Fuga sæculi. Or The holy hatred of the world Conteyning the liues of 17. holy confessours of Christ, selected out of sundry authors. Written in Italian by the R. Fa. Iohn-Peter Maffæus of the Society of Iesus. And translated into English by H.H.

THE LIFE OF S. MARTIN BISHOP OF TOVVERS.

Taken out Seuerus Sulpicius, and others.

S. Martin being the Sonne of a Gentill, becomes a Christian, and is enrolled a Souldiour of the Emperour. Chap. 1.

SAINT MARTYN a great Seruant of Christ, and an excellent maintayner of the Apostoli∣call dignity, and discipline; was borne in Saba∣ria, a Citty of Pannonia in Hungary, of Patents in repute of the world, very honourable, and noble, but yet Gentils, and farre from Christ. The Father being enrolled in the Roman war∣fare, in processe of tyme, came to be a Tribune of Souldiours, or as we say, a Coronell of a Regiment, by whome S. Martin, being lead into Italy, yet a child, was trayned vp in Pauia, in feates of ar∣mes; howbeit, though naturall instinct, he was enclined a great deale more to the acts of peace, or rather to Christian Religion. In so much, as being yet but ten yeares old, agaynst the will of his friends, he went secretly to the Church, and with instance de∣manded

to be made a Catechumen. Within two yeares after, he de∣sired likewise to retire himselfe into the desert: & he had done it in effect, if his tender age had not been an impediment to him. To w^ch disturbance of his holy designes, was further added a new leuy, which then was made of military men, with expresse order, that all the sonnes of old Souldiers, should be put into the roule, and conducted to the war. Whereupon S. Martin, being now some fif∣teene yeares old, being discouered by his owne Father, was against his will, enforced to repayre to the Ensignes of Constantius the Em∣perour. He would haue no other in his company, then a slaue only, whome yet he would be seruing rather, then be serued by him, to wit, in often pulling off his shoes, and brushing his clothes, & fur∣nishing the table with what was needfull.

With this disposition of mind, being come to the field, some three yeares before his baptisme, he allwayes preserued himselfe wonderous pure, and vntouched of those vices and debauchements, •…•…n which Souldiours are for the most part wont to be inuolued. First for his person, he would seeme to content himselfe with fare so moderate and simple, as from that tyme he seemed to be rather a Monke, then a Souldiour: besids he would seeme to content him∣selfe with those kind of meates, which others vtterly refused to eate off: moreouer he would shew himself very benigne and courteous, to his Camerades, and to all others, bearing with their defects, and supplying the necessity of euery one, with extraordinary charity, patience, and humility. He would comfort the afflicted with loue and dexterity, and be very helpfull to the sicke: and without thin∣king of the morrow, he would feed most liberally the hungry, but with particular tendernes cloth the naked; in which worke of piety, was a certayne act of his very memorable, which we shall tell you in the next Chapter.

The singular Charity of S. Martyn to a poore man. And how he leaues the warres, and betakes him to another Course. Chap. 2.

THe Roman Army, at this tyme, was lodged in France, in ex∣ceeding cold places, and in the hart of a winter much more cruell, then vsed to be in that place; in so much as many men, euen dyed frozen in the streetes. Now it happened, in the Gate of Amiens, that a poore man, quaking with his naked body exposed to the shar∣penes

of the ayre, very pittifully craued some succour of the soul∣diours, that passed then along, in the company of S. Martyn; and the wretch being not heeded by any of them, M. Martyn apprehended straight, how that merit by the diuine prouidence, was reserued for him. But what could he do, in such a case? He had not a penny of mony about him, hauing now already spent all, in other Almes: And in fyne, had nothing els but his armes, and a short cloake on his back. What resolution tooke then the Man of God? Taking out his sword, of a sudden, he diuided the same into halfes, and giues the one part therof, to the wretch, and the other keepes to himselfe to couer him the best he could. At the sight of such a strang habit, & remnant of cloath, as some of the more youthfull of them, could hardly conteyne themselues from laughing, so others more stayed then they, were worthily touched ther with, as knowing how wel they might haue cloathed him, without despoyling of themselues.

Now in truth, how much God was pleased with this charity of S. Martyn, he seemed to demonstrate the night following, appea∣ring before him, with that piece of garment, on his owne person, and bidding him to looke and marke well, whether it were not the Garment he had giuen to the poore man, the day before. Wherup•…•… with a sweet countenance turning himself to a multitude of Angels which attended him, he added with a lowd voyce: Martyn, b•…•…g but yet a Catechumen, hath clothed me with this mantle. Words surely well worthy of the bowels of Christ, and agreeable to those other, which he sayd, conuersing with men, and which he will repeate agayne, at the Iudgement day: Quamdiu vni de minimis meis fecistis, mihi 〈◊〉〈◊〉 cistis.

From this so noble a vision S. Martyn tooke not a whit of vayne glory, but acknowledging and magnifying in all, and through all the heauenly grace; he tooke rather a motiue thence of greater hu∣mility and diligence, in the diuine seruice. So as without more de∣lay, he hyed him to Baptisme, being then about eighteen yeares of age, and withall to giue himselfe more freely to a perfect life, he was euen ready to bid adieu to the military state, but being constreyned through the importunity of his Tribune (who hauing finished his office, promised to follow him,) he differed yet the execution of his holy purpose, for the space of two yeares: in all which 〈◊〉〈◊〉, remayning in person in the field, he had his thoughts in the Cell, and Quire, so as well he may be sayd a Souldiour, by name, rather

then exercise.

In the meane tyme, a huge Army of Almans, being entred into •…•…ance, which did nothing but wast the Roman Empire, Iulianus •…•…sar, being sent by Constantius, to that seruice, made the leuy of his •…•…en, in the territory of the Vangion, which at this day is called Spire, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 as others would haue it, to be that of Wormes, where before his cō∣•…•…ing to encounter with the Enemy, he would needs haue giuen a •…•…rgesse to the Souldiours. They began then, according to custome 〈◊〉〈◊〉 be called one by one, before the Maister of the Campe. Where∣upon S. Martyn, esteming this, to be a good occasion for him to take •…•…is leaue, when it came to his turne, with Christian liberty, said to •…•…esar. Hitherto, haue I beene at your pay, now then do but graunt •…•…e leaue to become a souldiour of Christ: as for my part of the do∣•…•…ation, be it giuen to others, since it is not lawfull for me any more 〈◊〉〈◊〉 embrew my selfe in bloud.

At these words, the Fyrant being angry, lookt sowrely vpon •…•…im, and said, that Martin had craued licence, not so much for deuo∣•…•…on sake, as for feare of the battaile, which was to be on the day fol∣•…•…owing: Then the seruant of God, so much more bold and vndaun∣ed, as the feare was greater they obiected to him: Behold answered •…•…e, O Caesar, whether my refusing mony, do seeme rather to spring of feare, then piety. Tomorrow, am I ready, on the point of ioy∣•…•…ing battayle, to present my selfe, before the first ranckes, with∣out Target, or Helmet, or other armes, but only with the signe of the holy Crosse, and with this confidence alone, to thrust my selfe •…•…o the thickest squadrons of those barbarous people. With this so couragious an answere, Iulian being in censed much the more, cau∣•…•…d him suddenly to be put in prison, to come to the proofe, and •…•…o expose him vnarmed, to the face of the enemy.

This thing gaue much matter of talke to the whole Army, and with diuers affects of mynd, they were all expecting the yssue; when betymes in the morning, behold, beyond all ectpectation, •…•…e Embassadour of that fierce Nation, came in with Heralds, and •…•…nterpreters, not only to craue peace, but also to submit themsel∣•…•…es humbly to the obedience of Caesar. This matter was held of all, •…•…o proceed from Heauen, and such as were priuy to the sanctity of S. Martin, in particular, attributed without doubt, so suddayne a •…•…utation, and so greet as Victory so easily gotten to nothing els, •…•…en to his merits, because there wanted not meanes, to the diuine

power, to saue him amidst a thousand swords & launces, and to d•…•… comfite, and put to flight, as many as should attempt to offend him: notwithstanding it seemed to be more conformable to th•…•… sweet disposition of the eternall prouidence, and more agreable t•…•… the peacefull nature, and manners of S. Martin, to free him rather by the way of such an accord, then by the meanes of death, and slaughter.

