initial commit of ebook 13871HEADmain

6 files changed, 2918 insertions, 0 deletions

diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..6833f05
--- /dev/null
+++ b/.gitattributes
@@ -0,0 +1,3 @@
+* text=auto
+*.txt text
+*.md text
diff --git a/13871-0.txt b/13871-0.txt
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..cf21b60
--- /dev/null
+++ b/13871-0.txt
@@ -0,0 +1,1255 @@
+*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 13871 ***
+
+THE PRACTICE OF THE PRESENCE
+
+OF GOD THE BEST RULE
+
+OF A HOLY LIFE.
+
+
+BROTHER LAWRENCE.
+
+
+Being Conversations and Letters of Nicholas Herman, of Lorraine
+(Brother Lawrence). _Translated from the French._
+
+
+FLEMING H. REVELL COMPANY,
+
+NEW YORK.  CHICAGO.   TORONTO.
+
+_Publishers of Evangelical Literature._
+
+
+
+
+PREFACE.
+
+
+
+This book consists of notes of several conversations had with, and
+letters written by Nicholas Herman, of Lorraine, a lowly and unlearned
+man, who, after having been a footman and soldier, was admitted a Lay
+Brother among the barefooted Carmelites at Paris in 1666, and was
+afterwards known as "Brother Lawrence."
+
+His conversion, which took place when he was about eighteen years old,
+was the result, under God, of the mere sight in midwinter, of a dry
+and leafless tree, and of the reflections it stirred respecting the
+change the coming spring would bring. From that time he grew eminently
+in the knowledge and love of GOD, endeavoring constantly to walk "_as
+in His presence_." No wilderness wanderings seem to have intervened
+between the Red Sea and the Jordan of his experience. A wholly
+consecrated man, he lived his Christian life through as a pilgrim--as
+a steward and not as an owner, and died at the age of eighty, leaving
+a name which has been as "ointment poured forth."
+
+The "Conversations" are supposed to have been written by M. Beaufort,
+Grand Vicar to M. de Chalons, formerly Cardinal de Noailles, by whose
+recommendation the letters were first published.
+
+The book has, within a short time, gone through repeated English and
+American editions, and has been a means of blessing to many souls. It
+contains very much of that wisdom which only lips the Lord has touched
+can express, and which only hearts He has made teachable can receive.
+
+May this edition also be blessed by GOD, and redound to the praise of
+the glory of His grace.
+
+
+
+
+CONVERSATIONS.
+
+
+
+FIRST CONVERSATION.
+
+
+The first time I saw _Brother Lawrence_, was upon the 3d of August,
+1666. He told me that GOD had done him a singular favor, in his
+conversion at the age of eighteen.
+
+That in the winter, seeing a tree stripped of its leaves, and
+considering that within a little time the leaves would be renewed and
+after that the flowers and fruit appear, he received a high view of
+the Providence and Power of GOD, which has never since been effaced
+from his soul. That this view had perfectly set him loose from the
+world, and kindled in him such a love for GOD, that he could not tell
+whether it had increased during the more than forty years he had lived
+since.
+
+That he had been footman to M. Fieubert, the treasurer, and that he
+was a great awkward fellow who broke everything.
+
+That he had desired to be received into a monastery, thinking that he
+would there be made to smart for his awkwardness and the faults he
+should commit, and so he should sacrifice to GOD his life, with its
+pleasures: but that God had disappointed him, he having met with
+nothing but satisfaction in that state.
+
+That we should establish ourselves in a sense of GOD'S Presence, by
+continually conversing with Him. That it was a shameful thing to quit
+His conversation, to think of trifles and fooleries.
+
+That we should feed and nourish our souls with high notions of GOD;
+which would yield us great joy in being devoted to Him.
+
+That we ought to _quicken_, i.e., _to enliven, our faith_. That it was
+lamentable we had so little; and that instead of taking _faith_ for
+the rule of their conduct, men amused themselves with trivial
+devotions, which changed daily. That the way of Faith was the spirit
+of the Church, and that it was sufficient to bring us to a high degree
+of perfection.
+
+That we ought to give ourselves up to GOD, with regard both to things
+temporal and spiritual, and seek our satisfaction only in the
+fulfilling of His will, whether he lead us by suffering or by
+consolation, for all would lie equal to a soul truly resigned. That
+there needed fidelity in those dryness, or insensibilities and
+irksomenesses in prayer, by which GOD tries our love to him; that
+_then_ was the time for us to make good and effectual acts of
+resignation, whereof one alone would oftentimes very much promote our
+spiritual advancement.
+
+That as for the miseries and sins he heard of daily in the world, he
+was so far from wondering at them, that, on the contrary, he was
+surprised that there were not more, considering the malice sinners
+were capable of; that for his part he prayed for them; but knowing
+that GOD could remedy the mischiefs they did when He pleased, he gave
+himself no farther trouble.
+
+That to arrive at such resignation as GOD requires, we should watch
+attentively over all the passions which mingle as well in spiritual
+things as in those of a grosser nature; that GOD would give light
+concerning those passions to those who truly desire to serve Him. That
+if this was my design, viz., sincerely to serve GOD, I might come to
+him (B. Lawrence) as often as I pleased, without any Fear of being
+troublesome; but if not, that I ought no more to visit him.
+
+
+
+SECOND CONVERSATION.
+
+
+That he had always been governed by love, without selfish views; and
+that having resolved to make the love of GOD the _end_ of all his
+actions, he had found reasons to be well satisfied with his method.
+That he was pleased when he could take up a straw from the ground for
+the love of GOD, seeking Him only, and nothing else, not even His
+gifts.
+
+That he had been long troubled in mind from a certain belief that he
+should be damned; that all the men in the world could not have
+persuaded him to the contrary; but that he had thus reasoned with
+himself about it: _I engaged in a religious life only for the love of_
+GOD, _and I have endeavored to act only for Him; whatever becomes of
+me, whether I be lost or saved, I will always continue to act purely
+for the love of_ GOD. _I shall have this good at least, that till
+death I shall have done all that is in me to love Him_. That this
+trouble of mind had lasted four years; during which time he had
+suffered much. But that at last he had seen that this trouble arose
+from want of faith; and that since then he had passed his life in
+perfect liberty and continual joy. That he had placed his sins betwixt
+him and GOD, as it were, to tell Him that he did not deserve His
+favors, but that GOD still continued to bestow them in abundance.
+
+That in order to form a habit of conversing with GOD continually, and
+referring all we do to Him, we must at first apply to Him with some
+diligence: but that after a little care we should find His love
+inwardly excite us to it without any difficulty.
+
+That he expected after the pleasant days GOD had given him, he should
+have his turn of pain and suffering; but that he was not uneasy about
+it, knowing very well, that as he could do nothing of himself, GOD
+would not fail to give him the strength to bear it.
+
+That when an occasion of practicing some virtue offered, he addressed
+himself to GOD, saying, LORD, _I cannot do this unless Thou enablest
+me_: and that then he received strength more than sufficient.
+
+That when he had failed in his duty, he only confessed his fault,
+saying to GOD, _I shall never do otherwise, if You leave me to myself;
+it is You who must hinder my falling, and mend what is amiss_. That
+after this, he gave himself no further uneasiness about it.
+
+That we ought to act with GOD in the greatest simplicity, speaking to
+Him frankly and plainly, and imploring His assistance in our affairs,
+just as they happen. That GOD never failed to grant it, as he had
+often experienced.
+
+That he had been lately sent into Burgundy, to buy the provision of
+wine for the society, which was a very unwelcome task for him, because
+he had no turn for business, and because he was lame and could not go
+about the boat but by rolling himself over the casks. That however he
+gave himself no uneasiness about it, nor about the purchase of the
+wine. That he said to GOD, _It was His business he was about_, and
+that he afterwards found it very well performed. That he had been sent
+into Auvergne, the year before, upon the same account; that he could
+not tell how the matter passed, but that it proved very well.
+
+So, likewise, in his business in the kitchen (to which he had
+naturally a great aversion), having accustomed himself to do
+everything there for the love of GOD, and with prayer, upon all
+occasions, for His grace to do his work well, he had found everything
+easy, during fifteen years that he had been employed there.
+
+That he was very well pleased with the post he was now in; but that he
+was as ready to quit that as the former, since he was always pleasing
+himself in every condition, by doing little things for the love of
+GOD.
+
+That with him the set times of prayer were not different from other
+times; that he retired to pray, according to the directions of his
+Superior, but that he did not want such retirement, nor ask for it,
+because his greatest business did not divert him from GOD.
+
+That as he knew his obligation to love GOD in all things, and as he
+endeavored so to do, he had no need of a director to advise him, but
+that he needed much a Confessor to absolve him. That he was very
+sensible of his faults, but not discouraged by them; that he confessed
+them to GOD, but did not plead against Him to excuse them. When he had
+so done, he peaceably resumed his usual practice of love and
+adoration.
+
+That in his trouble of mind, he had consulted nobody, but knowing only
+by the light of faith that GOD was present, he contented himself with
+directing all his actions to Him, _i.e._, doing them with a desire to
+please Him, let what would come of it.
+
+That useless thoughts spoil all: that the mischief began there; but
+that we ought to reject them, as soon as we perceived their
+impertinence to the matter in hand, or our salvation; and return to
+our communion with GOD.
+
+That at the beginning he had often passed his time appointed for
+prayer, in rejecting wandering thoughts, and falling back into them.
+That he could never regulate his devotion by certain methods as some
+do. That nevertheless, at first he had _meditated_ for some time, but
+afterwards that went off, in a manner he could give no account of.
+
+That all bodily mortifications and other exercises are useless, except
+as they serve to arrive at the union with GOD by love; that he had
+well considered this, and found it the shortest way to go straight to
+Him by a continual exercise of love, and doing all things for His
+sake.
+
+That we ought to make a great difference between the acts of the
+_understanding_ and those of the _will_: that the first were
+comparatively of little value, and the others, all. That our only
+business was to love and delight ourselves in GOD.
+
+That all possible kinds of mortification, if they were void of the
+love of GOD, could not efface a single sin. That we ought, without
+anxiety, to expect the pardon of our sins from the Blood of JESUS
+CHRIST, only endeavoring to love Him with all our hearts. That GOD
+seemed to have granted the greatest favors to the greatest sinners, as
+more signal monuments of his mercy.
+
+That the greatest pains or pleasures of this world, were not to be
+compared with what he had experienced of both kinds in a spiritual
+state: so that he was careful for nothing and feared nothing, desiring
+only one thing of GOD, viz., that he might not offend Him.
+
+That he had no scruples; for, said he, when I _fail_ in my duty, I
+readily acknowledge it, saying, _I am used to do so: I shall never do
+otherwise, if I am left to myself_. I fail not, then I give GOD
+thanks, acknowledging the strength comes from Him.
+
+
+
+THIRD CONVERSATION.
+
+
+He told me that the _foundation of the spiritual life_ in _him_, had
+been a high notion and esteem of GOD in faith; which when he had once
+well conceived, he had no other care at first, but faithfully to
+reject every other thought, _that he might perform all his actions for
+the love of_ GOD. That when sometimes he had not thought of GOD for a
+good while, he did not disquiet himself for it; but after having
+acknowledged his wretchedness to GOD, he returned to Him with so much
+the greater trust in Him, as he had found himself wretched through
+forgetting Him.
+
+That the trust we put in GOD, honors Him much, and draws down great
+graces.
+
+That it was impossible, not only that GOD should deceive, hut also
+that He should long let a soul suffer which is perfectly resigned to
+Him, and resolved to endure everything for His sake.
+
+That he had so often experienced the ready succors of Divine Grace
+upon all occasions, that from the same experience, when he had
+business to do, he did not think of it beforehand; but when it was
+time to do it, he found in GOD, as in a clear mirror, all that was fit
+for him to do. That of late he had acted thus, without anticipating
+care; but before the experience above mentioned, he had used it in his
+affairs.
+
+When outward business diverted him a little from the thought of GOD, a
+fresh remembrance coming from GOD invested his soul, and so inflamed
+and transported him that it was difficult for him to contain himself.
+
+That he was more united to GOD in his outward employments, than when
+he left them for devotion in retirement.
+
+That he expected hereafter some great pain of body or mind; that the
+worst that could happen to him was, to lose that sense of GOD which he
+had enjoyed so long; but that the goodness of GOD assured him He would
+not forsake him utterly, and that He would give him strength to bear
+whatever evil He permitted to happen to him; and therefore that he
+feared nothing, and had no occasion to consult with anybody about his
+state. That when he had attempted to do it, he had always come away
+more perplexed; and that as he was conscious of his readiness to lay
+down his life for the love of GOD, he had no apprehension of danger.
+That perfect resignation to GOD was a sure way to heaven, a way in
+which we had always sufficient light for our conduct.
+
+That in the beginning of the spiritual life, we ought to be faithful
+in doing our duty and denying ourselves; but after that, unspeakable
+pleasures followed; that in difficulties we need only have recourse to
+JESUS CHRIST, and beg his grace; with that everything became easy.
+
+That many do not advance in the Christian progress because they stick
+in penances, and particular exercises, while they neglect the love of
+GOD, which is the _end_. That this appeared plainly by their works,
+and was the _reason_ why we see so little solid virtue.
+
+That there needed neither art nor science for going to GOD, but only a
+heart resolutely determined to apply itself to nothing but Him, or for
+_His_ sake, and to love him only.
+
+
+
+FOURTH CONVERSATION.
+
+
+He discoursed with me very frequently, and with great openness of
+heart concerning his manner of _going_ to GOD, whereof some part is
+related already.
+
+He told me that all consists _in one hearty renunciation_ of
+everything which we are sensible does not lead to GOD; that we might
+accustom ourselves to a continual conversation with Him, with freedom
+and in simplicity. That we need only to recognize GOD intimately
+present with us, to address ourselves to Him every moment, that we may
+beg His assistance for knowing His will in things doubtful, and for
+rightly performing those which we plainly see he requires of us,
+offering them to Him before we do them, and giving Him thanks when we
+have done.
+
+That in this conversation with God, we are also employed in praising,
+adoring and loving Him incessantly, for His infinite goodness and
+perfection.
+
+That, without being discouraged on account of our sins, we should pray
+for His grace with a perfect confidence, as relying upon the infinite
+merits of our LORD JESUS CHRIST. That GOD never failed offering us His
+grace at each action; that he distinctly perceived it, and never
+failed of it, unless when his thoughts had wandered from a sense of
+GOD'S Presence, or he had forgotten to ask His assistance.
+
+That GOD always gave us light in our doubts, when we had no other
+design but ask to please Him.
+
+That our sanctification did not depend upon _changing_ our works, but
+in doing that for GOD's sake, which we commonly do for our own. That
+it was lamentable to see how many people mistook the means for the
+end, addicting themselves to certain works, which they performed very
+imperfectly, by reason of their human or selfish regards.
+
+That the most excellent method he had found of going to GOD, was that
+of doing our common business without any view of pleasing men,[1] and
+(as far as we are capable) purely for the love of GOD.
+
+That it was a great delusion to think that the times of prayer ought
+to differ from other times: that we are as strictly obliged to adhere
+to GOD by action in the time of action, as by prayer in the season of
+prayer.
