perfect souls?" The monks marvelled to hear a man of no learning speak so wisely, but recognized in his words the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, we must conclude that the just, though deprived of earthly blessings, enjoy the rewards promised to virtue in this life. To convince you more fully of this we shall treat in the following chapters of the twelve privileges attached to virtue in this world. Taken as a whole, they are the twelfth motive for practising virtue. We shall treat of each, however, in a separate chapter. Though some experience in the practice of virtue is necessary to comprehend what we are about to say, yet the want of it may be supplied by our faith in the Holy Scriptures, which firmly establish the doctrine we are teaching.
CHAPTER XII.
THE FIRST PRIVILEGE OF VIRTUE: GOD'S FATHERLY CARE OF THE JUST.
THE greatest privilege attached to virtue is the care which God exercises over those who serve Him. From this as from a fountain-head flow all other favors. Though God's providence is extended to all His creatures, yet He manifests a special care for His faithful servants. To appreciate the greatness and goodness of God's providence we must have experienced it, or attentively studied the