S. Martyn repayres to S. Hilary Bishop. And departing homewards mee•…•… with a Diuell, whome he stoutly foyles; and what followed. Chap. 3.

DVring the common ioy aboue mentioned, S. Martyn being de∣liuered, and the warre now wholy concluded, repayred 〈◊〉〈◊〉 S. Hilary Bishop of Poytiers, a person in those tymes of rare and emi∣nent Goodnes. Heere did he giue forth such demonstrations of him∣selfe, as S. Hilary to retayne such a labourer in that vineyard, attemp∣ted often to make him Deacon, but S. Martyn alwayes resisting, an•…•… still affirming, & crying out, that he was not worthy of that degree, the discreet Pastour was aduised, there was no other way to con∣streyne this man therto, then to giue him some kind of office, which in a certayne manner might rather be held a disparagement to him, then any dignity at all: nor was he herein deceiued awhit, finc•…•… offering him vp the charge of an Exorcist, which was held to be the meanest and lowest of all, S. Martin at last, not to seeme to haue 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in scorne or disdayne, was persuaded to accept thereof.

Not long after, being admonished by God, in sleepe, to go his wayes to reuisite his countrey, and help his friends, who as yet were not out of their Pagauisme, he demaunded leaue for this end, of the holy Bishop, to go thither: Who graunted it, indeed, though with a very ill will; intreating & coniuring him, not with∣out teares, to returne backe againe, as soone as he could. And so likewise S. Martyn (as it is said) departed with no great good will himselfe, foreseeing the difficultyes of the enterprize, and prote∣sting to his Brothers, that therein he was like to suffer great •…•…auay∣les and aduersityes, as it fell out afterwards in effect. For that first, in his passage ouer the Alpes, he fell into the hands of the Bandits, one of which lifting vp his axe now ouer his head, was stayed by the arme of another lesse cruell then he, who notwithstanding binding his hands behind him, gaue him to the custody and spoyle

of another who for that end, leading him to a place more remote began to demaund of him, who he was? and S. Martin answered, he was a Christian. Art thou not affrayd, replyed the Thiefe? And he with an incredible constancy affirmed, that he was neuer lesse a∣frayd in his life, since he knew very well, the diuine Mercy, to be then most present, with such as trusted therin, when they found themselues in the greatest perils of all: but I am sory for thee (quoth he) that makest thy selfe wholy vncapable, & vnworthy therof, by the life thou leadest. And with this ouerture very dextrously falling into the Ghospell, with holsome and efficacious words, so moued that soule, as he was conuerted to Christ, and with a full deliberatiō of changing his manners, did secretly put the Pilgrime in his way, beseeching his Charity to vouchsafe to recōmend him to our Lord: which he did, and not without fruite, forasmuch as this very Thiefe afterwards came to be a Religious man, who euen told vs this par∣ticular himselfe.

S. Martyn then pursuing his voyage, hauing passed Milan, was met by the Deuill, in forme of a man, who would needs know, whither he went: and being told by S. Martyn, that he was going whither God had called him, the Enemy replyed: Go whither thou wilt, or whatsoeuer thou takest in hand, Know, that the Deuil wil be alwayes contrary to thee. Then S. Martyn answered with the Prophet: Dominus mihi adiutor, non timebo quid faciat mihi homo. At which words, the Impostour immediately vanished: and S. Martyn after some dayes, being arriued in his Country, attended the first thing he did, with all endeauour to procure the saluation of his Parents, but not with like successe; since the Mother came to be a Christian while the Father could not be stirred from the impious worship of the Idols. Yet there wanted not in his place many others, who through the example, and with the exhortation of S. Martyn, were brought into the right way of eternall life.

Besides this, there was another occasion for him, to employ wel the talents which he had receiued, and to shew forth the zeale he had of the holy Fayth. Because the Arrian Heresy, at that tyme, with particular successe hauing extended it selfe into the parts of Sclauonia, and all those confines there, S. Martyn with all his might opposed himselfe to the Rebels of Christ, with so much more toyles and difficulty, as the fauour and succour was lesse, which he had from the Catholique Priests. Whence, taking the whole shock, and

enuy on himselfe, being iniured and rackt with diuerse to•…•…ments, and (among other things) hauing beene publiquely scourged, he was constrayned at last to turne back agayne into France.

S. Martin is banished from Milsan, and after escaping poyson, mee•…•… 〈◊〉〈◊〉 S. Hilary agayne. Chap. 4.

SAint Martin hauing now vnderstood, on the the way as he went to France, that things were there turned vp-side downe, and that euen S. Hilary himselfe was by Heretiques, sent into banish∣ment; he determined till better tymes, to entertayne himselfe in Milan, and there to set vp a litle Monastery: but neyther was he suf∣fered so to do, by Auxentius the Head of the Arrians, who aftermany outrages, and persecutions, finally expelled him the Citty.

Whereupon S. Martin, being thus molested on euery side, falling into the company of a certayne Priest, a great seruant of God, de∣termined for that tyme to hide themselues. To this end, they reti∣red into a litle desert Iland, in the Tyrrhen sea, called by the name of Gallinara. Heer while the Man of God, liued in great abstinence of rootes and herbes, it chaunced vnawares, that he eate some Helle∣bore, which is a medicinable herbe: yet such notwithstanding, a•…•… that if the quantity be not moderate, and the simple well prepared, and corrected, through the great purgatiue it hath with it, it comes to be poysonous, and pestiferous, as de facto it had beene to S. Mar∣tyn, if being brought to extreames therewith he had not made his recourse to prayer, and with this remedy had not suddenly expel∣led all dolour and daunger.

After this, it was not long ere he knew, how S. Hilary hauing soūd grace with the Emperour Constantius, returned into France. At which newes being exceeding ioyfull, he trauayled towards Rome, to meete with him there, and to accompany him to his Church. But S. Hi∣lary being now past by already, he met him neerer, and with great iubiley, being receyued by him, erected, out of the Citty of Poytiers, a poore Monastery for him, and as many as followed him. Among these, there was a certaine Catechumen, who falling sick of a vio∣lent feuer, while S. Martin was farre off (for three dayes only) a∣bout certaine affayres of the diuine seruice, beyond all expectation, departed this lyfe, and that which was worse, without Baptisme. The Conuent was sensible of this case: and S. Martin at his returne,

finding now the Exequies prepared, very sorowful and sad thereat approched his body. Heere now conceiuing in his pure mind new feruour of spirit, he makes them all go forth of the chamber; and the doores being shut stretches himselfe, like another Elizaeus, vpon the cold bones of the deare Brother, and so hauing made a feruent prayer, and very soone perceiuing already, through diuine vertue, how the vitall spirits were vpon returne, standing something vp∣right agayne, with his eyes fixed on the face of the dead man, he stood couragiously expecting the effect of his prayers, and of the di∣uine clemency. There were not yet two houres of tyme past, when he saw the dead to moue his lymmes, by litle and litle, and panting to open the eyes, and to recouer the vse of his senses. Then S. Martin giuing thankes to our Lord, cryed out so lowd, as they who expected without, being moued with the noise therof, came rushing in, and all perceiued, to their infinite astonishment, the corps to res∣pire, and take vigour agayne, which euen now they were ready to carry to buriall.