+
+That his prayer was nothing else but a sense of the presence of GOD,
+his soul being at that time insensible to everything but Divine love:
+and that when the appointed times of prayer were past, he found no
+difference, because he still continued with GOD, praising and blessing
+Him with all his might, so that he passed his life in continual joy;
+yet hoped that GOD would give him somewhat to suffer, when he should
+grow stronger.
+
+That we ought, once for all, heartily to put our whole trust in GOD,
+and make a total surrender of ourselves to Him, secure that He would
+not deceive us.
+
+That we ought not to be weary of doing little things for the love of
+GOD, who regards not the greatness of the work, but the love with
+which it is performed. That we should not wonder if, in the beginning,
+we often failed in our endeavors, but that at last we should gain a
+habit, which will naturally produce its acts in us, without our care,
+and to our exceeding great delight.
+
+That the whole substance of religion was faith, hope and charity; by
+the practice of which we become united to the will of GOD: that all
+besides is indifferent, and to be used as a means that we may arrive
+at our end, and be swallowed up therein, by faith and charity.
+
+That all things are possible to him who _believes_--that they are less
+difficult to him who _hopes_--that they are more easy to him who
+_loves_, and still more easy to him who perseveres in the practice of
+these three virtues.
+
+That the end we ought to propose to ourselves is to become, in this
+life, the most perfect worshippers of GOD we can possibly be, as we
+hope to be through all eternity.
+
+That when we enter upon the spiritual life, we should consider, and
+examine to the bottom, what we are. And then we should find ourselves
+worthy of all contempt, and not deserving indeed the name of
+Christians: subject to all kinds of misery and numberless accidents,
+which trouble us and cause perpetual vicissitudes in our health, in
+our humors, in our internal and external dispositions; in fine,
+persons whom GOD would humble by many pains and labors, as well within
+as without. After this we should not wonder that troubles,
+temptations, oppositions and contradictions happen to us from men. We
+ought, on the contrary, to submit ourselves to them, and bear them as
+long as GOD pleases, as things highly advantageous to us.
+
+That the greater perfection a soul aspires after, the more dependent
+it is upon Divine grace.
+
+[2]Being questioned by one of his own society (to whom he was obliged
+to open himself) by what means he had attained such an habitual sense
+of GOD, he told him that, since his first coming to the monastery, he
+had considered GOD as the end of all his thoughts and desires, as the
+mark to which they should tend, and in which they should terminate.
+
+That in the beginning of his novitiate, he spent the hours appointed
+for private prayer in thinking of GOD, so as to convince his mind of,
+and to impress deeply upon his heart, the Divine existence, rather by
+devout sentiments, and submission to the lights of faith, than by
+studied reasonings and elaborate meditations. That by this short and
+sure method, he exercised himself in the knowledge and love of GOD,
+resolving to use his utmost endeavor to live, in a continual sense of
+His Presence, and if possible, never to forget Him more.
+
+That when he had thus in prayer filled his mind with great sentiments
+of that infinite Being, he went to his work appointed in the kitchen
+(for he was cook to the society); there having first considered
+severally the things his office required, and when and how each thing
+was to be done, he spent all the intervals of his time, as well before
+as after his work, in prayer.
+
+That when he began his business, he said to GOD, with a filial trust
+in Him, "O my GOD, since Thou art with me, and I must now, in
+obedience to Thy commands, apply my mind to these outward things, I
+beseech Thee to grant me the grace to continue in Thy Presence; and to
+this end do Thou prosper me with Thy assistance, receive all my works,
+and possess all my affections."
+
+As he proceeded in his work, he continued his familiar conversation
+with his Maker,--imploring His grace, and offering to Him all his
+actions.
+
+When he had finished, he examined himself how he had discharged his
+duty; if he found _well_, he returned thanks to GOD; if otherwise, he
+asked pardon; and without being discouraged, he set his mind right
+again, and continued his exercise of the _presence_ of GOD, as if he
+had never deviated from it. "Thus," said he, "by rising after my
+falls, and by frequently renewed acts of faith and love, I am come to
+a state wherein it would be as difficult for me not to think of GOD as
+it was at first to accustom myself to it."
+
+As brother Lawrence had found such an advantage in walking in the
+presence of GOD, it was natural for him to recommend it earnestly to
+others; but his example was a stronger inducement than any arguments
+he could propose. His very countenance was edifying, such a sweet and
+calm devotion appearing in it as could not but effect the beholders.
+And it was observed that in the greatest hurry of business in the
+kitchen, he still preserved his recollection and heavenly-mindedness.
+He was never hasty nor loitering, but did each thing in its season,
+with an even, uninterrupted composure and tranquility of spirit. "The
+time of business," said he, "does not with me differ from the time of
+prayer; and in the noise and clatter of my kitchen, while several
+persons are at the same time calling for different things, I possess
+GOD in as great tranquility as if I were upon my knees at the blessed
+sacrament."
+
+
+
+
+LETTERS.
+
+
+
+
+FIRST LETTER.
+
+
+Since you desire so earnestly that I should communicate to you the
+method by which I arrived at that _habitual sense of_ GOD'S
+_Presence_, which our LORD, of His mercy, has been pleased to
+vouch-safe to me, I must tell you that it is with great difficulty
+that I am prevailed on by your importunities; and now I do it only
+upon the terms that you show my letter to nobody. If I knew that you
+should let it be seen, all the desire that I have for your advancement
+would not be able to determine me to it. The account I can give you
+is:
+
+Having found in many books different methods of going to GOD, and
+divers practices of the spiritual life, I thought this would serve
+rather to puzzle me than facilitate what I sought after, which was
+nothing but how to become wholly GOD'S. This made me resolve to give
+the all for the all; so after having given myself wholly to GOD, that
+He might take away my sin, _I renounced, for the love of Him,
+everything that was not He; and I began to live as if there was none
+but He and I in the world_. Sometimes I considered myself before Him
+as a poor criminal at the feet of his judge; at other times I beheld
+Him in my heart as my FATHER, as my GOD: I worshipped Him the oftenest
+that I could, keeping my mind in His holy Presence, and recalling it
+as often as I found it wandered from Him. I found no small pain in
+this exercise, and yet I continued it, notwithstanding all the
+difficulties that occurred, without troubling or disquieting myself
+when my mind had wandered involuntarily. I made this my business as
+much all the day long as at the appointed times of prayer; for at all
+times, every hour, every minute, even in the height of my business, I
+drove away from my mind everything that was capable of interrupting my
+thought of GOD.
+
+Such has been my common practice ever since I entered in religion;
+and, though I have done it very imperfectly, yet I have found great
+advantages by it. These, I well know, are to be imputed to the mere
+mercy and goodness of GOD, because we can do nothing without Him; and
+_I_ still less than any. But when we are faithful to keep ourselves in
+His holy Presence, and set Him always before us, this not only hinders
+our offending Him, and doing anything that may displease Him, at least
+wilfully, but it also begets in us a holy freedom, and, if I may so
+speak, a familiarity with GOD, wherewith we ask, and that
+successfully, the graces we stand in need of. In fine, by often
+repeating these acts, they become _habitual_, and the presence of GOD
+rendered as it were _natural to_ us Give Him thanks, if you please,
+with me, for His great goodness towards me, which I can never
+sufficiently admire, for the many favors He has done to so miserable a
+sinner as I am. May all things praise Him. Amen.
+
+I am, in our LORD, yours, &c.
+
+
+
+SECOND LETTER.
+
+
+_To the Reverend_--
+
+Not finding my manner of life in books, although I have no difficulty
+about it, yet, for greater security, I shall be glad to know your
+thoughts concerning it.
+
+In a conversation some days since with a person of piety, he told me
+the spiritual life was a life of grace, which begins with servile
+fear, which is increased by hope of eternal life, and which is
+consummated by pure love. That each of these states had its different
+stages, by which one arrives at last at that blessed consummation.
+
+I have not followed all these methods. On the contrary, from I know
+not what instincts, I found they discouraged me. This was the reason
+why, at my entrance into religion, I took a resolution to give myself
+up to GOD, as the best return I could make for His love; and, for the
+love of Him, to renounce all besides.
+
+For the first year I commonly employed myself during the time set
+apart for devotion with the thought of death, judgment, heaven, hell,
+and my sins, Thus continued some years, applying my mind carefully the
+rest of the day, and even in the midst of my business, _to the
+presence of_ GOD, whom I considered always as _with_ me, often as _in_
+me.
+
+At length I came insensibly to do the same thing during my set time of
+prayer, which caused in me great delight and consolation. This
+practice produced in me so high an esteem for GOD, that _faith_ alone
+was capable to satisfy me in that point.[3]
+
+Such was my beginning; and yet I must tell you that for the first ten
+years I suffered much: the apprehension that I was not devoted to GOD
+as I wished to be, my past sins always present to my mind, and the
+great unmerited favors which GOD did me, were the matter and source of
+my sufferings. During this time I fell often, and rose again
+presently. It seemed to me that all creatures, reason, and GOD Himself
+were against me; and _faith_ alone for me. I was troubled sometimes
+with thoughts that to believe I had received such favors was an effect
+of my presumption, which pretended to be _at once_ where others arrive
+with difficulty; at other times that it was a wilful delusion, and
+that there was no salvation for me.
+
+When I thought of nothing but to end my days in these troubles (which
+did not at all diminish the trust I had in GOD, and which served only
+to increase my faith), I found myself changed all at once; and my
+soul, which, till that time, was in trouble, felt a profound inward
+peace, as if she were in her centre and place of rest.
+
+Ever since that time I walk before GOD simply, in faith, with humility
+and with love; and I apply myself diligently to do nothing and think
+nothing which may displease Him. I hope that when I have done what I
+can, He will do with me what He pleases.
+
+As for what passes in me at present, I cannot express it. I have no
+pain or difficulty about my state, because I have no will but that of
+GOD, which I endeavor to accomplish in all things, and to which I am
+so resigned that I would not take up a straw from the ground against
+His order, or from any other motive than purely that of love to Him.
+
+I have quitted all forms of devotion and set prayers but those to
+which my state obliges me. And I make it my business only to persevere
+in His holy presence, wherein I keep myself by a simple attention, and
+a general fond regard to GOD, which I may call an _actual presence of_
+GOD; or, to speak better, an habitual, silent and secret conversation
+of the soul with GOD, which often causes me joys and raptures
+inwardly, and sometimes also outwardly, so great, that I am forced to
+use means to moderate them and prevent their appearance to others.
+
+In short, I am assured beyond all doubt that my soul has been with GOD
+above these thirty years. I pass over many things that I may not be
+tedious to you, yet I think it proper to inform you after what manner
+I consider myself before GOD, whom I behold as my King.
+
+I consider myself as the most wretched of men, full of sores and
+corruption, and who has committed all sorts of crimes against his
+King; touched with a sensible regret, I confess to him all my
+wickedness, I ask His forgiveness, I abandon myself in His hands that
+He may do what he pleases with me. The King, full of mercy and
+goodness, very far from chastising me, embraces me with love, makes me
+eat at His table, serves me with His own hands, gives me the key of
+His treasures; He converses and delights Himself with me incessantly,
+in a thousand and a thousand ways, and treats me in all respects as
+His favorite. It is thus I consider myself from time to time in His
+holy presence.
+
+My most useful method is this simple attention, and such a general
+passionate regard to GOD; to whom I find myself often attached with
+greater sweetness and delight than that of an infant at the mother's
+breast; so that, if I dare use the expression, I should choose to call
+this state the bosom, of GOD, for the inexpressible sweetness which I
+taste and experience there.
+
+If sometimes my thoughts wander from it by necessity or infirmity, I
+am presently recalled by inward motions so charming and delicious that
+I am ashamed to mention them. I desire your reverence to reflect
+rather upon my great wretchedness, of which you are fully informed,
+than upon the great favors which GOD does me, all unworthy and
+ungrateful as I am.
+
+As for my set hours of prayer, they are only a continuation of the
+same exercise. Sometimes I consider myself there as a stone before a
+carver, whereof he is to make a statue; presenting myself thus before
+GOD, I desire Him to form His perfect image in my soul, and make me
+entirely like Himself.
+
+At other times, when I apply myself to prayer, I feel all my spirit
+and all my soul lift itself up without any care or effort of mine, and
+it continues as it were suspended and firmly fixed in GOD, as in its
+centre and place of rest.
+
+I know that some charge this state with inactivity, delusion and
+self-love. I confess that it is a holy inactivity, and would be a
+happy self-love, if the soul in that state were capable of it;
+because, in effect, while she is in this repose, she cannot be
+disturbed by such acts as she was formerly accustomed to, and which
+were then her support, but which would now rather hinder than assist
+her.
+
+Yet I cannot bear that this should be called delusion; because the
+soul which thus enjoys GOD desires herein nothing but Him. If this be
+delusion in me, it belongs to GOD to remedy it. Let Him do what He
+pleases with me; I desire only Him, and to be wholly devoted to Him.
+You will, however, oblige me in sending me your opinion, to which I
+always pay a great deference, for I have a singular esteem for your
+reverence, and am in our LORD,
+
+Yours, &c.
+
+
+
+THIRD LETTER.
+
+
+We have a GOD who is infinitely gracious and knows all our wants. I
+always thought that He would reduce you to extremity. He will come in
+His own time, and when you least expect it. Hope in Him more than
+ever; thank Him with me for the favors he does you, particularly for
+the fortitude and patience which He gives you in your afflictions. It
+is a plain mark of the care He takes of you. Comfort yourself, then,
+with Him, and give thanks for all.
+
+I admire also the fortitude and bravery of Mr. ----. God has given him
+a good disposition and a good will; but there is in him still a little
+of the world, and a great deal of youth. I hope the affliction which
+GOD has sent him will prove a wholesome remedy to him, and make him
+enter into himself. It is an accident which should engage him to put
+all his trust in _Him_ who accompanies him everywhere. Let him think
+of Him as often as he can, especially in the greatest dangers. A
+little lifting up of the heart suffices. A little remembrance of GOD,
+one act of inward worship, though upon a march, and a sword in hand,
+are prayers, which, however short, are nevertheless very acceptable to
+GOD; and far from lessening a soldier's courage in occasions of
+danger, they best serve to fortify it.
+
+Let him then think of GOD the most he can. Let him accustom himself,
+by degrees, to this small but holy exercise. No one will notice it,
+and nothing is easier than to repeat often in the day these little
+internal adorations. Recommend to him, if you please, that he think of
+GOD the most he can, in the manner here directed. It is very fit and
+most necessary for a soldier, who is daily exposed to the dangers of
+life. I hope that GOD will assist him and all the family, to whom I
+present my service, being theirs and Yours, &c.
+
+
+
+FOURTH LETTER.
+
+
+I have taken this opportunity to communicate to you the sentiments of
+one of our society, concerning the admirable effects and continual
+assistances which he receives from _the presence of_ GOD. Let you and
+me both profit by them.
+
+You must know his continual care has been, for about forty years past
+that he has spent in religion, to be _always with_ GOD, and to do
+nothing, say nothing, and think nothing which may displease Him; and
+this without any other view than purely for the love of Him, and
+because he deserves infinitely more.
+
+He is now so accustomed to that _Divine Presence_, that he receives
+from it continual succors upon all occasions. For about thirty years,
+his soul has been filled with joys so continual, and sometimes so
+great, that he is forced to use means to moderate them, and to hinder
+their appearing outwardly.
