CHAPTER XXXV.
Of the Means by which Virtues are acquired, and of the Way we should Use them, allowing some space of Time to one Virtue only.
FOR the pursuit of virtues, besides all that has been said above, we need a large and generous mind; a will, neither unstable nor remiss, but resolute and strong, with the certain persuasion that many hindrances and trials have to be overcome.
There are, moreover, particular inclinations and affections which we may gain, by frequently considering how pleasing they are to God, how noble and excellent in themselves, and how profitable and necessary for us, for from them all perfection has its origin and end.
Each morning, then, make a stedfast resolve to exercise yourself in them during the day, according to the events which are likely to happen during the day; and often, as it passes, examine yourself in order to see whether you have kept your resolution or not; and renew it with fresh earnestness. And this should be done especially with regard to the particular virtue which we are endeavouring to acquire.
Let the examples of the Saints, and our medi-