After so great a benefit had, the Cathecumen delayed not a whit to receiue the holy Baptisme, whereunto he suruiued many yeares after, and was wont sincerly to recount of himselfe, how being de∣parted from the body, he was presented before a Tribunall, and by sentence confined to darkesome place, among the baser sort; but how at the same instant, two Angels relating to the Iudge, how it was he for whome S. Martyn had besought, to them was then Cō∣mission giuen, to restore him to life agayne, and to make a present of him to the seruant of God. This was the first wonder S. Martyn shewed forth in those parts; whence it followed, that being now held for holy, he begā afterwards to be esteemed also as a man very powerfull with God, and a person truly Apostolicall. Not long af∣ter this, passing through the fields of one Lupicinus an honourable & rich man, there met him a troupe of people all full of laments, and teares, telling him, how one of the seruants of Lupicinus, had hanged himselfe, & so miserably had ended his dayes. S. Martin heere with being moued to compassion, without delay intred into the chāber, where the vnhappy Wretch was deposed, and so from thence also dismissing the people, distending himselfe in like manner on the corps, made he his prayer: which was no lesse efficacious then the other, since that his hart now cold, already resuming the naturall heate, began by litle and little to yield to the arteryes, & their pulse

agayne, and motion to the nerues: so as the dead, with stretch•…•… forth armes, taking S. Martin by the right hand, arose on his feete▪ and accompanyed him to the gate of the house, in the presence of all that multitude; who replenished both with wonder and ioy, ceased not to glorify in S. Martin, the immense goodnes, and om∣nipotency of the Creatour.

S. Martyn not without great contradiction of many, is chosen Bishop of Towers. Chap. 5.

AT the very same tyme, the Church of Towers, being vacant, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Martyn, by the vniuersall consent of the people there, was destined to that dignity. But he not being so easily to be taken fort•…•… from his Monastery; a certayne Citizen, being called Ruritius, his wife faygning to be grieuously sick, cast himselfe at the feere of the Saint, and coniured him so much, as he made him to come forth, to blesse her. With that pretext, a number of persons being couert∣ly set in opportune places, S. Martyn was taken by them, and with a good guard brought into the Citty, where was already assē∣bled togeather, a great concourse of people of all sorts, being met, according to the vse of those tymes, to passe their suffrages, for the election of a new Prelate: nor was there any person, great or li•…•…e that desired not to see S. Martyn installed in that seate, esteeming the country happy, vnder the care of such a Pastour.

Some Bishops only of the Neighbour-diocesses being called •…•…o the consecration, and some other principall persons stood earnestly against it; alleadging him to be a Person meane, of no Presence▪ with ill clothes, worse put on, and in summe, vnworthy to be nū∣bred among Bishops. With such oppositions, did these men seeke to alienate the people from the deuotion and sauour of S. Mar•…•…. But the matter fell out quite contrary with them, because the same obiections, as they were held of the people (who had the sounder iudgment) for the prayse and reputation of the Seruant of Christ; so on the other side, they came with litle edification to discouer the enuy and malignity of the Prelats. Whence they began also, by litle and little, to relent, one only excepted, more blind and obsti•…•…e then the rest, who cōtinued in vesistance, till such time, as by diuine prouidence, a notable Iudgement was shewed vpon him, as we shall now declare.

This Prelate, in the Church of Towers, had the tytle of Defender, & •…•…y reason of that dignity was known of all. Now he being one day with the people in the Church, at the hower of diuine office; it hap∣pened, that the Lectourer, being not able to presse through the great •…•…rung of people which was there, to approach the Quire, one of the Standers by, in the meane while, laying hold of the Psalter, •…•…egan to read the first verse, as it lay before him, being iust that same of the 8. psalme, which saith, Ex ore infantium & lactentium perfecisti •…•…udē, propter inimicos tuos, vt destruas inimicum, & defensorē, the last word 〈◊〉〈◊〉 that Text being so translated, insteed of vlt•…•…rem. At which word •…•…o pronounced was lifted immediately a cry of the people vnto •…•…eauen, to the extreme confusion & shame of the aduersary: and S. Martin with out more resistance of any besides himselfe, was elected, •…•…r rather forcibly constrayned to the Bishopricke. In which admi∣nistration, it may not easily be explicated, how fully, or rather su∣•…•…er aboundantly, he gaue correspondency, to the full expectation, which was had of him: forasmuch as being disposed to that degree, with the exquisite addresses of a most chast mynd, in the sacred Vn∣•…•…ion besids, he receyued so great aboundance of new graces, and gifts of Heauen, as continually outstripping himselfe, he reteyned •…•…oth the vertue of a priuate person, & further added to his singular prayse, all the good qualtyes of a publique man.

S. Martin retires himselfe out of the Towne, with his Monkes: and their manner of liuing there. Chap. 6.

SAint Martin, in the treating of his owne person would change nothing of his wonted manner; his fare, and apparell, was still the same as before, for habitation only he betooke himselfe into a litle Cell, hard by the Cathedrall Church: but euen likewise from thence, through too much importunity of frequent Visits, he sud∣denly retyred himselfe out of the Citty, into a maruey lous com∣modious place, to distribute his tymes vnto Martha and Mary, since it was about two miles distant from the Towne. On the one side, it was girt in with a high in accessable rock, on the other enuironed with the riuer Loyre: in so much, as there could be no entrance ther∣into, but by a narrow path. Within that enclosure S. Mar•…•… had built him a litle Cell of boards, & a part of his Monkes, who were some eighty in number, had done the like▪ and some agayne with

instruments had digged them in the rocky hill, certayne receptacles, but narrow, and more fit to medicate vpon Death, then to co•…•… life withall.

Heere no man held any thing proper to himselfe, all thing•…•… were in common. To buy or sel, was not there permitted. To no manner of art, applyed they themselues; but to writing, and to the only, were the yo•…•…ger deputed. Those of the more 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 attended as it were, to nothing els, then to things diuine. Very r•…•…∣rely went any out of his Cell, but when they all assembled tog•…•…∣ther in the Oratory to pacify God: besides, they did eate all tog•…•…∣ther in the Euening. Wine was not affoarded to any, except to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 sicke. The grea•…•… part would be wearing of cilices: clothes whi•…•… had any fine•…•… •…•…sse in them were abhorred of •…•…ch one 〈◊〉〈◊〉 manifest scandall: A thing so much more admirable, as many 〈◊〉〈◊〉 them were Noble of bloud, and dainetily bred. But for the lou•…•…d Christ, and the Crosse they did all very voluntarily, submit them•…•…∣ues to such a pe•…•…ance. Of which number afterwards were many of them seen to be Bishops; while Ci•…•…ties striued to be gouerned 〈◊〉〈◊〉 spirit by the Children of such a discipline. Nor could it be o•…•… wise, but need•…•… must succeed very excellent men vnder S. M•…•… because not only: with aduises and words, went he alwayes 〈◊〉〈◊〉 them; but euen with workes and liuely incitements also of all p•…•…∣fection, and especially sincere humility, togeather with an ardent •…•…oue of the Neighbour.

Sulpitius Seueras declared (who liued in those tymes, & know∣ing the Saint domestically as he did, very diligently wrote his life) how that going sometimes to visit him from countryes somewh•…•… remote, he could neuer hinder him from washing his feet, and •…•…∣ing to sit downe at table, from reaching him water, as well •…•…t his hands▪ as for those of his fellowes. The same man adds, how after he had fed the bodyes of his ghests with moderate vict•…•… 〈◊〉〈◊〉 would be afterwards affoarding them a most sweet food of •…•…∣tuall discourses for their soules, exhorting them with like modesty and efficacy to nothing more then to fly the sensualityes of the pre∣sent life, and to leaue the perilous trash of the world, to be able t•…•… more •…•…imbly and free, to follow Iesus.