+
+If sometimes he is a little too much absent from that _Divine
+Presence_, GOD presently makes Himself to be felt in his soul to
+recall him, which often happens when he is most engaged in his outward
+business. He answers with exact fidelity to these inward drawings,
+either by an elevation of his heart towards GOD, or by a meek and fond
+regard to Him, or by such words as love forms upon these occasions, as
+for instance, _My God, here I am all devoted to Thee_: LORD, _make me
+according to Thy heart_. And then it seems to him (as in effect he
+feels it) that this GOD of love, satisfied with such few words,
+reposes again, and rests in the fund and centre of his soul. The
+experience of these things gives him such an assurance that GOD is
+always in the fund or bottom of his soul, that it renders him
+incapable of doubting it upon any account whatever.
+
+Judge by this what content and satisfaction he enjoys while he
+continually finds in himself so great a treasure. He is no longer in
+an anxious search after it, but has it open before him, and may take
+what he pleases of it.
+
+He complains much of our blindness, and cries often that we are to be
+pitied who content ourselves with so little. GOD, saith he, _has
+infinite treasure to bestow, and we take up with a little sensible
+devotion, which passes in a moment. Blind as we are, we hinder GOD,
+and stop the current of His graces. But when He finds a soul
+penetrated with a lively faith, He pours into it His graces and favors
+plentifully: there they flow like a torrent, which, after being
+forcibly stopped against its ordinary course, when it has found a
+passage, spreads itself with impetuosity and abundance_.
+
+Yes, we often stop this torrent by the little value we set upon it.
+But let us stop it no more; let us enter into ourselves and break down
+the bank which hinders it. Let us make way for grace; let us redeem
+the lost time, for perhaps we have but little left. Death follows us
+close; let us be well prepared for it: for we die but once; and a
+miscarriage _there_ is irretrievable.
+
+I say again, let us enter into ourselves. The time presses, there is
+no room for delay: our souls are at stake. I believe you have taken
+such effectual measures that you will not be surprised. I commend you
+for it; it is the one thing necessary. We must, nevertheless, always
+work at it, because not to advance in the spiritual life is to go
+back. But those who have the gale of the HOLY SPIRIT go forward even
+in sleep. If the vessel of our soul is still tossed with winds and
+storms, let us awake the LORD, who reposes in it, and He will quickly
+calm the sea.
+
+I have taken the liberty to impart to you these good sentiments, that
+you may compare them with your own. It will serve again to kindle and
+inflame them, if by misfortune (which GOD forbid, for it would be
+indeed a great misfortune) they should be, though never so little,
+cooled. Let us then _both_ recall our first fervors. Let us profit by
+the example and the sentiments of this brother, who is little known of
+the world, but known of GOD, and extremely caressed by Him. I will
+pray for you; do you pray instantly for me, who am, in our LORD.
+
+Yours, &c.
+
+
+
+FIFTH LETTER.
+
+
+I received this day two books and a letter from Sister ----, who is
+preparing to make her profession, and upon that account desires the
+prayers of your holy society, and yours in particular. I perceive that
+she reckons much upon them; pray do not disappoint her. Beg of GOD
+that she may make her sacrifice in the view of His love alone, and
+with a firm resolution to be wholly devoted to Him. I will send you
+one of these books which treat of _the presence of_ GOD; a subject
+which, in my opinion, contains the whole spiritual life; and it seems
+to me that whoever duly practices it will soon become spiritual.
+
+I know that for the right practice of it, the heart must be empty of
+all other things; because GOD will possess the heart _alone_; and as
+He cannot possess it _alone_ without emptying it of all besides, so
+neither can He act _there_, and do in it what He pleases, unless it be
+left vacant to Him.
+
+There is not in the world a kind of life more sweet and delightful
+than that of a continual conversation with GOD. Those only can
+comprehend it who practice and experience it; yet I do not advise you
+to do it from that motive. It is not pleasure which we ought to seek
+in this exercise; but let us do it from a principle of love, and
+because GOD would have us.
+
+Were I a preacher, I should, above all other things, preach the
+practice of _the presence of_ GOD; and, were I a director, I should
+advise all the world to do it, so necessary do I think it, and so easy
+too.
+
+Ah! knew we but the want we have of the grace and assistance of GOD,
+we should never lose sight of Him, no, not for a moment. Believe me;
+make immediately a holy and firm resolution never more wilfully to
+forget Him, and to spend the rest of your days in His sacred presence,
+deprived for the love of Him, if He thinks fit, of all consolations.
+
+Set heartily about this work, and if you do it as you ought, be
+assured that you will soon find the effects of it. I will assist you
+with my prayers, poor as they are. I recommend myself earnestly to
+yours and those of your holy society being theirs, and more
+particularly
+
+Yours, &c.
+
+
+
+SIXTH LETTER.
+
+
+_To the Same_.
+
+I have received from Mrs. ----, the things which you gave her for me.
+I wonder that you have not given me your thoughts of the little book I
+sent to you, and which you must have received. Pray set heartily about
+the practice of it in your old age: it is better late than never.
+
+I cannot imagine how religious persons can live satisfied without the
+practice of _the presence of_ GOD. For my part. I keep myself retired
+with Him in the fund or centre of my soul as much as I can; and while
+I am so with Him I fear nothing, but the least turning from Him is
+insupportable.
+
+This exercise does not much fatigue the body; it is, however, proper
+to deprive it sometimes, nay often; of many little pleasures which are
+innocent and lawful, for GOD will not permit that a soul which desires
+to be devoted entirely to Him should take other pleasures than with
+Him: that is more than reasonable.
+
+I do not say that therefore we must put any violent constraint upon
+ourselves. No, we must serve GOD in a holy freedom; we must do our
+business faithfully; without trouble or disquiet, recalling our mind
+to GOD mildly, and with tranquility, as often as we find it wandering
+from Him.
+
+It is, however, necessary to put our whole trust in GOD, laying aside
+all other cares, and even some particular forms of devotion, though
+very good in themselves, yet such as one often engages in
+unreasonably, because these devotions are only means to attain to the
+end. So when by this exercise of _the presence of_ GOD we are _with
+Him_ who is our end, it is then useless to return to the means; but we
+may continue with Him our commerce of love, persevering in His holy
+presence, one while by an act of praise, of adoration or of desire;
+one while by an act of resignation or thanksgiving; and in all the
+ways which our spirit can invent.
+
+Be not discouraged by the repugnance which you may find in it from
+nature; you must do yourself violence. At the first one often thinks
+it lost time, but you must go on, and resolve to persevere in it to
+death, notwithstanding all the difficulties that may occur. I
+recommend myself to the prayers of your holy society, and yours in
+particular. I am, in our LORD,
+
+Yours, &c.
+
+
+
+SEVENTH LETTER.
+
+
+I pity you much. It will be of great importance if you can leave the
+care of your affairs to ----, and spend the remainder of your life
+only in worshiping GOD. He requires no great matters of us; a little
+remembrance of Him from time to time; a little adoration; sometimes to
+pray for His grace, sometimes to offer Him your sufferings, and
+sometimes to return Him thanks for the favors He has given you, and
+still gives you, in the midst of your troubles, and to console
+yourself with Him the oftenest you can. Lift up your heart to Him,
+sometimes even at your meals, and when you are in company: the least
+little remembrance will always be acceptable to Him. You need not cry
+very loud; He is nearer to us than we are aware of.
+
+It is not necessary for being with GOD to be always at church: we may
+make an oratory of our heart wherein to retire from time to time to
+converse with Him in meekness, humility and love. Every one is capable
+of such familiar conversation with GOD, some more, some less: He knows
+what we can do. Let us begin, then. Perhaps He expects but one
+generous resolution on our part. Have courage. We have but little time
+to live; you are near sixty-four, and I am almost eighty. Let us live
+and die with GOD. Sufferings will be sweet and pleasant to us while we
+are with Him; and the greatest pleasures will be, without Him, a cruel
+punishment to us. May He be blessed for all. Amen.
+
+Accustom yourself, then, by degrees thus to worship Him, to beg His
+grace, to offer Him your heart from time to time in the midst of your
+business, even every moment, if you can. Do not always scrupulously
+confine yourself to certain rules, or particular forms of devotion,
+but act with a general confidence in GOD, with love and humility. You
+may assure ---- of my poor prayers, and that I am their servant, and
+particularly
+
+Yours in our LORD, &c.
+
+
+
+EIGHTH LETTER.
+
+
+_(Concerning wandering thoughts in Prayer.)_
+
+You tell me nothing new; you are not the only one that is troubled
+with wandering thoughts. Our mind is extremely roving; but, as the
+will is mistress of all our faculties, she must recall them, and carry
+them to GOD as their last end.
+
+When the mind, for want of being sufficiently reduced by recollection
+at our first engaging in devotion, has contracted certain bad habits
+of wandering and dissipation, they are difficult to overcome, and
+commonly draw us, even against our wills, to the things of the earth.
+
+I believe one remedy for this is to confess our faults, and to humble
+ourselves before GOD. I do not advise you to use multiplicity of words
+in prayer: many words and long discourses being often the occasions of
+wandering. Hold yourself in prayer before GOD, like a dumb or
+paralytic beggar at a rich man's gate. Let it be _your_ business to
+keep your mind in the presence of the LORD. If it sometimes wander and
+withdraw itself from Him, do not much disquiet yourself for that:
+trouble and disquiet serve rather to distract the mind than to
+re-collect it: the will must bring it back in tranquility. If you
+persevere in this manner, GOD will have pity on you.
+
+One way to re-collect the mind easily in the time of prayer, and
+preserve it more in tranquility, is _not to let it wander too far at
+other times_: you should keep it strictly in the presence of GOD; and
+being accustomed to think of Him often, you will find it easy to keep
+your mind calm in the time of prayer, or at least to recall it from
+its wanderings.
+
+I have told you already at large, in my former letters, of the
+advantages we may draw from this practice of the presence of GOD: let
+us set about it seriously, and pray for one another.
+
+Yours, &c.
+
+
+
+NINTH LETTER.
+
+
+The enclosed is an answer to that which I received from ----; pray
+deliver it to her. She seems to me full of good will, but she would go
+faster than grace. One does not become holy all at once. I recommend
+her to you: we ought to help one another by our advice, and yet more
+by our good examples. You will oblige me to let me hear of her from
+time to time, and whether she be very fervent and very obedient.
+
+Let us thus think often that our only business in this life is to
+please GOD, and that all besides is but folly and vanity. You and I
+have lived about forty years in religion (_i.e._, a monastic life).
+Have we employed them in loving and serving GOD, who by His mercy has
+called us to this state and for that very end? I am filled with shame
+and confusion when I reflect on one hand upon the great favors which
+GOD has done, and incessantly continues to do me; and on the other,
+upon the ill use I have made of them, and my small advancement in the
+way of perfection.
+
+Since by His mercy He gives us still a little time, let us begin in
+earnest: let us repair the lost time: let us return with a full
+assurance to that FATHER of mercies, who is always ready to receive us
+affectionately. Let us renounce, let us generously renounce, for the
+love of Him, all that is not Himself; He deserves infinitely more. Let
+us think of Him perpetually. Let us put all our trust in Him. I doubt
+not but we shall soon find the effects of it in receiving the
+abundance of His grace, with which we can do all things, and without
+which we can do nothing but sin.
+
+We cannot escape the dangers which abound in life without the actual
+and _continual_ help of GOD: let us then pray to Him for it
+_continually_. How can we pray to Him without being with Him? How can
+we be with Him but in thinking of Him often? And how can we often
+think of Him, but by a holy habit which we should form of it? You will
+tell me that I am always saying the same thing. It is true, for this
+is the best and easiest method I know; and as I use no other, I advise
+all the world to do it. We must _know_ before we can _love_. In order
+to _know_ GOD, we must often _think_ of Him; and when we come to
+_love_ Him, we shall then also think of Him often, for our heart will
+be with our treasure. This is an argument which well deserves your
+consideration.
+
+I am, Yours, &c.
+
+
+
+TENTH LETTER.
+
+
+I have had a good deal of difficulty to bring myself to write to Mr.
+----, and I do it now purely because you and Madam ---- desire me.
+Pray write the directions and send it to him. I am very well pleased
+with the trust which you have in GOD: I wish that He may increase it
+in you more and more. We cannot have too much in so good and faithful
+a Friend, who will never fail us in this world nor in the next.
+
+If Mr. ---- makes his advantage of the loss he has had, and puts all
+his confidence in GOD, He will soon give him another friend, more
+powerful and more inclined to serve him. He disposes of hearts as He
+pleases. Perhaps Mr. ---- was too much attached to him he has lost. We
+ought to love our friends, but without encroaching upon the love due
+to GOD, which must be the principal.
+
+Pray remember what I have recommended to you, which is, to think often
+on GOD, by day, by night, in your business, and even in your
+diversions. He is always near you and with you: leave Him not alone.
+You would think it rude to leave a friend alone who came to visit you:
+why then must GOD be neglected? Do not then forget Him, but think on
+Him often, adore Him continually, live and die with Him; this is the
+glorious employment of a Christian. In a word, this is our profession;
+if we do not know it, we must learn it. I will endeavor to help you
+with my prayers, and am, in our LORD, Yours, &c.
+
+
+
+ELEVENTH LETTER.
+
+
+I do not pray that you may be delivered from your pains, but I pray
+GOD earnestly that He would give you strength and patience to bear
+them as long as He pleases. Comfort yourself with Him who holds you
+fastened to the cross. He will loose you when He thinks fit. Happy
+those who suffer with Him: accustom yourself to suffer in that manner,
+and seek from Him the strength to endure as much, and as long, as He
+shall judge to be necessary for you. The men of the world do not
+comprehend these truths, nor is it to be wondered at, since they
+suffer like what they are, and not like Christians. They consider
+sickness as a pain to nature, and not as a favor from GOD; and seeing
+it only in that light, they find nothing in it but grief and distress.
+But those who consider sickness as coming from the hand of GOD, as the
+effect of His mercy, and the means which He employs for their
+salvation--such, commonly find in it great sweetness and sensible
+consolation.
+
+I wish you could convince yourself that GOD is often (in some sense)
+nearer to us, and more effectually present with us, in sickness than
+in health. Rely upon no other Physician; for, according to my
+apprehension, He reserves your cure to Himself. Put, then, all your
+trust in Him, and you will soon find the effects of it in your
+recovery, which we often retard by putting greater confidence in
+physic than in GOD.
+
+Whatever remedies you make use of, they will succeed only so far as He
+permits. When pains come from GOD, He only can cure them. He often
+sends diseases of the body to cure those of the soul. Comfort yourself
+with the sovereign Physician both of the soul and body.
+
+Be satisfied with the condition in which GOD places you: however happy
+you may think me, I envy you. Pains and sufferings would be a paradise
+to me while I should suffer with my GOD; and the greatest pleasures
+would be hell to me if I could relish them without Him. All my
+consolation would be to suffer something for His sake.
+
+I must, in a little time, go to GOD. What comforts me in this life is,
+that I now see Him _by faith_; and I see Him in such a manner as might
+make me say sometimes, _I believe no more, but I see_. I feel what
+faith teaches us, and in that assurance and that practice of faith, I
+will live and die with Him.
