_o soul_n general_o in_o all_o recollection_n to_o a_o particular_a curious_a reflection_n on_o the_o circumstance_n belong_v to_o our_o lord_n passion_n will_v be_v as_o if_o one_o will_v oblige_v a_o person_n that_o can_v read_v perfect_o and_o with_o one_o glance_n of_o his_o eye_n join_v a_o whole_a sentence_n together_o to_o make_v a_o express_a and_o distinct_a reflection_n on_o each_o letter_n syllable_n and_o word_n such_o a_o frame_n and_o multiply_v of_o image_n will_v only_o serve_v to_o obscure_v the_o mind_n and_o cool_v the_o affection_n well_o may_v such_o devout_a soul_n out_o of_o time_n of_o prayer_n in_o read_v or_o discourse_v admit_v such_o image_n and_o receive_v benefit_n by_o they_o in_o future_a recollection_n but_o when_o they_o actual_o pray_v then_o to_o be_v force_v to_o stop_v and_o restrain_v the_o will_n from_o melt_v into_o divine_a love_n or_o from_o sacrifice_v herself_o to_o god_n by_o perfect_a resignation_n &c_n &c_n till_o she_o have_v pass_v through_o her_o former_a imperfect_a method_n of_o imaginative_a meditation_n be_v all_o one_o as_o to_o forbid_v soul_n to_o unite_v themselves_o in_o spirit_n to_o the_o divinity_n 10._o notwithstanding_o when_o soul_n come_v to_o be_v perfect_a they_o will_v be_v in_o such_o a_o state_n as_o that_o the_o express_a consideration_n of_o this_o or_o any_o other_o good_a sensible_a object_n will_v be_v no_o impediment_n at_o all_o to_o their_o high_a exercise_n yea_o it_o will_v very_o efficacious_o advance_v the_o soul_n in_o they_o and_o this_o be_v after_o that_o perfect_a contemplation_n be_v attain_v to_o for_o then_o the_o imagination_n be_v so_o rectify_v and_o so_o perfect_o subject_v to_o the_o superior_a soul_n that_o it_o will_v not_o only_o not_o obscure_a or_o distract_v but_o on_o the_o contrary_a will_n with_o great_a readiness_n help_v to_o make_v contemplation_n more_o pure_a and_o clear_a then_o a_o view_v of_o the_o humanity_n of_o our_o lord_n will_v drive_v the_o soul_n more_o deep_o into_o the_o divinity_n as_o we_o see_v that_o the_o glorify_a saint_n without_o the_o least_o distraction_n to_o their_o vision_n of_o god_n yea_o sure_o with_o a_o addition_n to_o the_o perfection_n of_o it_o do_v in_o their_o thanks-givings_a reflect_v on_o the_o humanity_n and_o passion_n of_o our_o saviour_n say_v dignus_fw-la est_fw-la agnus_n qui_fw-la occisus_fw-la est_fw-la etc._n etc._n 11._o till_o that_o soul_n therefore_o do_v attain_v to_o such_o contemplation_n let_v they_o be_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o immediate_a act_n &c._n &c._n content_v themselves_o to_o exercise_v the_o mystery_n of_o the_o passion_n virtual_o though_o not_o express_o remember_v the_o say_n of_o a_o spiritual_a author_n that_o in_o god_n nothing_o be_v neglect_v all_o faith_n and_o all_o love_n be_v exercise_v in_o the_o contemplation_n and_o union_n of_o the_o spirit_n by_o love_n to_o the_o divinity_n all_o particular_a devotion_n be_v both_o sufficient_o and_o perfect_o perform_v when_o we_o perform_v our_o principal_a duty_n most_o perfect_o in_o do_v this_o we_o do_v honour_v the_o saint_n after_o a_o manner_n most_o acceptable_a to_o they_o we_o do_v most_o perfect_o discharge_v our_o vocal_a prayer_n which_o be_v not_o of_o obligation_n and_o we_o most_o efficacious_o express_v our_o charity_n both_o to_o our_o friend_n live_v and_o dead_a so_o that_o there_o will_v be_v no_o need_n for_o such_o end_n to_o interrupt_v or_o distract_v our_o recollection_n by_o oblige_v ourselves_o voluntary_o to_o multiply_v the_o repeat_n of_o office_n etc._n etc._n and_o last_o so_o far_o be_v this_o from_o be_v any_o disparagement_n to_o our_o gratitude_n unto_o our_o lord_n for_o his_o suffering_n that_o we_o thereby_o acknowledge_v that_o all_o the_o good_a thought_n that_o we_o entertain_v and_o all_o the_o good_a action_n that_o we_o do_v be_v produce_v in_o virtue_n of_o his_o passion_n adhere_v to_o by_o faith_n and_o love_n although_o no_o express_a internal_a discourse_n on_o it_o be_v exercise_v 12._o now_o what_o have_v here_o be_v deliver_v concern_v the_o disoblige_v of_o soul_n that_o practise_v internal_a prayer_n from_o tie_v themselves_o to_o imaginative_a exercise_n about_o sensible_a object_n be_v not_o only_o
of_o sensitive_a nature_n where_o it_o be_v join_v or_o combine_a witâ—_n the_o superior_a spiritual_a will_n 5._o now_o whether_o of_o these_o two_o that_o be_v act_n or_o affection_n be_v to_o be_v practise_v respective_o by_o soul_n that_o must_v depend_v upon_o the_o observation_n and_o experience_n that_o each_o soul_n have_v of_o she_o own_o natural_a disposition_n &_o inclination_n general_o soul_n be_v more_o dispose_v to_o the_o exercise_n of_o immediate_a act_n the_o which_o likewise_o be_v both_o more_o profitable_a &_o more_o secure_a and_o therefore_o in_o the_o follow_a discourse_n i_o shall_v most_o insist_v upon_o they_o 6._o and_o as_o for_o the_o exercise_n of_o sensible_a affection_n it_o belong_v only_o to_o such_o soul_n as_o in_o their_o natural_a temper_n be_v more_o tender_a and_o affectionate_a who_o love_n express_v itself_o with_o great_a liquefaction_n in_o sensible_a nature_n so_o that_o they_o be_v easy_o move_v to_o tear_n and_o do_v feel_v warmth_n &_o quick_a motion_n about_o the_o heart_n &c_n &c_n which_o effect_n or_o symptom_n do_v not_o argue_v love_n to_o be_v great_a for_o it_o may_v be_v as_o cordial_a &_o more_o firm_a generous_a &_o active_a in_o other_o who_o seldom_o or_o never_o feel_v such_o effect_n 7._o such_o tender_a soul_n as_o these_o have_v withal_o a_o natural_a good_a propension_n to_o seek_v god_n in_o their_o interiour_n can_v easy_o exercise_v their_o affection_n to_o god_n in_o and_o by_o their_o corporal_a nature_n without_o trouble_v themselves_o with_o seek_v reason_n &_o motive_n for_o it_o yea_o in_o a_o short_a time_n they_o come_v to_o have_v a_o kind_n of_o disgust_n in_o invent_v or_o consider_v motive_n represent_v by_o the_o understanding_n 8._o as_o for_o the_o manner_n how_o such_o soul_n be_v to_o behave_v themselves_o in_o their_o recollection_n the_o special_a instruction_n follow_a concern_v the_o exercise_v of_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n will_v serve_v so_o that_o there_o will_v be_v no_o need_n of_o repeat_v they_o twice_o 9_o the_o principal_a care_n that_o such_o soul_n ought_v to_o have_v be_v to_o endeavour_v to_o raise_v this_o their_o love_n out_o of_o sensitive_a nature_n to_o the_o superior_a spiritual_a will_n by_o who_o operation_n alone_o the_o soul_n be_v true_o perfect_v therefore_o according_a to_o the_o advice_n former_o give_v touch_v sensible_a devotion_n they_o be_v to_o mortify_v and_o restrain_v rather_o than_o to_o give_v scope_n to_o tear_n and_o other_o tenderness_n of_o nature_n in_o prayer_n &c_n &c_n and_o some_o other_o particular_n which_o do_v concern_v affection_n as_o distinct_a from_o act_n of_o the_o will_n shall_v hereafter_o be_v occasional_o take_v notice_n of_o 10._o now_o beside_o these_o sensible_a act_n of_o love_n there_o be_v other_o which_o be_v pure_o in_o spirit_n &_o which_o among_o all_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o will_v be_v the_o most_o sublime_a that_o can_v be_v exercise_v in_o this_o life_n for_o they_o can_v be_v use_v by_o a_o soul_n so_o as_o to_o be_v her_o constant_a usual_a exercise_n till_o she_o be_v come_v to_o a_o perfect_a degree_n of_o mortification_n which_o ordinary_o be_v not_o before_o a_o passive_a union_n after_o which_o they_o be_v exercise_v in_o a_o manner_n so_o spiritual_a &_o divine_a that_o the_o unexperienced_a can_v conceive_v nor_o the_o experience_a express_v these_o be_v certain_a painful_a yet_o delightful_a long_n afâ—er_v god_n certain_a languish_a elevation_n of_o spirit_n towards_o a_o unknown_a dark_a divine_a object_n the_o desire_n &_o absence_n of_o which_o cause_v a_o tedious_a disgust_n of_o all_o sensible_a contentment_n yea_o even_o in_o spiritual_a thing_n also_o but_o of_o such_o operation_n as_o these_o it_o will_v be_v seasonable_a to_o speak_v when_o we_o come_v to_o treat_v of_o perfect_a contemplation_n 11._o as_o touch_v the_o most_o profitable_a exercise_n of_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n the_o practice_n thereof_o in_o gross_a be_v after_o this_o manner_n the_o soul_n aim_n be_v to_o recollect_v herself_o by_o that_o general_a notion_n that_o faith_n give_v she_o of_o god_n but_o be_v not_o able_a to_o do_v this_o present_o she_o do_v in_o her_o mind_n and_o by_o the_o help_n of_o the_o imagination_n represent_v unto_o herself_o some_o divine_a object_n as_o some_o one_o or_o more_o perfection_n of_o god_n or_o some_o mystery_n of_o faith_n as_o the_o incarnation_n tranfiguration_n passion_n agony_n or_o dereliction_n of_o our_o lord_n &c_n &c_n and_o thereupon_o without_o such_o discourse_n as_o be_v use_v in_o meditation_n she_o do_v immediate_o without_o more_o ado_n produce_v act_n or_o affection_n one_o after_o a_o other_o towards_o god_n or_o upon_o herself_o with_o reference_n to_o god_n adore_v give_v thanks_o humble_v herself_o in_o his_o presence_n resigning_n herself_o to_o his_o will_n etc._n etc._n 12._o this_o exercise_n be_v more_o easy_a to_o learn_v and_o comprehend_v then_o meditation_n because_o so_o many_o rule_n be_v not_o necessary_a to_o it_o neither_o be_v there_o in_o it_o such_o study_n or_o exercise_v the_o ability_n of_o the_o understanding_n or_o imagination_n it_o be_v indeed_o a_o very_a plain_n downright_a and_o simple_a exercise_n consist_v mere_o in_o the_o efficacy_n of_o the_o will_n but_o notwithstanding_o such_o plain_a simplicity_n it_o be_v a_o far_o more_o noble_a exercise_n then_o that_o of_o meditation_n as_o be_v the_o fruit_n and_o result_n of_o it_o for_o whatsoever_o the_o understanding_n operate_v with_o reference_n to_o god_n can_v produce_v no_o good_a effect_n upon_o the_o soul_n further_o than_o it_o have_v relation_n to_o and_o influence_n on_o the_o will_n by_o dispose_v it_o to_o submit_v and_o resign_v itself_o to_o god_n or_o to_o tend_v towards_o he_o by_o act_n of_o love_n adoration_n etc._n etc._n 13._o now_o this_o exercise_n although_o likewise_o it_o be_v not_o so_o busy_a and_o laborious_a as_o meditation_n yet_o it_o may_v &_o will_v often_o time_n seem_v to_o some_o soul_n even_o after_o they_o have_v make_v a_o reasonable_a progress_n in_o it_o to_o be_v more_o harsh_a &_o difficult_a but_o the_o good_a will_n and_o resolution_n of_o the_o soul_n persist_v in_o it_o will_v by_o god_n grace_n overcome_v all_o difficulty_n 14._o a_o advice_n therefore_o it_o be_v again_o and_o again_o to_o be_v repeat_v and_o never_o to_o be_v forget_v to_o wit_n that_o the_o devout_a well-minded_a soul_n that_o shall_v be_v call_v by_o god_n to_o walk_v in_o these_o internal_a way_n of_o prayer_n be_v courageous_a and_o diligent_a in_o the_o pursuance_n of_o they_o after_o the_o best_a manner_n she_o can_v amid_o all_o desolation_n obscurity_n and_o distraction_n practise_v these_o exercise_n as_o much_o as_o may_v be_v in_o the_o superior_a will_n not_o care_v whether_o sensitive_a nature_n concur_v therein_o or_o no._n 15._o in_o force_a immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will_n especial_o at_o the_o beginning_n there_o be_v some_o degree_n of_o meditation_n which_o be_v the_o think_n on_o the_o object_n and_o thereupon_o internal_o produce_v the_o act_n or_o affection_n itself_o &_o quiet_o continue_v and_o rest_v in_o it_o till_o all_o the_o virtue_n of_o it_o be_v spend_v there_o be_v likewise_o always_o some_o use_n of_o image_n and_o in_o the_o begin_n these_o image_n be_v more_o gross_a but_o afterward_o by_o practice_n they_o grow_v more_o pure_a and_o all_o manner_n of_o discourse_n cease_v yea_o the_o soul_n will_v begin_v to_o reject_v all_o distinct_a image_n and_o apprehend_v god_n without_o any_o particular_a representation_n only_o by_o that_o obscure_a notion_n which_o faith_n inform_v we_o of_o his_o totality_n and_o incomprehensibility_n and_o this_o only_o be_v truth_n whearas_fw-mi all_o distinct_a image_n be_v but_o imperfect_a shadow_n of_o truth_n 16._o now_o how_o great_a be_v the_o security_n of_o a_o soul_n thus_o operate_a pure_o by_o the_o will_n how_o free_a be_v she_o from_o those_o error_n and_o danger_n into_o which_o she_o may_v be_v lead_v by_o the_o curious_a search_a subtlety_n of_o the_o understanding_n here_o god_n himself_o be_v only_o her_o light_n and_o not_o any_o imagination_n of_o her_o own_o though_o image_n shall_v intrude_v themselves_o perforce_o into_o the_o fancy_n or_o be_v inject_v by_o the_o devil_n yet_o the_o soul_n will_v not_o with_o the_o will_v apply_v herself_o to_o such_o image_n but_o either_o divert_v her_o mind_n from_o they_o or_o transcend_v and_o renounce_v they_o and_o without_o image_n stir_v up_o sensuality_n and_o the_o rational_a will_n the_o devil_n can_v produce_v the_o least_o harm_n or_o danger_n to_o the_o soul_n nor_o hinder_v her_o union_n with_o god_n 17._o the_o more_o plain_a and_o simple_a that_o act_n of_o the_o will_v be_v for_o the_o manner_n of_o expression_n the_o more_o proper_a and_o efficacious_a be_v they_o to_o cause_v a_o good_a
and_o profit_n in_o their_o exercise_n yea_o and_o come_v to_o such_o a_o pass_n that_o they_o find_v a_o impossibility_n to_o introvert_v themselves_o by_o reason_n that_o to_o their_o seem_n they_o find_v not_o god_n so_o present_a as_o at_o other_o time_n 17._o therefore_o in_o such_o case_n it_o not_o only_o may_v be_v permit_v but_o aught_o to_o be_v enjoin_v unto_o a_o soul_n to_o give_v ease_n unto_o herself_o by_o quit_v for_o a_o time_n such_o painful_a introversion_n and_o address_n to_o the_o pure_a divinity_n and_o instead_o thereof_o exercise_v herself_o in_o produce_v other_o act_n less_o painful_a because_o less_o introvert_v as_o act_n or_o affection_n to_o the_o humanity_n of_o our_o lord_n to_o angel_n saint_n &c_n &c_n yea_o she_o may_v sometime_o address_v her_o internal_a speech_n to_o her_o own_o soul_n or_o to_o some_o person_n or_o creature_n absent_a yet_o all_o with_o reference_n to_o god_n for_o otherwise_o it_o will_v not_o be_v a_o act_n of_o religion_n nor_o profitable_a to_o the_o soul_n 18._o the_o truth_n be_v that_o for_o the_o attain_n to_o contemplation_n it_o be_v not_o necessary_a speak_v of_o precise_a and_o absolute_a necessity_n that_o the_o act_n whereof_o the_o exercise_n consist_v shall_v immediate_o be_v direct_v to_o the_o pure_a divinity_n though_o it_o can_v be_v deny_v but_o that_o such_o be_v the_o most_o perfect_a and_o most_o efficacious_a because_o the_o most_o introvert_v and_o therefore_o a_o soul_n must_v give_v over_o all_o other_o address_n either_o to_o the_o humanity_n of_o our_o lord_n or_o to_o any_o angel_n or_o saint_n &c_n &c_n whensoever_o she_o be_v interior_o move_v or_o enable_v to_o actuate_v immediate_o towards_o god_n himself_o who_o be_v likewise_o the_o end_n &_o ultimate_a object_n of_o all_o other_o speaking_o and_o actuaâ—â—ons_n 19_o to_o the_o end_n therefore_o to_o comply_v with_o the_o several_a disposition_n of_o soul_n i_o have_v in_o many_o place_n in_o the_o follow_a exercise_n intermix_v several_a other_o act_n for_o the_o most_o part_n address_v to_o our_o lord_n most_o sacred_a humanity_n likewise_o to_o our_o bless_a lady_n &c_n &c_n and_o sometime_o soliloquy_n to_o the_o soul_n herself_o 20._o and_o such_o act_n and_o affection_n as_o these_o be_v frequent_a in_o the_o psalm_n and_o other_o scripture_n so_o david_n speak_v to_o his_o own_o soul_n nun_n deo_n subiecta_fw-la eris_fw-la anima_fw-la mea_fw-la o_o my_o soul_n will_v thou_o not_o be_v subject_a and_o resign_v to_o god_n and_o again_o quare_fw-la tristis_fw-la es_fw-la anima_fw-la mea_fw-la etc._n etc._n o_o my_o soul_n why_o be_v thou_o sad_a and_o why_o do_v thou_o so_o disquiet_v thyself_o in_o i_o hope_v still_o in_o god_n for_o etc._n etc._n again_o sometime_o he_o speak_v to_o person_n absent_a venite_fw-la &_o narrabo_fw-la quanta_fw-la fecic_fw-la deus_fw-la animae_fw-la meae_fw-la come_v hither_o and_o i_o will_v tell_v you_o hâ—w_o great_a thing_n god_n have_v do_v for_o my_o soul_n sometime_o in_o scripture_n the_o soul_n imagine_v that_o she_o hear_v god_n speak_v to_o she_o as_o veni_fw-la electa_fw-la mea_fw-la &_o ponam_fw-la in_o re_fw-la thronum_fw-la meum_fw-la o_o my_o choose_a belove_a soul_n come_v and_o i_o will_v place_v my_o throne_n in_o thou_o s._n augustins_n soliloquy_n and_o thomas_n à _fw-fr nempis_n be_v full_a of_o such_o kind_n of_o act_n &_o by_o any_o such_o change_n the_o soul_n will_v receive_v some_o refreshment_n &_o be_v enable_v to_o produce_v some_o good_a affection_n to_o god_n 21._o now_o as_o i_o say_v that_o the_o form_n of_o the_o act_n be_v not_o of_o absolute_a necessity_n so_o neither_o be_v the_o nature_n or_o matter_n of_o it_o as_o whether_o it_o be_v of_o contrition_n humiliation_n adoration_n resignation_n &c_n &c_n perform_v to_o god_n or_o of_o congratulation_n to_o the_o saint_n veneration_n of_o they_o or_o implore_v their_o intercession_n so_o that_o such_o act_n be_v ultimate_o terminate_v in_o god_n for_o it_o be_v perseverance_n in_o any_o exercise_n of_o religious_a act_n which_o be_v the_o principal_a if_o not_o only_a mean_n to_o attain_v to_o contemplation_n 22._o the_o truth_n be_v whatsoever_v kind_n of_o act_n or_o devotion_n a_o soul_n use_v if_o they_o be_v constant_o practise_v