hose feelings. Many of these
tales are repulsive and contrary to every sentiment, these we discussed
with subtle and ingenious commentaries in order to garnish them with a
milder spirit. But the most beautiful that this species of tradition
has preserved to us, is that, which, however, at the same time is the
most misconceived by the unawakened soul of and which is found absurd
and repulsive by the worldly minded. The life and history of the old
hermits, there may be also much of later invention, to the mind which
is once moved by spiritual things, they present a touching miracle.
What shall I say of the meditations of St. Francis, of his ardent love
and of the visions which arose and were present to this man in the
perfect humility, the compassion, and fervour of his unfettered heart?
He only who has once known the splendour of the world, the insolent
strength appertaining to it, can rightly comprehend this temper of
mind. We also often read the Gospel, and then a trembling, such as has
been frequently observed in many enthusiasts, came over my whole body,
especially when in solitude, for timidity and shame restrained me in
society from exposing my deep emotions to observation. In this frame of
mind, I left Euphemie one morning, some chapters of the Holy Scriptures
had just been read. I threw myself down in the most retired spot in the
garden, in order to give a free course to my tears. The whole world
awakened feelings of pity within me, I experienced such an overflow of
love in my oppressed heart, that it almost burst, in the excess of its
own enjoyment; I read over again the passages in Luke, how Christ met
the poor widow and the dead body of her son, and compassionately
aroused the youth from death. There are no words that can describe the
state of my mind. The elder Beauvais with a suite of servants was just
returning from the chase. He might well be astonished at finding me in
this condition, but he passed me with a mute salutation. I arose, and
now as with a tremendous power it took possession of me. Verily, said I
to myself, as thee no man has ever yet loved; it is the spirit of God,
of the Father himself that stirs within thee to gladden to love, to
sympathise with all; in these, these exalted moments I felt impressed
with the eternal truth, that I myself, I was the son, the God from
God,---and what should prevent me from moving these trees, these stones
with the word of life, that they might change into other f