+
+Continue then always with GOD: it is the only support and comfort for
+your affliction. I shall beseech Him to be with you. I present my
+service.
+
+Yours, &c.
+
+
+
+TWELFTH LETTER.
+
+
+If we were well accustomed to the exercise of _the presence of_ GOD,
+all bodily diseases would be much alleviated thereby. GOD often
+permits that we should suffer a little to purify our souls and oblige
+us to continue _with_ Him.
+
+Take courage: offer Him your pains incessantly: pray to Him for
+strength to endure them. Above all, get a habit of entertaining
+yourself often with GOD, and forget Him the least you can. Adore Him
+in your infirmities, offer yourself to Him from time to time, and in
+the height of your sufferings, beseech Him humbly and affectionately
+(as a child his father) to make you conformable to His holy-will. I
+shall endeavor to assist you with my poor prayers.
+
+GOD has many ways of drawing us to Himself. He sometimes hides Himself
+from us, but _faith_ alone, which will not fail us in time of need,
+ought to be our support, and the foundation of our confidence, which
+must be all in GOD.
+
+I know not how GOD will dispose of me. I am always happy. All the
+world suffer; and I, who deserve the severest discipline, feel joys so
+continual and so great that I can scarce contain them.
+
+I would willingly ask of GOD a part of your sufferings, but that I
+know my weakness, which is so great, that if He left me one moment to
+myself I should be the most wretched man alive. And yet I know not how
+He can leave me alone, because faith gives me as strong a conviction
+as sense can do, that He never forsakes us until we have first
+forsaken Him. Let us fear to leave Him. Let us be always with Him. Let
+us live and die in His presence. Do you pray for me, as I for you.
+
+I am, Yours, &c.
+
+
+
+THIRTEENTH LETTER.
+
+
+_To the Same_.
+
+I am in pain to see you suffer so long. What gives me some ease and
+sweetens the feelings I have for your griefs is, that they are proofs
+of GOD'S love towards you. See them in that view and you will bear
+them more easily. As your case is, it is my opinion that you should
+leave off human remedies, and resign yourself entirely to the
+providence of GOD: perhaps He stays only for that resignation and a
+perfect trust in Him to cure you. Since, notwithstanding all your
+cares, physic has hitherto proved unsuccessful, and your malady still
+increases, it will not be tempting GOD to abandon yourself in His
+hands, and expect all from Him.
+
+I told you in my last that He sometimes permits bodily diseases to
+cure the distempers of the soul. Have courage then: make a virtue of
+necessity. Ask of GOD, not deliverance from your pains, but strength
+to bear resolutely, for the love of Him, all that He should please,
+and as long as He shall please.
+
+Such prayers, indeed, are a little hard to nature, but most acceptable
+to GOD, and sweet to those that love Him. Love sweetens pains; and
+when one loves GOD, one suffers for His sake with joy and courage. Do
+you so, I beseech you: comfort yourself with Him, who is the only
+Physician of all our maladies. He is the FATHER of the afflicted,
+always ready to help us. He loves us infinitely more than we imagine.
+Love Him, then, and seek no consolation elsewhere. I hope you will
+soon receive it. Adieu. I will help you with my prayers, poor as they
+are, and shall always be, in our LORD Yours, &c.
+
+
+
+FOURTEENTH LETTER.
+
+
+_To the Same_.
+
+I render thanks to our LORD for having relieved you a little,
+according to your desire. I have been often near expiring, but I never
+was so much satisfied as then. Accordingly, I did not pray for any
+relief, but I prayed for strength to suffer with courage, humility and
+love. Ah, how sweet it is to suffer with GOD! However great the
+sufferings may be, receive them with love. It is paradise to suffer
+and be with Him; so that if in this life we would enjoy the peace of
+paradise we must accustom ourselves to a familiar, humble,
+affectionate conversation with Him. We must hinder our spirits
+wandering from Him upon any occasion. We must make our heart a
+spiritual temple, wherein to adore Him incessantly. We must watch
+continually over ourselves, that we may not do, nor say, nor think
+anything that may displease Him. When our minds are thus employed
+about GOD, suffering will become full of unction and consolation.
+
+I know that to arrive at this state the beginning is very difficult,
+for we must act purely in faith. But though it is difficult, we know
+also that we can do all things with the grace of GOD, which He never
+refuses to them who ask it earnestly. Knock, persevere in knocking,
+and I answer for it that He will open to you in His due time, and
+grant you all at once what He has deferred during many years. Adieu!
+Pray to Him for me, as I pray to Him for you. I hope to see Him
+quickly.
+
+I am, Yours, &c.
+
+
+
+FIFTEENTH LETTER.
+
+
+_To the Same_.
+
+GOD knoweth best what is needful for us, and all that He does is for
+our good. If we knew how much He loves us, we should always be ready
+to receive equally and with indifference from His Hand the sweet and
+the bitter: all would please that came from Him. The sorest
+afflictions never appear intolerable, except when we see them in the
+wrong light. When we see them as dispensed by the hand of GOD, when we
+know that it is our loving FATHER who abases and distresses us, our
+sufferings will lose their bitterness, and become even matter of
+consolation.
+
+Let all our employment be to _know_ GOD: the more one _knows_ Him, the
+more one _desires_ to know Him. And as _knowledge_ is commonly the
+measure of _love_, the deeper and more extensive our _knowledge_ shall
+be, the greater will be our _love_: and if our love of GOD were great,
+we should love Him equally in pains and pleasures.
+
+Let us not content ourselves with loving GOD for the mere sensible
+favors, how elevated soever, which he has done, or may do us. Such
+favors, though never so great, cannot bring us so near to Him as faith
+does in one simple act. Let us seek Him often by faith. He is within
+us: seek Him not elsewhere. If we do love Him alone, are we not rude,
+and do we not deserve blame, if we busy ourselves about trifles which
+do not please and perhaps offend Him. It is to be feared these
+_trifles_ will one day cost us dear.
+
+Let us begin to be devoted to Him in good earnest. Let us cast
+everything besides out of our hearts. He would possess them alone. Beg
+this favor of Him. If we do what we can on our parts, we shall soon
+see that change wrought in us which we aspire after. I cannot thank
+Him sufficiently for the relaxation He has vouchsafed you. I hope from
+His mercy the favor to see Him within a few days.[4] Let us pray for
+one another.
+
+I am, in our LORD, Yours, &c.
+
+NOTES:
+
+[1: Gal. i, 10; Eph. vi, 5, 6.]
+
+[2: The particulars which follow are collected from other accounts of
+Brother Lawrence.]
+
+[3: _I suppose he means_ that all distinct notions he could form of
+GOD, were unsatisfactory, because he perceived them to be unworthy of
+GOD; and therefore his mind was not to be satisfied but by the views
+of _faith_, which apprehend GOD as infinite and incomprehensible, as
+He is in Himself, and not as He can be conceived by human ideas.]
+
+[4: He took to his bed two days after, and died within the week.]
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Practice of the Presence of God
+the Best Rule of a Holy Life, by Herman Nicholas
+
+*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 13871 ***
diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..6312041
--- /dev/null
+++ b/LICENSE.txt
@@ -0,0 +1,11 @@
+This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements,
+metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be
+in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES.
+
+Procedures for determining public domain status are described in
+the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org.
+
+No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in
+jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize
+this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright
+status under the laws that apply to them.
diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..a4ce0a2
--- /dev/null
+++ b/README.md
@@ -0,0 +1,2 @@
+Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for
+eBook #13871 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/13871)
diff --git a/old/13871.txt b/old/13871.txt
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..c90a510
--- /dev/null
+++ b/old/13871.txt
@@ -0,0 +1,1647 @@
+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Practice of the Presence of God the
+Best Rule of a Holy Life, by Herman Nicholas
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Practice of the Presence of God the Best Rule of a Holy Life
+
+Author: Herman Nicholas
+
+Release Date: October 26, 2004 [EBook #13871]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK PRACTICE OF THE PRESENCE OF GOD ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Robert Shimmin, Project Manager, Keith M. Eckrich,
+Post-Processor, and the Project Gutenberg Online Distributed
+Proofreading Team
+
+
+
+
+
+
+THE PRACTICE OF THE PRESENCE
+
+OF GOD THE BEST RULE
+
+OF A HOLY LIFE.
+
+
+BROTHER LAWRENCE.
+
+
+Being Conversations and Letters of Nicholas Herman, of Lorraine
+(Brother Lawrence). _Translated from the French._
+
+
+FLEMING H. REVELL COMPANY,
+
+NEW YORK.  CHICAGO.   TORONTO.
+
+_Publishers of Evangelical Literature._
+
+
+
+
+PREFACE.
+
+
+
+This book consists of notes of several conversations had with, and
+letters written by Nicholas Herman, of Lorraine, a lowly and unlearned
+man, who, after having been a footman and soldier, was admitted a Lay
+Brother among the barefooted Carmelites at Paris in 1666, and was
+afterwards known as "Brother Lawrence."
+
+His conversion, which took place when he was about eighteen years old,
+was the result, under God, of the mere sight in midwinter, of a dry
+and leafless tree, and of the reflections it stirred respecting the
+change the coming spring would bring. From that time he grew eminently
+in the knowledge and love of GOD, endeavoring constantly to walk "_as
+in His presence_." No wilderness wanderings seem to have intervened
+between the Red Sea and the Jordan of his experience. A wholly
+consecrated man, he lived his Christian life through as a pilgrim--as
+a steward and not as an owner, and died at the age of eighty, leaving
+a name which has been as "ointment poured forth."
+
+The "Conversations" are supposed to have been written by M. Beaufort,
+Grand Vicar to M. de Chalons, formerly Cardinal de Noailles, by whose
+recommendation the letters were first published.
+
+The book has, within a short time, gone through repeated English and
+American editions, and has been a means of blessing to many souls. It
+contains very much of that wisdom which only lips the Lord has touched
+can express, and which only hearts He has made teachable can receive.
+
+May this edition also be blessed by GOD, and redound to the praise of
+the glory of His grace.
+
+
+
+
+CONVERSATIONS.
+
+
+
+FIRST CONVERSATION.
+
+
+The first time I saw _Brother Lawrence_, was upon the 3d of August,
+1666. He told me that GOD had done him a singular favor, in his
+conversion at the age of eighteen.
+
+That in the winter, seeing a tree stripped of its leaves, and
+considering that within a little time the leaves would be renewed and
+after that the flowers and fruit appear, he received a high view of
+the Providence and Power of GOD, which has never since been effaced
+from his soul. That this view had perfectly set him loose from the
+world, and kindled in him such a love for GOD, that he could not tell
+whether it had increased during the more than forty years he had lived
+since.
+
+That he had been footman to M. Fieubert, the treasurer, and that he
+was a great awkward fellow who broke everything.
+
+That he had desired to be received into a monastery, thinking that he
+would there be made to smart for his awkwardness and the faults he
+should commit, and so he should sacrifice to GOD his life, with its
+pleasures: but that God had disappointed him, he having met with
+nothing but satisfaction in that state.
+
+That we should establish ourselves in a sense of GOD'S Presence, by
+continually conversing with Him. That it was a shameful thing to quit
+His conversation, to think of trifles and fooleries.
+
+That we should feed and nourish our souls with high notions of GOD;
+which would yield us great joy in being devoted to Him.
+
+That we ought to _quicken_, i.e., _to enliven, our faith_. That it was
+lamentable we had so little; and that instead of taking _faith_ for
+the rule of their conduct, men amused themselves with trivial
+devotions, which changed daily. That the way of Faith was the spirit
+of the Church, and that it was sufficient to bring us to a high degree
+of perfection.
+
+That we ought to give ourselves up to GOD, with regard both to things
+temporal and spiritual, and seek our satisfaction only in the
+fulfilling of His will, whether he lead us by suffering or by
+consolation, for all would lie equal to a soul truly resigned. That
+there needed fidelity in those dryness, or insensibilities and
+irksomenesses in prayer, by which GOD tries our love to him; that
+_then_ was the time for us to make good and effectual acts of
+resignation, whereof one alone would oftentimes very much promote our
+spiritual advancement.
+
+That as for the miseries and sins he heard of daily in the world, he
+was so far from wondering at them, that, on the contrary, he was
+surprised that there were not more, considering the malice sinners
+were capable of; that for his part he prayed for them; but knowing
+that GOD could remedy the mischiefs they did when He pleased, he gave
+himself no farther trouble.
+
+That to arrive at such resignation as GOD requires, we should watch
+attentively over all the passions which mingle as well in spiritual
+things as in those of a grosser nature; that GOD would give light
+concerning those passions to those who truly desire to serve Him. That
+if this was my design, viz., sincerely to serve GOD, I might come to
+him (B. Lawrence) as often as I pleased, without any Fear of being
+troublesome; but if not, that I ought no more to visit him.
+
+
+
+SECOND CONVERSATION.
+
+
+That he had always been governed by love, without selfish views; and
+that having resolved to make the love of GOD the _end_ of all his
+actions, he had found reasons to be well satisfied with his method.
+That he was pleased when he could take up a straw from the ground for
+the love of GOD, seeking Him only, and nothing else, not even His
+gifts.
+
+That he had been long troubled in mind from a certain belief that he
+should be damned; that all the men in the world could not have
+persuaded him to the contrary; but that he had thus reasoned with
+himself about it: _I engaged in a religious life only for the love of_
+GOD, _and I have endeavored to act only for Him; whatever becomes of
+me, whether I be lost or saved, I will always continue to act purely
+for the love of_ GOD. _I shall have this good at least, that till
+death I shall have done all that is in me to love Him_. That this
+trouble of mind had lasted four years; during which time he had
+suffered much. But that at last he had seen that this trouble arose
+from want of faith; and that since then he had passed his life in
+perfect liberty and continual joy. That he had placed his sins betwixt
+him and GOD, as it were, to tell Him that he did not deserve His
+favors, but that GOD still continued to bestow them in abundance.
+
+That in order to form a habit of conversing with GOD continually, and
+referring all we do to Him, we must at first apply to Him with some
+diligence: but that after a little care we should find His love
+inwardly excite us to it without any difficulty.
+
+That he expected after the pleasant days GOD had given him, he should
+have his turn of pain and suffering; but that he was not uneasy about
+it, knowing very well, that as he could do nothing of himself, GOD
+would not fail to give him the strength to bear it.
+
+That when an occasion of practicing some virtue offered, he addressed
+himself to GOD, saying, LORD, _I cannot do this unless Thou enablest
+me_: and that then he received strength more than sufficient.
+
+That when he had failed in his duty, he only confessed his fault,
+saying to GOD, _I shall never do otherwise, if You leave me to myself;
+it is You who must hinder my falling, and mend what is amiss_. That
+after this, he gave himself no further uneasiness about it.
+
+That we ought to act with GOD in the greatest simplicity, speaking to
+Him frankly and plainly, and imploring His assistance in our affairs,
+just as they happen. That GOD never failed to grant it, as he had
+often experienced.