And to this purpose, he would set before them the fresh exam∣ple of S. P•…•… Bishop of N•…•…a, who after he had distributed very •…•…mple 〈◊〉〈◊〉 •…•…or the loue of God, and help of the poore, did final∣ly

with an example of Christian piety, neuer heard of before, sell himselfe into a most cruell bondage, for the ransome of his subiects, who were held in Affricke slaues to the Saracens. With such manner •…•…f comparisons as this, and moreouer with precepts taken out of the •…•…red Writ, went S. Martin exciting in spirit, as many as came be∣•…•…re him. Nor was it any great matter for him, that he should haue 〈◊〉〈◊〉 much to giue to others, who so continually treasured vp for him∣self, remayning euen amidst exteriour actiōs alwayes with the hart 〈◊〉〈◊〉 vnited with God, as neyther in words nor deeds, he would euer •…•…o forth of his presence. And as Smithes, without other matter to worke on, through vse, & for their pleasure only, will sometymes •…•…e laying on the anuile: so S. Martyn, not only in the tymes depu∣•…•…d to the Sacrifice, and diuine worship, but likewise at all houres •…•…sides, would eyther read or write, or be dealing with men: and •…•…hrough the great habit he had gotten, he would be continually •…•…collected in the interious man, conuersing sweetly with the hea∣•…•…enly Spouse, and with the giuer of all Graces.

He would neuer loose tyme in the day, and whole nights he would often passe ouer in labours, and watchings. To the body •…•…e gaue that refection, and that repose, which extreme necessity re∣•…•…uired, lying on the bare ground, couered only with a sharp cilice. He tooke heed with all caution from iudging the intentions of o∣•…•…ers, interpreting what he could ech thing to the better part, and •…•…wayes very highly esteeming the reputation & fame of the neigh∣•…•…our: the iniuryes, detractions, & the enuyes of Persecutours, which 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the whole course of his life were not wanting to him, he would •…•…compence with weeping bitterly for their offences, and also (as •…•…ccasion serued) with affording them benefits, & seruing them; not •…•…xcluding any, what lay in him, from his holy freindship. He was •…•…euer seen to laugh vainely, or to be contristate at any thing, con∣•…•…ruing alwayes the same tranquility of hart, and serenity of counte∣•…•…ance, amidst al the varietyes of human accidents, eyther prosperous •…•…nd cheerefull, or how straung, and aduerse soeuer they were: Wherof, those few actions, which we shall tell you anon, shall giue •…•…rth, a very euident testimony, though in ech one of these preci∣•…•…s examples, do shine withall (as often it happens) many other ver∣•…•…es besides.

S. Martyn is much honoured by a miracle from God, for a charitable act of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Chap. 7.

SAint Martin going one morning to the cathedrall Church, to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 lebrate in the winter tyme, was on the way demaunded an al∣mes of a poore ragged wretch, that was ready to dy for cold. No•…•… he, who in compassion, was still the same, calling his Archdeac•…•… before him, commaunded him sudenly to be clothed; from the•…•… he pursued his way, and hauing adored our Lord, entred into 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Sacristy to vest himself. There were in those dayes, certaine roo•…•… adioyning to the Church, somewhat sequestred from the vulg•…•… which were called Oratoryes: In one of these (while the Cha•…•… els where, were passing the tyme in Conuersation) S. Martyn ac∣cording to vse, was alone in his Pontificalibus, sitting on a play•…•… and simple seate, (for he would neuer vse any better) for that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Church, he would neuer be seen, but on his knees, or standi•…•… vpright. Now while he was expecting there, amidst his holy me∣ditations, at the houre of the Sacrifice, the very same Beggar, w•…•… seene agayne to appeare before him, who as it seemed (as necess•…•… makes one ingenious) could tel how to cōtriue it so, as the Cle•…•… vnwitting therof, finding the Bishop retyred, presses in to him, & with a lamentable voyce, complaynes for that he was not proui∣ded by the Archdeacon. Then S. Martyn without more ado, cau∣sing him to step aside, tooke off his owne Cassocke, not witho•…•… some trouble, from vnder his vestments, and gaue it to the Wretc•…•… who as for solliciting his sute had entred in without noyse, so no•…•… obteyning what he would, he went quietly away. A litle after, t•…•… Archdeacon enters to aduertise the Bishop, that now it was tym•…•… for him to come forth, for the people were al expecting his cōming when he answered: It were fit the while the poore (meaning hi•…•… selfe) should first be clothed, or otherwise, he could not appe•…•… in publique: but the Archdeacon (for that S. Martyn was outward•…•… clothed with the vestment, & could not penetrate the Enigma,) 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ter many excuses finally added, how the poore man could not 〈◊〉〈◊〉 foūd. Bring hither (said S. Martyn) the Garment prepared, for th•…•… shall not want one to put it on. With these words, the vnper•…•… man came to be troubled in himself, & being constreyned throug•…•… necessity, went his wayes suddenly to a shop at hand, where ha∣stily

hauing bought a poore coate, for some halfe a Crowne, being course, •…•…cant, and illfauourdly made, casts it downe with a disdain∣full gesture, at the feete of S. Martyn, saying: behold the garment, but for the beggar now where is he? When the Venerable Bishop, with∣out loosing awhit his holy peace, causing the others to stand forth somewhat without the portall, procuring to be secret as much as he could, did reuest himself with it; howbeit at last through the diuers circumstances of the matter, the thing could not be concealed.

And besides that, it pleased the diuine goodnes, to illustrate such a fact, with an euident signe, because the admirable Priest, going forth in that habit, while acording to the vse, he blesseth the Aul∣tar; behold a ball of fire to shine from his head, in māner of a comet, which blazing towards Heauen, sent vp a fyery streame. True it is, that howbeit the same fell out on a solemne day, and in a great cō∣course of people, yet did not any other see it, then one of the Vir∣gins, one Priest, and three Monkes only: as for the other, why they had not the fauour to behold it, appertaynes not to vs, to exa∣mine heere: it suffiseth, that the testimonies, as well for number, as quality, are sufficient to take away all doubt.

S. Martin trauailing alone, was hardly vsed by Souldiours, not knowing who he was. Chap. 8.

THE diuine Man, going in a visit of his Diocesse (which he performed with singular care, and edification of all) his Companions by some accident or other remayned behind, while he going on his wayes, met with a Ca•…•…och of Souldiours trauay∣ling vpon busines; but the horses starting at the sight of S. Martyn, in a cassocke of hayry cloth, and a darke mantle which hung downe on one side, and affrighted therewith, were troubled in such sort, as the harnesse being on a sudden entangled together, could not easily be freed. Heerupon the cruell Souldiours being enraged alighted, and with stripes, and cudgells set vpon S. Martin: Who as he was very amorous of the Crosse, as holding euery occasion very deere, to be ill intreated, without once opening his mouth, stood to the blowes, vntill such tyme, as being torne and halfe dead, he fell to •…•…he ground, when those spightfull fellowes, hauing now atchie∣ued so goodly an exploit, returned agayne to their Ca•…•…och.

This done, the companions of the Saint, being now arriued,

and seeing him in that manner, to 〈◊◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊◊〉, all 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉, being sad and heauy 〈◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊〉 vp and lay 〈◊〉〈◊〉 him 〈◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊〉, and with all the hast that might 〈◊〉〈◊〉 go•…•… a way out of that •…•…ursed pla∣ce. But now, th•…•…se impious fellowes (though they had th•…•… aduan∣tage to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the harnesse, & to set them in order agayne) 〈◊〉〈◊〉 •…•…ad they not the power to go forwards one foote further, but rath•…•… through diuine iustice; the horses stood still, immoueable like sta∣tues, in the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 same place, nor with •…•…yes, threats, 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 strookes, could they be made to go on a step. Finally, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 they had spent in vayne, their whips; and Cudgells, which they 〈◊〉〈◊〉 out of the next wood, these wicked fellowes began now to reflect, how this accident could not be human, but by diuine iustice; & ha∣uing remorse of conscience, for the grieuous outrage they had cō∣mitted on the poore passenger right now, they went to enquire of some, that passed that way, who he was that went before in such a habit, and with such marks; and hauing vnderstood to be S. Mar∣tin (whose name was a great deale mo•…•… famous then his person) they acknowledged the Sacriledge committed, and the vengea•…•… of God vpon them, and fearing yet worse, they all striued to fol∣low the Seruants of God; and hauing ouertaken him, with deep sighes and lamentable voyces, casting themselues prostrate on th•…•… ground before him, sprinckling their heads with dust, and knoc∣king their breasts, they humbly besought pardon of him, and licen∣ce to be gone.

