the body, its venerable instrument, and by whose bad affections it was not defiled, occupies an august and sacred station, arranged with honour, and decorated with due care. Thus preserved, as a thing of inestimable value, it waits for the day of renovation. From the admiration produced by the sight of so many wonders, we pass eagerly to the tomb; we approach it with the hope, that by touching it we may receive some benediction. He who obtains as a favour, permission to carry away some little dust of the sepulchre, receives and preserves it as a treasure of great value. But if, fortunately, he be allowed to touch the Relics themselves, he has attained the height of his wishes. These know it well, who have been admitted to this favour, and whose desires were accomplished. The body of the Martyr appears to them in a state of freshness, as if it was still breathing; they kiss it, and successively apply it to their eyes, mouth, ears, and all their senses.' Orat, de St. Theodoro Mart. T. ii. p. 1011.
St. ASTERIUS, G. C. “ Wherefore, decently disposing of the bodies of the Martyrs, let us preserve them for ages to come, as gifts of high value. By them we are fortified ; and the Church is protected, as a city is guarded by an armed force.” Homil. in SS. Martyres. T.i. p. 186: In N. Auctario Combefis. Paris. 1648.
ST. JOHN CHRYSOSTOM, G.C. .“ That which neither riches nor gold can effect, the Relics of Martyrs can. Gold never dispelled diseases, nor warded off death: but the bones of Martyrs have done both. In the days of our Forefathers the former happened; the latter in our own.” Homil. lxvii. de St. Droside Mart. T. 11. p. 694.-“God has divided the Martyrs amongst us, taking to himself their souls, and
