ends sought to hold him back,
representing to him that such an undertaking far exceeded his capacity.
He himself informs us of this, when he says: "Many dissuaded me from this
journey, and said behind my back, 'Why does this man throw himself into
danger, amongst the heathen who do not know the Lord?' It was not said
maliciously, but they could not comprehend the thing on account of my
rustic life and manners." But nothing could mislead him, for he trusted
in the power of the Lord, who imparted to him the inward confidence that
He had called him, and was with him. He himself says of this: "Whence
came to me so great and blessed a gift, that I should know and love God,
and be able to forsake my country and my kindred, although large gifts
were offered me, with many tears, if I would remain? And against my will
I was compelled to offend many of my kindred and my well-wishers. But by
God's guidance, I yielded not to them; it was not my own power, it was
God who triumphed in me, and resisted them all, so that I went amongst
the people of Ireland to preach to them this Gospel, prepared to suffer
much contempt from the unbelieving, and many persecutions, even to
chains; and, if needful, to sacrifice my freedom for the good of others.
And if I am counted worthy, I am ready also to lay down my life with joy
for His name's sake."

Patrick, accordingly, went to Ireland, in the year 431. He could now
make use of his early proficiency in the Irish language. He gathered
great multitudes of the people together in the open air, by beat of drum,
to tell them of the sufferings of the Saviour for sinful men; and the
doctrine of the cross manifested its characteristic power over many
hearts. Patrick met indeed with much opposition. The priests and
national bards, who possessed great influence, excited the people against
him, and he had to endure many a hot persecution. But he overcame by his
steadfastness in the faith, by his fervent zeal, and by a love which drew
all hearts to itself. Patrick addressed himself especially to the chiefs
and princes of the people. They could do the most mischief, if they were
excited by the Druids against the strange religion; and, on the other
hand, if they received the Gospel, they might make their people more
accessible, and form a counterbalance to the influence of the Druids.

Patrick took the part of servants who had suffered hard usage from their
masters. When he found youths of the lowe