close intimation of the cause, and a
simple declaration of the event he was to undergo.

Secondly, likewise ministers, in the taxing sin and sinners, are to
proceed with great discretion and caution, with much gentleness and
meekness; signifying a tender pity of their infirmities, charitable
desires for their good, the best opinion of them, and the best hopes
for them, that may consist with any reason; according to those
apostolical rules: "Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye
which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness;
considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted;" and, "We that are
strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please
ourselves:" and, more expressly, "A servant of the Lord must not
fight, but be gentle toward all, apt to teach, patient, in meekness
instructing those that oppose themselves." Thus did St. Peter
temper his reproof of Simon Magus with this wholesome and
comfortable advice: "Repent, therefore, from this thy wickedness,
and pray God if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven
thee."

Thirdly, as for fraternal censure and reproof of faults (when it is
just and expedient to use it), ordinarily the calmest and mildest
way is the most proper, and most likely to obtain good success; it
commonly doth in a more kindly manner convey the sense thereof into
the heart, and therein more powerfully worketh remorse, than the
fierce and harsh way. Clearly to show a man his fault, with the
reason proving it such, so that he becometh thoroughly convinced of
it, is sufficient to breed in him regret, and to shame him before
his own mind: to do more (in way of aggravation, of insulting on
him, of inveighing against him), as it doth often not well consist
with humanity, so it is seldom consonant to discretion, if we do, as
we ought, seek his health and amendment. Humanity requireth that
when we undertake to reform our neighbour, we should take care not
to deform him (not to discourage or displease him more than is
necessary); when we would correct his manners, that we should also
consider his modesty, and consult his reputation; "curam agentes,"
as Seneca speaketh, "non tantum salutis, sed et honestae cicatricis"
(having care not only to heal the wound, but to leave a comely scar
behind). "Be," adviseth St. Austin, "so displeased with iniquity,
as to consider and consult humanity;" for, "Zeal void of humanit