The Saint, by diuine reuelation, had foreseene the successe al∣ready, and also acquainted his companions with it. Whence such pennance was not awhit new to them, nor did he vpbrayd any of them, for the iniury done him: but receyued them all, with 〈◊〉〈◊〉 be∣nigne countenance; and with seruent prayers, hauing obteyned their dispatch, he sent them a way confounded, and astonished 〈◊〉〈◊〉 great a Clemency.

A notable Example of a dissolute Monke, conuerted by S. Martyn to a better life. Chap. 9.

VVE may not seeme to conceale heere the Patience, and Meekenes, which S. Martyn shewed to a Priest of his Church, by name Britius. This man, being trayned vp in a Religi∣ous life, with the Obseruance of Pouerty, and Modesty, as he was

assumpted to the Clergy and Benefices, so suffered he himselfe to be drawne away, with the concupiscence of the Eyes, as without re∣gard, eyther of his Life past, or present Degree, or the speach of people, he began to giue himselfe wholy to pleasures; to maintayne horses, and to buy very costly Slaues. These things now pierced the very hart of the holy Pastour, who after he had prayed to our Lord for him, stuck not with much sweetnes, and grauity, both of words and countenance, to set before him the enormous scandall that fol∣lowed of so great a mutation of manners in him, intreating him withall to be thinke himselfe of the ancient purposes, and to con∣sider, how the state of the Clergy, did not acquit him at all of the perfection of a Monke, but that rather the name did seeme to oblige him; to haue in horrour and contempt all the delights and pleasures of the world, since thereby was vnderstood, he had left to others their transitory things, and with the Prophet had chosen, for portion and inheritance, God only.

With such aduises, S. Martyn went about, to awake that vn∣happy mā from this deadly sleepe: but as he was giuen ouer already in prey to sense, & found himselfe to be but little disposed to admo∣nishments, for the present he held his peace; but feeling himselfe afterwards to be gauled with the truth, and with this occasion also more enflamed by the Diuell, he was so incensed therewith as that on the very next day turning the medicine into poyson, with great fury, he came to the Monastery, where the Man of God was sitting neare vnto his litle Cell. Heere Britius, full of anger, or full of phrensy rather, with sparkling eyes, and trembling lips, & chan∣ging often colour, vents forth his rage conceyued agaynst S. Martyn in presence of many, loading him with infinite contumlies and in∣iuries, and hardly also abstayning from laying violent hands v∣pon him. Nor yet was the sacrilegious temerity of this man, any thing new, or sudden, to the Seruant of Christ, hauing first before his arriuall, seen on the top of the hanging cliffe, two wicked Spi∣rits, who triumphing, and ioyfull, calling Britius by name, with voyce, and gestures, stood egging him on, to reuenge the affront, and to handle the Bishop in that sort, as he might not dare heerafter to molest him any more.

Whence S. Martin, composing himselfe to all manner of Patience, endeauoured, with admirable dexterity and sweetnes, to mitigate the Wretch, the whilest he, letting wholy the reynes loose to his

Tongue ceased not to abuse him with extreme insolency, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉. And now hauing suffered his tongue to range a liberty 〈◊〉〈◊〉 euery side, with the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 fury he entred in, he went forth 〈◊〉〈◊〉 when by the prayers, no doubt of S. Martin, the darknes expelled he began to be aware of his grieuous offence, and was so comppunct for the same, as that suddenly turning his steps backe agayne, with blushing and shame; prostrating himselfe at the feete of the holy Man, besought him benignely to remit his fault. No•…•… was it any thing hard to obtayne this grace of him, who was sory, not for h•…•… owne abasement, but rather for the precipice of the other, yea, and to help him more, playnely expressed to him, how he had seene th•…•… two infernall furyes, that set him on.

In summe, with all affection he receiued him into his friend∣ship agayne▪ Wherein he was •…•…ound so constant▪ that howbe•…•… he had afterwards many, and grieuous complaints of him yet not∣withstanding, he could neuer be brought to depriue him, of hi•…•… Priesthood▪ least vnder the shadow of publique chastisement, the priuate offence might seeme in some māner to be punished by him. And to persons of quality, who seemed to wonder much at him▪ & not to like very well so much indulgence of his▪ S. Marty•…•… would answere, among other things: 〈◊〉〈◊〉 was tollerated by Christ, and shall not I beare with a Briti•…•…s? In this manner, went he still 〈◊〉〈◊〉 seuering in these most intense acts of Charity. But who would say e∣uer, that so ob•…•…inate, and vnbridled a man as Britius was, should come afterwards▪ to be so gracious in the eyes of God, as to be∣come a Bishop, and a Saint?

And yet so fell it out, thankes be •…•…o the diuine Goodnes for 〈◊〉〈◊〉 & to the intercessions of S. Martin: who on a tyme, holding his ey•…•… fixed on Heauen for a pretty while, and being therefore of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 taxed of madnes: Know (sayd he to him) Sonne, that I haue ob∣teyned of our Lord, that thou mayst come to be Bishop afte•…•… me▪ Though thou must vnderstand, that in the Bishopricque it selfe, thou shalt want no aduersities. Then Britius sayd: Lo you now▪ did not I affirme the truth, how this man was meerely out of his wits? But howsoeuer, in tyme he vnderstood, he was deceyued. Because that S. Martin, being once departed this life, it pleased the diuine prouidence, that Britius, though vayne and proud before, yet notwithstanding being held in high esteeme for Chastity, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 without opposition, elected by the people▪ and Clergy, to the su∣preme

gouernement of soules. In which office, acknowledging, •…•…d amending the errours of his youth, he most notably demean•…•…d •…•…mselfe. And to the end, the Prophecy of his Predecessour, might 〈◊〉〈◊〉 verifyed, with his great glory, he suffered, from the impious, •…•…d slaunderers, most grieuous persecutions.

•…•…ow a certayne Virgin refused to be visited by S. Martyn: and how patiently he tooke it. Chap. 10.

TO returne now from whence we were digressed; a like forti∣tude to this, shewed S. Martin of an equall courage, and serene •…•…ind in another case, though light in esteeme perhaps▪ yet very dif∣•…•…cult in practise: there was in the Diocesse of Towers, a Virgin, a∣•…•…ong others, of excellent fame, and ver•…•…uous behauiour; who now 〈◊〉〈◊〉 these many yeares, of her owne accord, had made her abode in •…•…ertayne farme of hers, very streightly reclused, and onely at∣•…•…ending to God, did fly the conuersation, & sight of men. S. Martin •…•…ow, being inuited with such an odour (who otherwise was ex∣•…•…eeding precise from spending any tyme with women) yet chan∣•…•…ing to passe by those parts, determined to honour with his presen∣•…•… so rare a vertue, being a fauour so much more notable, as known •…•…o be more vnusuall with him: but the matter succeeded not accor∣dingly, because the Spouse of Christ, would not giue way to remit a∣whit of her rigour, so much, as at the request of such a Prelate to be •…•…isited at all. So as S. Martin, with many of his company, being •…•…ow arriued where she was, not doubting awhit of being admit∣•…•…ed to her presence, hauing sent in a messenger to her, and that in •…•…ayne, so repulsed he departed thence.