they_o will_v all_o end_n in_o god_n so_o that_o even_o the_o most_o ignorant_a among_o those_o that_o god_n call_v to_o contemplation_n prayer_n though_o they_o know_v no_o other_o practice_n of_o devotion_n but_o the_o rosary_n &_o can_v begin_v their_o recollection_n any_o other_o way_n then_o by_o turn_v their_o thought_n towards_o the_o bless_a virgin_n who_o protection_n &_o intercession_n they_o crave_v yet_o be_v by_o that_o mean_n become_v profound_o introvert_v they_o quick_o leave_v all_o direct_a &_o express_v address_n to_o she_o &_o be_v lead_v unaware_n perhaps_o to_o themselves_o to_o the_o unknown_a obscure_a object_n of_o the_o divinity_n in_o which_o they_o plunge_v &_o loose_v themselves_o for_o perfect_a introversion_n can_v consist_v with_o a_o continuation_n of_o direct_a &_o express_v internal_a act_n make_v to_o any_o creature_n 23._o the_o general_a rule_n &_o advice_n therefore_o in_o this_o matter_n be_v that_o according_o as_o soul_n upon_o experience_n &_o observation_n do_v find_v themselves_o dispose_v to_o any_o kind_n of_o act_n or_o affection_n whether_o of_o one_o kind_n only_o or_o several_a kind_n mix_v together_o so_o they_o must_v order_v their_o exercise_n &_o recollection_n prefer_v the_o savour_n &_o profit_n that_o their_o soul_n find_v in_o they_o before_o any_o rule_n method_n or_o authority_n of_o example_n 24._o some_o few_o soul_n there_o be_v to_o who_o one_o only_a exercise_n without_o any_o change_n or_o variety_n may_v suffice_v for_o their_o whole_a life_n till_o they_o arrive_v to_o perfect_a contemplation_n so_o that_o their_o advancement_n will_v consist_v only_o in_o the_o degree_n of_o purity_n &_o recollection_n with_o which_o they_o perform_v the_o say_a exercise_n now_o these_o be_v such_o soul_n as_o 1._o be_v fit_v natural_o for_o act_n of_o the_o will_n &_o not_o for_o meditation_n because_o in_o discursive_a prayer_n change_v of_o matter_n will_v be_v necessary_a in_o as_o much_o as_o the_o same_o motive_n unuary_v will_v not_o have_v the_o efficacy_n to_o produce_v sensible_a affection_n and_o again_o soul_n will_v be_v apt_a to_o be_v cloy_v &_o to_o have_v a_o aversion_n from_o a_o affection_n or_o desire_v after_o they_o have_v feed_v upon_o it_o for_o some_o reasonable_a time_n 2._o such_o as_o withal_o have_v a_o very_a strong_a &_o urgent_a call_v from_o god_n to_o seek_v he_o in_o his_o internal_a way_n join_v with_o natural_a aptness_n to_o a_o internal_a life_n the_o which_o aptness_n consist_v in_o a_o stability_n of_o the_o imagination_n &_o a_o quietness_n of_o passion_n 25._o for_o such_o soul_n as_o these_o it_o will_v be_v best_a that_o they_o shall_v be_v confine_v to_o one_o exercise_n such_o a_o one_o as_o that_o be_v which_o blosius_n in_o his_o institution_n have_v frame_v &_o profess_v that_o by_o a_o diligent_a prosecution_n thereof_o together_o with_o mortification_n a_o soul_n may_v attain_v to_o perfection_n &_o mystic_a union_n a_o pattern_n of_o such_o a_o exercise_n conformable_a to_o the_o direction_n of_o blosius_n who_o seem_v to_o have_v practise_v it_o himself_o i_o will_v set_v down_o among_o the_o follow_a form_n of_o exercise_n 26._o and_o indeed_o one_o singular_a benefit_n that_o such_o soul_n will_v reap_v by_o be_v constant_a to_o one_o exercise_n be_v this_o that_o they_o will_v never_o be_v to_o seek_v for_o it_o nor_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o book_n because_o after_o a_o little_a practice_n they_o will_v have_v it_o in_o their_o heart_n &_o memory_n only_o good_a care_n must_v be_v have_v to_o fit_v the_o exercise_n to_o the_o soul_n give_v a_o scope_n &_o atitude_n sufficient_a to_o it_o that_o it_o may_v comprehend_v in_o it_o act_v suitable_a to_o several_a state_n of_o the_o soul_n that_o be_v both_o act_n of_o contrition_n &_o likewise_o of_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o principal_a virtue_n among_o all_o which_o the_o most_o efficacious_a profitable_a &_o last_a be_v the_o act_n of_o resignation_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o which_o it_o will_v be_v good_a for_o the_o soul_n to_o abide_v till_o she_o be_v fit_v &_o call_v by_o god_n to_o pure_a aspiration_n for_o then_o all_o manner_n of_o prescribe_a exercise_n must_v cease_v because_o then_o a_o soul_n do_v not_o pray_v by_o she_o own_o election_n but_o by_o a_o internal_a impulse_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n 27._o some_o spiritual_a writer_n for_o this_o purpose_n recommend_v our_o lord_n prayer_n for_o a_o constant_a exercise_n in_o daily_a recollection_n advise_v such_o soul_n to_o exercise_v separately_z every_o petition_n as_o a_o several_a act_n dwell_v on_o each_o as_o long_o
concern_v his_o sufficiency_n yea_o he_o may_v represent_v unto_o he_o his_o just_a ground_n of_o fear_n lest_o such_o a_o employment_n shall_v prove_v notable_o prejudicial_a to_o his_o soul_n protest_v likewise_o that_o he_o do_v not_o desire_v any_o kind_n of_o preeminence_n over_o other_o &c_n &c_n 2._o yet_o if_o the_o superior_a notwithstanding_o such_o humble_a &_o sincere_a remonstrance_n of_o the_o subject_n shall_v persist_v in_o a_o resolution_n to_o impose_v on_o he_o any_o such_o office_n whatsoever_o the_o superior_n motive_n be_v whether_o necessity_n reason_n or_o even_o passion_n the_o subject_n must_v submit_v himself_o &_o accept_v of_o it_o willing_o whatsoever_o reluctance_n there_o be_v in_o the_o imagination_n or_o nature_n against_o it_o but_o let_v he_o accept_v it_o with_o a_o pure_a intention_n for_o god_n in_o the_o spirit_n of_o obedience_n especial_o if_o the_o office_n be_v grateful_a to_o nature_n or_o to_o the_o sensual_a or_o ambitious_a desire_n of_o it_o 3._o notwithstanding_o consider_v his_o own_o frailty_n &_o the_o tentation_n likely_a to_o accompany_v such_o a_o employment_n he_o ought_v to_o undertake_v it_o with_o some_o fear_n &_o apprehension_n lest_o without_o extraordinary_a watchfullnes_n in_o prayer_n he_o may_v come_v to_o be_v corrupt_v or_o oppress_v by_o it_o 5._o in_o this_o regard_n therefore_o the_o subject_n ought_v oftentimes_o to_o renew_v &_o rectify_v his_o intention_n about_o it_o at_o least_o in_o his_o recollection_n twice_o a_o day_n for_o for_o want_n of_o care_n in_o this_o point_n it_o oft_o fall_v out_o that_o the_o office_n which_o at_o first_o be_v undertake_v out_o of_o obedience_n to_o god_n &_o superior_n come_v afterward_o to_o be_v execute_v for_o self-will_a &_o sensual_a complacence_n after_o that_o the_o spirit_n of_o devotion_n be_v abate_v or_o extinguish_v 6._o indeed_o so_o contrary_a &_o prejudicial_a to_o the_o spirit_n of_o contemplative_a prayer_n be_v the_o distraction_n &_o sollicitude_n which_o attend_v office_n that_o 1._o religious_a subject_n during_o the_o time_n of_o vacancy_n when_o they_o be_v more_o illuminate_v aught_o to_o forethink_v &_o imprint_v in_o their_o heart_n good_a purpose_n never_o to_o offer_v themselves_o to_o such_o danger_n &_o when_o they_o shall_v befall_v they_o to_o carry_v themselves_o in_o they_o vigilant_o &_o prudent_o according_a to_o their_o former_a light_n lest_o enter_v upon_o they_o unprovided_a they_o shall_v prove_v mischievous_a &_o destructive_a to_o all_o devotion_n 2._o and_o again_o superior_n if_o they_o will_v consider_v that_o their_o principal_a care_n ought_v to_o be_v for_o the_o good_a of_o soul_n will_v think_v it_o concern_v they_o to_o be_v very_o nice_a in_o expose_v to_o such_o peril_n their_o subject_n before_o that_o the_o spirit_n of_o devotion_n &_o charity_n be_v firm_o root_v in_o their_o heart_n for_o they_o also_o shall_v be_v accountable_a for_o the_o harm_n that_o their_o subject_n soul_n shall_v so_o incur_v 7._o some_o superior_n either_o being_n of_o active_a spirit_n &_o not_o know_v or_o not_o due_o esteem_v internal_a way_n or_o perhaps_o mistake_o believe_v their_o subject_n to_o be_v more_o affect_v to_o external_a employment_n then_o interior_a thereupon_o unwary_o heap_v on_o they_o business_n to_o the_o hindrance_n of_o their_o recollection_n in_o this_o case_n the_o subject_n ought_v to_o acquaint_v his_o superior_a with_o the_o inward_a disposition_n of_o his_o soul_n how_o much_o good_a he_o find_v by_o a_o constant_a exercise_n of_o prayer_n &_o what_o damage_n the_o want_n of_o it_o cause_v to_o his_o imperfect_a soul_n but_o this_o be_v do_v he_o must_v resolve_v to_o submit_v in_o case_n his_o superior_a still_o think_v fit_a to_o employ_v he_o 8._o in_o such_o circumstance_n let_v not_o the_o subject_n be_v trouble_v if_o he_o find_v it_o hard_o to_o abstain_v from_o show_v some_o outward_a mark_n of_o unwillingnes_n however_o in_o his_o superior_a will_v he_o be_v resign_v for_o indeed_o to_o show_v chearfullnes_n argue_v in_o a_o imperfect_a soul_n rather_o a_o contentedness_n to_o be_v dispense_v from_o prayer_n not_o sufficient_o esteem_v by_o he_o than_o a_o love_n to_o obedience_n yea_o such_o a_o seem_a unwillingnes_n will_v afford_v he_o a_o double_a mortification_n 1._o in_o that_o he_o contradict_v sensuality_n in_o the_o discharge_n of_o obedience_n 2._o in_o that_o he_o incur_v in_o the_o opinion_n of_o other_o a_o esteem_n of_o be_v immortify_v the_o which_o will_v be_v a_o mean_n to_o humble_v he_o 9_o when_o a_o internal_a liver_n be_v once_o actual_o &_o due_o engage_v in_o a_o office_n in_o the_o first_o place_n he_o ought_v serious_o to_o consider_v that_o come_n out_o of_o a_o state_n of_o abstraction_n &_o solitude_n into_o business_n he_o will_v thenceforward_o walk_v in_o less_o light_n then_o former_o &_o yet_o will_v be_v expose_v to_o far_o great_a peril_n by_o reason_n of_o many_o unavoidable_a occasion_n of_o distraction_n impatience_n satisfaction_n of_o sensuality_n &c_n &c_n of_o which_o he_o have_v little_a experience_n in_o time_n past_a therefore_o he_o must_v resolve_v to_o keep_v a_o more_o watchful_a guard_n over_o himself_o lest_o business_n bring_v he_o to_o a_o forgetfulness_n of_o his_o soul_n &_o of_o all_o former_a instruction_n &_o good_a purpose_n 10._o second_o to_o the_o end_n to_o secure_v himself_o from_o such_o peril_n he_o must_v in_o the_o actual_a execution_n of_o business_n be_v wary_a that_o he_o do_v not_o fix_v his_o mind_n more_o intent_o &_o affectionate_o on_o they_o then_o mere_a necessity_n shall_v require_v let_v he_o oft_o call_v to_o mind_v his_o former_a good_a resolution_n &_o review_v again_o &_o again_o these_o or_o the_o like_a instruction_n for_o without_o such_o prevention_n it_o can_v scarce_o be_v avoid_v but_o that_o he_o will_v decay_v in_o spirit_n &_o grow_v negligent_o tepid_v in_o his_o spiritual_a exercise_n since_o corrupt_a nature_n will_v be_v very_o forward_o to_o take_v any_o colourable_a pretence_n of_o quit_v internal_a recollection_n the_o only_a support_n of_o a_o spiritual_a life_n the_o which_o now_o will_v become_v more_o irksome_a by_o reason_n of_o great_a dissipation_n of_o thought_n &_o more_o frequent_a occasion_n of_o fall_v into_o immortification_n and_o therefore_o soul_n will_v be_v apt_a to_o think_v that_o the_o nature_n of_o their_o present_a employment_n be_v such_o as_o that_o they_o will_v not_o consist_v with_o the_o obligation_n of_o a_o internal_a life_n then_o they_o will_v catch_v hold_n of_o any_o advantage_n to_o dispense_v with_o they_o for_o that_o pupose_v make_v use_n of_o such_o popular_a say_n as_o this_o that_o every_o good_a work_n be_v a_o prayer_n etc._n etc._n 11._o three_o more_o particular_o in_o this_o state_n of_o active_a employment_n a_o soul_n must_v be_v careful_a as_o far_o as_o the_o office_n will_v permit_v not_o only_o to_o continue_v the_o practice_n of_o her_o former_a mortification_n &_o principal_o for_o the_o tongue_n &_o sense_n but_o also_o to_o make_v good_a use_n of_o those_o many_o new_a mortification_n which_o the_o discharge_n of_o her_o employment_n will_v afford_v her_o occasion_n to_o exercise_v and_o indeed_o since_o probable_o she_o can_v enjoy_v that_o repose_n of_o spirit_n requisite_a to_o serious_a &_o perfect_a recollection_n she_o ought_v the_o best_a she_o can_v to_o recompense_v that_o defect_n by_o increase_v the_o practice_n of_o mortification_n and_o patience_n by_o which_o mean_n she_o will_v advance_v herself_o in_o spirit_n 12._o fourthâ—y_o she_o must_v remember_v that_o the_o doctrine_n of_o abstraction_n most_o necessary_a in_o a_o internal_a life_n have_v place_n also_o even_o in_o distractive_a office_n at_o least_o thus_o far_o that_o the_o person_n be_v not_o to_o meddle_v in_o thing_n that_o belong_v not_o to_o his_o present_a employment_n and_o for_o such_o thing_n as_o do_v belong_v thereto_o he_o must_v be_v careful_a as_o to_o do_v they_o well_o &_o faithful_o so_o without_o bestow_v on_o they_o more_o solicitude_n than_o shall_v necessary_o be_v require_v perform_v they_o serious_o but_o yet_o with_o composednes_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o mind_n not_o suffer_v they_o to_o distract_v or_o encumber_v his_o memory_n before_o the_o time_n come_v for_o the_o execute_n of_o they_o and_o then_o abstain_v from_o passion_n &_o impetuousnes_n &_o from_o engage_v his_o affection_n to_o they_o a_o devout_a soul_n thus_o constant_o discharge_v her_o office_n will_v come_v to_o that_o liberty_n easiness_n and_o setlednes_n of_o spirit_n that_o necessary_a employment_n will_v breed_v in_o she_o no_o harmful_a distraction_n the_o cause_n of_o which_o be_v inordinate_a love_n to_o creature_n 13._o but_o five_o &_o last_o her_o principal_a care_n must_v be_v about_o her_o prayer_n although_o by_o occasion_n of_o business_n she_o can_v so_o habitual_o continue_v in_o a_o recollect_v state_n yet_o at_o
show_n that_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o great_a trouble_n affliction_n passion_n &_o distraction_n a_o soul_n may_v as_o true_o &_o efficacious_o dispose_v of_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o superior_a spirit_n which_o depend_v not_o upon_o our_o corporal_a organ_n fix_v they_o upon_o god_n make_v choice_n of_o he_o for_o her_o final_a end_n and_o submit_v herself_o with_o resignation_n &_o love_n to_o he_o even_o for_o send_v she_o such_o trial_n as_o she_o can_v in_o her_o great_a solitude_n &_o most_o quiet_a introversion_n and_o this_o be_v best_a do_v without_o any_o violence_n or_o impetuosity_n but_o with_o great_a tranquillity_n dart_v a_o spiritual_a regard_n to_o god_n by_o mean_n of_o which_o she_o may_v be_v as_o true_o &_o effectual_o unite_v to_o god_n though_o not_o according_a to_o sense_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o these_o trouble_n as_o in_o her_o great_a sensible_a union_n 23._o a_o soul_n that_o will_v be_v thus_o vigilant_a &_o industrious_a may_v assure_v herself_o that_o god_n who_o lay_v this_o office_n on_o she_o do_v it_o not_o for_o her_o harm_n but_o for_o her_o great_a good_a &_o to_o give_v her_o occasion_n of_o exercise_v several_a virtue_n which_o otherwise_o she_o will_v have_v want_v at_o least_o the_o perfection_n of_o they_o as_o likewise_o for_o the_o trial_n of_o her_o fidelity_n to_o he_o amid_o whatsoever_o encumbrance_n &_o tentation_n now_o by_o mean_n of_o these_o virtue_n she_o will_v make_v a_o great_a progress_n in_o spirit_n at_o least_o for_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v solid_a charity_n if_o not_o for_o light_v of_o contemplation_n and_o retain_v a_o love_n to_o prayer_n &_o practise_v it_o as_o well_o as_o she_o can_v she_o will_v come_v to_o be_v in_o so_o good_a a_o disposition_n that_o when_o she_o shall_fw-mi return_n to_o her_o former_a vacancy_n &_o solitude_n she_o will_v make_v a_o a_o wonderful_a progress_n in_o the_o way_n of_o contemplation_n thus_o she_o may_v see_v that_o as_o the_o office_n have_v peril_n in_o it_o so_o will_v god_n proportionable_o increase_v his_o grace_n &_o assistance_n 24._o for_o want_n of_o this_o care_n &_o vigilance_n over_o their_o interior_a it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v there_o be_v many_o in_o religious_a conuent_v that_o fruitless_o spend_v their_o life_n in_o employment_n in_o some_o sort_n beneficial_a to_o other_o but_o of_o little_a profit_n yea_o perhaps_o very_o prejudicial_a to_o themselves_o as_o some_o that_o read_v lesson_n of_o philosophy_n or_o divinity_n yea_o even_o many_o that_o pass_v their_o whole_a time_n almost_o in_o spiritual_a employment_n as_o preach_v hear_v confession_n give_v spiritual_a direction_n &c_n &c_n for_o these_o work_n be_v perform_v not_o in_o virtue_n of_o spiritual_a prayer_n &_o consequent_o not_o proceed_v from_o the_o divine_a spirit_n but_o the_o spirit_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n which_o be_v the_o source_n of_o all_o action_n perform_v in_o a_o state_n of_o distraction_n god_n spirit_n seldom_o give_v a_o blessing_n to_o they_o chap._n v._n §_o 1._o 2._o how_o internal_a liver_n ought_v to_o behave_v themselves_o in_o time_n of_o sickness_n the_o benefit_n of_o sickness_n to_o such_o only_a §_o 3._o 4._o &c_n &c_n the_o great_a danger_n of_o soul_n unprovided_a for_o sickness_n especial_o of_o tepid_a soul_n in_o a_o religious_a state_n §_o 9_o 10._o 11._o how_o sickness_n be_v to_o be_v accept_v §_o 12._o 13._o of_o a_o certain_a great_a tentation_n in_o sickness_n §_o 14._o a_o sick_a person_n be_v god_n prisoner_n §_o 15._o spiritual_a exercise_n by_o no_o mean_n to_o be_v neglect_v in_o sickness_n §_o 16._o how_o mortification_n be_v then_o