+
+That he had been lately sent into Burgundy, to buy the provision of
+wine for the society, which was a very unwelcome task for him, because
+he had no turn for business, and because he was lame and could not go
+about the boat but by rolling himself over the casks. That however he
+gave himself no uneasiness about it, nor about the purchase of the
+wine. That he said to GOD, _It was His business he was about_, and
+that he afterwards found it very well performed. That he had been sent
+into Auvergne, the year before, upon the same account; that he could
+not tell how the matter passed, but that it proved very well.
+
+So, likewise, in his business in the kitchen (to which he had
+naturally a great aversion), having accustomed himself to do
+everything there for the love of GOD, and with prayer, upon all
+occasions, for His grace to do his work well, he had found everything
+easy, during fifteen years that he had been employed there.
+
+That he was very well pleased with the post he was now in; but that he
+was as ready to quit that as the former, since he was always pleasing
+himself in every condition, by doing little things for the love of
+GOD.
+
+That with him the set times of prayer were not different from other
+times; that he retired to pray, according to the directions of his
+Superior, but that he did not want such retirement, nor ask for it,
+because his greatest business did not divert him from GOD.
+
+That as he knew his obligation to love GOD in all things, and as he
+endeavored so to do, he had no need of a director to advise him, but
+that he needed much a Confessor to absolve him. That he was very
+sensible of his faults, but not discouraged by them; that he confessed
+them to GOD, but did not plead against Him to excuse them. When he had
+so done, he peaceably resumed his usual practice of love and
+adoration.
+
+That in his trouble of mind, he had consulted nobody, but knowing only
+by the light of faith that GOD was present, he contented himself with
+directing all his actions to Him, _i.e._, doing them with a desire to
+please Him, let what would come of it.
+
+That useless thoughts spoil all: that the mischief began there; but
+that we ought to reject them, as soon as we perceived their
+impertinence to the matter in hand, or our salvation; and return to
+our communion with GOD.
+
+That at the beginning he had often passed his time appointed for
+prayer, in rejecting wandering thoughts, and falling back into them.
+That he could never regulate his devotion by certain methods as some
+do. That nevertheless, at first he had _meditated_ for some time, but
+afterwards that went off, in a manner he could give no account of.
+
+That all bodily mortifications and other exercises are useless, except
+as they serve to arrive at the union with GOD by love; that he had
+well considered this, and found it the shortest way to go straight to
+Him by a continual exercise of love, and doing all things for His
+sake.
+
+That we ought to make a great difference between the acts of the
+_understanding_ and those of the _will_: that the first were
+comparatively of little value, and the others, all. That our only
+business was to love and delight ourselves in GOD.
+
+That all possible kinds of mortification, if they were void of the
+love of GOD, could not efface a single sin. That we ought, without
+anxiety, to expect the pardon of our sins from the Blood of JESUS
+CHRIST, only endeavoring to love Him with all our hearts. That GOD
+seemed to have granted the greatest favors to the greatest sinners, as
+more signal monuments of his mercy.
+
+That the greatest pains or pleasures of this world, were not to be
+compared with what he had experienced of both kinds in a spiritual
+state: so that he was careful for nothing and feared nothing, desiring
+only one thing of GOD, viz., that he might not offend Him.
+
+That he had no scruples; for, said he, when I _fail_ in my duty, I
+readily acknowledge it, saying, _I am used to do so: I shall never do
+otherwise, if I am left to myself_. I fail not, then I give GOD
+thanks, acknowledging the strength comes from Him.
+
+
+
+THIRD CONVERSATION.
+
+
+He told me that the _foundation of the spiritual life_ in _him_, had
+been a high notion and esteem of GOD in faith; which when he had once
+well conceived, he had no other care at first, but faithfully to
+reject every other thought, _that he might perform all his actions for
+the love of_ GOD. That when sometimes he had not thought of GOD for a
+good while, he did not disquiet himself for it; but after having
+acknowledged his wretchedness to GOD, he returned to Him with so much
+the greater trust in Him, as he had found himself wretched through
+forgetting Him.
+
+That the trust we put in GOD, honors Him much, and draws down great
+graces.
+
+That it was impossible, not only that GOD should deceive, hut also
+that He should long let a soul suffer which is perfectly resigned to
+Him, and resolved to endure everything for His sake.
+
+That he had so often experienced the ready succors of Divine Grace
+upon all occasions, that from the same experience, when he had
+business to do, he did not think of it beforehand; but when it was
+time to do it, he found in GOD, as in a clear mirror, all that was fit
+for him to do. That of late he had acted thus, without anticipating
+care; but before the experience above mentioned, he had used it in his
+affairs.
+
+When outward business diverted him a little from the thought of GOD, a
+fresh remembrance coming from GOD invested his soul, and so inflamed
+and transported him that it was difficult for him to contain himself.
+
+That he was more united to GOD in his outward employments, than when
+he left them for devotion in retirement.
+
+That he expected hereafter some great pain of body or mind; that the
+worst that could happen to him was, to lose that sense of GOD which he
+had enjoyed so long; but that the goodness of GOD assured him He would
+not forsake him utterly, and that He would give him strength to bear
+whatever evil He permitted to happen to him; and therefore that he
+feared nothing, and had no occasion to consult with anybody about his
+state. That when he had attempted to do it, he had always come away
+more perplexed; and that as he was conscious of his readiness to lay
+down his life for the love of GOD, he had no apprehension of danger.
+That perfect resignation to GOD was a sure way to heaven, a way in
+which we had always sufficient light for our conduct.
+
+That in the beginning of the spiritual life, we ought to be faithful
+in doing our duty and denying ourselves; but after that, unspeakable
+pleasures followed; that in difficulties we need only have recourse to
+JESUS CHRIST, and beg his grace; with that everything became easy.
+
+That many do not advance in the Christian progress because they stick
+in penances, and particular exercises, while they neglect the love of
+GOD, which is the _end_. That this appeared plainly by their works,
+and was the _reason_ why we see so little solid virtue.
+
+That there needed neither art nor science for going to GOD, but only a
+heart resolutely determined to apply itself to nothing but Him, or for
+_His_ sake, and to love him only.
+
+
+
+FOURTH CONVERSATION.
+
+
+He discoursed with me very frequently, and with great openness of
+heart concerning his manner of _going_ to GOD, whereof some part is
+related already.
+
+He told me that all consists _in one hearty renunciation_ of
+everything which we are sensible does not lead to GOD; that we might
+accustom ourselves to a continual conversation with Him, with freedom
+and in simplicity. That we need only to recognize GOD intimately
+present with us, to address ourselves to Him every moment, that we may
+beg His assistance for knowing His will in things doubtful, and for
+rightly performing those which we plainly see he requires of us,
+offering them to Him before we do them, and giving Him thanks when we
+have done.
+
+That in this conversation with God, we are also employed in praising,
+adoring and loving Him incessantly, for His infinite goodness and
+perfection.
+
+That, without being discouraged on account of our sins, we should pray
+for His grace with a perfect confidence, as relying upon the infinite
+merits of our LORD JESUS CHRIST. That GOD never failed offering us His
+grace at each action; that he distinctly perceived it, and never
+failed of it, unless when his thoughts had wandered from a sense of
+GOD'S Presence, or he had forgotten to ask His assistance.
+
+That GOD always gave us light in our doubts, when we had no other
+design but ask to please Him.
+
+That our sanctification did not depend upon _changing_ our works, but
+in doing that for GOD's sake, which we commonly do for our own. That
+it was lamentable to see how many people mistook the means for the
+end, addicting themselves to certain works, which they performed very
+imperfectly, by reason of their human or selfish regards.
+
+That the most excellent method he had found of going to GOD, was that
+of doing our common business without any view of pleasing men,[1] and
+(as far as we are capable) purely for the love of GOD.
+
+That it was a great delusion to think that the times of prayer ought
+to differ from other times: that we are as strictly obliged to adhere
+to GOD by action in the time of action, as by prayer in the season of
+prayer.
+
+That his prayer was nothing else but a sense of the presence of GOD,
+his soul being at that time insensible to everything but Divine love:
+and that when the appointed times of prayer were past, he found no
+difference, because he still continued with GOD, praising and blessing
+Him with all his might, so that he passed his life in continual joy;
+yet hoped that GOD would give him somewhat to suffer, when he should
+grow stronger.
+
+That we ought, once for all, heartily to put our whole trust in GOD,
+and make a total surrender of ourselves to Him, secure that He would
+not deceive us.
+
+That we ought not to be weary of doing little things for the love of
+GOD, who regards not the greatness of the work, but the love with
+which it is performed. That we should not wonder if, in the beginning,
+we often failed in our endeavors, but that at last we should gain a
+habit, which will naturally produce its acts in us, without our care,
+and to our exceeding great delight.
+
+That the whole substance of religion was faith, hope and charity; by
+the practice of which we become united to the will of GOD: that all
+besides is indifferent, and to be used as a means that we may arrive
+at our end, and be swallowed up therein, by faith and charity.
+
+That all things are possible to him who _believes_--that they are less
+difficult to him who _hopes_--that they are more easy to him who
+_loves_, and still more easy to him who perseveres in the practice of
+these three virtues.
+
+That the end we ought to propose to ourselves is to become, in this
+life, the most perfect worshippers of GOD we can possibly be, as we
+hope to be through all eternity.
+
+That when we enter upon the spiritual life, we should consider, and
+examine to the bottom, what we are. And then we should find ourselves
+worthy of all contempt, and not deserving indeed the name of
+Christians: subject to all kinds of misery and numberless accidents,
+which trouble us and cause perpetual vicissitudes in our health, in
+our humors, in our internal and external dispositions; in fine,
+persons whom GOD would humble by many pains and labors, as well within
+as without. After this we should not wonder that troubles,
+temptations, oppositions and contradictions happen to us from men. We
+ought, on the contrary, to submit ourselves to them, and bear them as
+long as GOD pleases, as things highly advantageous to us.
+
+That the greater perfection a soul aspires after, the more dependent
+it is upon Divine grace.
+
+[2]Being questioned by one of his own society (to whom he was obliged
+to open himself) by what means he had attained such an habitual sense
+of GOD, he told him that, since his first coming to the monastery, he
+had considered GOD as the end of all his thoughts and desires, as the
+mark to which they should tend, and in which they should terminate.
+
+That in the beginning of his novitiate, he spent the hours appointed
+for private prayer in thinking of GOD, so as to convince his mind of,
+and to impress deeply upon his heart, the Divine existence, rather by
+devout sentiments, and submission to the lights of faith, than by
+studied reasonings and elaborate meditations. That by this short and
+sure method, he exercised himself in the knowledge and love of GOD,
+resolving to use his utmost endeavor to live, in a continual sense of
+His Presence, and if possible, never to forget Him more.
+
+That when he had thus in prayer filled his mind with great sentiments
+of that infinite Being, he went to his work appointed in the kitchen
+(for he was cook to the society); there having first considered
+severally the things his office required, and when and how each thing
+was to be done, he spent all the intervals of his time, as well before
+as after his work, in prayer.
+
+That when he began his business, he said to GOD, with a filial trust
+in Him, "O my GOD, since Thou art with me, and I must now, in
+obedience to Thy commands, apply my mind to these outward things, I
+beseech Thee to grant me the grace to continue in Thy Presence; and to
+this end do Thou prosper me with Thy assistance, receive all my works,
+and possess all my affections."
+
+As he proceeded in his work, he continued his familiar conversation
+with his Maker,--imploring His grace, and offering to Him all his
+actions.
+
+When he had finished, he examined himself how he had discharged his
+duty; if he found _well_, he returned thanks to GOD; if otherwise, he
+asked pardon; and without being discouraged, he set his mind right
+again, and continued his exercise of the _presence_ of GOD, as if he
+had never deviated from it. "Thus," said he, "by rising after my
+falls, and by frequently renewed acts of faith and love, I am come to
+a state wherein it would be as difficult for me not to think of GOD as
+it was at first to accustom myself to it."
+
+As brother Lawrence had found such an advantage in walking in the
+presence of GOD, it was natural for him to recommend it earnestly to
+others; but his example was a stronger inducement than any arguments
+he could propose. His very countenance was edifying, such a sweet and
+calm devotion appearing in it as could not but effect the beholders.
+And it was observed that in the greatest hurry of business in the
+kitchen, he still preserved his recollection and heavenly-mindedness.
+He was never hasty nor loitering, but did each thing in its season,
+with an even, uninterrupted composure and tranquility of spirit. "The
+time of business," said he, "does not with me differ from the time of
+prayer; and in the noise and clatter of my kitchen, while several
+persons are at the same time calling for different things, I possess
+GOD in as great tranquility as if I were upon my knees at the blessed
+sacrament."
+
+
+
+
+LETTERS.
+
+
+
+
+FIRST LETTER.
+
+
+Since you desire so earnestly that I should communicate to you the
+method by which I arrived at that _habitual sense of_ GOD'S
+_Presence_, which our LORD, of His mercy, has been pleased to
+vouch-safe to me, I must tell you that it is with great difficulty
+that I am prevailed on by your importunities; and now I do it only
+upon the terms that you show my letter to nobody. If I knew that you
+should let it be seen, all the desire that I have for your advancement
+would not be able to determine me to it. The account I can give you
+is:
+
+Having found in many books different methods of going to GOD, and
+divers practices of the spiritual life, I thought this would serve
+rather to puzzle me than facilitate what I sought after, which was
+nothing but how to become wholly GOD'S. This made me resolve to give
+the all for the all; so after having given myself wholly to GOD, that
+He might take away my sin, _I renounced, for the love of Him,
+everything that was not He; and I began to live as if there was none
+but He and I in the world_. Sometimes I considered myself before Him
+as a poor criminal at the feet of his judge; at other times I beheld
+Him in my heart as my FATHER, as my GOD: I worshipped Him the oftenest
+that I could, keeping my mind in His holy Presence, and recalling it
+as often as I found it wandered from Him. I found no small pain in
+this exercise, and yet I continued it, notwithstanding all the
+difficulties that occurred, without troubling or disquieting myself
+when my mind had wandered involuntarily. I made this my business as
+much all the day long as at the appointed times of prayer; for at all
+times, every hour, every minute, even in the height of my business, I
+drove away from my mind everything that was capable of interrupting my
+thought of GOD.
+
+Such has been my common practice ever since I entered in religion;
+and, though I have done it very imperfectly, yet I have found great
+advantages by it. These, I well know, are to be imputed to the mere
+mercy and goodness of GOD, because we can do nothing without Him; and
+_I_ still less than any. But when we are faithful to keep ourselves in
+His holy Presence, and set Him always before us, this not only hinders
+our offending Him, and doing anything that may displease Him, at least
+wilfully, but it also begets in us a holy freedom, and, if I may so
+speak, a familiarity with GOD, wherewith we ask, and that
+successfully, the graces we stand in need of. In fine, by often
+repeating these acts, they become _habitual_, and the presence of GOD
+rendered as it were _natural to_ us Give Him thanks, if you please,
+with me, for His great goodness towards me, which I can never
+sufficiently admire, for the many favors He has done to so miserable a
+sinner as I am. May all things praise Him. Amen.
+
+I am, in our LORD, yours, &c.
+
+
+
+SECOND LETTER.
+
+
+_To the Reverend_--
+
+Not finding my manner of life in books, although I have no difficulty
+about it, yet, for greater security, I shall be glad to know your
+thoughts concerning it.