Now what would an ordinary Priest haue done in this case? If •…•…ot happily, taken it at least in ill part, and perhaps haue iudged •…•…he Virgin to be taynted with heresy, and worthy of excommuni∣•…•…ation? But the diuine man, was so farre from being offended ther∣•…•…, as reioycing at such a repulse receyued; began with magnificall words, to extoll the constancy and chastity of her, who had so re∣•…•…yred herselfe from him. Nor with words only shewed he forth, the high opinion he had framed of her, but with facts also: foras∣much as she afterward, in the Euening hauing sent him certayne presents of refection, and refreshment, S. Martin, who in his whole visit, till that tyme, had neuer accepted of any thing which was

offered him, yet of what the Virgin sent him, he refused i•…•… not▪ 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ledging, it was not •…•…itting for a Priest, to refuse the benedict•…•… 〈◊〉〈◊〉 her, who deserued to be preferred before many Priests.

With such like words, and workes, from tyme to tyme, g•…•… S. Martin euident signes of a full victory gotten ouer his passions▪ & of the peacefull possession he maintayned in himselfe. But in re∣gard, some will say perhaps, how these manner of prayses, are 〈◊〉〈◊〉 mon also with priuate persons; let vs come, to the proper 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of a true Prelate, and Apostolicall Guardian. Among which, it see∣mes that the zeale of the holy, and orthodoxe fayth, and of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 sincere worship of God, doth ho•…•…d the first place. For whose con∣seruation, S. Martyn was alwayes wonderfully sollicitous, and vigilant, keeping himselfe, and all all his flocke, from euery le•…•… contagion o•…•… Heretiques, or of others seuered from the Roman S•…•… Heer with did burne in his breast, an inextinguishable thirst to •…•…∣state, and propagate the Christian verity, on euery side, and p•…•… ticularly in the neighbour parts; where it seemed to him an in•…•…∣lerable thing, that any relique of Paganisme, should yet be exta•…•…▪ He endeauoured then maynly to extinguish the same; and Almig•…•…∣ty God most commonly for his part, with a powerfull hand, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 stupendious workes, concurred thereunto.

S. Martin restores a Womans sonne from Death to life: with other 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 thinges. Chap. 11.

SAint Martin on a tyme going, by occasion of the diuine ser•…•… to the Citty of Cha•…•…es, chanced to passe through a Village 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Gentils, who at the fame of the Saint, going forth of the Tow•…•…▪ put themselues in the high way to behold him; and at the same •…•…∣mour, concurred so great a multitude of the neighbour countries, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 all that playne was seene to be couered with an infinite people. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the fight of which sheep, for that the most were led astray, the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Bishop sighing, and eleuated in spirit, beginnes to preach to the•…•… 〈◊〉〈◊〉 word of God, and to inuite them to eternall saluation, and that wi•…•… such a feeling, and with such a voyce, & action, as doubtles seem•…•… to them some what more then humane.

Now while he thus discoursed, it pleased our Lord, that a Wo∣man, whose only Sonne was dead at that tyme, comming be•…•… him, with hands lifted vp, presented him to the blessed S. 〈◊〉〈◊〉,

saying: we vnderstand, that thou art the friend of God, restore me •…•…y Sonne, which is the only Child I haue. To the prayers of the •…•…us Mother, were added the fighes, and intercessions of the •…•…tanders by. So as S. Martyn perceyuing, how for the conuersion of that people, some miracle were fit, lifting vp his eyes and mind •…•…o Heauen, and conceiuing therice an vndoubted certaynty of the •…•…iuine ayde, he tooke the body in his armes, and in the presence •…•…f all, put himselfe on his knees: and after a little space the party •…•…rose vp, and so restored the child reuiued to the Mother, astoni∣•…•…hed, and almost besides herselfe for ioy: whereupon a cry was lif∣•…•…ed vp to the starres, and all these people confessing Christ for true God, began in troupes with great vehemency to runne after S. Mar∣•…•…in, most instantly intreating him to make them Christians. And he •…•…ull of iubiley, lifting vp his hands ouer them, made them Cathe∣•…•…mens all at once, giuing order besids, that they might be instru∣•…•…ted; affirming it, not vnfit to make Cathecumens, in the open •…•…ields, since in fields in like manner haue Martyrs beene consecrated.

With this manner of purchase, our S. Martin reioyced much more then with the increase of rents, or tytles: and not onely from manners, and minds of persons, but euen from their memo∣•…•…y also, and eyes, endeauoured he to take away all apparence of •…•…rofane, & Centill worship: nor were the difficulties of the enter∣•…•…rise, nor magnificence of Antiquityes, able to diuert him from it. In the Castle of Ambatia, was a Tower of pollished stones, heerto∣•…•…ore dedicated to a false God; which from the solid, and spacious •…•…oundations, a•…•…sing more and more, came at the top, to finish in •…•…me of a Pine-aple, a worke both of art, and cost alike, and not •…•…nly curious to behold, but also very firme and durable.

Now the holy Bishop, hauing appointed Marcellu•…•… a Priest •…•…here dwelling, by all meanes to destroy such an abhomination, & •…•…ter some tyme finding the same, as yet on foote, rep•…•…ded his •…•…cknes. But Marcellu•…•…, excusing himselfe with the difficulty therof, •…•…or that the making was such, as hardly would an Army be able to demolish it, much lesse a small number of Clerks, or feeble Monks which liued with him▪ S. Martin, without more reply, hauing re∣•…•…ourse to his wonted tacklings, spent all that night and morning •…•…n prayer: When behold on a suden a vehement tempest of winds, •…•…ightning, and thunder, impetuously smiting the building, fetcht 〈◊〉〈◊〉 vp by the ground, and layd it flat on the Earth▪

In another place, stood a pillar of an vnmeasurable great•…•…, on the top whereof, was an Idoll. And S. Martyn, being not able to endure so great an offence of the true God, determined by 〈◊〉〈◊〉 meanes to leuell it with the ground, but not finding commodity, eyther of Masons, or instruments to affect it, he craued likewise the diuine succour, with so much ardour, and such efficacy withall, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the prayer being ended, the effect very sudenly followed: because that in the sight-of-all the standers by, these appeared from Heauen another Pillar no lesse then that, which descended with such a force vpon it, as reduced it into dust, together with the Idol.

How S. Martyn by the signe of the Crosse, escaped Death: And how the peop•…•… were conuerted thereupon, to the Fayth of Christ. Chap. 12.

SAINT Martin, in a certaine Bourge of the Infidels, hauing 〈◊〉〈◊〉 stroyed their Temple, would needs presently vpon it, cōmaund a tall Pine-tree there, that was consecrated to the Deuill, to be felled to the ground. But the Country-people, who through the diuine will had beene quiet at the one, very tumultuously afterwards op∣posed themselues to the other. S. Martin endeauoured to pacify th•…•… blind people what he could, & to make them capable of the Tru•…•… shewing by diuers reasons, how one sole God was the Maker of euery thing, and that to him was due from the rationall creature, all honour, oblation, and Sacrifice, and not to the Angels thurst o•…•… of Paradise, deceiptfull, and proud, whome hitherto they had mi∣serably serued; and went prouing withall, how in that Tru•…•… could be no matter worthy of veneration at all. Now while he w•…•… preaching in this sort with great charity, one of those Pagans, more impudent and more saucy then the rest, lifting vp his voyce, sayd to him: If thou hast such a confidence in this thy God, we ourselues will cut downe this tree for thee, and do thou but set thy shoulders thereunto, and be propping it vp; and if thy Lord stand for thee, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 thou sayest, thou shalt not suffer a whit. The magnanimous Bishop accepted the Condition, and all that barbarous company accorded likewise, exchanging very willingly the losse of such a plant, with the death of one, that was so great a Persecutour of the Idols.