to_o be_v practise_v in_o internal_a tentation_n §_o 17._o 18._o particular_o how_o fear_n of_o death_n &_o uncertainty_n of_o what_o follow_v be_v to_o be_v mortify_v §_o 19_o 20._o etc._n etc._n it_o be_v for_o our_o good_a to_o be_v ignorant_a of_o our_o future_a state_n §_o 26._o 27._o of_o tentation_n to_o infidelity_n despair_v &c_n &c_n a_o story_n out_o of_o cardinal_n bellarmine_n §_o 28._o 29._o &c_n &c_n how_o mortification_n about_o sensual_a pleasure_n be_v then_o to_o be_v exercise_v 34_o &c_n &c_n solicitude_n about_o health_n misbecome_v religious_a person_n §_o 37._o in_o sickness_n &_o pain_n we_o be_v best_a sensible_a of_o our_o lord_n suffering_n §_o 38._o advice_n to_o those_o that_o attend_v on_o the_o sick_a §_o 39_o 40._o a_o sick_a person_n chief_a care_n must_v be_v not_o to_o neglect_v internal_a prayer_n §_o 46._o prayer_n be_v the_o universal_a remedy_n against_o all_o tentation_n affliction_n etc._n etc._n §_o 48._o a_o soul_n shall_v be_v judge_v according_a to_o her_o state_n in_o sickness_n 1._o the_o second_o state_n before_o mention_v that_o require_v a_o more_o than_o ordinary_a care_n and_o provision_n as_o seem_v less_o proper_a for_o internal_a exercise_n be_v the_o state_n of_o sickness_n the_o which_o though_o it_o do_v exact_v a_o great_a solicitude_n &_o vigilance_n as_o be_v a_o disposition_n to_o a_o condition_n ireversible_a yet_o in_o itself_o it_o be_v a_o more_o secure_a state_n then_o that_o of_o external_a employment_n in_o as_o much_o as_o those_o be_v such_o as_o be_v apt_a to_o draw_v our_o affection_n from_o god_n to_o sensual_a object_n whereas_o in_o sickness_n all_o thing_n do_v rather_o drive_v a_o soul_n to_o seek_v &_o adhere_v unto_o god_n since_o all_o other_o comfort_n do_v fail_v she_o and_o all_o pleasure_n become_v distasteful_a to_o she_o moreover_o in_o sickness_n there_o be_v continual_a occasion_n of_o high_a resignation_n and_o far_o less_o sollicitude_n about_o temporal_a matter_n for_o the_o chief_a business_n of_o a_o sick_a person_n be_v forbear_v &_o hold_v of_o patience_n in_o a_o word_n it_o be_v rather_o a_o not-doing_a then_o do_v 2._o now_o since_o it_o concern_v a_o soul_n most_o deep_o to_o be_v well-disposed_n in_o sickness_n my_o purpose_n be_v to_o give_v some_o general_a advice_n to_o soul_n already_o practise_v in_o internal_a way_n &_o they_o shall_v be_v such_o as_o chief_o have_v a_o reference_n to_o prayer_n &_o mortification_n the_o which_o advice_n notwithstanding_o our_o sick_a person_n ought_v only_o so_o far_o to_o make_v use_n of_o as_o he_o find_v they_o proper_a for_o his_o spirit_n &_o case_n 3._o it_o be_v not_o without_o just_a reason_n that_o a_o ancient_a holy_a man_n say_v that_o a_o religious_a spiritual_a life_n be_v a_o continual_a meditation_n of_o death_n because_o the_o principal_a end_n of_o all_o our_o exercise_n be_v to_o prepare_v ourselves_o against_o the_o day_n of_o our_o great_a account_n to_o the_o end_n we_o may_v give_v it_o with_o joy_n &_o not_o with_o fear_n 4._o if_o when_o sickness_n be_v come_v a_o soul_n be_v to_o learn_v how_o she_o ought_v to_o behave_v herself_o it_o will_v go_v hard_a with_o she_o by_o reason_n that_o then_o such_o a_o soul_n will_v be_v in_o great_a blindness_n of_o understanding_n and_o deadness_n of_o will_n all_o her_o thought_n and_o care_n will_v be_v employ_v in_o seek_v to_o avoid_v pain_n to_o pass_v away_o the_o tedious_a time_n and_o to_o recover_v and_o if_o any_o good_a thought_n come_v into_o her_o mind_n it_o be_v fear_n that_o principal_o raise_v they_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o a_o serious_a conversion_n be_v seldom_o give_v in_o sickness_n when_o passion_n do_v swell_v &_o immortification_n come_v thick_a upon_o one_o another_o and_o a_o soul_n that_o in_o health_n have_v neglect_v god_n &_o despise_v the_o mean_n of_o conversion_n can_v with_o any_o reason_n or_o confidence_n expect_v a_o extraordinary_a or_o miraculous_a grace_n to_o work_v a_o sudden_a cordial_a conversion_n if_o that_o one_o be_v whole_a life_n spend_v in_o painful_a mortification_n &_o serious_a recollection_n be_v but_o even_o little_a enough_o to_o conquer_v the_o perverseness_n of_o our_o will_n &_o the_o glewyne_n of_o our_o affection_n adhere_v to_o sensual_a object_n what_o may_v be_v expect_v from_o a_o few_o interrupt_v inefficacious_a prayer_n or_o purpose_n in_o sickness_n suggest_v mere_o by_o fear_n upon_o the_o approach_n of_o death_n &_o judgement_n while_o there_o still_o remain_v in_o the_o heart_n a_o secret_a love_n to_o those_o sinful_a delight_n that_o must_v now_o be_v forsake_v upon_o which_o ground_n s._n hierome_n have_v a_o terrible_a say_n that_o among_o those_o that_o defer_v their_o conversion_n till_o their_o death_n scarce_o one_o of_o a_o hundred_o thousand_o be_v save_v 5._o and_o i_o believe_v the_o case_n of_o such_o a_o soul_n in_o religion_n be_v more_o perilous_a because_o have_v enjoy_v so_o great_a help_n to_o a_o holy_a life_n she_o have_v with_o so_o unpardonable_a a_o ingratitude_n neglect_v they_o whereas_o a_o secular_a person_n be_v touch_v in_o sickness_n may_v resolve_v to_o seek_v those_o mean_n of_o abstraction_n of_o life_n a_o
it_o be_v good_a even_o for_o those_o who_o be_v not_o yet_o full_o ripe_a for_o the_o exercise_n of_o act_n so_o as_o to_o make_v they_o their_o constant_a exercise_n yet_o to_o use_v they_o sometime_o in_o time_n of_o health_n to_o the_o end_n that_o if_o they_o be_v overtake_v with_o sickness_n they_o may_v not_o be_v to_o seek_v for_o their_o exercise_n 43._o among_o express_v voluntary_a act_n the_o exercise_n of_o total_a resignation_n be_v the_o most_o perfect_a &_o general_o the_o most_o profitable_a yet_o a_o soul_n in_o sickness_n if_o she_o find_v herself_o indispose_v for_o such_o act_n may_v content_v herself_o with_o act_n of_o a_o inferior_a nature_n yea_o with_o devotion_n to_o any_o particular_a saint_n to_o her_o angel_n guardian_n &_o special_o to_o our_o bless_a lady_n 44._o those_o that_o be_v only_o infirm_a &_o languish_a be_v for_o as_o muâ—h_v as_o concern_v the_o nature_n of_o their_o prayer_n in_o a_o case_n little_a different_a from_o that_o they_o be_v in_o during_o health_n those_o who_o suffering_n be_v from_o outward_a pain_n mere_o without_o sickness_n may_v happen_v to_o have_v their_o prayer_n alter_v to_o the_o better_a by_o mean_n of_o such_o pain_n the_o which_o themselves_o may_v prove_v a_o very_a profitable_a prayer_n if_o the_o patient_a with_o quietness_n &_o submission_n to_o the_o divine_a will_n do_v offer_v such_o pain_n continual_o to_o god_n 45._o but_o as_o for_o sickness_n more_o inward_a they_o do_v more_o indispose_v the_o patient_a to_o prayer_n beside_o the_o great_a distraction_n that_o come_v from_o physic_n blood-letting_n diet_n &c_n &c_n so_o that_o none_o can_v prescribe_v any_o certain_a advice_n the_o wellmeaning_n soul_n therefore_o must_v &_o with_o a_o moderate_a attention_n may_v herself_o observe_v all_o circumstance_n &_o according_o for_o the_o manner_n practice_v both_o mortification_n &_o prayer_n she_o will_v easy_o discern_v at_o what_o time_n how_o long_o &_o in_o what_o manner_n she_o ought_v to_o pray_v as_o likewise_o wherein_o she_o be_v to_o mortify_v herself_o &_o how_o far_o she_o may_v yield_v to_o the_o desire_n &_o necessity_n of_o nature_n the_o truth_n be_v the_o case_n not_o only_o of_o several_a person_n in_o several_a sickness_n but_o even_o of_o the_o same_o person_n in_o the_o same_o sickness_n be_v so_o wonderful_o various_a that_o it_o be_v impossible_a to_o fit_a advice_n for_o all_o all_o that_o a_o instructor_n can_v say_v to_o the_o purpose_n be_v that_o prayer_n &_o mortification_n be_v absolute_o necessary_a to_o a_o soul_n as_o well_o in_o sickness_n as_o health_n but_o for_o the_o special_a manner_n &_o matter_n her_o own_o judgement_n &_o discretion_n but_o especial_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n must_v teach_v she_o &_o doubtless_o will_v if_o she_o attend_v to_o his_o holy_a inspiration_n 46._o i_o say_v before_o that_o the_o universal_a remedy_n against_o all_o inward_a tentation_n be_v actual_a prayer_n &_o conversion_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o god_n the_o which_o remedy_n be_v good_a for_o all_o soul_n in_o what_o state_n soever_o but_o more_o proper_a for_o such_o as_o practice_v internal_a contemplative_a exercise_n who_o be_v not_o now_o in_o a_o disposition_n to_o invent_v motive_n &_o argument_n to_o contradict_v such_o tentation_n but_o most_o necessary_a for_o the_o fearful_a &_o scrupulous_a notwithstanding_o i_o will_v not_o oblige_v all_o imperfect_a soul_n upon_o every_o thought_n of_o a_o tentation_n to_o recurre_v alway_n to_o their_o prayer_n but_o only_o when_o necessity_n &_o a_o just_a fear_n of_o be_v overcome_v shall_v require_v it_o otherwise_o be_v in_o no_o such_o fear_n they_o may_v content_v themselves_o with_o some_o intermit_a elevation_n of_o their_o mind_n to_o god_n defer_v their_o prayer_n till_o their_o next_o appoint_v recollection_n for_o it_o will_v be_v too_o great_a a_o burden_n impose_v on_o such_o soul_n as_o without_o some_o difficulty_n can_v enter_v into_o serious_a introversion_n to_o bind_v they_o hereto_o upon_o every_o assault_n of_o a_o inward_a tentation_n when_o a_o moderate_a care_n not_o to_o yield_v to_o the_o tentation_n will_v suffice_v 47._o god_n seldom_o send_v great_a sickness_n to_o spiritual_a person_n in_o the_o begin_n of_o their_o course_n before_o they_o have_v get_v a_o reasonable_a habitude_n of_o prayer_n to_o make_v good_a use_n thereof_o lest_o thereby_o they_o shall_v become_v disable_v to_o pray_v but_o after_o such_o a_o habitude_n get_v if_o sickness_n come_v it_o will_v advance_v their_o prayer_n &_o as_o their_o bodily_a strength_n decay_v their_o prayer_n proportionable_o will_v grow_v more_o easy_a profound_a &_o spiritual_a but_o it_o be_v to_o be_v doubt_v that_o the_o prayer_n of_o meditation_n will_v be_v little_o better_v by_o sickness_n 48._o i_o will_v conclude_v this_o point_n of_o sickness_n with_o propose_v one_o special_a consideration_n which_o ought_v to_o induce_v soul_n to_o be_v careful_a that_o they_o do_v not_o deliberate_o turn_v sickness_n into_o a_o liberty_n of_o sense_n or_o spirit_n by_o omit_v or_o neglect_v prayer_n &_o mortification_n &_o it_o be_v this_o in_o all_o sickness_n there_o be_v at_o least_o some_o degree_n of_o peril_n of_o be_v take_v out_o of_o this_o life_n the_o which_o event_n if_o it_o shall_v happen_v to_o a_o soul_n whilst_o she_o continue_v in_o such_o a_o tepid_a negligent_a state_n god_n will_v assure_o judge_v she_o according_a to_o her_o present_a state_n in_o which_o death_n find_v she_o yea_o she_o will_v be_v in_o danger_n to_o loose_v the_o fruit_n that_o she_o may_v expect_v from_o all_o her_o former_a good_a purpose_n &_o resolution_n or_o at_o least_o to_o suspect_v that_o such_o purpose_n be_v not_o sincere_a &_o cordial_a since_o now_o the_o proper_a time_n of_o put_v they_o in_o execution_n be_v come_v they_o be_v ineffectual_o and_o above_o all_o other_o the_o case_n of_o scrupulous_a soul_n will_v be_v miserable_a if_o they_o shall_v neglect_v to_o combat_v their_o scrupulosity_n by_o a_o simple_a obedience_n &_o transcend_v of_o their_o fear_n on_o the_o contrary_a it_o be_v certain_a that_o a_o soul_n can_v possible_o hâ—ue_v a_o firm_a ground_n of_o assurance_n of_o eternal_a happiness_n than_o a_o sanctify_a use_n of_o sickness_n chap._n vi_o §_o 1._o internal_a exercise_n weaken_v the_o body_n yet_o oft_o prolong_v life_n §_o 2._o 3._o 4._o the_o body_n ought_v to_o suffer_v for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o spirit_n &_o not_o the_o spirit_n for_o the_o body_n §_o 5._o yet_o with_o discretion_n that_o the_o body_n be_v not_o unnecessary_o prejudice_v §_o 6._o 7._o etc._n etc._n in_o the_o first_o place_n discretion_n be_v to_o be_v use_v about_o mortification_n both_o by_o superior_n &_o other_o §_o 13._o 14._o &c_n &c_n second_o discretion_n be_v to_o be_v use_v in_o sensible_a devotion_n §_o 17._o three_o in_o meditation_n §_o 18._o 19_o 20._o four_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o immediate_n acts._n §_o 21._o 22._o five_o even_o in_o aspiration_n §_o 23._o of_o languish_a love_n mention_v by_o harphius_n 1._o internal_a prayer_n serious_o prosecute_v as_o it_o deserve_v to_o be_v be_v contrary_a to_o our_o natural_a inclination_n can_v choose_v but_o cause_n some_o trouble_n &_o uneasines_n to_o nature_n &_o abate_v the_o vigorousnes_n of_o the_o body_n quench_v those_o spirit_n &_o drayn_v those_o humour_n which_o be_v superfluous_a &_o afford_v matter_n of_o tentation_n yet_o on_o the_o other_o side_n it_o make_v amends_o even_o to_o nature_n itself_o in_o contribute_v much_o to_o the_o prolong_n of_o life_n by_o mean_n of_o moderation_n of_o diet_n a_o composednes_n of_o passion_n &_o contentation_n of_o mind_n &c_n &c_n which_o it_o cause_v proof_n whereof_o we_o have_v in_o the_o ancient_a holy_a father_n of_o the_o desert_n &_o more_o late_o in_o s._n romualdus_n who_o live_v till_o he_o be_v a_o hundred_o &_o twenty_o year_n old_a &_o s._n david_n of_o wales_n till_o a_o hundred_o &_o forty_o &c_n &c_n 2._o however_o if_o it_o be_v otherwise_o the_o soul_n be_v not_o to_o serve_v the_o body_n but_o the_o body_n the_o soul_n so_o that_o if_o one_o of_o they_o must_v for_o the_o benefit_n of_o the_o other_o be_v a_o loose_a it_o be_v most_o just_a that_o the_o loss_n shall_v lie_v on_o the_o body_n side_n and_o sure_o since_o there_o be_v scarce_o any_o study_n or_o exercise_v of_o mind_n which_o do_v not_o abridge_v life_n or_o debilitate_v the_o function_n of_o it_o without_o make_v any_o amends_o to_o the_o soul_n for_o the_o future_a life_n &_o yet_o for_o all_o that_o man_n neither_o be_v discourage_v nor_o do_v think_v it_o fit_a for_o such_o consideration_n to_o forbear_v such_o study_n much_o less_o certain_o ought_v spiritual_a &_o divine_a exercise_n be_v lay_v aside_o upon_o such_o pretence_n 3._o notwithstanding_o just_a it_o be_v that_o some_o
due_a regard_n be_v have_v to_o the_o body_n that_o it_o be_v not_o too_o much_o prejudice_v by_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o spirit_n perform_v with_o overmuch_o violence_n &_o impetuosity_n and_o this_o not_o so_o much_o for_o the_o body_n sake_n as_o the_o spirit_n the_o which_o since_o in_o this_o life_n it_o can_v work_v without_o the_o body_n by_o too_o violent_a working_n it_o may_v so_o weaken_v the_o body_n as_o that_o it_o will_v not_o be_v enable_v for_o continuance_n &_o so_o those_o little_a short_a gain_n which_o be_v get_v by_o a_o few_o impetuous_a exercise_n will_v be_v dear_o buy_v by_o a_o incapacity_n of_o continue_v they_o contract_v in_o both_o soul_n &_o body_n we_o must_v neither_o stretch_v our_o understanding_n to_o high_a seeking_n lest_o we_o be_v plunge_v thereby_o in_o internal_a darkness_n from_o which_o will_v proceed_v intolerable_a perplexity_n neither_o must_v we_o force_v the_o affection_n even_o to_o good_a object_n too_o much_o nor_o suffer_v they_o to_o flow_v with_o too_o violent_a a_o stream_n nor_o last_o must_v we_o exhaust_v bodily_a strength_n by_o unnecessary_a external_a austerity_n 4._o as_o for_o the_o painfullnes_n trouble_n &_o uneasine_n to_o nature_n that_o without_o too_o much_o debility_n do_v accompany_v spiritual_a exercise_n those_o may_v well_o enough_o be_v digest_v consider_v the_o unspeakable_a benefit_n &_o service_n that_o they_o produce_v unto_o the_o soul_n and_o yet_o for_o our_o comfort_n this_o uneasines_n will_v by_o custom_n &_o constancy_n continual_o diminish_v for_o as_o harphius_n observe_v a_o soul_n after_o long_a practice_n of_o elevation_n of_o spirit_n will_v come_v to_o such_o a_o facility_n in_o they_o that_o they_o will_v become_v as_o it_o be_v natural_a to_o she_o and_o herein_o we_o may_v observe_v the_o wonderful_a wisdom_n &_o goodness_n of_o the_o divine_a providence_n over_o soul_n how_o he_o temper_v the_o exercise_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o the_o exigence_n of_o the_o body_n for_o while_o the_o body_n be_v vigorous_a be_v able_a to_o endure_v more_o he_o give_v her_o rude_a &_o more_o laborious_a exercise_n but_o when_o by_o long-continued_a working_n it_o be_v become_v so_o feeble_a that_o any_o violent_a intention_n of_o the_o spirit_n or_o rude_a external_a mortification_n of_o which_o there_o be_v no_o need_n will_v overwhelm_a it_o than_o the_o exercise_n be_v most_o easy_a peaceable_a silent_a &_o serene_a yet_o infinite_o more_o full_a of_o virtue_n then_o former_o 5._o now_o the_o peculiar_a virtue_n by_o which_o all_o harmful_a inconvenience_n either_o to_o the_o body_n or_o spirit_n may_v be_v avoid_v be_v that_o supernatural_a discretion_n by_o which_o a_o soul_n be_v enable_v to_o hold_v a_o mean_a &_o avoid_v the_o vicious_a extreme_n in_o the_o practise_n of_o all_o spiritual_a duty_n it_o be_v just_o call_v a_o supernatural_a virtue_n because_o god_n only_o can_v bestow_v it_o for_o all_o the_o wit_n &_o philosophy_n in_o the_o world_n be_v but_o mere_a folly_n &_o blindness_n in_o these_o matter_n and_o this_o he_o do_v principal_o by_o the_o mean_n of_o prayer_n with_o the_o use_n of_o requisite_a abstraction_n &_o attendance_n to_o his_o divine_a inspiration_n whereby_o we_o shall_v receive_v a_o celestial_a habitual_a light_n to_o direct_v we_o