+
+In a conversation some days since with a person of piety, he told me
+the spiritual life was a life of grace, which begins with servile
+fear, which is increased by hope of eternal life, and which is
+consummated by pure love. That each of these states had its different
+stages, by which one arrives at last at that blessed consummation.
+
+I have not followed all these methods. On the contrary, from I know
+not what instincts, I found they discouraged me. This was the reason
+why, at my entrance into religion, I took a resolution to give myself
+up to GOD, as the best return I could make for His love; and, for the
+love of Him, to renounce all besides.
+
+For the first year I commonly employed myself during the time set
+apart for devotion with the thought of death, judgment, heaven, hell,
+and my sins, Thus continued some years, applying my mind carefully the
+rest of the day, and even in the midst of my business, _to the
+presence of_ GOD, whom I considered always as _with_ me, often as _in_
+me.
+
+At length I came insensibly to do the same thing during my set time of
+prayer, which caused in me great delight and consolation. This
+practice produced in me so high an esteem for GOD, that _faith_ alone
+was capable to satisfy me in that point.[3]
+
+Such was my beginning; and yet I must tell you that for the first ten
+years I suffered much: the apprehension that I was not devoted to GOD
+as I wished to be, my past sins always present to my mind, and the
+great unmerited favors which GOD did me, were the matter and source of
+my sufferings. During this time I fell often, and rose again
+presently. It seemed to me that all creatures, reason, and GOD Himself
+were against me; and _faith_ alone for me. I was troubled sometimes
+with thoughts that to believe I had received such favors was an effect
+of my presumption, which pretended to be _at once_ where others arrive
+with difficulty; at other times that it was a wilful delusion, and
+that there was no salvation for me.
+
+When I thought of nothing but to end my days in these troubles (which
+did not at all diminish the trust I had in GOD, and which served only
+to increase my faith), I found myself changed all at once; and my
+soul, which, till that time, was in trouble, felt a profound inward
+peace, as if she were in her centre and place of rest.
+
+Ever since that time I walk before GOD simply, in faith, with humility
+and with love; and I apply myself diligently to do nothing and think
+nothing which may displease Him. I hope that when I have done what I
+can, He will do with me what He pleases.
+
+As for what passes in me at present, I cannot express it. I have no
+pain or difficulty about my state, because I have no will but that of
+GOD, which I endeavor to accomplish in all things, and to which I am
+so resigned that I would not take up a straw from the ground against
+His order, or from any other motive than purely that of love to Him.
+
+I have quitted all forms of devotion and set prayers but those to
+which my state obliges me. And I make it my business only to persevere
+in His holy presence, wherein I keep myself by a simple attention, and
+a general fond regard to GOD, which I may call an _actual presence of_
+GOD; or, to speak better, an habitual, silent and secret conversation
+of the soul with GOD, which often causes me joys and raptures
+inwardly, and sometimes also outwardly, so great, that I am forced to
+use means to moderate them and prevent their appearance to others.
+
+In short, I am assured beyond all doubt that my soul has been with GOD
+above these thirty years. I pass over many things that I may not be
+tedious to you, yet I think it proper to inform you after what manner
+I consider myself before GOD, whom I behold as my King.
+
+I consider myself as the most wretched of men, full of sores and
+corruption, and who has committed all sorts of crimes against his
+King; touched with a sensible regret, I confess to him all my
+wickedness, I ask His forgiveness, I abandon myself in His hands that
+He may do what he pleases with me. The King, full of mercy and
+goodness, very far from chastising me, embraces me with love, makes me
+eat at His table, serves me with His own hands, gives me the key of
+His treasures; He converses and delights Himself with me incessantly,
+in a thousand and a thousand ways, and treats me in all respects as
+His favorite. It is thus I consider myself from time to time in His
+holy presence.
+
+My most useful method is this simple attention, and such a general
+passionate regard to GOD; to whom I find myself often attached with
+greater sweetness and delight than that of an infant at the mother's
+breast; so that, if I dare use the expression, I should choose to call
+this state the bosom, of GOD, for the inexpressible sweetness which I
+taste and experience there.
+
+If sometimes my thoughts wander from it by necessity or infirmity, I
+am presently recalled by inward motions so charming and delicious that
+I am ashamed to mention them. I desire your reverence to reflect
+rather upon my great wretchedness, of which you are fully informed,
+than upon the great favors which GOD does me, all unworthy and
+ungrateful as I am.
+
+As for my set hours of prayer, they are only a continuation of the
+same exercise. Sometimes I consider myself there as a stone before a
+carver, whereof he is to make a statue; presenting myself thus before
+GOD, I desire Him to form His perfect image in my soul, and make me
+entirely like Himself.
+
+At other times, when I apply myself to prayer, I feel all my spirit
+and all my soul lift itself up without any care or effort of mine, and
+it continues as it were suspended and firmly fixed in GOD, as in its
+centre and place of rest.
+
+I know that some charge this state with inactivity, delusion and
+self-love. I confess that it is a holy inactivity, and would be a
+happy self-love, if the soul in that state were capable of it;
+because, in effect, while she is in this repose, she cannot be
+disturbed by such acts as she was formerly accustomed to, and which
+were then her support, but which would now rather hinder than assist
+her.
+
+Yet I cannot bear that this should be called delusion; because the
+soul which thus enjoys GOD desires herein nothing but Him. If this be
+delusion in me, it belongs to GOD to remedy it. Let Him do what He
+pleases with me; I desire only Him, and to be wholly devoted to Him.
+You will, however, oblige me in sending me your opinion, to which I
+always pay a great deference, for I have a singular esteem for your
+reverence, and am in our LORD,
+
+Yours, &c.
+
+
+
+THIRD LETTER.
+
+
+We have a GOD who is infinitely gracious and knows all our wants. I
+always thought that He would reduce you to extremity. He will come in
+His own time, and when you least expect it. Hope in Him more than
+ever; thank Him with me for the favors he does you, particularly for
+the fortitude and patience which He gives you in your afflictions. It
+is a plain mark of the care He takes of you. Comfort yourself, then,
+with Him, and give thanks for all.
+
+I admire also the fortitude and bravery of Mr. ----. God has given him
+a good disposition and a good will; but there is in him still a little
+of the world, and a great deal of youth. I hope the affliction which
+GOD has sent him will prove a wholesome remedy to him, and make him
+enter into himself. It is an accident which should engage him to put
+all his trust in _Him_ who accompanies him everywhere. Let him think
+of Him as often as he can, especially in the greatest dangers. A
+little lifting up of the heart suffices. A little remembrance of GOD,
+one act of inward worship, though upon a march, and a sword in hand,
+are prayers, which, however short, are nevertheless very acceptable to
+GOD; and far from lessening a soldier's courage in occasions of
+danger, they best serve to fortify it.
+
+Let him then think of GOD the most he can. Let him accustom himself,
+by degrees, to this small but holy exercise. No one will notice it,
+and nothing is easier than to repeat often in the day these little
+internal adorations. Recommend to him, if you please, that he think of
+GOD the most he can, in the manner here directed. It is very fit and
+most necessary for a soldier, who is daily exposed to the dangers of
+life. I hope that GOD will assist him and all the family, to whom I
+present my service, being theirs and Yours, &c.
+
+
+
+FOURTH LETTER.
+
+
+I have taken this opportunity to communicate to you the sentiments of
+one of our society, concerning the admirable effects and continual
+assistances which he receives from _the presence of_ GOD. Let you and
+me both profit by them.
+
+You must know his continual care has been, for about forty years past
+that he has spent in religion, to be _always with_ GOD, and to do
+nothing, say nothing, and think nothing which may displease Him; and
+this without any other view than purely for the love of Him, and
+because he deserves infinitely more.
+
+He is now so accustomed to that _Divine Presence_, that he receives
+from it continual succors upon all occasions. For about thirty years,
+his soul has been filled with joys so continual, and sometimes so
+great, that he is forced to use means to moderate them, and to hinder
+their appearing outwardly.
+
+If sometimes he is a little too much absent from that _Divine
+Presence_, GOD presently makes Himself to be felt in his soul to
+recall him, which often happens when he is most engaged in his outward
+business. He answers with exact fidelity to these inward drawings,
+either by an elevation of his heart towards GOD, or by a meek and fond
+regard to Him, or by such words as love forms upon these occasions, as
+for instance, _My God, here I am all devoted to Thee_: LORD, _make me
+according to Thy heart_. And then it seems to him (as in effect he
+feels it) that this GOD of love, satisfied with such few words,
+reposes again, and rests in the fund and centre of his soul. The
+experience of these things gives him such an assurance that GOD is
+always in the fund or bottom of his soul, that it renders him
+incapable of doubting it upon any account whatever.
+
+Judge by this what content and satisfaction he enjoys while he
+continually finds in himself so great a treasure. He is no longer in
+an anxious search after it, but has it open before him, and may take
+what he pleases of it.
+
+He complains much of our blindness, and cries often that we are to be
+pitied who content ourselves with so little. GOD, saith he, _has
+infinite treasure to bestow, and we take up with a little sensible
+devotion, which passes in a moment. Blind as we are, we hinder GOD,
+and stop the current of His graces. But when He finds a soul
+penetrated with a lively faith, He pours into it His graces and favors
+plentifully: there they flow like a torrent, which, after being
+forcibly stopped against its ordinary course, when it has found a
+passage, spreads itself with impetuosity and abundance_.
+
+Yes, we often stop this torrent by the little value we set upon it.
+But let us stop it no more; let us enter into ourselves and break down
+the bank which hinders it. Let us make way for grace; let us redeem
+the lost time, for perhaps we have but little left. Death follows us
+close; let us be well prepared for it: for we die but once; and a
+miscarriage _there_ is irretrievable.
+
+I say again, let us enter into ourselves. The time presses, there is
+no room for delay: our souls are at stake. I believe you have taken
+such effectual measures that you will not be surprised. I commend you
+for it; it is the one thing necessary. We must, nevertheless, always
+work at it, because not to advance in the spiritual life is to go
+back. But those who have the gale of the HOLY SPIRIT go forward even
+in sleep. If the vessel of our soul is still tossed with winds and
+storms, let us awake the LORD, who reposes in it, and He will quickly
+calm the sea.
+
+I have taken the liberty to impart to you these good sentiments, that
+you may compare them with your own. It will serve again to kindle and
+inflame them, if by misfortune (which GOD forbid, for it would be
+indeed a great misfortune) they should be, though never so little,
+cooled. Let us then _both_ recall our first fervors. Let us profit by
+the example and the sentiments of this brother, who is little known of
+the world, but known of GOD, and extremely caressed by Him. I will
+pray for you; do you pray instantly for me, who am, in our LORD.
+
+Yours, &c.
+
+
+
+FIFTH LETTER.
+
+
+I received this day two books and a letter from Sister ----, who is
+preparing to make her profession, and upon that account desires the
+prayers of your holy society, and yours in particular. I perceive that
+she reckons much upon them; pray do not disappoint her. Beg of GOD
+that she may make her sacrifice in the view of His love alone, and
+with a firm resolution to be wholly devoted to Him. I will send you
+one of these books which treat of _the presence of_ GOD; a subject
+which, in my opinion, contains the whole spiritual life; and it seems
+to me that whoever duly practices it will soon become spiritual.
+
+I know that for the right practice of it, the heart must be empty of
+all other things; because GOD will possess the heart _alone_; and as
+He cannot possess it _alone_ without emptying it of all besides, so
+neither can He act _there_, and do in it what He pleases, unless it be
+left vacant to Him.
+
+There is not in the world a kind of life more sweet and delightful
+than that of a continual conversation with GOD. Those only can
+comprehend it who practice and experience it; yet I do not advise you
+to do it from that motive. It is not pleasure which we ought to seek
+in this exercise; but let us do it from a principle of love, and
+because GOD would have us.
+
+Were I a preacher, I should, above all other things, preach the
+practice of _the presence of_ GOD; and, were I a director, I should
+advise all the world to do it, so necessary do I think it, and so easy
+too.
+
+Ah! knew we but the want we have of the grace and assistance of GOD,
+we should never lose sight of Him, no, not for a moment. Believe me;
+make immediately a holy and firm resolution never more wilfully to
+forget Him, and to spend the rest of your days in His sacred presence,
+deprived for the love of Him, if He thinks fit, of all consolations.
+
+Set heartily about this work, and if you do it as you ought, be
+assured that you will soon find the effects of it. I will assist you
+with my prayers, poor as they are. I recommend myself earnestly to
+yours and those of your holy society being theirs, and more
+particularly
+
+Yours, &c.
+
+
+
+SIXTH LETTER.
+
+
+_To the Same_.
+
+I have received from Mrs. ----, the things which you gave her for me.
+I wonder that you have not given me your thoughts of the little book I
+sent to you, and which you must have received. Pray set heartily about
+the practice of it in your old age: it is better late than never.
+
+I cannot imagine how religious persons can live satisfied without the
+practice of _the presence of_ GOD. For my part. I keep myself retired
+with Him in the fund or centre of my soul as much as I can; and while
+I am so with Him I fear nothing, but the least turning from Him is
+insupportable.
+
+This exercise does not much fatigue the body; it is, however, proper
+to deprive it sometimes, nay often; of many little pleasures which are
+innocent and lawful, for GOD will not permit that a soul which desires
+to be devoted entirely to Him should take other pleasures than with
+Him: that is more than reasonable.
+
+I do not say that therefore we must put any violent constraint upon
+ourselves. No, we must serve GOD in a holy freedom; we must do our
+business faithfully; without trouble or disquiet, recalling our mind
+to GOD mildly, and with tranquility, as often as we find it wandering
+from Him.
+
+It is, however, necessary to put our whole trust in GOD, laying aside
+all other cares, and even some particular forms of devotion, though
+very good in themselves, yet such as one often engages in
+unreasonably, because these devotions are only means to attain to the
+end. So when by this exercise of _the presence of_ GOD we are _with
+Him_ who is our end, it is then useless to return to the means; but we
+may continue with Him our commerce of love, persevering in His holy
+presence, one while by an act of praise, of adoration or of desire;
+one while by an act of resignation or thanksgiving; and in all the
+ways which our spirit can invent.
+
+Be not discouraged by the repugnance which you may find in it from
+nature; you must do yourself violence. At the first one often thinks
+it lost time, but you must go on, and resolve to persevere in it to
+death, notwithstanding all the difficulties that may occur. I
+recommend myself to the prayers of your holy society, and yours in
+particular. I am, in our LORD,
+
+Yours, &c.
+
+
+
+SEVENTH LETTER.
+
+
+I pity you much. It will be of great importance if you can leave the
+care of your affairs to ----, and spend the remainder of your life
+only in worshiping GOD. He requires no great matters of us; a little
+remembrance of Him from time to time; a little adoration; sometimes to
+pray for His grace, sometimes to offer Him your sufferings, and
+sometimes to return Him thanks for the favors He has given you, and
+still gives you, in the midst of your troubles, and to console
+yourself with Him the oftenest you can. Lift up your heart to Him,
+sometimes even at your meals, and when you are in company: the least
+little remembrance will always be acceptable to Him. You need not cry
+very loud; He is nearer to us than we are aware of.