That Pine, of its nature, was bending in such sort, as it clee•…•…ly appeared, in cutting it downe, wherabout of necessity it must light. On that very side, did S. Martin suffer himselfe to be placed, with his

legs tyed, by those rude rustiques, where he stood as a statue. And •…•…e people presently vpon this, diuided themselues, very glad and •…•…oyfull the while at so new a spectable, and some with axes, in hast began to cut downe the Pine-tree. The man of God, from thence •…•…ad made his Monks to sequester thēselues, who laboured in vayne •…•…o hinder such a proofe, and being pale, and full of sadnes, with tē∣der eyes ech momēt stood expecting the losse of their deere Maister, •…•…nd the tree now ready to to•…•…er with redoubled stroakes, seemed to threaten the •…•…al. And yet stood S. Martin very firme and vndaunted; when finally the ruine, with a terrible noyse, directly bended to∣wards him, & now was euē ready to oppresse him, when he with∣out being troubled a whit, lifting vp his arme, opposed thereto the signe of the Crosse, and nothing els besides. A thing truly very ad∣mirable, that euen at the holsome signe so made, was sudenly that great trunck, as it were beate back with a violent Engine, & went with such a fury to the contrary side, as it almost had crushed the ve∣ry Infidels thēselues, who were hewing it downe.

What effect now this so sudden euent might cause in their minds may more easely be imagined, then written. The Monkes behol∣ding now beyond all hope, S. Martin to be safe, and sound, with consolation and iubiley giuing thankes to our Lord for it, wept out right, and the rude people being conuinced with so great a mi∣racle, holding vp their hands and voyces to Heauen, did finally yield, and acknowledge the errour of their life past, and were wil∣lingly conuerred to Christ; insomuch as where before, there were no faythfull, as it were, to be seen thereabouts, within a litle tyme, by meanes of the vertue, and diligence, and the exemplar manner of the holy Bishop, there remayned not a place, that was not very full of Christians, of Churches, and Monasteryes: Because the seruant of God was wont, as soone as he had demolished any house of the Idols, to erect in the same scituation, some deuout Oratory, or Re∣ligious Conuent, or other.

S. Martin stayes the flames of fire from doing any harme. With other won∣ders which he wrought. Chap. 13.

VVE may not seeme to let passe in silence, a thing, which if it had not happened in publique, might perhaps haue seemed incredibie to some. S. Martin, hauing in those countries ther∣about,

set •…•…ire to a very noble, & most ancient Temple of the Idols, it happened, that a wind arising, did carry the flame to a house hard by, not without manifest danger of dilating it selfe further, and of stirring vp, with the sense of their priuat losses, the tender minds of that Community. S. Martyn then being aware of the danger, with the wonted courage of a liuely fayth, mounted vp speedily to the roofe, & puts himself against the flames; and it is certaine, that at the only appearing of the Man of God, the flames, as timerous to of∣fend him, in a moment seemed to fetch about, & to be retorted, and gathered within themselues, & in the sight of all, in striuing against the violence of the wind, to retire in such sort, as the priuate buil∣dings remayned very safe; and S. Martyn with his only presence, effected that which al the people, with their instruments, & water, could not so easily haue brought to passe.

In the Leapers Bourge (as they called it) likewise, hauing at∣tempted to ruin a temple, very famous, no lesse for the great riche•…•… therof, then for the much superstition vsed about it; he was repelled by the Gentils, not without much outrage, and iniuryes d•…•… him. Wherupon, retiring himselfe in to some place thereby, he remayned in fasting for three whole dayes togeather, and praying in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and ashes: and at last appeared two champions vnto him of the hea∣uenly warfare, being armed with speares & shields, saying how they came, as sent from our Lord to succour him, against that multitude of swaynes. That therfore, he might returne bouldly to the enter∣prize agayne, and not feare any impediment whatsoeuer. So S. Martin did, and in the presence of all those Pagans, who through diuine power, stood the while immoueable, he ruined the profane bulke from the very foundations, destroyed the Aultars, & reduced the images vnto dust. Whence succeeded another great benefit, that the Gentils, perceiuing themselues so bound and stupifyed, with∣out being able to rise against the Bishop, knew the effect to be cau∣sed by a supreme power, and they all, as it were, came to belieue in Christ, exclayming with one voyce, and confessing, that the on∣ly God of S. Martin, was to be adored, and that, for the Idols, they were to make no reckoning of them, since in such a necessity of theirs, they were not able to helpe themselues.

Two other stupendious things, are recounted in this matter: one was, that in the country of Burgundy, there being a great num∣ber of country swaynes risen agaynst S. Martin, in defence of a Tē∣ple,

one of them drawing out his sword, set vpon him; when the holy man, suddenly laying his cloake aside, offered him his naked necke, nor was that impious fellow any whit slack, to haue giuen the stroake: but lifting vp his arme, in the presence of all, fell flat backwards himselfe, and cryed for peace, and pardon. The other was, that from a like disdayne, another wicked fellow, being min∣ded to kill him, the very sword fell out of his hand, in such wise, as it was neuer seene more. True it is, that he rarely came into such termes, because for the most part, S. Martyn with meekenes, and with preaching, would be tempring and persuading the people, in such sort, as themselues vnderstanding the truth once, would con∣demne their owne madnes, & destroying the Idols with their pro∣per hands, be conuerted to Christ. To which effect of conuersion of soules, S. Martyn was wont very industriously to make vse of the great gift he had, in curing the sicke, and deliuering possessed per∣sons of euill spirits; as among others, he did heere with a person of great quality, by name Tetradius.

This man, being moued to compassion, for a deere seruant of his, very cruelly oppressed and tormented by the infernall enemy, with great instance intreated S. Martyn to vouchsafe so much as to cure him. The holy man then, willed him to be brought before him: but the maligne spirit would not endure, to be led from home resisting the same very obstinately, euer with biting, and scrat∣ching. Whereupon Tetradius, repayring to the holy Bishop, puts him∣self on his knees to beseech him, he would be pleased to come to the lodging himselfe. And with this occasion, S. Martyn began very dexterously to help this soule, with shewing himselfe somewhat backward therein; and with saying, that it was not lawfull for him to enter into the house of a Gentile, and profane man; & could •…•…ell how to discourse so well, as Tetradius promised him to become a Christian, if he could see but his seruant deliuered once of his paine, and malady. Vpon this pact, S. Martin was content to go thither, •…•…nd so holding his hand ouer him, on a sudden expelled the Diuell. Nor did Tetradius fayle of his word, being made a Cathecumen •…•…ut of hand, and a litle after baptized, and while he liued thence∣forth, did alwayes beare very great reuerence, and loue to S. Martin.

The gifts, and naturall talents of S. Martin: with a certayne miracle that he wrought. Chap. 14.

THus did this great Captaine by all meanes continually wage warre against the Prince of this world, and went dispossessing him apace from his ancient tiranny. Nor let any esteeme this zeale of his, to be awhit deuoyd of prudence, or discretion: forasmuch as S. Martin being assisted with diuine grace, and profound humili∣ty, could very well distinguish of inspirations, good or euill, as of the Angels themselues, of light or darknes, (which in diuers figu∣res, and with sundry intentions, would visit him often.) Moreo∣uer howbeyt, through many impediments, he was not able to at∣tend to the schooles; yet with a viuacity of wit, and with sobriety and vigilancy, together with such reading, as his businesses would permit, and much more through an excellent purity of hart, and by keeping the mind euer fixed in God; he arriued to so high a de∣gree of true science, & of a solid, and masculine eloquence, that he was able to expound very difficult places of diuine Scripture, with incredible cleerenes. And in answering to cases of conscience could alwayes touch the very point of matters; as also in discourses, as well publique, as priuate, teach and moue the Auditours, with so much more fruite, as he sought euer more, the only glory of God, and abhorred his owne.