in_o all_o thing_n suitable_o to_o our_o own_o particular_a disposition_n &_o ability_n for_o no_o one_o man_n can_v in_o all_o matter_n be_v a_o rule_n unto_o another_o 6._o now_o as_o touch_v a_o particular_a application_n of_o this_o supernatural_a discretion_n to_o the_o exercise_n of_o a_o internal_a life_n much_o have_v already_o be_v set_v down_o dispersedly_z in_o these_o treatise_n i_o will_v therefore_o only_o point_v at_o some_o few_o consideration_n which_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o several_a duty_n of_o a_o contemplative_a life_n do_v regard_v this_o mistress_n of_o all_o virtue_n discretion_n which_o sure_o deserve_v above_o all_o other_o to_o be_v purposely_o &_o by_o itself_o treat_v of_o in_o as_o much_o as_o without_o it_o all_o other_o virtue_n be_v imprudent_a that_o be_v not_o virtue_n at_o all_o 7._o first_o therefore_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o duty_n of_o mortification_n i_o speak_v now_o only_o of_o necessary_a mortification_n of_o which_o kind_n all_o be_v to_o be_v esteem_v that_o come_v from_o god_n either_o immediate_o or_o by_o mean_n of_o other_o especial_o superior_n a_o soul_n be_v to_o esteem_v those_o mortification_n which_o a_o superior_a beyond_o the_o rule_n shall_v voluntary_o impose_v upon_o the_o subject_n to_o be_v to_o the_o subject_n himself_o necessary_a however_o voluntary_a to_o the_o superior_a 8._o now_o superior_n aught_o rare_o to_o impose_v such_o kind_n of_o mortification_n on_o their_o subject_n because_o so_o many_o circumstance_n be_v require_v to_o make_v they_o well_o impose_v that_o a_o great_a measure_n of_o illumination_n from_o god_n be_v requisite_a for_o those_o that_o practise_v the_o impose_v of_o they_o for_o 1._o the_o superior_a must_v evident_o see_v that_o the_o subject_n in_o probability_n will_v make_v good_a use_n of_o they_o 2._o and_o that_o though_o they_o may_v do_v the_o subject_a good_a some_o one_o way_n yet_o they_o will_v not_o harm_v he_o more_o another_o 3._o he_o must_v take_v heed_n that_o other_o be_v not_o scandalize_v thereby_o 9_o the_o like_a circumstance_n be_v to_o be_v observe_v by_o a_o particular_a person_n that_o will_v voluntary_o assume_v mortification_n for_o want_n of_o which_o point_n of_o discretion_n harphius_n say_v that_o such_o kind_n of_o strange_a odd_a and_o uncouth_a mortification_n as_o be_v impose_v &_o practise_v in_o some_o community_n ought_v not_o to_o be_v voluntary_o assume_v as_o if_o with_o a_o design_n therefore_o to_o be_v despise_v by_o another_o 10._o the_o author_n of_o the_o abridgement_n of_o perfection_n just_o impute_v indiscretion_n to_o those_o who_o will_v never_o give_v rest_n to_o nature_n but_o will_v always_o have_v some_o cross_n or_o other_o exterior_a or_o interiour_n by_o which_o to_o mortify_v nature_n for_o say_v he_o the_o high_a perfection_n be_v not_o to_o desire_v to_o be_v always_o suffer_v but_o to_o be_v content_a to_o suffer_v all_o that_o by_o god_n providence_n shall_v befall_v us._n the_o which_o contentment_n be_v take_v away_o by_o that_o continual_a anxiety_n which_o those_o must_v suffer_v that_o will_v needs_o be_v always_o upon_o the_o rack_n 11._o in_o like_a manner_n harphius_n tax_v those_o that_o think_v themselves_o ready_a for_o affliction_n &_o complain_v that_o they_o â—vant_n occasion_n to_o exercise_v their_o resignation_n for_o â—ives_n he_o to_o such_o a_o one_o thou_o deceive_v thyself_o by_o â—ide_v god_n do_v see_v that_o as_o yet_o thou_o be_v not_o indeed_o ready_a &_o strong_a enough_o for_o extraordinary_a trial_n for_o if_o he_o do_v he_o will_v not_o fail_v to_o furnish_v thou_o with_o occasion_n he_o will_v send_v a_o angel_n from_o heaven_n on_o purpose_n to_o exercise_v a_o soul_n rather_o than_o she_o will_v want_v mortification_n for_o her_o good_a therefore_o let_v soul_n never_o be_v solicitous_a nor_o set_v themselves_o to_o devise_v or_o procure_v mortification_n as_o if_o they_o think_v that_o god_n have_v forget_v they_o notable_a example_n of_o this_o providence_n of_o god_n may_v be_v see_v in_o the_o life_n of_o thaulerus_n where_o likewise_o we_o read_v how_o god_n reprehend_v the_o layman_n that_o convert_v thaulerus_n in_o his_o sleep_n for_o certain_a assume_v voluntary_a corporal_a austerity_n to_o this_o purpose_n there_o be_v a_o memorable_a passage_n in_o the_o life_n of_o suso_n concern_v a_o spiritual_a daughter_n of_o he_o who_o of_o herself_o be_v dispose_v to_o have_v undertake_v some_o great_a corporal_a mortification_n but_o be_v dissuade_v by_o suso_n although_o himself_o by_o a_o special_a call_v from_o god_n do_v use_v very_o violent_a &_o sharp_a one_o in_o the_o which_o discourse_n there_o be_v many_o excellent_a document_n very_o well_o deserve_v to_o be_v peruse_v by_o the_o devout_a reader_n 12._o let_v a_o soul_n therefore_o serious_o practice_v that_o mortification_n of_o mortification_n which_o be_v pure_a internal_a prayer_n &_o with_o it_o join_v a_o diligent_a good_a use_n of_o those_o mortification_n attend_v her_o state_n of_o life_n or_o send_v she_o otherwise_o from_o god_n not_o omit_v those_o most_o efficacious_a internal_a mortification_n by_o act_n of_o humiliation_n &_o annihilation_n of_o herself_o &_o so_o do_v she_o will_v have_v little_a reason_n to_o complain_v of_o want_n of_o exercise_n of_o this_o virtue_n for_o corporal_a austerity_n do_v not_o by_o the_o excess_n of_o they_o but_o by_o the_o fitness_n &_o proportion_n to_o the_o soul_n present_a disposition_n perfectionate_a a_o internal_a liver_n so_o that_o some_o in_o firm_a but_o sincere_o affect_v person_n do_v advance_v themselves_o more_o by_o ordinary_a &_o trifle_a
the_o intellectual_a soul_n without_o any_o sensible_a change_n or_o redundance_n to_o the_o body_n for_o the_o tree_n of_o love_n be_v in_o no_o sort_n to_o be_v pluck_v up_o by_o the_o root_n as_o long_o as_o there_o be_v any_o hope_n that_o it_o may_v be_v in_o a_o disposition_n or_o capacity_n to_o bring_v forth_o more_o fruit_n chap._n vii_o §_o 1._o 2._o touch_v a_o special_a sort_n of_o internal_a prayer_n prescribe_v by_o antonio_n roias_n a_o spanish_a priest_n with_o approbation_n give_v to_o it_o §_o 3._o 4._o the_o order_n for_o preparation_n to_o the_o say_a prayer_n of_o internal_a silence_n §_o 5._o 6._o etc._n etc._n how_o the_o say_a prayer_n itself_o be_v to_o be_v exercise_v §_o 11._o 12._o the_o great_a advantage_n and_o benefit_n of_o the_o prayer_n of_o internal_a silence_n §_o 13._o this_o prayer_n may_v become_v proper_a for_o most_o soul_n §_o 14._o a_o soul_n be_v not_o to_o be_v oblige_v to_o use_v the_o same_o preparation_n prescribe_v §_o 15._o it_o be_v commend_v by_o the_o author_n both_o to_o beginner_n &_o proficient_n yet_o with_o some_o caution_n §_o 16._o this_o prayer_n be_v inferior_a to_o s._n teresas_n prayer_n of_o quietness_n §_o 17._o of_o the_o phrase_n by_o which_o the_o soul_n be_v say_v herein_o to_o be_v aux_n escouttes_n §_o 18._o this_o prayer_n be_v far_o from_o the_o mere_a cessation_n or_o idleness_n of_o the_o illuminati_fw-la §_o 19_o 20._o a_o transition_n to_o the_o follow_a discourse_n of_o contemplation_n with_o a_o serious_a exhortation_n of_o s._n teresa_n to_o aspire_v courageous_o thereto_o 1._o before_o we_o proceed_v to_o the_o supreme_a degree_n of_o prayer_n which_o be_v pure_a contemplation_n it_o may_v be_v convenient_a as_o it_o be_v also_o pertinent_a enough_o to_o insert_v here_o as_o a_o appendix_n to_o these_o instruction_n concern_v the_o prayer_n of_o force_a act_n of_o the_o will_n a_o certain_a exercise_n of_o internal_a prayer_n pertain_v to_o this_o same_o degree_n though_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o soul_n behaviour_n much_o differ_v it_o be_v a_o prayer_n of_o internal_a silence_n quietness_n &_o repose_n in_o which_o there_o be_v no_o meditation_n at_o all_o nor_o no_o act_n of_o the_o will_v express_o &_o direct_o frame_v be_v rather_o a_o kind_n of_o virtual_a &_o habitual_a attention_n to_o god_n than_o a_o formal_a &_o direct_a tendance_n to_o he_o yet_o be_v this_o a_o far_o inferior_a degree_n of_o prayer_n then_o be_v that_o prayer_n of_o quietness_n which_o s._n teresa_n speak_v of_o &_o experience_v which_o be_v indeed_o supernatural_a contemplation_n 2._o the_o first_o that_o publish_v a_o treatise_n purposely_o of_o this_o kind_n of_o prayer_n be_v antonio_z de_fw-fr roias_n a_o devout_a spanish_a priest_n &_o doctor_n in_o a_o book_n call_v the_o life_n of_o the_o spirit_n approve_a which_o large_a eulogy_n by_o no_o less_o than_o nime_fw-mi eminent_a doctor_n bishop_n or_o inquisitour_n so_o that_o there_o can_v be_v no_o reasonable_a ground_n to_o doubt_v of_o the_o lawfullnes_n convenience_n &_o security_n of_o it_o it_o have_v moreover_o be_v translate_v &_o publish_v in_o french_a &_o recommend_v by_o several_a other_o doctor_n 3._o now_o the_o order_n that_o the_o author_n advise_v a_o devout_a soul_n to_o observe_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o this_o prayer_n of_o internal_a silence_n both_o in_o regard_n of_o preparation_n thereto_o &_o actual_a exercise_n of_o it_o be_v as_o follow_v 4._o in_o the_o first_o place_n for_o preparation_n 1._o the_o soul_n be_v to_o examine_v &_o purify_v her_o conscience_n with_o a_o prudent_a diligent_a search_n 2._o she_o be_v to_o endeavour_v serious_o &_o cordial_o to_o make_v a_o act_n of_o contrition_n for_o her_o sin_n from_o a_o consideration_n of_o god_n goodness_n love_n &_o mercy_n etc._n etc._n 3._o she_o be_v to_o frame_v a_o act_n of_o pure_a &_o entire_a resignation_n of_o herself_o into_o god_n hand_n with_o reference_n to_o the_o present_a exercise_n of_o a_o silent_a recollection_n determine_v to_o perform_v it_o pure_o for_o god_n glory_n renounce_v all_o inferior_a private_a interest_n &_o contentment_n &c_n &c_n 4._o she_o may_v if_o need_v be_v meditate_v a_o little_a upon_o one_o of_o the_o mystery_n concern_v the_o incarnation_n &_o passion_n etc._n etc._n of_o our_o lord_n also_o mix_v certain_a eiaculatory_a prayer_n 5._o she_o be_v to_o make_v a_o firm_a act_n of_o faith_n &_o acknowledgement_n of_o god_n presence_n in_o the_o centre_n of_o the_o soul_n before_o who_o she_o intend_v to_o place_v herself_o with_o most_o profound_a reverence_n humility_n &_o love_n 5._o in_o consequence_n to_o these_o preparation_n in_o the_o which_o she_o be_v to_o continue_v till_o she_o find_v herself_o dispose_v to_o quit_v all_o such_o express_a &_o direct_a act_n or_o affection_n and_o have_v a_o implicit_a assurance_n by_o a_o bare_a &_o obscure_a faith_n that_o god_n who_o be_v incomprehensible_a universal_a goodness_n be_v indeed_o present_a to_o &_o in_o she_o all_o that_o remain_v for_o she_o then_o to_o do_v be_v with_o all_o humility_n &_o love_n to_o continue_v in_o his_o presence_n in_o the_o quality_n of_o a_o petitioner_n but_o such_o a_o one_o as_o make_v no_o special_a direct_a request_n but_o content_v herself_o to_o appear_v before_o he_o with_o all_o her_o want_v &_o necessity_n best_a &_o indeed_o only_o know_v to_o he_o who_o therefore_o need_v not_o her_o information_n so_o that_o she_o with_o a_o silent_a attention_n regard_v god_n only_o reject_v all_o manner_n of_o image_n of_o all_o object_n whatsoever_o &_o with_o the_o will_v she_o frame_v no_o particular_a request_n nor_o any_o express_a act_n towards_o god_n but_o remain_v in_o a_o entire_a silence_n both_o of_o tongue_n &_o thought_n the_o virtue_n of_o the_o precedent_n direct_a act_n remain_v in_o she_o with_o a_o sweere_a tacit_a consent_v of_o love_n in_o the_o will_n permit_v god_n to_o take_v a_o entire_a possession_n of_o the_o soul_n as_o of_o a_o temple_n whole_o belong_v and_o consecrate_v to_o he_o in_o the_o which_o he_o be_v already_o present_a 6._o in_o this_o state_n the_o soul_n behave_v herself_o much_o after_o the_o manner_n of_o a_o humble_a faithful_a &_o love_a subject_n that_o out_o of_o duty_n &_o with_o most_o entire_a affection_n &_o respect_n approach_n to_o the_o presence_n of_o his_o sovereign_n at_o his_o first_o access_n he_o use_v such_o profound_a reverence_n &_o protestation_n of_o duty_n &_o fidelity_n as_o be_v befit_v but_o that_o be_v do_v he_o remain_v silent_a and_o immovable_a in_o his_o presence_n yet_o with_o the_o same_o respect_n &_o reverence_n that_o he_o first_o enter_v and_o know_v that_o his_o prince_n only_o ought_v to_o dispose_v of_o his_o fortune_n &_o state_n &_o that_o he_o be_v both_o most_o wise_a to_o judge_v what_o favour_n may_v become_v the_o one_o to_o give_v &_o the_o other_o to_o receive_v &_o withal_o that_o he_o have_v a_o love_n &_o magnificence_n to_o advance_v he_o beyond_o his_o desert_n he_o make_v no_o particular_a request_n at_o all_o now_o the_o reverence_n that_o he_o show_v he_o be_v not_o by_o make_v any_o express_a reflection_n or_o inward_a say_n the_o king_n be_v here_o to_o who_o i_o owe_v all_o duty_n love_n &_o obedience_n for_o know_v he_o to_o be_v present_a there_o be_v no_o need_n of_o renew_v either_o speech_n or_o thought_n that_o he_o be_v so_o and_o real_o exhibit_v all_o manner_n of_o respect_n to_o he_o it_o will_v be_v to_o no_o purpose_n to_o make_v either_o internal_a or_o external_a profession_n of_o it_o he_o be_v in_o a_o readiness_n to_o hear_v &_o execute_v any_o command_n &_o till_o he_o be_v inform_v by_o the_o king_n how_o he_o ought_v to_o perform_v his_o will_n &_o service_n he_o be_v not_o forward_o to_o voluntary_a undertake_n so_o do_v the_o soul_n according_a to_o the_o instruction_n of_o roias_n behave_v herself_o in_o god_n presence_n not_o renew_v but_o only_o persevere_v in_o the_o virtue_n of_o those_o direct_a act_n of_o faith_n love_n duty_n &c_n &c_n which_o she_o frame_v in_o the_o beginning_n if_o be_v in_o this_o vacancy_n &_o internal_a silence_n god_n spirit_n shall_v suggest_v unto_o she_o any_o pure_a affection_n she_o be_v attentive_a &_o ready_a to_o entertain_v &_o quiet_o exercise_v they_o &_o present_o return_v to_o her_o silence_n 7._o if_o during_o this_o silence_n the_o soul_n find_v any_o aridity_n obscurity_n or_o insensiblenes_n in_o inferior_a nature_n &c_n &c_n those_o thing_n do_v not_o interrupt_v she_o persevere_v in_o her_o silence_n &_o virtual_a exercise_n of_o faith_n oblation_n &_o resignation_n join_v with_o a_o quiet_a attention_n to_o his_o will_n &_o inspiration_n yet_o if_o indeed_o she_o shall_v forget_v herself_o &_o that_o either_o wander_v thought_n or_o sensual_a affection_n shall_v press_v
only_o in_o a_o imperfect_a state_n burr_n also_o in_o a_o immediate_a disposition_n to_o a_o sinful_a defect_n by_o reason_n that_o where_o god_n do_v not_o whole_o possess_v the_o soul_n the_o very_a image_n of_o creature_n can_v but_z more_o or_o less_o defile_v she_o how_o comfortable_a therefore_o &_o how_o only_o secure_a be_v a_o life_n of_o prayer_n 18._o those_o that_o be_v unexperienced_a may_v and_o often_o do_v call_v this_o a_o state_n of_o idleness_n and_o unproffitable_a cessation_n as_o martha_n complain_v against_o her_o sister_n mary_n but_o those_o that_o have_v attain_v to_o a_o taste_n of_o it_o know_v it_o to_o be_v the_o business_n of_o all_o business_n as_o s._n bernard_n call_v it_o true_a it_o be_v they_o do_v not_o without_o a_o special_a and_o certain_a inspiration_n from_o god_n interest_n themselves_o in_o external_a business_n nor_o perhaps_o employ_v much_o of_o their_o time_n and_o devotion_n in_o express_a prayer_n for_o common_a necessity_n yet_o those_o unexpressible_a devotion_n which_o they_o exercise_v &_o in_o which_o they_o tacit_o involve_v the_o needs_o of_o the_o whole_a church_n be_v far_o more_o prevalent_a with_o god_n than_o the_o busy_a endeavour_n &_o prayer_n of_o ten_o thousand_o other_o a_o few_o such_o secret_a &_o unknown_a servant_n of_o god_n be_v the_o chariot_n &_o horseman_n the_o strength_n and_o bulwark_n of_o the_o kingdom_n &_o church_n where_o they_o live_v 19_o i_o know_v that_o some_o mystic_a author_n do_v constitute_v several_a distinct_a state_n follow_a active_a contemplation_n as_o barbanson_n make_v mention_n of_o the_o state_n of_o the_o divine_a presence_n in_o the_o soul_n &_o after_o that_o of_o the_o manifestation_n of_o god_n to_o the_o spirit_n &c_n &c_n and_o in_o all_o these_o great_a variety_n of_o ascent_n &_o descent_n &c_n &c_n likewise_o f._n ben._n canfield_n in_o his_o last_o &_o most_o perfect_a state_n of_o the_o essential_a &_o supereminent_a will_n of_o god_n make_v mention_n of_o several_a distinct_a exercise_n as_o denudation_n a_o active_a &_o passive_a annihilation_n &c_n &c_n these_o author_n perhaps_o speak_v according_a to_o the_o experience_n of_o the_o divine_a operation_n in_o their_o own_o soul_n &_o with_o regard_n to_o their_o particular_a manner_n of_o prayer_n therefore_o i_o conceive_v that_o what_o they_o deliver_v needs_o not_o to_o be_v esteem_v a_o common_a measure_n for_o all_o neither_o will_v i_o deny_v but_o that_o there_o may_v be_v distinct_a state_n some_o of_o which_o i_o will_v mention_v as_o the_o great_a desolation_n etc._n etc._n but_o it_o will_v be_v to_o no_o purpose_n subtle_o to_o search_v into_o they_o those_o happy_a soul_n who_o god_n shall_v so_o high_o favour_v as_o to_o bring_v they_o to_o the_o mount_n of_o vision_n and_o contemplation_n will_v have_v no_o need_n of_o light_n from_o any_o but_o god_n to_o conduct_v they_o in_o those_o hide_a divine_a path_n and_o the_o unexperienced_a