particular saints, to pictures, statues, shrines, and places, seem to overshadow the greater, older, more approved and more solid forms of devotion; and some of these are "run" so earnestly by their votaries as to suggest the suspicion that they think no one has devotion who does not practise and uphold their special form. They advertise them in a most exaggerated way, as in themselves sufficient and all-powerful to save, concluding often with a money appeal. No one ought to take up any devotion which has no attraction for him simply because others press it. To do so would be insincere, unreal, and unprofitable. Persons should also carefully guard against multiplying devotions too much, or loading themselves with them. This would lead to neglect of more important duties, or to devotions and duties being carelessly hurried through.
There can be no doubt that a few solid devotions according to one's spiritual taste — which will fit into one's daily life without interfering with duty — faithfully kept to, are a great source of grace, and a help to holiness. This may be said even of any one devotional prayer or act patiently kept to for years. Who could tell the protective and, in the end, the saving power of some
