mightest then be said to have no particular interest in our salvation; but God clothed himself in thy flesh for the sake of all mankind. Help us, therefore, and protect us. Thou knowest the need which we have of thy assistance, and we earnestly recommend ourselves to thy prayers. Pray that we may not be eternally lost, but with thee may love and serve Jesus Christ for ever.
Short prayer, etc. — “ O Mary, all my hopes are placed on thee.”
(Conclude as on page 438.)
FOR THURSDAY.
WHAT comfort I find in my troubles, how I am consoled in my sorrows, what strength I find in my temptations, when I think of thee, and call thee to my aid, O my sweet and holy mother, Mary! O Saints of Paradise, you had great reason to give my Sovereign Lady the beautiful names of “ Harbour of the Afflicted,” like St. Ephrem; “ Remedy of our Misery,” and “Consolation of the Unhappy,” like St. Bonaventure; “End of our tears,” like St. Germain. Dear Mary, console me, then, for I see myself all covered with sins, and surrounded by enemies, without virtue, and grown cold in the love of God. Comfort me, comfort me! Bring me the consolation which springs from the beginning of a new life, a life truly pleasing to thy Son and to thee.
Prayer of St. John Damancen.
HAIL, Mary! thou hope of Christians. Hear the petition of a sinner who wishes to love thee with the greatest tenderness, and to honour thee as thou deservest, and who reposes in thee, next after