will_v reap_v but_o little_a profit_n from_o such_o curious_a inquiry_n 20._o i_o will_v therefore_o content_v myself_o with_o deliver_v in_o a_o general_a manner_n 1._o the_o nature_n of_o the_o prayer_n proper_a to_o the_o state_n of_o active_a contemplation_n 2._o and_o from_o thence_o i_o will_v proceed_v to_o treat_v modest_o concern_v passive_a union_n &_o the_o several_a kind_n of_o it_o 3._o to_o which_o i_o will_v add_v a_o brief_a discourse_n of_o that_o great_a desolation_n which_o usual_o follow_v the_o say_a union_n 4._o and_o then_o i_o will_v conclude_v the_o whole_a book_n with_o a_o very_a short_a description_n of_o the_o state_n of_o perfection_n chap._n two_o §_o 1._o 2._o of_o the_o prayer_n proper_a to_o the_o state_n of_o centemplation_n to_o wit_n aspiration_n and_o wâ—y_o they_o be_v so_o call_v §_o 3._o example_n of_o aspiration_n §_o 4._o â—_o etc._n etc._n agreement_n &_o difference_n between_o aspiration_n and_o other_o internal_a acts._n §_o 11._o 12._o etc._n etc._n how_o a_o soul_n become_v ripe_a for_o aspiration_n &_o pass_v to_o they_o §_o 16._o 17._o aspiration_n may_v be_v exercise_v in_o external_a business_n and_o why_o §_o 18._o 19_o great_a variety_n of_o aspiration_n to_o wit_n with_o or_o without_o word_n etc._n etc._n §_o 23._o 24._o etc._n etc._n the_o great_a benefit_n and_o fruit_n of_o aspiration_n 1._o internal_a prayer_n proper_a to_o the_o state_n of_o active_a contemplation_n consist_v of_o certain_a most_o pure_o spiritual_a operation_n of_o the_o will_n longing_n &_o thirst_v after_o god_n &_o a_o union_n with_o he_o in_o the_o supreme_a point_n of_o the_o spirit_n where_o his_o most_o proper_a dwell_v be_v 2._o these_o perfect_a operation_n be_v by_o spiritual_a author_n several_o name_v as_o elevation_n inward_a stir_n of_o the_o spirit_n aspiration_n &c_n &c_n we_o will_v in_o the_o follow_a discourse_n make_v use_n for_o the_o most_o part_n of_o this_o last_o term_n of_o aspiration_n as_o most_o proper_a in_o a_o general_a notion_n to_o express_v the_o say_a operation_n for_o 1._o by_o they_o the_o soul_n in_o a_o holy_a ambition_n do_v aspire_v to_o raise_v &_o elevate_v herself_o out_o of_o inferior_a nature_n &_o to_o mount_v to_o the_o apicem_fw-la spiritus_fw-la which_o be_v god_n throne_n 2._o by_o they_o the_o soul_n be_v inflame_v with_o divine_a love_n do_v breath_n forth_o her_o ardent_a affection_n to_o god_n as_o the_o heart_n force_v the_o lung_n to_o send_v forth_o that_o air_n which_o they_o have_v former_o suck_v in_o that_o they_o may_v draw_v in_o fresh_a air_n to_o refrigerate_v it_o so_o that_o in_o both_o there_o be_v a_o quick_a reciprocal_a motion_n of_o empty_v &_o fill_v of_o rise_v &_o fall_v for_o after_o every_o aspiration_n there_o be_v a_o short_a descent_n &_o then_o a_o mount_a high_a than_o before_o 3._o because_o as_o our_o outward_a breathe_n be_v a_o action_n as_o it_o be_v pure_o natural_a perform_v without_o any_o labour_n at_o all_o or_o so_o much_o as_o election_n so_o a_o soul_n root_v in_o charity_n breathe_v forth_o these_o pure_a aspiration_n without_o any_o force_n use_v upon_o herself_o they_o flow_a from_o she_o free_o both_o as_o to_o the_o matter_n and_o manner_n of_o they_o &_o in_o a_o sort_n natural_o 4._o because_o as_o the_o motion_n make_v in_o breathe_v do_v not_o hinder_v but_o rather_o advance_v all_o other_o motion_n &_o operation_n so_o may_v aspiration_n be_v exercise_v during_o other_o ordinary_a employment_n without_o any_o prejudice_n to_o either_o or_o without_o any_o considerable_a distraction_n except_o they_o be_v such_o business_n that_o do_v require_v a_o special_a fix_a attention_n of_o the_o mind_n with_o serious_a study_n now_o in_o such_o employment_n if_o they_o be_v impose_v by_o necessity_n or_o obedience_n the_o soul_n ought_v to_o quit_v her_o aspiration_n and_o so_o do_v she_o will_v gain_v as_o much_o by_o her_o obedience_n as_o she_o will_v by_o prayer_n 3._o now_o these_o aspiration_n be_v certain_a short_a &_o lively_a affection_n of_o the_o soul_n by_o which_o she_o express_v a_o thirsty_a longing_n after_o god_n such_o as_o these_o be_v my_o god_n when_o shall_v i_o love_v thou_o alone_o when_o shall_v i_o be_v unite_v to_o thou_o who_o have_v i_o in_o heaven_n or_o earth_n but_o thou_o alone_o o_o that_o thou_o will_v live_v &_o reign_v alone_o in_o my_o soul_n o_o my_o god_n thou_o alone_o suffise_v i_o do_v not_o thou_o know_v o_o my_o god_n that_o i_o love_v thou_o only_o let_v i_o be_v nothing_o &_o be_v thou_o all_o o_o my_o god_n o_o love_n o_o love_n o_o infinite_a universal_a good_a when_o shall_v i_o come_v &_o appear_v before_o the_o face_n of_o thou_o o_o my_o god_n let_v i_o love_v thou_o only_o &_o that_o be_v sufficient_a when_o shall_v i_o die_v that_o my_o god_n alone_o may_v live_v in_o i_o etc._n etc._n 4._o now_o the_o same_o affection_n such_o as_o these_o that_o be_v use_v in_o the_o prayer_n of_o aspiration_n may_v also_o be_v use_v for_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v the_o expression_n and_o sense_n of_o they_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o immediate_a act_n and_o even_o in_o meditation_n itself_o but_o yet_o the_o manner_n by_o which_o the_o soul_n produce_v the_o say_v affection_n be_v in_o many_o respect_v different_a in_o perfect_a &_o imperfect_a soul_n and_o the_o say_a aspiration_n be_v of_o a_o quite_o different_a nature_n from_o other_o force_a immediate_a act_n of_o the_o will._n 5._o for_o first_o such_o feruorous_a affection_n tend_v direct_o &_o immediate_o to_o god_n be_v the_o entire_a matter_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o aspiration_n whereas_o in_o immediate_a act_n they_o be_v only_o now_o &_o then_o interlace_v but_o the_o ordinary_a matter_n of_o such_o act_n be_v the_o do_v or_o forbear_v any_o thing_n for_o god_n as_o in_o act_n of_o resignation_n etc._n etc._n 6._o
to_o behave_v herself_o in_o this_o case_n of_o extraordinary_a call_n or_o inspiration_n from_o that_o to_o which_o as_o have_v be_v say_v in_o the_o first_o treatise_n we_o be_v oblige_v in_o those_o inspiration_n which_o though_o indeed_o supernatural_a yet_o be_v ordinary_a for_o in_o ordinary_a one_o we_o be_v not_o at_o all_o to_o trouble_v other_o with_o consultation_n or_o to_o seek_v advice_n but_o present_o to_o put_v in_o execution_n what_o shall_v be_v inspire_v or_o internal_o suggest_v unto_o we_o whereas_o in_o these_o extraordinary_a case_n we_o must_v do_v the_o quite_o contrary_a 39_o thus_o far_o concern_v those_o passive_a union_n and_o contemplation_n which_o god_n sometime_o communicate_v to_o soul_n after_o a_o sensible_a manner_n especial_o in_o ecstasy_n and_o revelation_n in_o which_o there_o be_v a_o alienation_n and_o suspension_n of_o the_o use_n of_o the_o outward_a sense_n the_o which_o i_o have_v style_v supernatural_a grace_n of_o god_n not_o as_o if_o the_o like_a may_v not_o be_v produce_v by_o a_o natural_a way_n for_o history_n inform_v we_o of_o some_o that_o by_o a_o wonderful_a intention_n of_o mind_n upon_o philosophical_a verity_n have_v draw_v the_o operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n so_o much_o inward_a that_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o outward_a sense_n have_v be_v suspend_v and_o a_o ecstasy_n ensue_v and_o therefore_o no_o doubt_n the_o like_a may_v even_o natural_o happen_v in_o the_o contemplate_v of_o divine_a verity_n in_o which_o case_n the_o imagination_n be_v full_a of_o divine_a and_o spiritual_a image_n only_o no_o wonder_n if_o during_o such_o a_o suspension_n there_o be_v represent_v internal_a discourse_n with_o god_n and_o angel_n &c_n &c_n which_o to_o the_o person_n may_v seem_v to_o have_v be_v real_a however_o even_o in_o these_o circumstance_n a_o ecstasy_n so_o follow_a according_o to_o the_o exigence_n and_o disposition_n of_o natural_a cause_n may_v proper_o be_v term_v supernatural_a since_o the_o precede_a contemplation_n which_o cause_v it_o do_v proceed_v from_o a_o more_o than_o ordinary_a supernatural_a grace_n and_o the_o imagination_n occur_v during_o such_o a_o ecstasy_n be_v no_o doubt_n order_v by_o a_o especial_a and_o supernatural_a providence_n of_o god_n 40._o but_o beside_o these_o there_o be_v no_o doubt_n many_o ecstasy_n and_o revelation_n pure_o supernatural_a in_o which_o god_n either_o immediate_o or_o by_o the_o disposition_n of_o angel_n do_v communicate_v such_o divine_a light_n grace_n &c_n &c_n as_o can_v not_o possible_o flow_v from_o any_o assemblance_n of_o natuturall_a cause_n such_o be_v many_o of_o those_o communicate_v to_o s._n teresa_n b._n john_n de_fw-fr cruse_n etc._n etc._n now_o which_o way_n soever_o of_o these_o two_o such_o grace_n do_v proceed_v the_o foresay_a advice_n ought_v to_o have_v place_n chap._n iu._n §_o 1._o 2._o etc._n etc._n of_o the_o second_o and_o more_o perfect_a sort_n of_o passive_a union_n to_o wit_n such_o as_o be_v pure_o intellectual_a §_o 5._o 6._o etc._n etc._n how_o in_o these_o union_n god_n be_v contemplate_v in_o caligine_fw-la etc._n etc._n §_o 8._o 9_o etc._n etc._n the_o excellency_n and_o wonderful_a benefit_n flow_v from_o these_o intellectual_a union_n though_o very_o short_a as_o first_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o understanding_n §_o 14._o second_o in_o regard_n of_o thâ—_n will._n §_o 15._o 16._o three_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o internal_a sense_n etc._n etc._n §_o 17._o unexperienced_a person_n can_v and_z ought_v not_o to_o be_v judge_n in_o these_o thing_n 1._o the_o other_o beforementioned_a passive_a union_n which_o i_o call_v intellectual_a be_v far_o more_o noble_a and_o sublime_a in_o which_o god_n or_o some_o divine_a mystery_n be_v immediate_o present_v or_o discover_v to_o the_o understanding_n without_o any_o representation_n figure_n or_o discourse_n in_o the_o imagination_n in_o the_o former_a sensible_a union_n the_o contemplation_n pass_v from_o the_o outward_a sense_n to_o the_o inward_a and_o thence_o to_o the_o understanding_n but_o this_o begin_v in_o the_o understanding_n &_o only_o by_o reflection_n return_n to_o the_o imagination_n there_o make_v use_n of_o some_o species_n for_o a_o apprehension_n after_o a_o humane_a manner_n of_o the_o object_n intellectual_o discover_v to_o the_o soul_n 2._o the_o former_a sensible_a union_n especial_o such_o as_o palâ—e_v in_o the_o internal_a sense_n with_o alienation_n from_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o outward_a do_v seldom_o befall_v very_o perfect_a soul_n and_o less_o to_o man_n then_o to_o woman_n because_o such_o a_o alienation_n from_o sense_n proceed_v partly_o from_o the_o infirmity_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o its_o incapacity_n to_o attend_v to_o divine_a inaction_n perhaps_o not_o from_o a_o necessary_a exigence_n of_o the_o inaction_n itself_o and_o partly_o from_o a_o customary_a exercise_n of_o prayer_n by_o strong_a and_o tender_a affection_n in_o sensitive_a nature_n the_o which_o do_v more_o push_v forward_o the_o soul_n to_o attend_v earnest_o to_o divine_a object_n from_o whence_o be_v cause_v a_o suspension_n of_o the_o outward_a sense_n 3._o there_o be_v some_o degree_n of_o this_o intellectual_a passive_a union_n to_o which_o a_o soul_n by_o lead_v a_o pure_a spiritual_a life_n may_v dispose_v herself_o make_v herself_o worthy_a and_o capable_a of_o the_o say_a inaction_n the_o behave_v herself_o as_o a_o humble_a patient_n and_o not_o a_o agent_n in_o the_o business_n 4._o by_o virtue_n of_o these_o inaction_n many_o soul_n have_v receive_v internal_a light_n and_o resolution_n to_o many_o difficulty_n concern_v themselves_o or_o other_o likewise_o many_o suggestion_n strong_a and_o clear_a concern_v extraordinary_a matter_n to_o be_v say_v or_o do_v and_o all_o this_o without_o any_o externall_n or_o imaginative_a vision_n by_o certain_a secret_a whisper_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n silent_o but_o assured_o enlighten_v the_o mind_n concern_v certain_a truth_n or_o purpose_n to_o be_v believe_v or_o perform_v frequent_a example_n whereof_o we_o have_v in_o the_o live_v of_o b._n angela_n de_fw-fr pulginio_n s._n teresa_n 5._o of_o these_o intellectual_a passive_a union_n the_o supreme_a and_o most_o noble_a that_o may_v be_v have_v in_o this_o life_n be_v that_o whereby_o god_n be_v contemplate_v without_o any_o perceptible_a image_n by_o a_o certain_a intellectual_a supernatural_a light_n dart_v into_o the_o soul_n in_o which_o regard_n it_o draw_v much_o towards_o a_o angelical_a contemplation_n for_o herein_o though_o god_n be_v not_o see_v as_o he_o be_v yet_o he_o be_v clear_o see_v that_o he_o be_v and_o that_o he_o be_v incomprehensible_a 6._o mystic_a author_n call_v this_o rather_o a_o divine_a passive_a union_n than_o contemplation_n a_o union_n it_o be_v far_o more_o straight_o &_o immediate_a than_o any_o of_o the_o former_a a_o union_n exercise_v more_o by_o the_o will_v then_o the_o understanding_n although_o the_o effect_n thereof_o be_v to_o refund_v great_a light_n into_o the_o understanding_n notwithstanding_o which_o light_n yet_o the_o understanding_n contemplation_n be_v say_v to_o be_v in_o caligine_fw-la in_o which_o darkness_n god_n be_v more_o perfect_o see_v because_o there_o be_v nothing_o see_v that_o be_v not_o god_n yea_o according_a to_o the_o doctrine_n of_o mystic_n this_o union_n pass_v above_o both_o the_o understanding_n and_o will_n namely_o in_o that_o supreme_a portion_n of_o the_o spirit_n which_o be_v visible_a to_o god_n alone_o and_o in_o which_o he_o alone_o can_v inhabit_v a_o portion_n so_o pure_a noble_a and_o divine_a that_o it_o neither_o have_v nor_o can_v have_v any_o name_n proper_a to_o it_o though_o mystic_n endeavour_v to_o express_v it_o by_o diverse_a call_v it_o the_o summity_n of_o the_o mind_n the_o fund_z and_o centre_n of_o the_o spirit_n the_o essence_n of_o the_o soul_n its_o virginal_a portion_n etc._n etc._n 7._o such_o passive_a union_n be_v rather_o a_o reward_n and_o free_a grace_n bestow_v by_o god_n on_o soul_n that_o have_v be_v extraordinary_o faithful_a and_o diligent_a in_o mortification_n and_o internal_a exercise_n then_o a_o end_v to_o be_v intend_v by_o any_o for_o even_o the_o most_o pure_a and_o perfect_a soul_n can_v with_o all_o their_o industry_n procure_v it_o at_o pleasure_n 8._o this_o most_o pure_a contemplation_n do_v so_o exceed_v all_o voluntary_a operation_n of_o the_o soul_n faculty_n that_o it_o usual_o cause_v a_o alienation_n and_o suspension_n of_o all_o the_o sense_n as_o well_o external_a as_o internal_a yet_o the_o continuance_n of_o it_o be_v but_o very_o short_a as_o s._n bernard_n who_o no_o doubt_n can_v speak_v from_o his_o own_o experience_n observe_v for_o it_o seldom_o last_v above_o a_o quarter_n of_o a_o hour_n 9_o but_o the_o benefit_n fruit_n and_o grace_n which_o so_o short_a a_o visitation_n cause_v in_o the_o soul_n be_v both_o wonderful_o excellent_a and_o very_a last_a and_o these_o both_o in_o regard_n 1._o