+
+It is not necessary for being with GOD to be always at church: we may
+make an oratory of our heart wherein to retire from time to time to
+converse with Him in meekness, humility and love. Every one is capable
+of such familiar conversation with GOD, some more, some less: He knows
+what we can do. Let us begin, then. Perhaps He expects but one
+generous resolution on our part. Have courage. We have but little time
+to live; you are near sixty-four, and I am almost eighty. Let us live
+and die with GOD. Sufferings will be sweet and pleasant to us while we
+are with Him; and the greatest pleasures will be, without Him, a cruel
+punishment to us. May He be blessed for all. Amen.
+
+Accustom yourself, then, by degrees thus to worship Him, to beg His
+grace, to offer Him your heart from time to time in the midst of your
+business, even every moment, if you can. Do not always scrupulously
+confine yourself to certain rules, or particular forms of devotion,
+but act with a general confidence in GOD, with love and humility. You
+may assure ---- of my poor prayers, and that I am their servant, and
+particularly
+
+Yours in our LORD, &c.
+
+
+
+EIGHTH LETTER.
+
+
+_(Concerning wandering thoughts in Prayer.)_
+
+You tell me nothing new; you are not the only one that is troubled
+with wandering thoughts. Our mind is extremely roving; but, as the
+will is mistress of all our faculties, she must recall them, and carry
+them to GOD as their last end.
+
+When the mind, for want of being sufficiently reduced by recollection
+at our first engaging in devotion, has contracted certain bad habits
+of wandering and dissipation, they are difficult to overcome, and
+commonly draw us, even against our wills, to the things of the earth.
+
+I believe one remedy for this is to confess our faults, and to humble
+ourselves before GOD. I do not advise you to use multiplicity of words
+in prayer: many words and long discourses being often the occasions of
+wandering. Hold yourself in prayer before GOD, like a dumb or
+paralytic beggar at a rich man's gate. Let it be _your_ business to
+keep your mind in the presence of the LORD. If it sometimes wander and
+withdraw itself from Him, do not much disquiet yourself for that:
+trouble and disquiet serve rather to distract the mind than to
+re-collect it: the will must bring it back in tranquility. If you
+persevere in this manner, GOD will have pity on you.
+
+One way to re-collect the mind easily in the time of prayer, and
+preserve it more in tranquility, is _not to let it wander too far at
+other times_: you should keep it strictly in the presence of GOD; and
+being accustomed to think of Him often, you will find it easy to keep
+your mind calm in the time of prayer, or at least to recall it from
+its wanderings.
+
+I have told you already at large, in my former letters, of the
+advantages we may draw from this practice of the presence of GOD: let
+us set about it seriously, and pray for one another.
+
+Yours, &c.
+
+
+
+NINTH LETTER.
+
+
+The enclosed is an answer to that which I received from ----; pray
+deliver it to her. She seems to me full of good will, but she would go
+faster than grace. One does not become holy all at once. I recommend
+her to you: we ought to help one another by our advice, and yet more
+by our good examples. You will oblige me to let me hear of her from
+time to time, and whether she be very fervent and very obedient.
+
+Let us thus think often that our only business in this life is to
+please GOD, and that all besides is but folly and vanity. You and I
+have lived about forty years in religion (_i.e._, a monastic life).
+Have we employed them in loving and serving GOD, who by His mercy has
+called us to this state and for that very end? I am filled with shame
+and confusion when I reflect on one hand upon the great favors which
+GOD has done, and incessantly continues to do me; and on the other,
+upon the ill use I have made of them, and my small advancement in the
+way of perfection.
+
+Since by His mercy He gives us still a little time, let us begin in
+earnest: let us repair the lost time: let us return with a full
+assurance to that FATHER of mercies, who is always ready to receive us
+affectionately. Let us renounce, let us generously renounce, for the
+love of Him, all that is not Himself; He deserves infinitely more. Let
+us think of Him perpetually. Let us put all our trust in Him. I doubt
+not but we shall soon find the effects of it in receiving the
+abundance of His grace, with which we can do all things, and without
+which we can do nothing but sin.
+
+We cannot escape the dangers which abound in life without the actual
+and _continual_ help of GOD: let us then pray to Him for it
+_continually_. How can we pray to Him without being with Him? How can
+we be with Him but in thinking of Him often? And how can we often
+think of Him, but by a holy habit which we should form of it? You will
+tell me that I am always saying the same thing. It is true, for this
+is the best and easiest method I know; and as I use no other, I advise
+all the world to do it. We must _know_ before we can _love_. In order
+to _know_ GOD, we must often _think_ of Him; and when we come to
+_love_ Him, we shall then also think of Him often, for our heart will
+be with our treasure. This is an argument which well deserves your
+consideration.
+
+I am, Yours, &c.
+
+
+
+TENTH LETTER.
+
+
+I have had a good deal of difficulty to bring myself to write to Mr.
+----, and I do it now purely because you and Madam ---- desire me.
+Pray write the directions and send it to him. I am very well pleased
+with the trust which you have in GOD: I wish that He may increase it
+in you more and more. We cannot have too much in so good and faithful
+a Friend, who will never fail us in this world nor in the next.
+
+If Mr. ---- makes his advantage of the loss he has had, and puts all
+his confidence in GOD, He will soon give him another friend, more
+powerful and more inclined to serve him. He disposes of hearts as He
+pleases. Perhaps Mr. ---- was too much attached to him he has lost. We
+ought to love our friends, but without encroaching upon the love due
+to GOD, which must be the principal.
+
+Pray remember what I have recommended to you, which is, to think often
+on GOD, by day, by night, in your business, and even in your
+diversions. He is always near you and with you: leave Him not alone.
+You would think it rude to leave a friend alone who came to visit you:
+why then must GOD be neglected? Do not then forget Him, but think on
+Him often, adore Him continually, live and die with Him; this is the
+glorious employment of a Christian. In a word, this is our profession;
+if we do not know it, we must learn it. I will endeavor to help you
+with my prayers, and am, in our LORD, Yours, &c.
+
+
+
+ELEVENTH LETTER.
+
+
+I do not pray that you may be delivered from your pains, but I pray
+GOD earnestly that He would give you strength and patience to bear
+them as long as He pleases. Comfort yourself with Him who holds you
+fastened to the cross. He will loose you when He thinks fit. Happy
+those who suffer with Him: accustom yourself to suffer in that manner,
+and seek from Him the strength to endure as much, and as long, as He
+shall judge to be necessary for you. The men of the world do not
+comprehend these truths, nor is it to be wondered at, since they
+suffer like what they are, and not like Christians. They consider
+sickness as a pain to nature, and not as a favor from GOD; and seeing
+it only in that light, they find nothing in it but grief and distress.
+But those who consider sickness as coming from the hand of GOD, as the
+effect of His mercy, and the means which He employs for their
+salvation--such, commonly find in it great sweetness and sensible
+consolation.
+
+I wish you could convince yourself that GOD is often (in some sense)
+nearer to us, and more effectually present with us, in sickness than
+in health. Rely upon no other Physician; for, according to my
+apprehension, He reserves your cure to Himself. Put, then, all your
+trust in Him, and you will soon find the effects of it in your
+recovery, which we often retard by putting greater confidence in
+physic than in GOD.
+
+Whatever remedies you make use of, they will succeed only so far as He
+permits. When pains come from GOD, He only can cure them. He often
+sends diseases of the body to cure those of the soul. Comfort yourself
+with the sovereign Physician both of the soul and body.
+
+Be satisfied with the condition in which GOD places you: however happy
+you may think me, I envy you. Pains and sufferings would be a paradise
+to me while I should suffer with my GOD; and the greatest pleasures
+would be hell to me if I could relish them without Him. All my
+consolation would be to suffer something for His sake.
+
+I must, in a little time, go to GOD. What comforts me in this life is,
+that I now see Him _by faith_; and I see Him in such a manner as might
+make me say sometimes, _I believe no more, but I see_. I feel what
+faith teaches us, and in that assurance and that practice of faith, I
+will live and die with Him.
+
+Continue then always with GOD: it is the only support and comfort for
+your affliction. I shall beseech Him to be with you. I present my
+service.
+
+Yours, &c.
+
+
+
+TWELFTH LETTER.
+
+
+If we were well accustomed to the exercise of _the presence of_ GOD,
+all bodily diseases would be much alleviated thereby. GOD often
+permits that we should suffer a little to purify our souls and oblige
+us to continue _with_ Him.
+
+Take courage: offer Him your pains incessantly: pray to Him for
+strength to endure them. Above all, get a habit of entertaining
+yourself often with GOD, and forget Him the least you can. Adore Him
+in your infirmities, offer yourself to Him from time to time, and in
+the height of your sufferings, beseech Him humbly and affectionately
+(as a child his father) to make you conformable to His holy-will. I
+shall endeavor to assist you with my poor prayers.
+
+GOD has many ways of drawing us to Himself. He sometimes hides Himself
+from us, but _faith_ alone, which will not fail us in time of need,
+ought to be our support, and the foundation of our confidence, which
+must be all in GOD.
+
+I know not how GOD will dispose of me. I am always happy. All the
+world suffer; and I, who deserve the severest discipline, feel joys so
+continual and so great that I can scarce contain them.
+
+I would willingly ask of GOD a part of your sufferings, but that I
+know my weakness, which is so great, that if He left me one moment to
+myself I should be the most wretched man alive. And yet I know not how
+He can leave me alone, because faith gives me as strong a conviction
+as sense can do, that He never forsakes us until we have first
+forsaken Him. Let us fear to leave Him. Let us be always with Him. Let
+us live and die in His presence. Do you pray for me, as I for you.
+
+I am, Yours, &c.
+
+
+
+THIRTEENTH LETTER.
+
+
+_To the Same_.
+
+I am in pain to see you suffer so long. What gives me some ease and
+sweetens the feelings I have for your griefs is, that they are proofs
+of GOD'S love towards you. See them in that view and you will bear
+them more easily. As your case is, it is my opinion that you should
+leave off human remedies, and resign yourself entirely to the
+providence of GOD: perhaps He stays only for that resignation and a
+perfect trust in Him to cure you. Since, notwithstanding all your
+cares, physic has hitherto proved unsuccessful, and your malady still
+increases, it will not be tempting GOD to abandon yourself in His
+hands, and expect all from Him.
+
+I told you in my last that He sometimes permits bodily diseases to
+cure the distempers of the soul. Have courage then: make a virtue of
+necessity. Ask of GOD, not deliverance from your pains, but strength
+to bear resolutely, for the love of Him, all that He should please,
+and as long as He shall please.
+
+Such prayers, indeed, are a little hard to nature, but most acceptable
+to GOD, and sweet to those that love Him. Love sweetens pains; and
+when one loves GOD, one suffers for His sake with joy and courage. Do
+you so, I beseech you: comfort yourself with Him, who is the only
+Physician of all our maladies. He is the FATHER of the afflicted,
+always ready to help us. He loves us infinitely more than we imagine.
+Love Him, then, and seek no consolation elsewhere. I hope you will
+soon receive it. Adieu. I will help you with my prayers, poor as they
+are, and shall always be, in our LORD Yours, &c.
+
+
+
+FOURTEENTH LETTER.
+
+
+_To the Same_.
+
+I render thanks to our LORD for having relieved you a little,
+according to your desire. I have been often near expiring, but I never
+was so much satisfied as then. Accordingly, I did not pray for any
+relief, but I prayed for strength to suffer with courage, humility and
+love. Ah, how sweet it is to suffer with GOD! However great the
+sufferings may be, receive them with love. It is paradise to suffer
+and be with Him; so that if in this life we would enjoy the peace of
+paradise we must accustom ourselves to a familiar, humble,
+affectionate conversation with Him. We must hinder our spirits
+wandering from Him upon any occasion. We must make our heart a
+spiritual temple, wherein to adore Him incessantly. We must watch
+continually over ourselves, that we may not do, nor say, nor think
+anything that may displease Him. When our minds are thus employed
+about GOD, suffering will become full of unction and consolation.
+
+I know that to arrive at this state the beginning is very difficult,
+for we must act purely in faith. But though it is difficult, we know
+also that we can do all things with the grace of GOD, which He never
+refuses to them who ask it earnestly. Knock, persevere in knocking,
+and I answer for it that He will open to you in His due time, and
+grant you all at once what He has deferred during many years. Adieu!
+Pray to Him for me, as I pray to Him for you. I hope to see Him
+quickly.
+
+I am, Yours, &c.
+
+
+
+FIFTEENTH LETTER.
+
+
+_To the Same_.
+
+GOD knoweth best what is needful for us, and all that He does is for
+our good. If we knew how much He loves us, we should always be ready
+to receive equally and with indifference from His Hand the sweet and
+the bitter: all would please that came from Him. The sorest
+afflictions never appear intolerable, except when we see them in the
+wrong light. When we see them as dispensed by the hand of GOD, when we
+know that it is our loving FATHER who abases and distresses us, our
+sufferings will lose their bitterness, and become even matter of
+consolation.
+
+Let all our employment be to _know_ GOD: the more one _knows_ Him, the
+more one _desires_ to know Him. And as _knowledge_ is commonly the
+measure of _love_, the deeper and more extensive our _knowledge_ shall
+be, the greater will be our _love_: and if our love of GOD were great,
+we should love Him equally in pains and pleasures.
+
+Let us not content ourselves with loving GOD for the mere sensible
+favors, how elevated soever, which he has done, or may do us. Such
+favors, though never so great, cannot bring us so near to Him as faith
+does in one simple act. Let us seek Him often by faith. He is within
+us: seek Him not elsewhere. If we do love Him alone, are we not rude,
+and do we not deserve blame, if we busy ourselves about trifles which
+do not please and perhaps offend Him. It is to be feared these
+_trifles_ will one day cost us dear.
+
+Let us begin to be devoted to Him in good earnest. Let us cast
+everything besides out of our hearts. He would possess them alone. Beg
+this favor of Him. If we do what we can on our parts, we shall soon
+see that change wrought in us which we aspire after. I cannot thank
+Him sufficiently for the relaxation He has vouchsafed you. I hope from
+His mercy the favor to see Him within a few days.[4] Let us pray for
+one another.
+
+I am, in our LORD, Yours, &c.
+
+NOTES:
+
+[1: Gal. i, 10; Eph. vi, 5, 6.]
+
+[2: The particulars which follow are collected from other accounts of
+Brother Lawrence.]
+
+[3: _I suppose he means_ that all distinct notions he could form of
+GOD, were unsatisfactory, because he perceived them to be unworthy of
+GOD; and therefore his mind was not to be satisfied but by the views
+of _faith_, which apprehend GOD as infinite and incomprehensible, as
+He is in Himself, and not as He can be conceived by human ideas.]
+
+[4: He took to his bed two days after, and died within the week.]
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Practice of the Presence of God
+the Best Rule of a Holy Life, by Herman Nicholas
+
+*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK PRACTICE OF THE PRESENCE OF GOD ***
+
+***** This file should be named 13871.txt or 13871.zip *****
+This and all associated files of various formats will be found in:
+        https://www.gutenberg.org/1/3/8/7/13871/
+
+Produced by Robert Shimmin, Project Manager, Keith M. Eckrich,
+Post-Processor, and the Project Gutenberg Online Distributed
+Proofreading Team
+
+
+Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions
+will be renamed.