of_o the_o understanding_n 2._o of_o the_o will_n and_o 3._o the_o sensitive_a faculty_n likewise_o 10._o first_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o understanding_n there_o be_v thereby_o a_o divine_a light_n communicate_v not_o reveal_v or_o discover_v any_o new_a verity_n but_o afford_v a_o most_o firm_a clear_a assurance_n and_o experimental_a perception_n of_o those_o verity_n of_o catholic_n religion_n which_o be_v the_o object_n of_o our_o faith_n the_o which_o assurance_n the_o soul_n perceive_v to_o be_v divine_o communicate_v to_o she_o 11._o o_o happy_a evidence_n of_o our_o catholic_n belief_n no_o thanks_n to_o they_o that_o believe_v after_o such_o sight_n which_o be_v more_o evident_a than_o any_o thing_n we_o see_v with_o our_o corporal_a eye_n sure_o the_o first_o knowledge_n and_o assurance_n that_o the_o primitive_a christian_n have_v of_o the_o mystery_n of_o our_o religion_n come_v by_o such_o contemplation_n communicate_v to_o the_o apostle_n &c._n &c._n as_o s._n paul_n witness_n of_o himself_o for_o one_o who_o see_v and_o even_o feel_v the_o truth_n of_o what_o they_o preach_v and_o deliver_v by_o tradition_n to_o other_o 12._o such_o contemplation_n as_o this_o make_v s._n teresa_n so_o confident_a in_o the_o point_n of_o her_o belief_n that_o it_o seem_v to_o she_o that_o she_o be_v able_a to_o dispute_v with_o and_o confound_v all_o the_o heretic_n in_o the_o world_n but_o yet_o therein_o she_o may_v perhaps_o be_v deceive_v if_o that_o god_n do_v not_o further_o enable_v she_o then_o by_o such_o contemplation_n only_o for_o though_o they_o serve_v to_o establish_v most_o firm_o her_o own_o belief_n yet_o will_v they_o not_o suffice_v to_o enable_v she_o to_o dispute_v with_o and_o convince_v other_o because_o neither_o can_v she_o intelligible_o enough_o express_v what_o she_o have_v see_v and_o if_o she_o can_v yet_o will_v not_o all_o believe_v she_o nor_o be_v they_o rational_o oblige_v to_o do_v so_o and_o therefore_o doubtless_o she_o will_v never_o have_v undertake_v of_o her_o own_o accord_n without_o a_o special_a motion_n and_o invitation_n from_o god_n to_o have_v enter_v into_o any_o such_o dispute_n indeed_o if_o god_n have_v urge_v she_o thereto_o then_o doubtless_o he_o will_v have_v give_v she_o a_o especial_a assistance_n and_o force_n 13._o a_o soul_n that_o be_v new_o awaken_v as_o it_o be_v from_o such_o a_o contemplation_n or_o union_n come_v to_o read_v the_o holy_a scripture_n or_o any_o spiritual_a book_n will_v pierce_v far_o more_o deep_o into_o the_o verity_n contain_v in_o they_o &_o will_v see_v clear_a light_n and_o feel_v far_o more_o perfect_a taste_n of_o the_o divine_a truth_n therein_o then_o ever_o before_o so_o that_o all_o the_o knowledge_n that_o she_o former_o have_v will_v seem_v unto_o her_o mere_a darkness_n and_o a_o knowledge_n of_o the_o outward_a letter_n only_o whereas_o now_o she_o penetrate_v into_o the_o internal_a spirit_n of_o the_o write_n 14._o in_o the_o next_o place_n the_o change_n that_o be_v make_v by_o this_o supernatural_a union_n with_o regard_n to_o the_o will_n &_o affection_n be_v equal_o admirable_a in_o so_o much_o as_o many_o year_n spend_v in_o mortification_n &_o other_o internal_a exercise_n will_v not_o so_o purify_v the_o soul_n as_o a_o few_o minute_n pass_v in_o such_o a_o divine_a inaction_n here_o it_o be_v indeed_o that_o a_o soul_n perfect_o feel_v she_o own_o nothing_o and_o god_n totality_n &_o thereby_o be_v strange_o advance_v in_o humility_n &_o the_o divine_a love._n for_o be_v so_o immediate_o unite_v to_o god_n so_o illustrate_v with_o his_o heavenly_a light_n &_o inflame_v with_o his_o love_n all_o creature_n &_o herself_n above_o all_o be_v become_v as_o nothing_o yea_o perfect_o odious_a to_o she_o beside_o there_o be_v many_o secret_a defect_n in_o a_o soul_n so_o subtle_a &_o intime_fw-la that_o they_o can_v neither_o he_o cure_v nor_o so_o much_o as_o discover_v but_o by_o a_o passive_a union_n in_o so_o much_o as_o hereby_o the_o soul_n be_v advance_v to_o perfection_n in_o a_o manner_n &_o degree_n not_o to_o be_v imagine_v far_o more_o efficacious_o then_o by_o all_o the_o former_a action_n of_o her_o life_n put_v together_o so_o that_o the_o follow_a aspiration_n &_o elevation_n of_o the_o spirit_n become_v far_o more_o pure_a &_o efficacious_a then_o before_o and_o indeed_o be_v it_o not_o for_o such_o good_a fruit_n &_o effect_n upon_o the_o will_n such_o passive_a union_n will_v be_v little_o profitable_a unto_o the_o soul_n for_o our_o merit_n consist_v in_o our_o own_o free_a act_n produce_v in_o virtue_n of_o divine_a grace_n assist_v we_o &_o not_o in_o the_o operation_n simple_o wherein_o god_n be_v only_a agent_n &_o we_o patient_n 15._o in_o the_o three_o place_n these_o supernatural_a union_n be_v of_o that_o virtue_n that_o they_o do_v whole_o subdue_v the_o imagination_n &_o other_o internal_a sense_n to_o the_o superior_a soul_n so_o that_o they_o can_v as_o they_o listen_v wander_v to_o &_o fro_o but_o be_v reduce_v to_o such_o a_o happy_a servitude_n to_o the_o spirit_n that_o without_o any_o stress_n or_o violence_n they_o be_v bring_v to_o attend_v it_o in_o all_o its_o employment_n &_o occasion_n or_o if_o the_o imagination_n do_v sometime_o wander_v yet_o it_o never_o fasten_v itself_o with_o delight_n on_o any_o external_a perish_a object_n by_o reason_n that_o self-love_n be_v in_o a_o sort_n extinguish_v in_o the_o soul_n so_o that_o it_o may_v easy_o be_v reduce_v or_o howsoever_o by_o its_o wander_n it_o do_v not_o hinder_v or_o interrupt_v the_o operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n 16._o moreover_o it_o be_v observe_v by_o mystic_n that_o soul_n which_o former_o during_o the_o precedent_n less_o perfect_a exercise_n be_v of_o quite_o different_a even_o contrary_a disposition_n &_o natural_a complexion_n after_o such_o supernatural_a union_n do_v come_v to_o a_o very_a near_o resemblance_n to_o one_o a_o other_o as_o we_o see_v that_o several_a way_n or_o path_n which_o from_o far_o distant_a place_n lead_v to_o a_o city_n the_o near_o they_o approach_v to_o the_o city_n the_o near_a also_o do_v they_o come_v to_o one_o a_o other_o &_o at_o last_o fall_n into_o &_o make_v one_o common_a high_a way_n and_o the_o reason_n hereof_o be_v because_o nature_n &_o its_o particular_a affection_n &_o inclination_n be_v now_o so_o wear_v &_o even_o burn_v out_o by_o the_o fire_n of_o divine_a love_n &_o grace_n that_o it_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n that_o be_v the_o only_a principle_n of_o all_o their_o action_n the_o which_o therefore_o must_v needs_o be_v uniform_a &_o like_a to_o one_o another_o 17._o it_o will_v be_v no_o wonder_n if_o these_o thing_n here_o speak_v of_o a_o supernatural_a passive_a union_n shall_v seem_v incredible_a or_o perhaps_o to_o be_v but_o dream_n of_o extravagant_a or_o melancholic_a spirit_n not_o only_o to_o those_o that_o be_v stranger_n from_o the_o catholic_a faith_n but_o those_o catholic_n also_o that_o be_v unexperienced_a in_o internal_a way_n yet_o if_o they_o will_v consider_v that_o all_o this_o have_v be_v deliver_v by_o the_o testimony_n of_o most_o devout_a humble_a &_o spiritual_o prudent_a person_n some_o of_o they_o very_o learn_v also_o who_o profess_v to_o write_v nothing_o but_o what_o themselves_o have_v have_v experience_n of_o and_o this_o by_o a_o internal_a command_n of_o god_n spirit_n &_o for_o the_o edification_n of_o other_o they_o will_v perhaps_o judge_v more_o wary_o of_o these_o thing_n and_o withal_o consider_v that_o out_o of_o the_o catholic_n church_n no_o such_o divine_a grace_n and_o communication_n be_v ever_o hear_v of_o they_o will_v however_o reap_v this_o benefit_n by_o they_o if_o not_o to_o dispose_v themselves_o the_o best_a they_o can_v for_o the_o enjoy_v they_o at_o least_o they_o will_v abhor_v all_o novelty_n in_o doctrine_n &_o continue_v unshake_a and_o obedient_a child_n to_o the_o church_n chap._n v._n §_o 1._o 2._o 3._o of_o the_o great_a desolation_n usual_o follow_v a_o intellectual_a passive_a union_n §_o 4._o 5._o etc._n etc._n a_o description_n of_o the_o nature_n &_o woeful_a bitterness_n of_o this_o desolation_n §_o 8._o how_o a_o devout_a soul_n do_v or_o aught_o to_o behave_v herself_o therein_o §_o 9_o the_o great_a benefit_n and_o fruit_n proceed_v from_o this_o desertion_n well_o undergo_v 1._o a_o soul_n have_v once_o experience_v such_o extraordinary_a divine_a favour_n will_v be_v apt_a to_o say_v with_o the_o psalmist_n non_fw-la movebor_fw-la in_o aeternum_fw-la i_o shall_v never_o be_v move_v thou_o lord_n of_o thy_o goodness_n have_v make_v my_o hill_n so_o strong_a but_o if_o she_o think_v so_o she_o will_v find_v herself_o strange_o deceive_v for_o as_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o a_o spiritual_a life_n consist_v of_o perpetual_a change_n of_o elevation_n and_o
depression_n &_o a_o extraordinary_a consolation_n be_v usual_o attend_v by_o succeed_a anguish_n &_o desertion_n so_o above_o all_o other_o time_n this_o so_o supereminent_a &_o so_o comfortable_a a_o divine_a visitation_n be_v common_o follow_v by_o a_o most_o terrible_a unexpected_a desolation_n a_o desolation_n so_o unsupportable_a to_o soul_n unprovided_a or_o unaware_o of_o it_o that_o many_o not_o enable_v or_o not_o well_o instruct_v how_o to_o behave_v themselves_o in_o it_o have_v lose_v all_o heart_n to_o prosecute_v internal_a way_n &_o so_o bereave_v themselves_o of_o the_o benefit_n of_o all_o their_o former_a exercise_n &_o divine_a passive_a inaction_n have_v return_v to_o a_o common_a extroverted_a life_n 2._o the_o which_o true_o be_v a_o misery_n so_o great_a and_o so_o deplorable_a that_o to_o prevent_v the_o like_a in_o other_o i_o conceive_v requisite_a to_o give_v warning_n of_o it_o and_o by_o a_o brief_a description_n of_o the_o nature_n and_o manner_n of_o such_o a_o desolation_n together_o with_o the_o good_a end_n for_o which_o god_n permit_v yea_o in_o a_o sort_n conduct_n soul_n into_o it_o to_o encourage_v they_o to_o bear_v themselves_o in_o it_o with_o patience_n resignation_n &_o tranquillity_n of_o mind_n i_o shall_v be_v brief_a in_o this_o point_n remit_v the_o reader_n for_o a_o far_a explication_n of_o it_o to_o barbançon_n as_o likewise_o to_o that_o excellent_a treatise_n call_v interiour_n abnegation_n 3._o from_o the_o foresay_a sublime_a familiarity_n therefore_o and_o communication_n between_o god_n &_o his_o choose_a soul_n he_o conduct_n they_o usual_o especial_o after_o the_o first_o passive_a union_n to_o another_o far_o different_a state_n of_o pure_a sufferance_n but_o this_o be_v not_o a_o happy_a suffer_a as_o former_o from_o god_n but_o a_o woeful_a suffer_v from_o the_o soul_n herself_o for_o god_n for_o some_o time_n retire_v himself_o from_o she_o permit_v she_o to_o feel_v her_o natural_a infirmity_n and_o this_o he_o do_v by_o degree_n lest_o if_o the_o extremity_n and_o bitterness_n of_o this_o state_n do_v at_o once_o seize_v upon_o she_o she_o shall_v be_v utter_o oppress_v by_o the_o tentation_n therefore_o when_o by_o many_o inferior_a trial_n of_o her_o patience_n and_o resignation_n he_o see_v her_o strong_a &_o courageous_o resolve_v to_o follow_v he_o whithersoever_o he_o shall_v lead_v she_o than_o he_o put_v she_o to_o this_o last_o &_o of_o all_o other_o great_a trial_n 4._o for_o first_o he_o not_o only_o withdraw_v all_o comfortable_a observable_a infusion_n of_o light_n &_o grace_n but_o also_o deprive_v she_o of_o a_o power_n to_o exercise_n any_o perceptible_a operation_n of_o her_o superior_a spirit_n &_o of_o all_o comfortable_a reflection_n upon_o his_o love_n plunge_v she_o into_o the_o depth_n of_o her_o inferior_a power_n here_o consequent_o her_o former_a calmness_n of_o passion_n be_v quite_o lose_v neither_o can_v she_o interovert_v herself_o sinful_a motion_n &_o suggestion_n do_v violent_o assault_v she_o &_o she_o find_v as_o great_a difficulty_n if_o not_o great_a to_o surmount_v they_o then_o at_o the_o begin_n of_o a_o spiritual_a course_n the_o feel_n of_o all_o this_o be_v intolerable_a to_o she_o and_o thereupon_o she_o begin_v to_o suspect_v that_o by_o some_o great_a unknown_a sin_n she_o have_v procure_v all_o this_o or_o however_o that_o her_o resistance_n be_v now_o so_o feeble_a and_o inefficacious_a that_o she_o deserve_v that_o god_n shall_v quite_o cast_v hereof_o she_o find_v the_o corrupt_a inclination_n of_o her_o nature_n so_o strong_a in_o she_o that_o she_o think_v she_o be_v nothing_o but_o nature_n the_o rebelliousnes_n whereof_o &_o its_o rage_n against_o god_n be_v unexpressible_a she_o be_v now_o as_o full_a of_o image_n of_o vanity_n as_o ever_o she_o have_v be_v former_o and_o it_o seem_v to_o she_o that_o she_o have_v far_o less_o power_n to_o expel_v they_o than_o when_o she_o live_v in_o the_o world_n if_o she_o will_v elevate_v her_o spirit_n she_o see_v nothing_o but_o cloud_n &_o darkness_n she_o seek_v god_n and_o can_v find_v the_o least_o mark_n or_o footstep_n of_o his_o presence_n something_o there_o be_v that_o hinder_v she_o from_o execute_v the_o sinful_a suggestion_n within_o she_o but_o what_o that_o be_v she_o know_v not_o for_o to_o her_o think_n she_o have_v no_o spirit_n at_o all_o and_o indeed_o she_o be_v now_o in_o a_o region_n of_o all_o other_o most_o distant_a from_o spirit_n and_o spiritual_a operation_n i_o mean_v such_o as_o be_v perceptible_a her_o prayer_n &_o recollection_n be_v most_o grievous_a unto_o she_o because_o infinite_o difficult_a by_o reason_n that_o sense_n and_o nature_n which_o most_o abhor_v they_o be_v now_o almost_o only_o active_a and_o operative_a in_o she_o and_o the_o recollection_n which_o she_o endeavour_n to_o make_v be_v not_o only_o insipid_a but_z as_o it_o seem_v to_o she_o utter_o inefficacious_a so_o that_o she_o oft_o suspect_v that_o it_o be_v better_a perhaps_o if_o she_o be_v quite_o extrovert_v yet_o for_o all_o that_o she_o dare_v not_o altogether_o quit_v her_o endeavour_n to_o practice_v recollection_n but_o yet_o she_o know_n not_o why_o 5._o now_o if_o all_o these_o disorder_n continue_v only_o for_o some_o short_a time_n she_o may_v without_o extreme_a difficulty_n practice_v patience_n as_o she_o do_v in_o her_o former_a aridity_n and_o desolation_n but_o alas_o this_o most_o afflict_a martyrdom_n oftentimes_o continue_v many_o month_n yea_o in_o some_o person_n several_a year_n not_o always_o in_o extremity_n but_o with_o some_o intercision_n so_o that_o the_o soul_n come_v in_o a_o manner_n to_o loose_v all_o patience_n she_o often_o complain_v in_o her_o prayer_n to_o god_n for_o desert_v she_o that_o will_v fain_o not_o desert_n he_o yet_o when_o she_o make_v such_o prayer_n to_o her_o seem_v her_o spirit_n will_v not_o join_v if_o she_o have_v nothing_o to_o do_v but_o mere_o to_o suffer_v it_o be_v not_o so_o much_o but_o she_o know_v it_o be_v her_o duty_n to_o work_v and_o to_o raise_v herself_o up_o by_o prayer_n and_o this_o she_o can_v do_v she_o stand_v in_o need_n now_o of_o as_o gross_a operation_n to_o cause_v a_o introversion_n as_o ever_o and_o yet_o those_o gross_a operation_n have_v not_o so_o good_a a_o effect_n as_o in_o her_o former_a imperfect_a state_n 6._o moreover_o the_o tentation_n which_o she_o now_o suffer_v be_v both_o so_o violent_a and_o her_o resistance_n so_o feeble_a they_o be_v withal_o so_o unexpected_a so_o secret_a and_o subtle_a that_o notwithstanding_o any_o information_n that_o she_o former_o have_v by_o read_v or_o otherway_n touch_v such_o a_o condition_n of_o suffer_v to_o be_v expect_v yet_o when_o it_o come_v she_o will_v scarce_o be_v persuade_v that_o this_o can_v be_v possible_o a_o way_n to_o perfection_n or_o conduce_v to_o her_o good_a all_o her_o former_a light_n and_o instruction_n will_v scarce_o at_o all_o diminish_v her_o resentment_n of_o her_o deplorable_a condition_n she_o lose_v nothing_o of_o her_o former_a light_n for_o soul_n arrive_v to_o this_o state_n be_v not_o to_o seek_v or_o to_o learn_v how_o and_o in_o what_o manner_n they_o be_v to_o exercise_v themselves_o interior_o they_o study_v no_o more_o for_o that_o than_o one_o will_v do_v how_o he_o may_v see_v with_o his_o eye_n or_o hear_v with_o his_o ear_n have_v the_o perfect_a use_n of_o his_o sense_n but_o when_o she_o be_v to_o practice_v according_a to_o this_o light_n she_o have_v no_o satisfaction_n at_o all_o if_o she_o have_v any_o difficulty_n or_o obscurity_n it_o be_v how_o she_o be_v to_o comport_v herself_o in_o external_a matter_n &_o even_o this_o obscurity_n be_v but_o very_o small_a but_o however_o she_o think_v that_o all_o the_o light_n she_o have_v serve_v to_o little_a purpose_n find_v that_o notwithstanding_o it_o she_o work_n as_o if_o she_o have_v no_o light_n at_o all_o in_o a_o word_n she_o now_o see_v she_o own_o natural_a misery_n so_o perfect_o yea_o and_o can_v see_v nothing_o but_o it_o that_o she_o can_v see_v how_o god_n can_v comfort_v she_o if_o he_o will_v 7._o all_o this_o show_n that_o notwithstanding_o all_o her_o precedent_a exercise_n yea_o that_o during_o the_o forego_n divine_a inaction_n yet_o many_o dregs_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n do_v remain_v in_o she_o they_o be_v only_o hide_v but_o not_o extinguish_v this_o therefore_o be_v the_o only_a forcible_a expedient_a leave_v to_o destroy_v in_o a_o manner_n all_o the_o sinful_a inclination_n of_o nature_n in_o she_o indeed_o to_o natural_a reason_n this_o seem_v a_o strange_a and_o most_o improper_a remedy_n to_o destroy_v nature_n by_o suspend_v the_o influence_n and_o operation_n of_o grace_n and_o by_o suffer_a nature_n to_o break_v forth_o violent_o without_o any_o control_n and_o restraint_n all_o sensible_a light_n in_o the_o
understanding_n and_o fervour_n in_o the_o will_n be_v in_o a_o manner_n extinguish_v yet_o out_o of_o this_o darkness_n god_n produce_v light_a and_o strength_n from_o this_o infirmity_n 8._o for_o the_o truth_n be_v that_o in_o this_o case_n of_o desolation_n the_o soul_n do_v by_o her_o free_a will_n or_o rather_o in_o the_o centre_n of_o the_o spirit_n beyond_o all_o her_o faculty_n remain_v in_o a_o constant_a union_n &_o adhesion_n to_o god_n although_o no_o such_o union_n do_v appear_v unto_o she_o yea_o though_o it_o seem_v to_o she_o that_o she_o be_v not_o only_o estrange_v but_o even_o avert_v from_o god_n and_o by_o virtue_n of_o that_o most_o secret_a but_o firm_a adhesion_n she_o make_v election_n of_o god_n as_o her_o only_a good_a the_o which_o may_v to_o any_o but_o herself_o sufficient_o appear_v by_o her_o carriage_n during_o that_o state_n for_o she_o break_v not_o out_o into_o any_o murmur_n she_o seek_v not_o to_o comfort_v herself_o by_o admit_v any_o inordinate_a externall_n solace_n not_o do_v any_o thing_n deliberate_o by_o which_o to_o rid_v herself_o from_o such_o a_o afflict_a estate_n soon_o or_o otherwise_o then_o god_n will_v have_v she_o to_o do_v she_o practise_v tranquillity_n of_o mind_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o a_o tempest_n of_o passion_n in_o sensitive_a nature_n she_o exercise_v resignation_n without_o the_o least_o contentment_n to_o herself_o therein_o she_o learn_v patience_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o impatience_n &_o resignation_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o irresignation_n in_o a_o word_n she_o yield_v herself_o as_o a_o prey_n unto_o almighty_a god_n to_o be_v cast_v into_o this_o most_o sharp_a purgatory_n of_o love._n the_o which_o be_v a_o immediate_a dispoition_n to_o a_o establish_a state_n of_o perfection_n 9_o more_o particular_o the_o fruit_n &_o benefit_n flow_a from_o this_o most_o sad_a estate_n support_v with_o patience_n &_o tranquillity_n of_o spirit_n be_v wonderful_a 1._o for_o first_o hereby_o the_o devout_a soul_n obtain_v a_o new_a light_n to_o penetrate_v into_o the_o mystery_n of_o our_o lord_n desertion_n in_o the_o garden_n &_o on_o the_o cross_n &_o from_o this_o light_n a_o most_o inflame_a love_n to_o he_o now_o she_o cease_v to_o wander_v why_o he_o shall_v deprecate_v a_o cup_n so_o mortal_o bitter_a as_o this_o &_o that_o it_o shall_v work_v such_o strange_a effect_n on_o he_o or_o that_o he_o shall_v cry_v out_o eli_n eli_n lammasabacthani_fw-la &_o by_o this_o desertion_n of_o his_o which_o last_v till_o the_o very_a last_o moment_n of_o his_o life_n she_o hope_v to_o have_v a_o end_n put_v to_o she_o 2._o now_o she_o learn_v by_o experience_n to_o make_v a_o division_n between_o the_o supreme_a portion_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o inferior_a nature_n yea_o between_o the_o summity_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o faculty_n of_o the_o same_o for_o that_o portion_n of_o she_o by_o which_o she_o cleave_v to_o god_n seem_v to_o be_v a_o other_o three_o person_n distinct_a from_o herself_o that_o suffer_v complain_v and_o desire_n for_o she_o choose_v god_n and_o at_o the_o same_o time_n fear_v that_o she_o will_v choose_v and_o consent_v to_o sin_n she_o be_v mighty_o support_v by_o god_n and_o yet_o she_o think_v he_o utter_o estrange_v and_o separate_v from_o she_o thus_o at_o last_o she_o perceive_v that_o she_o can_v operate_v without_o any_o perceptible_a use_n of_o her_o faculty_n 3._o hereby_o she_o learn_v a_o perfect_a disappropriation_n and_o transcendence_n even_o of_o the_o high_a gift_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n and_o a_o contentation_n to_o be_v deprive_v of_o the_o great_a blessing_n that_o god_n have_v to_o bestow_v on_o she_o except_o only_o himself_o 4._o the_o sight_n of_o the_o unexpressible_a weakness_n and_o perverseness_n of_o nature_n leave_v to_o itself_o without_o any_o sensible_a influence_n of_o grace_n upon_o the_o inferior_a faculty_n produce_v in_o she_o a_o most_o profound_a humility_n and_o hatred_n of_o herself_o 5._o last_o by_o this_o most_o sharp_a purgatory_n of_o love_n she_o enter_v into_o a_o state_n of_o most_o perfect_a confidence_n in_o god_n of_o tranquillity_n of_o mind_n and_o security_n of_o god_n unchangeable_a love_n to_o she_o not_o to_o be_v disturb_v by_o any_o possible_a future_a affliction_n for_o what_o have_v a_o soul_n leave_v to_o fear_n that_o can_v with_o a_o peaceable_a mind_n support_v yea_o and_o make_v her_o benefit_n of_o the_o absence_n of_o god_n himself_o chap._n vi_o §_o 1._o 2._o 3._o of_o the_o end_n of_o all_o the_o precedent_a exercise_n and_o of_o all_o the_o change_n in_o a_o spiritual_a life_n to_o wit_n a_o stable_a state_n of_o perfection_n and_o prayer_n §_o 4._o 5._o wherein_o that_o state_n consist_v the_o testimony_n of_o suso_n §_o 6._o 7._o the_o wonderful_a purity_n and_o sublimity_n of_o the_o soul_n operation_n in_o this_o state_n out_o of_o barbanson_n etc._n etc._n §_o 9_o 10._o of_o the_o union_n of_o nothing_o with_o nothing_o etc._n etc._n §_o 11._o the_o sublimity_n of_o angelical_a love_n in_o perfect_a soul_n §_o 12._o a_o conclusion_n of_o the_o whole_a book_n 1._o it_o remain_v only_o for_o a_o conclusion_n of_o the_o whole_a book_n that_o something_o be_v say_v of_o the_o end_n of_o all_o these_o exercise_n of_o mortification_n and_o prayer_n in_o which_o there_o be_v so_o great_a variety_n of_o degree_n and_o change_n 2._o and_o sure_o that_o end_n must_v needs_o be_v supereminent_o excellent_a for_o the_o attain_n whereof_o such_o incredible_a labour_n both_o interior_a and_o exterior_a must_v be_v undertake_v and_o whereto_o such_o wonderful_a divine_a grace_n and_o visit_n be_v only_o instrumental_a disposition_n suso_n write_v from_o his_o own_o experience_n concern_v the_o foresay_a passive_a union_n by_o which_o a_o soul_n have_v a_o distinct_a view_n of_o of_o god_n her_o original_a say_v that_o though_o the_o say_a contemplation_n continue_v but_o as_o it_o be_v a_o moment_n it_o so_o replenish_v his_o heart_n with_o joy_n that_o he_o wonder_v it_o do_v not_o cleave_v asunder_o on_o the_o other_o side_n upon_o the_o subsequent_a most_o contrary_a visitation_n by_o a_o spiritual_a desertion_n the_o heart_n become_v so_o replenish_v with_o bitterness_n and_o anguish_n as_o if_o all_o gilead_n have_v not_o balm_n enough_o to_o assuage_v it_o 3._o and_o for_o what_o end_v all_o this_o sure_o not_o that_o a_o man_n shall_v rest_v final_o in_o the_o joy_n conceive_v by_o such_o a_o fruition_n nor_o mere_o to_o torture_v the_o soul_n by_o such_o a_o bitter_a desolation_n our_o supreme_a happiness_n be_v not_o receive_v but_o love_v all_o these_o favour_n therefore_o and_o all_o these_o suffering_n do_v end_n in_o this_o namely_o the_o accomplish_n of_o this_o love_n in_o our_o soul_n so_o that_o all_o our_o perfection_n consist_v in_o a_o state_n of_o love_n and_o a_o entire_a conformity_n with_o the_o divine_a will._n 4._o there_o be_v therefore_o in_o a_o spiritual_a life_n no_o strange_a novelty_n or_o wonder_n pretend_v to_o divine_a love_n be_v all_o it_o begin_v with_o love_n and_o resignation_n and_o there_o it_o end_v likewise_o all_o the_o difference_n be_v in_o the_o degree_n &_o lustre_n of_o it_o love_n even_o in_o its_o most_o imperfect_a state_n be_v most_o divine_o beautiful_a the_o which_o beauty_n be_v wonderful_o increase_v by_o exercise_n but_o when_o by_o such_o fiery_a trial_n and_o purification_n as_o also_o by_o so_o near_o approach_v as_o be_v make_v to_o the_o fountain_n of_o beauty_n and_o light_n in_o passive_a union_n this_o love_n be_v exalt_v to_o its_o perfection_n how_o new_a how_o admirable_a and_o incomprehensible_a to_o we_o imperfect_a soul_n be_v the_o manner_n of_o the_o exercise_v of_o it_o we_o must_v content_v ourselves_o to_o hear_v those_o speak_v of_o it_o that_o have_v have_v some_o experience_n in_o it_o and_o if_o what_o they_o say_v be_v incomprehensible_a to_o we_o we_o ought_v not_o to_o wonder_n at_o it_o 5._o that_o which_o the_o forementioned_a suso_n in_o his_o nine_o rock_n write_v of_o the_o nature_n of_o this_o love_n in_o gross_a be_v not_o so_o abstruse_a o_o how_o small_a say_v he_o be_v the_o number_n of_o those_o perfect_a soul_n and_o yet_o as_o few_o as_o they_o be_v god_n set_v they_o as_o pillar_n to_o support_v his_o church_n so_o that_o if_o it_o be_v not_o for_o they_o it_o will_v be_v in_o danger_n to_o be_v dissipate_v the_o prayer_n of_o one_o such_o soul_n be_v of_o more_o efficacy_n then_o of_o all_o christian_n beside_o they_o approach_v very_o near_o to_o god_n their_o original_a and_o yet_o such_o be_v the_o vile_a esteem_n that_o they_o have_v of_o themselves_o they_o themselves_o be_v not_o assure_v of_o this_o yet_o by_o fit_n a_o certain_a clarity_n or_o glimpse_n of_o their_o prime_a principle_n be_v communicate_v to_o they_o by_o which_o
tu_fw-la autem_fw-la relinque_fw-la sensus_fw-la etc._n etc._n but_o thou_o o_o timothy_n relinquish_v the_o sense_n and_o sensible_a exercise_n yea_o abandon_v all_o intellectual_a operation_n and_o with_o a_o courageous_a force_n of_o mind_n repress_v all_o these_o thing_n and_o according_a to_o thy_o utmost_a possibility_n raise_v thyself_o in_o ignorance_n and_o renounce_n of_o all_o knowledge_n to_o a_o union_n with_o god_n above_o all_o substance_n or_o be_v &_o knowledge_n 11._o but_o these_o be_v secret_n of_o divine_a love_n the_o which_o except_o by_o experience_n they_o be_v taste_v can_v in_o no_o sort_n be_v comprehend_v bless_a be_v those_o soul_n that_o thus_o loose_v themselves_o that_o they_o may_v find_v themselves_o this_o loss_n be_v so_o infinite_o gainful_a that_o it_o be_v cheap_o buy_v with_o all_o the_o anguish_v of_o mortification_n all_o the_o travel_n of_o meditation_n &_o all_o the_o aridity_n obscurity_n and_o desolation_n attend_v the_o prayer_n of_o the_o will_n this_o loss_n be_v the_o design_n of_o all_o these_o exercise_n and_o labour_n this_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o all_o divine_a inaction_n we_o mortify_v our_o passion_n to_o the_o end_v we_o may_v loose_v they_o we_o exercise_v discursive_a prayer_n by_o sensible_a image_n to_o the_o end_v we_o may_v loose_v all_o use_n of_o image_n and_o discourse_n and_o we_o actuate_v immediate_o by_o operation_n of_o the_o will_n to_o the_o end_v we_o may_v arrive_v to_o a_o state_n of_o stability_n in_o prayer_n above_o all_o direct_a exercise_n of_o any_o of_o the_o soul_n faculty_n a_o state_n wherein_o the_o soul_n be_v oft_o bring_v to_o the_o utmost_a of_o her_o working_n be_v force_v to_o cease_v all_o work_v to_o the_o end_n that_o god_n may_v operate_v in_o she_o so_o that_o till_o a_o soul_n be_v reduce_v to_o a_o perfect_a denudation_n of_o spirit_n and_o a_o deprivation_n of_o all_o thing_n god_n do_v not_o enjoy_v a_o secure_a and_o perfect_a possession_n of_o it_o 12._o and_o thus_o by_o god_n assistance_n we_o have_v pass_v through_o the_o several_a degree_n of_o prayer_n according_a to_o which_o especial_o the_o station_n and_o degree_n of_o a_o internal_a life_n be_v to_o be_v measure_v we_o have_v endeavour_v it_o be_v to_o be_v hope_v not_o altogether_o unproffitable_o with_o all_o simplicity_n and_o perspicuity_n to_o declare_v the_o order_n and_o cbange_n of_o they_o if_o god_n by_o the_o mean_n of_o our_o prayer_n give_v we_o the_o grace_n and_o courage_n to_o proceed_v de_fw-fr virtute_fw-la in_o virtutem_fw-la according_a to_o these_o step_n and_o these_o direction_n we_o shall_v without_o doubt_n soon_o or_o late_a arrive_v unto_o the_o top_n of_o the_o mountain_n where_o god_n be_v see_v a_o mountain_n to_o we_o that_o stand_v below_o enuiron_v with_o cloud_n and_o darkness_n but_o to_o they_o who_o have_v their_o dwell_n there_o it_o be_v peace_n &_o serenity_n and_o light_n it_o be_v a_o intellectual_a heaven_n where_o there_o be_v no_o 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such_o a_o reward_n be_v the_o bless_a enjoy_n of_o himself_o and_o not_o any_o inferior_a end_n please_v to_o sense_n etc._n etc._n 3._o a_o protestation_n which_o in_o one_o word_n be_v here_o make_v against_o the_o least_o intention_n of_o reflect_v with_o censure_n or_o disparagement_n upon_o the_o way_n or_o do_n of_o other_o whether_o directour_n or_o disciple_n in_o the_o matter_n of_o prayer_n or_o any_o other_o good_a practice_n teach_v or_o use_v by_o they_o as_o consider_v in_o themselves_o and_o much_o more_o against_o all_o thought_n of_o decry_v any_o ceremonious_a or_o solemn_a observance_n practise_v in_o or_o by_o any_o community_n etc._n etc._n the_o venerable_a author_n of_o these_o instruction_n be_v of_o a_o spirit_n too_o full_a of_o charity_n and_o spiritual_a prudence_n and_o too_o averse_a from_o so_o mean_v a_o ambition_n as_o to_o seek_v the_o procure_n a_o esteem_n to_o himself_o or_o his_o own_o write_n by_o the_o depress_v of_o other_o so_o that_o whensoever_o he_o give_v any_o advice_n or_o caution_n touch_v such_o matter_n his_o intention_n only_o be_v that_o the_o purify_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o exalt_v of_o prayer_n shall_v not_o be_v prejudice_v by_o the_o foresay_a practice_n the_o which_o whether_o indeed_o they_o be_v prejudicial_a hereto_o or_o no_o only_a superior_n be_v to_o be_v the_o judge_n 4._o a_o answer_n to_o certain_a objection_n make_v by_o some_o since_o the_o venerable_a author_n death_n against_o the_o publish_n of_o these_o instruction_n especial_o touch_v divine_a inspiration_n these_o be_v the_o principal_a point_n that_o the_o author_n of_o this_o abridgement_n purpose_v to_o annexe_v here_o at_o the_o end_n of_o the_o three_o treatise_n but_o certain_a press_a occasion_n oblige_v we_o to_o hasten_v the_o publish_n of_o this_o present_a work_n and_o likewise_o a_o unwillingness_n that_o it_o shall_v at_o first_o swell_v to_o too_o great_a a_o proportion_n and_o bulk_n for_o these_o reason_n it_o be_v judge_v expedient_a to_o omit_v the_o say_v discourse_n which_o to_o a_o charitable_a reader_n will_v not_o be_v necessary_a or_o however_o to_o remit_v they_o to_o another_o impression_n if_o we_o shall_v be_v encourage_v thereto_o only_o notice_n may_v be_v take_v that_o for_o as_o much_o as_o concern_v the_o last_o of_o these_o particular_a point_n viz._n the_o answer_n to_o to_o such_o objection_n as_o have_v be_v make_v against_o the_o expose_v indifferent_o to_o the_o world_n instruction_n intend_v only_o for_o a_o few_o solitary_a devout_a religious_a soul_n and_o especial_o those_o that_o concern_v the_o duty_n of_o attend_v to_o and_o execute_v divine_a inspiration_n and_o call_n it_o be_v judge_v very_o expedient_a and_o almost_o necessary_a that_o it_o shall_v not_o be_v omit_v but_o rather_o premise_v as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o book_n i_o will_v detain_v thou_o no_o long_o devout_a reader_n but_o only_a to_o tell_v thou_o that_o if_o by_o god_n grace_n these_o instruction_n prove_v instrumental_a to_o the_o teach_n or_o promote_a thou_o in_o pure_a prayer_n my_o hope_n be_v thou_o will_v not_o in_o thy_o prayer_n be_v unmindful_a of_o the_o poor_a unworthy_a author_n of_o this_o abridgement_n a_o postscript_n to_o the_o reader_n belove_a charitable_a reader_n to_o recompense_v with_o some_o advantage_n the_o want_n of_o a_o promise_a appendix_n which_o be_v to_o have_v contain_v certain_a discourse_n frame_v by_o the_o unworthy_a author_n of_o this_o methodical_a abridgement_n for_o a_o clear_a though_o not_o necessary_a explication_n of_o a_o few_o passage_n in_o the_o forego_n treatise_n i_o here_o present_a unto_o thou_o the_o testimony_n and_o approbation_n of_o the_o doctrine_n here_o deliver_v give_v by_o two_o of_o the_o most_o learned_a and_o pious_a father_n of_o our_o congregation_n famous_a through_o all_o christendom_n for_o the_o more_o than_o ordinary_a eminency_n of_o their_o endowment_n to_o wit_n the_o v._o r._n f._n leander_n à _fw-it sancto_fw-it martino_n and_o the_o v._o r._n f._n rudisind_v barlow_n both_o doctor_n in_o divinity_n and_o who_o have_v several_a time_n be_v precedent_n general_n of_o our_o holy_a congregation_n etc._n etc._n the_o which_o approbation_n they_o give_v first_o voluntary_o upon_o the_o request_n of_o the_o venerable_a author_n and_o submission_n of_o his_o write_n to_o their_o judgement_n and_o a_o second_o time_n by_o the_o commission_n and_o order_n of_o the_o general_n chapter_n assemble_v at_o dovay_n a._n d._n 1633._o in_o which_o a_o attempt_n have_v be_v make_v by_o a_o certâ—iâ—e_n religious_a father_n to_o cast_v some_o aspersion_n on_o the_o say_a doctrine_n special_o concern_v divine_a inspiration_n and_o call_n as_o if_o the_o lawful_a authority_n of_o superior_n do_v receive_v prejudice_n thereby_o but_o when_o the_o say_v r._n father_n have_v in_o a_o short_a write_v deliver_v the_o ground_n of_o his_o suspicion_n and_o allegation_n