+
+Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no
+one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation
+(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without
+permission and without paying copyright royalties.  Special rules,
+set forth in the General Terms of Use part of this license, apply to
+copying and distributing Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works to
+protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm concept and trademark.  Project
+Gutenberg is a registered trademark, and may not be used if you
+charge for the eBooks, unless you receive specific permission.  If you
+do not charge anything for copies of this eBook, complying with the
+rules is very easy.  You may use this eBook for nearly any purpose
+such as creation of derivative works, reports, performances and
+research.  They may be modified and printed and given away--you may do
+practically ANYTHING with public domain eBooks.  Redistribution is
+subject to the trademark license, especially commercial
+redistribution.
+
+
+
+*** START: FULL LICENSE ***
+
+THE FULL PROJECT GUTENBERG LICENSE
+PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU DISTRIBUTE OR USE THIS WORK
+
+To protect the Project Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting the free
+distribution of electronic works, by using or distributing this work
+(or any other work associated in any way with the phrase "Project
+Gutenberg"), you agree to comply with all the terms of the Full Project
+Gutenberg-tm License (available with this file or online at
+https://gutenberg.org/license).
+
+
+Section 1.  General Terms of Use and Redistributing Project Gutenberg-tm
+electronic works
+
+1.A.  By reading or using any part of this Project Gutenberg-tm
+electronic work, you indicate that you have read, understand, agree to
+and accept all the terms of this license and intellectual property
+(trademark/copyright) agreement.  If you do not agree to abide by all
+the terms of this agreement, you must cease using and return or destroy
+all copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in your possession.
+If you paid a fee for obtaining a copy of or access to a Project
+Gutenberg-tm electronic work and you do not agree to be bound by the
+terms of this agreement, you may obtain a refund from the person or
+entity to whom you paid the fee as set forth in paragraph 1.E.8.
+
+1.B.  "Project Gutenberg" is a registered trademark.  It may only be
+used on or associated in any way with an electronic work by people who
+agree to be bound by the terms of this agreement.  There are a few
+things that you can do with most Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works
+even without complying with the full terms of this agreement.  See
+paragraph 1.C below.  There are a lot of things you can do with Project
+Gutenberg-tm electronic works if you follow the terms of this agreement
+and help preserve free future access to Project Gutenberg-tm electronic
+works.  See paragraph 1.E below.
+
+1.C.  The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation ("the Foundation"
+or PGLAF), owns a compilation copyright in the collection of Project
+Gutenberg-tm electronic works.  Nearly all the individual works in the
+collection are in the public domain in the United States.  If an
+individual work is in the public domain in the United States and you are
+located in the United States, we do not claim a right to prevent you from
+copying, distributing, performing, displaying or creating derivative
+works based on the work as long as all references to Project Gutenberg
+are removed.  Of course, we hope that you will support the Project
+Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting free access to electronic works by
+freely sharing Project Gutenberg-tm works in compliance with the terms of
+this agreement for keeping the Project Gutenberg-tm name associated with
+the work.  You can easily comply with the terms of this agreement by
+keeping this work in the same format with its attached full Project
+Gutenberg-tm License when you share it without charge with others.
+
+1.D.  The copyright laws of the place where you are located also govern
+what you can do with this work.  Copyright laws in most countries are in
+a constant state of change.  If you are outside the United States, check
+the laws of your country in addition to the terms of this agreement
+before downloading, copying, displaying, performing, distributing or
+creating derivative works based on this work or any other Project
+Gutenberg-tm work.  The Foundation makes no representations concerning
+the copyright status of any work in any country outside the United
+States.
+
+1.E.  Unless you have removed all references to Project Gutenberg:
+
+1.E.1.  The following sentence, with active links to, or other immediate
+access to, the full Project Gutenberg-tm License must appear prominently
+whenever any copy of a Project Gutenberg-tm work (any work on which the
+phrase "Project Gutenberg" appears, or with which the phrase "Project
+Gutenberg" is associated) is accessed, displayed, performed, viewed,
+copied or distributed:
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+1.E.2.  If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is derived
+from the public domain (does not contain a notice indicating that it is
+posted with permission of the copyright holder), the work can be copied
+and distributed to anyone in the United States without paying any fees
+or charges.  If you are redistributing or providing access to a work
+with the phrase "Project Gutenberg" associated with or appearing on the
+work, you must comply either with the requirements of paragraphs 1.E.1
+through 1.E.7 or obtain permission for the use of the work and the
+Project Gutenberg-tm trademark as set forth in paragraphs 1.E.8 or
+1.E.9.
+
+1.E.3.  If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is posted
+with the permission of the copyright holder, your use and distribution
+must comply with both paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 and any additional
+terms imposed by the copyright holder.  Additional terms will be linked
+to the Project Gutenberg-tm License for all works posted with the
+permission of the copyright holder found at the beginning of this work.
+
+1.E.4.  Do not unlink or detach or remove the full Project Gutenberg-tm
+License terms from this work, or any files containing a part of this
+work or any other work associated with Project Gutenberg-tm.
+
+1.E.5.  Do not copy, display, perform, distribute or redistribute this
+electronic work, or any part of this electronic work, without
+prominently displaying the sentence set forth in paragraph 1.E.1 with
+active links or immediate access to the full terms of the Project
+Gutenberg-tm License.
+
+1.E.6.  You may convert to and distribute this work in any binary,
+compressed, marked up, nonproprietary or proprietary form, including any
+word processing or hypertext form.  However, if you provide access to or
+distribute copies of a Project Gutenberg-tm work in a format other than
+"Plain Vanilla ASCII" or other format used in the official version
+posted on the official Project Gutenberg-tm web site (www.gutenberg.org),
+you must, at no additional cost, fee or expense to the user, provide a
+copy, a means of exporting a copy, or a means of obtaining a copy upon
+request, of the work in its original "Plain Vanilla ASCII" or other
+form.  Any alternate format must include the full Project Gutenberg-tm
+License as specified in paragraph 1.E.1.
+
+1.E.7.  Do not charge a fee for access to, viewing, displaying,
+performing, copying or distributing any Project Gutenberg-tm works
+unless you comply with paragraph 1.E.8 or 1.E.9.
+
+1.E.8.  You may charge a reasonable fee for copies of or providing
+access to or distributing Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works provided
+that
+
+- You pay a royalty fee of 20% of the gross profits you derive from
+     the use of Project Gutenberg-tm works calculated using the method
+     you already use to calculate your applicable taxes.  The fee is
+     owed to the owner of the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark, but he
+     has agreed to donate royalties under this paragraph to the
+     Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation.  Royalty payments
+     must be paid within 60 days following each date on which you
+     prepare (or are legally required to prepare) your periodic tax
+     returns.  Royalty payments should be clearly marked as such and
+     sent to the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation at the
+     address specified in Section 4, "Information about donations to
+     the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation."
+
+- You provide a full refund of any money paid by a user who notifies
+     you in writing (or by e-mail) within 30 days of receipt that s/he
+     does not agree to the terms of the full Project Gutenberg-tm
+     License.  You must require such a user to return or
+     destroy all copies of the works possessed in a physical medium
+     and discontinue all use of and all access to other copies of
+     Project Gutenberg-tm works.
+
+- You provide, in accordance with paragraph 1.F.3, a full refund of any
+     money paid for a work or a replacement copy, if a defect in the
+     electronic work is discovered and reported to you within 90 days
+     of receipt of the work.
+
+- You comply with all other terms of this agreement for free
+     distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm works.
+
+1.E.9.  If you wish to charge a fee or distribute a Project Gutenberg-tm
+electronic work or group of works on different terms than are set
+forth in this agreement, you must obtain permission in writing from
+both the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation and Michael
+Hart, the owner of the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark.  Contact the
+Foundation as set forth in Section 3 below.
+
+1.F.
+
+1.F.1.  Project Gutenberg volunteers and employees expend considerable
+effort to identify, do copyright research on, transcribe and proofread
+public domain works in creating the Project Gutenberg-tm
+collection.  Despite these efforts, Project Gutenberg-tm electronic
+works, and the medium on which they may be stored, may contain
+"Defects," such as, but not limited to, incomplete, inaccurate or
+corrupt data, transcription errors, a copyright or other intellectual
+property infringement, a defective or damaged disk or other medium, a
+computer virus, or computer codes that damage or cannot be read by
+your equipment.
+
+1.F.2.  LIMITED WARRANTY, DISCLAIMER OF DAMAGES - Except for the "Right
+of Replacement or Refund" described in paragraph 1.F.3, the Project
+Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the owner of the Project
+Gutenberg-tm trademark, and any other party distributing a Project
+Gutenberg-tm electronic work under this agreement, disclaim all
+liability to you for damages, costs and expenses, including legal
+fees.  YOU AGREE THAT YOU HAVE NO REMEDIES FOR NEGLIGENCE, STRICT
+LIABILITY, BREACH OF WARRANTY OR BREACH OF CONTRACT EXCEPT THOSE
+PROVIDED IN PARAGRAPH F3.  YOU AGREE THAT THE FOUNDATION, THE
+TRADEMARK OWNER, AND ANY DISTRIBUTOR UNDER THIS AGREEMENT WILL NOT BE
+LIABLE TO YOU FOR ACTUAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR
+INCIDENTAL DAMAGES EVEN IF YOU GIVE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH
+DAMAGE.
+
+1.F.3.  LIMITED RIGHT OF REPLACEMENT OR REFUND - If you discover a
+defect in this electronic work within 90 days of receiving it, you can
+receive a refund of the money (if any) you paid for it by sending a
+written explanation to the person you received the work from.  If you
+received the work on a physical medium, you must return the medium with
+your written explanation.  The person or entity that provided you with
+the defective work may elect to provide a replacement copy in lieu of a
+refund.  If you received the work electronically, the person or entity
+providing it to you may choose to give you a second opportunity to
+receive the work electronically in lieu of a refund.  If the second copy
+is also defective, you may demand a refund in writing without further
+opportunities to fix the problem.
+
+1.F.4.  Except for the limited right of replacement or refund set forth
+in paragraph 1.F.3, this work is provided to you 'AS-IS', WITH NO OTHER
+WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO
+WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTIBILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PURPOSE.
+
+1.F.5.  Some states do not allow disclaimers of certain implied
+warranties or the exclusion or limitation of certain types of damages.
+If any disclaimer or limitation set forth in this agreement violates the
+law of the state applicable to this agreement, the agreement shall be
+interpreted to make the maximum disclaimer or limitation permitted by
+the applicable state law.  The invalidity or unenforceability of any
+provision of this agreement shall not void the remaining provisions.
+
+1.F.6.  INDEMNITY - You agree to indemnify and hold the Foundation, the
+trademark owner, any agent or employee of the Foundation, anyone
+providing copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in accordance
+with this agreement, and any volunteers associated with the production,
+promotion and distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works,
+harmless from all liability, costs and expenses, including legal fees,
+that arise directly or indirectly from any of the following which you do
+or cause to occur: (a) distribution of this or any Project Gutenberg-tm
+work, (b) alteration, modification, or additions or deletions to any
+Project Gutenberg-tm work, and (c) any Defect you cause.
+
+
+Section  2.  Information about the Mission of Project Gutenberg-tm
+
+Project Gutenberg-tm is synonymous with the free distribution of
+electronic works in formats readable by the widest variety of computers
+including obsolete, old, middle-aged and new computers.  It exists
+because of the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and donations from
+people in all walks of life.
+
+Volunteers and financial support to provide volunteers with the
+assistance they need, is critical to reaching Project Gutenberg-tm's
+goals and ensuring that the Project Gutenberg-tm collection will
+remain freely available for generations to come.  In 2001, the Project
+Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation was created to provide a secure
+and permanent future for Project Gutenberg-tm and future generations.
+To learn more about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation
+and how your efforts and donations can help, see Sections 3 and 4
+and the Foundation web page at https://www.pglaf.org.
+
+
+Section 3.  Information about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive
+Foundation
+
+The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation is a non profit
+501(c)(3) educational corporation organized under the laws of the
+state of Mississippi and granted tax exempt status by the Internal
+Revenue Service.  The Foundation's EIN or federal tax identification
+number is 64-6221541.  Its 501(c)(3) letter is posted at
+https://pglaf.org/fundraising.  Contributions to the Project Gutenberg
+Literary Archive Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent
+permitted by U.S. federal laws and your state's laws.
+
+The Foundation's principal office is located at 4557 Melan Dr. S.
+Fairbanks, AK, 99712., but its volunteers and employees are scattered
+throughout numerous locations.  Its business office is located at
+809 North 1500 West, Salt Lake City, UT 84116, (801) 596-1887, email
+business@pglaf.org.  Email contact links and up to date contact
+information can be found at the Foundation's web site and official
+page at https://pglaf.org
+
+For additional contact information:
+     Dr. Gregory B. Newby
+     Chief Executive and Director
+     gbnewby@pglaf.org
+
+Section 4.  Information about Donations to the Project Gutenberg
+Literary Archive Foundation
+
+Project Gutenberg-tm depends upon and cannot survive without wide
+spread public support and donations to carry out its mission of
+increasing the number of public domain and licensed works that can be
+freely distributed in machine readable form accessible by the widest
+array of equipment including outdated equipment.  Many small donations
+($1 to $5,000) are particularly important to maintaining tax exempt
+status with the IRS.
+
+The Foundation is committed to complying with the laws regulating
+charities and charitable donations in all 50 states of the United
+States.  Compliance requirements are not uniform and it takes a
+considerable effort, much paperwork and many fees to meet and keep up
+with these requirements.  We do not solicit donations in locations
+where we have not received written confirmation of compliance.  To
+SEND DONATIONS or determine the status of compliance for any
+particular state visit https://pglaf.org
+
+While we cannot and do not solicit contributions from states where we
+have not met the solicitation requirements, we know of no prohibition
+against accepting unsolicited donations from donors in such states who
+approach us with offers to donate.
+
+International donations are gratefully accepted, but we cannot make
+any statements concerning tax treatment of donations received from
+outside the United States.  U.S. laws alone swamp our small staff.
+
+Please check the Project Gutenberg Web pages for current donation
+methods and addresses.  Donations are accepted in a number of other
+ways including including checks, online payments and credit card
+donations.  To donate, please visit: https://pglaf.org/donate
+
+
+Section 5.  General Information About Project Gutenberg-tm electronic
+works.
+
+Professor Michael S. Hart was the originator of the Project Gutenberg-tm
+concept of a library of electronic works that could be freely shared
+with anyone.  For thirty years, he produced and distributed Project
+Gutenberg-tm eBooks with only a loose network of volunteer support.
+
+Project Gutenberg-tm eBooks are often created from several printed
+editions, all of which are confirmed as Public Domain in the U.S.
+unless a copyright notice is included.  Thus, we do not necessarily
+keep eBooks in compliance with any particular paper edition.
+
+Most people start at our Web site which has the main PG search facility:
+
+     https://www.gutenberg.org
+
+This Web site includes information about Project Gutenberg-tm,
+including how to make donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary
+Archive Foundation, how to help produce our new eBooks, and how to
+subscribe to our email newsletter to hear about new eBooks.
+
+*** END: FULL LICENSE ***
+
diff --git a/old/13871.zip b/old/13871.zip
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..54c236f
--- /dev/null
+++ b/old/13871.zip