may_v so_o profit_n in_o spirit_n as_o active_a soul_n do_v that_o live_v in_o world_o manner_n that_o they_o may_v careful_o avoid_v sin_n &_o keep_v god_n commandment_n &_o be_v true_o unite_v to_o god_n in_o follow_a his_o will_n by_o the_o use_n of_o bodily_a exercise_n &_o frequency_n of_o sacrament_n although_o they_o use_v not_o much_o mental_a prayer_n abstraction_n &_o mortification_n for_o if_o they_o use_v none_o at_o all_o as_o no_o good_a christian_n but_o use_v they_o in_o some_o degree_n undoubted_o they_o will_v not_o profit_n at_o all_o in_o spirit_n neither_o active_o nor_o contemplative_o nor_o avoid_v sin_n nor_o be_v in_o any_o sort_n unite_v to_o god_n about_o the_o doctrine_n of_o confession_n whereas_o the_o author_n dispute_v much_o against_o the_o use_n of_o confession_n of_o venial_a sin_n as_o necessary_a to_o spiritual_a profit_n it_o be_v to_o be_v understand_v that_o he_o do_v not_o in_o any_o wise_a condemn_v the_o discreet_a use_n of_o frequent_a confession_n but_o only_o the_o needless_a numeration_n of_o venial_a sin_n &_o daily_a defect_n which_o some_o soul_n do_v make_v in_o their_o confession_n with_o great_a anxiety_n of_o mind_n &_o some_o confessor_n do_v oblige_v their_o penitent_n unto_o with_o great_a prejudice_n of_o that_o cheerful_a liberty_n of_o spirit_n which_o a_o soul_n shall_v have_v to_o converse_v in_o prayer_n with_o god_n &_o be_v common_o a_o cause_n of_o scrupule_n one_o of_o the_o great_a banns_n of_o spiritual_a perfection_n so_o that_o for_o soul_n that_o be_v by_o nature_n prone_a to_o fear_v &_o scrupulosity_n the_o director_n of_o necessity_n must_v moderate_v they_o both_o in_o the_o frequency_n of_o confession_n &_o matter_n to_o be_v confess_v yea_o he_o may_v advise_v they_o to_o confess_v few_o time_n than_o other_o free_a soul_n do_v otherwise_o for_o soul_n that_o be_v cheerful_a &_o valiant_a &_o courageous_a in_o the_o way_n of_o the_o spirit_n the_o author_n oblige_v they_o in_o his_o practice_n to_o keep_v the_o ordinary_a time_n of_o confession_n much_o more_o those_o that_o be_v not_o altogether_o so_o careful_a in_o avoid_v occasion_n of_o ordinary_a defect_n i_o say_v he_o oblige_v they_o in_o such_o sort_n as_o the_o constitution_n oblige_v which_o be_v not_o under_o any_o sin_n as_o if_o they_o shall_v sin_v as_o often_o as_o they_o omit_v the_o ordinary_a time_n of_o confession_n but_o as_o a_o laudable_a counsel_n &_o profitable_a observance_n which_o under_o a_o penalty_n &_o regular_a correction_n be_v to_o be_v keep_v &_o not_o omit_v but_o by_o advice_n of_o the_o spiritual_a father_n or_o leave_n of_o the_o superior_a note_v also_o that_o he_o do_v worthy_o advertise_v a_o defect_n of_o many_o who_o come_v to_o confession_n make_v the_o principal_a intention_n of_o it_o only_o the_o absolution_n from_o sin_n i_o say_v this_o be_v a_o defect_n because_o the_o principal_a part_n of_o the_o intention_n must_v be_v the_o increase_n of_o grace_n and_o love_n of_o god_n by_o which_o formal_o infuse_v or_o pour_v into_o ourselves_o god_n almighty_n do_v blot_n out_o sin_n &_o wipe_v they_o away_o now_o although_o absolution_n from_o sin_n be_v never_o give_v without_o infusion_n of_o grace_n yet_o ought_v the_o intention_n of_o the_o penitent_a to_o be_v principal_o the_o obtain_n of_o grace_n for_o if_o he_o principal_o intend_v the_o absolution_n of_o sin_n it_o be_v a_o reflection_n of_o the_o soul_n upon_o its_o own_o profit_n by_o self-love_n desire_v to_o avoid_v the_o wrath_n of_o god_n &_o punishment_n due_a to_o sin_n &_o to_o be_v free_v from_o the_o deformity_n of_o guiltiness_n which_o though_o it_o be_v a_o good_a desire_n yet_o it_o be_v but_o a_o property_n of_o beginner_n in_o love_n &_o nothing_o comparable_a to_o the_o intention_n of_o grace_n which_o be_v the_o perfect_a love_n of_o god_n &_o be_v a_o elevation_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o transcend_v itself_o &_o all_o creature_n to_o live_v only_o in_o god_n about_o the_o doctrine_n of_o set_v examan_n of_o conscience_n the_o author_n do_v not_o condemn_v it_o especial_o for_o soul_n who_o be_v not_o great_o advance_v in_o perfection_n but_o for_o soul_n which_o daily_a profit_n &_o grow_v in_o grace_n he_o prefer_v the_o exercise_n of_o love_n &_o not_o without_o cause_n for_o his_o meaning_n be_v that_o in_o our_o recollection_n it_o be_v a_o easy_a &_o speedy_a way_n to_o amend_v ourselves_o by_o wrap_v all_o our_o defect_n in_o a_o generality_n &_o so_o endeavour_v to_o consume_v they_o as_o it_o be_v cast_v they_o into_o the_o fire_n of_o love_n then_o by_o particularise_v they_o &_o discuss_v they_o in_o singular_a because_o in_o so_o do_v they_o distract_v the_o mind_n that_o may_v be_v better_o employ_v yet_o this_o doctrine_n hinder_v not_o but_o if_o any_o notable_a defect_n have_v be_v commit_v it_o shall_v be_v by_o a_o particular_a reflection_n amend_v yet_o rather_o by_o a_o amorous_a conversion_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o god_n by_o humility_n then_o by_o turn_v itself_o to_o look_v upon_o the_o defect_n in_o particular_a and_o doubtless_o a_o soul_n that_o according_a to_o the_o author_n doctrine_n do_v so_o careful_o avoid_v all_o defect_n that_o it_o present_o upon_o sight_n of_o any_o default_n exact_v a_o amendment_n of_o itself_o such_o a_o soul_n need_v not_o set_v examen_fw-la but_o supli_v the_o use_n thereof_o by_o a_o more_o noble_a exercise_n which_o be_v as_o i_o term_v it_o a_o humble_a consume_n of_o all_o her_o defect_n in_o one_o bundle_n in_o the_o heavenly_a fire_n of_o charity_n or_o love_n of_o god_n nevertheless_o a_o set_n examen_fw-la be_v profitable_a for_o such_o as_o be_v not_o yet_o come_v to_o such_o a_o height_n of_o vnitive_a love_n &_o be_v counsel_v by_o our_o father_n blosius_n in_o diverse_a place_n &_o by_o s._n bernard_n in_o his_o book_n to_o the_o carthusian_n in_o these_o word_n nemo_fw-la te_fw-la plus_fw-la diligit_fw-la nemo_fw-la te_fw-la fidelius_fw-la iudicab_n mane_fw-la praeteritae_fw-la noctis_fw-la fac_fw-la a_o temetipso_fw-la exactionem_fw-la &_o futurae_fw-la diei_fw-la tu_fw-la tibi_fw-la indicito_fw-la cautionem_fw-la vespere_fw-la diei_fw-la praeteritae_fw-la rationem_fw-la exige_fw-la &_o superuenientis_fw-la noctis_fw-la fac_fw-la indictionem_fw-la â—â—c_fw-la districte_a nequaquam_fw-la tibi_fw-la aliquando_fw-la lascivire_fw-la vacabit_fw-la that_o be_v none_o love_v thou_o more_o none_o will_v judge_v thou_o more_o faithful_o than_o thou_o own_o self_n in_o the_o morning_n then_o exact_a a_o account_n of_o the_o night_n pass_v &_o appoint_v thyself_o a_o caveat_n for_o the_o day_n ensue_v at_o evening_n take_v account_n of_o the_o day_n pass_v &_o order_v the_o course_n of_o the_o night_n follow_v thus_o district_o examine_v thyself_o thou_o will_v find_v no_o leisure_n to_o play_v the_o wanton_a and_o long_o before_o s._n bernard_n the_o holy_a abbot_n s._n dorotheus_n commend_v the_o same_o exercise_n serm_n 11._o as_o usual_a among_o all_o monk_n quo_fw-la pacto_fw-la per_fw-la singulos_fw-la dies_fw-la nosipsos_fw-la purgare_fw-la &_o propemodum_fw-la expiare_fw-la debeamus_fw-la exactissime_fw-la docuerunt_fw-la maiores_fw-la &_o patres_fw-la nostri_fw-la nempe_fw-la ut_fw-la vespere_fw-la sedulo_fw-la quisquam_fw-la perquirat_fw-la &_o investiget_fw-la quomodo_fw-la pertransierit_fw-la drem_fw-la illum_fw-la rursus_fw-la mane_n examinet_fw-la quomodo_fw-la exegerit_fw-la noctem_fw-la illam_fw-la et_fw-la paenitentiam_fw-la agate_n ac_fw-la resipiscat_fw-la coram_fw-la deo_fw-la si_fw-la quo_fw-la pacto_fw-la ut_fw-la fieri_fw-la potest_fw-la peccatum_fw-la aliquod_fw-la admiserit_fw-la and_o long_o before_o he_o holy_a s._n ephrem_n that_o live_v but_o 250._o year_n after_o christ_n our_o lord_n passion_n have_v the_o commendation_n of_o a_o set_n examen_fw-la in_o these_o golden_a word_n diebus_fw-la singulis_fw-la vesperi_fw-la &_o mane_n diligenter_n considera_fw-la quo_fw-la pacto_fw-la se_fw-la habeant_fw-la negotia_fw-la tua_fw-la &_o mercimonij_fw-la ratio_fw-la et_fw-la vespere_fw-la quidem_fw-la ingressus_fw-la in_o cubiculum_fw-la cordis_fw-la tui_fw-la examina_fw-la teipsum_fw-la at_o dicito_fw-la putasne_fw-la hodie_fw-la in_o aliquo_fw-la deum_fw-la exacerbavi_fw-la nuquid_fw-la verba_fw-la otiosa_fw-la protuli_fw-la num_fw-la per_fw-la contemptum_fw-la negligentiam_fw-la ne_fw-la peccavi_fw-la num_fw-la in_o re_fw-la aliqua_fw-la fratrem_fw-la irritavi_fw-la num_fw-la alicuius_fw-la famam_fw-la detractionibus_fw-la laceravi_fw-la &c_n &c_n et_fw-la facto_fw-la iam_fw-la dilucalo_fw-la rursus_fw-la eadem_fw-la tecum_fw-la meditare_fw-la &_o dicito_fw-la quomodo_fw-la putas_fw-la ista_fw-la mihi_fw-la nox_fw-la praeterijt_fw-la lucratus_fw-la sum_n in_o ea_fw-la mercimonium_fw-la meum_fw-la numquid_fw-la improbae_fw-la ac_fw-la sordidae_fw-la cogitationes_fw-la invaserunt_fw-la i_o atque_fw-la illis_fw-la libenter_fw-la immoratus_fw-la sum_fw-la &c_n &c_n neither_o do_v our_o author_n discommend_v this_o set_v examen_fw-la but_o the_o defective_a use_n of_o it_o which_o be_v 1._o to_o make_v it_o in_o order_n to_o confession_n which_o doubtless_o in_o a_o soul_n well_o advance_v breed_v needless_a image_n since_o such_o a_o soul_n will_v
call_v to_o mind_n what_o suffice_v for_o her_o ordinary_a confession_n without_o this_o examen_fw-la 2._o too_o much_o particularise_v of_o our_o defect_n which_o be_v likewise_o distractive_a it_o be_v sufficient_a to_o examine_v the_o performance_n of_o our_o duty_n &_o obligatory_a action_n or_o if_o any_o notable_a defect_n have_v careless_o creep_v upon_o we_o all_o other_o defect_n be_v more_o proffitable_o wrap_v up_o in_o a_o generality_n &_o so_o cast_v into_o our_o saviour_n passion_n then_o particular_o stir_v up_o which_o will_v in_o a_o manner_n but_o raise_v a_o new_a dust_n in_o the_o soul_n 3._o the_o anxious_a look_v upon_o the_o defect_n in_o themselves_o &_o in_o their_o peculiar_a matter_n or_o object_n whereas_o it_o be_v better_a &_o safe_o to_o turn_v the_o eye_n of_o our_o soul_n from_o the_o matter_n in_o particular_a unto_o god_n almighty_a humble_v ourselves_o before_o he_o &_o with_o love_a reverence_n or_o ave_v pardon_n of_o he_o a_o 4_o defect_n be_v to_o imagine_v that_o it_o it_o be_v a_o sin_n in_o careful_a soul_n to_o omit_v this_o examen_fw-la whereas_o indeed_o it_o be_v none_o at_o all_o though_o in_o soul_n that_o be_v careless_a of_o their_o action_n it_o be_v ordinary_o a_o defective_a negligence_n worthy_a to_o be_v reprehend_v in_o a_o word_n a_o set_n examen_fw-la may_v be_v use_v proffitable_o by_o all_o soul_n with_o those_o caveat_n above_o mention_v &_o be_v to_o be_v counsel_v to_o all_o beginner_n in_o the_o way_n of_o perfection_n &_o to_o all_o that_o be_v not_o so_o wary_a in_o their_o action_n but_o if_o the_o director_n perceive_v a_o soul_n to_o be_v so_o wary_a that_o she_o be_v perpetual_o careful_a of_o progress_n in_o spirit_n &_o never_o defer_v correction_n &_o amendment_n of_o her_o defect_n but_o out_o of_o hand_n redress_v what_o she_o discover_v to_o be_v amiss_o to_o such_o a_o soul_n may_v the_o director_n permit_v instead_o of_o a_o set_n examen_fw-la to_o use_v her_o ordinary_a elevation_n of_o heart_n to_o god_n &_o by_o virtual_a contrition_n or_o actual_a as_o god_n move_v she_o include_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o love_n deface_v all_o the_o defect_n of_o her_o life_n let_v none_o likewise_o be_v scandalize_v at_o that_o which_o be_v say_v that_o there_o be_v high_a exercise_n than_o meditation_n of_o the_o passion_n &_o that_o it_o be_v not_o always_o the_o proffitabl_a way_n to_o busy_v our_o soul_n in_o that_o object_n for_o since_o our_o religious_a hair_n ordinary_o 2._o mass_n or_o at_o least_o one_o daily_a in_o that_o they_o do_v actual_o celebrate_v the_o memory_n of_o our_o saviour_n passion_n &_o at_o diverse_a other_o time_n they_o have_v leisure_n to_o think_v love_o thereupon_o that_o they_o need_v not_o in_o all_o their_o recollection_n take_v that_o only_a object_n especial_o since_o their_o manner_n of_o prayer_n be_v more_o by_o act_n of_o will_n then_o by_o consideration_n of_o the_o understanding_n &_o as_o be_v very_o well_o declare_v in_o one_o place_n all_o their_o recollection_n &_o action_n that_o have_v any_o other_o special_a object_n be_v virtual_o intend_v in_o honour_n of_o our_o saviour_n passion_n what_o be_v say_v about_o passive_a contemplation_n that_o it_o be_v rather_o receive_v into_o the_o soul_n then_o produce_v or_o wrought_v by_o our_o own_o action_n or_o endeavour_n be_v most_o true_a suppose_v always_o that_o this_o reception_n of_o it_o in_o our_o soul_n be_v a_o vital_a operation_n which_o whether_o it_o be_v call_v a_o action_n of_o the_o soul_n or_o a_o mere_a passion_n be_v a_o school_n question_n &_o nothing_o to_o our_o purpose_n certain_a it_o be_v that_o by_o all_o our_o own_o power_n we_o can_v not_o produce_v it_o &_o therefore_o it_o be_v call_v the_o inaction_n of_o god_n in_o our_o soul_n by_o many_o mystic_n to_o which_o we_o only_o concur_v by_o vital_a receive_n it_o &_o by_o a_o willing_a consent_n to_o let_v god_n work_v his_o will_n in_o us._n what_o be_v say_v about_o the_o immediate_a operation_n of_o god_n in_o the_o very_a essence_n &_o substance_n of_o our_o soul_n &_o not_o in_o the_o power_n thereof_o nor_o by_o mediation_n of_o the_o power_n although_o it_o be_v against_o the_o general_a doctrine_n of_o the_o philosopher_n &_o school_n man_n yet_o be_v it_o a_o probable_a opinion_n &_o ground_v upon_o experience_n of_o devout_a man_n that_o be_v also_o great_a scholar_n &_o therefore_o may_v secure_o be_v follow_v as_o also_o that_o which_o be_v there_o say_v that_o god_n can_v move_v the_o will_n to_o love_v without_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o understanding_n though_o many_o deny_v it_o yet_o be_v it_o most_o probable_a &_o befit_v the_o almighty_a power_n of_o god_n &_o hold_v by_o gerson_n &_o s._n bonaventure_n which_o be_v no_o small_a school_n divine_n last_o the_o vehement_a urge_v that_o great_a heed_n be_v take_v in_o the_o choice_n of_o a_o confessor_n &_o director_n in_o these_o mystic_a way_n of_o god_n be_v necessary_a &_o not_o intend_v to_o the_o dispraise_n of_o any_o nor_o to_o the_o disable_n of_o such_o as_o perhaps_o have_v not_o all_o the_o quality_n require_v but_o it_o seem_v especial_o for_o two_o end_n the_o one_o for_o a_o advertisement_n to_o the_o directour_n &_o confessor_n that_o they_o presume_v not_o to_o judge_v or_o proccede_v rash_o in_o direction_n of_o our_o religious_a but_o according_a to_o these_o caveat_n &_o instruction_n especial_o if_o they_o themselves_o have_v not_o be_v accustom_v to_o this_o affective_a prayer_n of_o the_o will_n and_o we_o do_v conâ—â—re_v they_o in_o behalf_n of_o our_o saviour_n christ_n to_o cherish_v this_o way_n &_o to_o set_v it_o forward_o as_o the_o peculiar_a exercise_n belong_v to_o our_o spirit_n &_o call_n yet_o so_o as_o intellectual_a prayer_n be_v not_o altogether_o neglect_v in_o the_o occasion_n which_o in_o these_o book_n be_v sufficient_o assign_v the_o other_o end_n be_v to_o cut_v of_o a_o dangerous_a curiosity_n that_o woman_n use_v to_o have_v of_o desire_v to_o confer_v their_o interiour_n with_o every_o learned_a or_o devout_a man_n they_o hear_v of_o which_o be_v a_o very_a great_a defect_n &_o by_o those_o vehement_a persuasion_n of_o our_o author_n very_o deserve_o &_o wary_o prevent_v and_o although_o s._n teresa_n do_v give_v way_n to_o this_o universal_a communication_n of_o interior_a to_o diverse_a learned_a man_n &_o commend_v it_o to_o her_o daughter_n yet_o we_o be_v credible_o inform_v that_o in_o her_o late_a day_n with_o tear_n she_o have_v say_v that_o by_o it_o occasion_n be_v give_v to_o discontent_a mind_n to_o vent_v forth_o their_o disgust_n with_o harm_n to_o themselves_o &_o community_n therefore_o out_o of_o this_o point_n let_v the_o religious_a resolve_n to_o communicate_v their_o interiour_o only_o to_o their_o lawful_a superior_n &_o directour_n by_o they_o appoint_v who_o will_v have_v care_n that_o the_o spirit_n of_o prayer_n be_v not_o extinguish_v or_o hinder_v in_o they_o by_o any_o unskillful_a or_o heedless_a guide_n thus_o much_o we_o think_v convenient_a to_o note_v under_o our_o hand_n in_o commendation_n of_o â—hese_n holy_a instruction_n &_o for_o a_o caveat_n &_o warning_n to_o the_o future_a confessor_n &_o spiritual_a directour_n f._n leander_n de_fw-fr s._n martino_n prior_n of_o s._n gregory_n in_o douai_n &_o ordinary_a of_o the_o cloister_n of_o the_o dame_n of_o our_o lady_n of_o comfort_n in_o cambray_n of_o the_o holy_a order_n of_o s._n benedict_n in_o the_o last_o place_n i_o will_v adjoine_v a_o scheme_n clear_o and_o at_o once_o represent_v the_o sum_n of_o the_o ven._n author_n doctrine_n of_o divine_a call_n compose_v by_o the_o same_o v._o r._n f._n leander_n de_fw-fr s._n martino_n whatsoever_o action_n or_o omission_n occur_v unto_o we_o in_o all_o our_o life_n what_o occasion_n soever_o of_o do_v forbear_v suffer_v or_o receive_v from_o god_n or_o any_o creature_n be_v of_o that_o condition_n that_o either_o 1._o it_o have_v some_o exterior_a rule_n command_v it_o or_o forbid_v it_o which_o be_v to_o be_v esteem_v undoubted_o as_o the_o call_v of_o god_n and_o in_o all_o such_o occurrence_n 1._o the_o exterior_a rule_n be_v to_o be_v faithful_o keep_v and_o practise_v in_o the_o perform_n or_o omit_v the_o action_n occur_v 2._o the_o interior_a call_n be_v likewise_o as_o careful_o to_o be_v keep_v and_o practise_v in_o the_o manner_n of_o omittance_n or_o performance_n that_o it_o may_v be_v do_v or_o omit_v with_o the_o true_a spirit_n and_o life_n of_o grace_n by_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o will._n 2._o it_o have_v no_o exterior_a rule_n allot_v the_o occurrence_n at_o that_o time_n and_o be_v otherwise_o against_o no_o exterior_a rule_n of_o lawful_a authority_n as_o certain_o a_o infinity_n of_o such_o thing_n happen_v and_o occur_v in_o time_n of_o silence_n and_o rest_n in_o our_o cell_n be_v alone_o in_o our_o labour_n recreation_n refection_n etc._n etc._n and_o in_o such_o case_n 1._o if_o it_o be_v extraordinary_a in_o matter_n as_o long_o fast_v much_o watch_v etc._n etc._n or_o in_o manner_n as_o if_o it_o be_v extaticall_a or_o in_o some_o strange_a manner_n of_o illumination_n or_o inspiration_n unaccustomed_a or_o unwonted_a to_o the_o soul_n it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v practise_v till_o it_o be_v examine_v and_o allow_v by_o the_o ordinary_a exterior_a rule_n yet_o in_o no_o sort_n to_o be_v neglect_v but_o remember_v and_o note_v for_o use_n and_o direction_n when_o occasion_n occur_v in_o ourselves_o or_o other_o 2._o if_o it_o be_v ordinary_a in_o matter_n and_o manner_n neither_o imply_v any_o inconvenience_n nor_o notable_a singularity_n then_o be_v the_o inward_a call_n in_o a_o spiritual_a and_o true_a mind_a soul_n a_o sufficient_a and_o secure_a guide_n and_o aught_o to_o be_v careful_o observe_v and_o obey_v lest_o otherwise_o the_o soul_n ungrateful_o take_v god_n grace_n in_o vain_a and_o so_o be_v worthy_o deprive_v of_o they_o f._n leander_n de_fw-fr s._n martino_n president_n 18._o martij_fw-la 1634._o after_o the_o above_o write_v paper_n there_o follow_v this_o in_o father_n baker_n own_o hand_n the_o doctrine_n of_o divine_a call_v here_o above_o express_v by_o our_o reverend_a father_n father_n leander_n de_fw-fr s._n martino_n be_v at_o the_o present_a our_o worthy_a precedent_n i_o do_v profess_v to_o be_v the_o selfsame_o in_o substance_n and_o by_o my_o intention_n which_o more_o large_o but_o less_o sufficient_o i_o have_v express_v and_o deliver_v in_o diverse_a book_n and_o treatise_n that_o be_v of_o my_o pen_v concern_v that_o subject_n b._n augustin_n baker_n the_o 20._o of_o march_n 1634._o stilo_fw-it romano_n finis_fw-la
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
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