But aboue all, he would giue a very singular accompt of the Christian fayth, and was sufficient to refute with very pregnan•…•… reasons, whomesoeuer should seeme to haue the impious boldnes to assayle the same, He was wont also, to gather very profitable, and spirituall conceipts, from things which dayly would occurre vnto him. As once when he saw a sheep newly shorne, he pleasant∣ly sayd to the standers by: This sheep heere, hath already fulfilled the precept of the Ghospell, because of two coates, he hath parted with one, to such as had need; and so should you likewise doe. Be∣holding one, that was keeping of swine, very cold, and but halfe couered with a poore, and curtayle coate of skinnes, he sayd: Be∣hold Adam, chased out of Paradise; but let vs, leauing the old Adam, cloth our selues with the new.

There was a great and goodly meadow, where in one part the oxen fed; another fouly rooted vp by swyne; the third as yet

vntouched, and diapred with pleasant colours, gaue wonderfull de∣•…•…ight to human eyes. Now S. Martyn, turning to his cōpanions, said: That peece which you see so fed on, may seeme to demonstrate the •…•…tate of Matrimony, because that howbeit, it haue not wholy lost the •…•…onour of its greenesse, yet is it depriued of the grace, and ornament •…•…f the Howers therof: that other so grubd, and turned vp, as you see •…•…y those vncleane beasts, resembles the filthy vice of Fornication: but •…•…he remaynder, which hath not hitherto, suffered any manner of •…•…iury, represents the glory of Virginity, since being clothed with •…•…ery frequent and fresh hearbs, rich of fruites, & distinguished with •…•…leasant flowers, in manner of fine pearls, emeralds, and rubyes, •…•…hynes aboue all the beauty of art, and workmanship of hand. O •…•…lessed semblance, and right worthy of God, forasmuch, as there is •…•…othing in the world, that may seeme to compare with the gift of •…•…oly Virginity!

In the visit of his diocesse, arriuing once at a certayne riuer, in •…•…ompany of many other seruants of God; he saw a great shole of •…•…oule, very busy a fishing, and greedily attending to gorge themsel∣•…•…es. Then sayd •…•…e to such, as were about him: these reuenous birds, •…•…esemble much the infernall enemyes, that lye alwayes in wayte, to •…•…atch the vnwary soules, to take them on a sudden, and to deuour •…•…hem vp, without end of satiating themselues. To these words, he •…•…dded, a notable miracle, which was, to commaund the foule, with •…•…he powerfull vertue of words, to leaue the waters, wherin they were floating, & to go their wayes to the vplands, & desert places. At which voyce, being suddenly assembled togeather, leauing the waters, they flew to the woods and mountaynes; while the multi∣tude of Spectatours with reason remayned astonished to behold, that S. Martin should haue likewise power to commaund the birds.

In this manner then, ech creature serued the purifyed eyes of the Saint, as a liuely glasse of truth, and without labour, or rather with delight, gathering, as I said, the best documents from euery thing, he came alwayes to maynteyne his hart, and of those he dealt with, in chast thoughts, procuring with all possible industryes, that rationall soules, should dispose themselues, to afford a cleane and gratefull lodging to the diuine Goodnes. To which effect, likewise he sought to keep his subiects exercised in prayer, to be prompt in pardoning iniuryes & offences, and lastly to exchange the delights of the Sense, with the pleasures of the Spirit.

S. Martyn through fasts, and prayers to Almighty God, appeaseth the 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 Valentinian the Emperour. Chap. 15.

THe charity of S. Martyn was not conteyned within those 〈◊〉〈◊〉 high and Noble workes of Mercy alone, but extended it selfe very tenderly also to the Corporall workes, and exterious necessi∣tyes, in curing of the sicke, in visiting, and defending of the Or∣phans and widowes, succouring the afflicted, and oppressed with vniust power, or by any other human accident, shewing no lesse promptnes in vndertaking such like enterprizes, then greatnes of courage, in susteyning them, and setting them forwards by al mea∣nes possible. To which purpose, we may not conceale, how 〈◊〉〈◊〉 being gone vpon such occasions, to the Court of Valentinian th•…•… Emperour, a man very proud, and haughty by nature, and besides by his Arrian Wife, much prouoked against the Catholiques; he had heere a large field likewise, to shew his constancy in. In regard, that the Emperour, hauing heard before hand of the comming of the Man of God, and of the affayres he was to treat of, suddenly gaue order, he should not be admitted into the Pallace. So as S. Martin, af∣ter he had once, or twice, endeuoured in vayne to get audience, no•…•… loosing awhit of his courage the while, nor yet troubled for the re∣pulses had, with his wonted fayth, and fortitude, layd hold of his ancient remedyes. He puts on a course Cilice, sprinckles himselfe with ashes, takes leaue of all sorts of meate, & drinke. From thence entring into sighes, and prayers, he perseuered so long, till on the seauenth day, an Angell from Heauen appeared to him, & bad him boldly go to the Pallace, for the gates, though of purpose shut a∣gainst him, should now stand open to him, & the pride of the mer∣cylesse Prince, should fall by one meanes, or other.

With this confidence, S. Martyn going thither, found his en∣try so easy, as without any impedimēt, he came to the roome, where Valentinian himselfe was, who seeing him a farre off, was exceeding angry therewith at the first, and with frowning lookes, cryed •…•…ut vpon his Guards for admitting him in; and thereupon stood im∣moueable, without saying any more, or giuing any manner of en∣tertaynement to the blessed Bishop: When behold on a sudden, the Royall Throne was enuironed with flames, which approaching to that part of his body, wherewith he sate, enforced him against

his will to stand on his feete; and was affrighted therat in such sort •…•…s being humbled, with many imbraces, and courtesyes, he now •…•…ceiued him, whome a little before he could not endure to see: & •…•…mmediately, without expecting supplications from him did fauour •…•…im with whatsoeuer he desired. After which, he would inuite him •…•…ery often to familiar discours, yea, and to banquets also: & lastly •…•…t his parting, offered him diuers rich presents. But the faythfull •…•…iend of Pouerty, with much edification of all the Court, without •…•…ccepting of any one, repayred to his cure, and diocesse, as soone as •…•…ight be. In this manner, the Seruant of Christ, with patience, and •…•…ith prayer ouercoming all obstacles, guided his busynesses to a •…•…yre port: & as he suffered not himselfe, to be deiected a whit with •…•…dignityes, and affronts; so kept he himselfe amidst fauours, and •…•…rosperityes, perpetually immu•…•…uable.

•…•…ow S. Martin was honoured, and esteemed by the Emperour Maximus, t•…•… the great honour of the Clergy. Chap 16.

IF euer any Prelate were welcome and made much of, by great Princes, this holy man had as much respect of them as any: for 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the number of his most rare gifts, shined no lesse Apostolicall Maiesty, then Religious modesty. Whereof Maximus the Emperour •…•…mong others, hath giuen vs a very good testimony: who within a •…•…hile after the Death of Valentinian, being assumpted by the soul∣•…•…iours to the Empire, though on the one side, he were very tenaci∣•…•…us, and committed many extorsions; yet on the other, shewed he •…•…imselfe, to be desirous of eternall saluation, and a man of time∣•…•…ous conscience, being much furthered therein by the Empresse his •…•…ife, a woman of great vertue, and no lesse ready to fauour, for her •…•…art, the Catholike Prelates, then that Arrian was sollicitous, to •…•…inder them.

By these two personages now, it cannot be expressed, how 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Martyn was reuerenced, and esteemed. So as going at those times •…•…ikewise to the Court, by occasion of deliuering of certayne priso∣•…•…ers, releasing of Bandits, and recouering from the Treasury some goods confiscated, and of other such workes of paternall charity; Maximus did receiue him with singular veneration, and after he had •…•…ispatched with him the aforesayd businesses, he would call him a∣•…•…de, and very willingly heare him discourse, of the vncertaynty of

present things, of the Eternity of the future world, of the glory 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Blessed, and of the vnspeakable greatnesse of God. At which discourses, the deuout Queene was alwayes present, being his de•…•… consort no lesse in Religion, then in the Empire, sitting humbly 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the ground, still hanging in suspence, with all recollecton, and si∣lence, on the words, and gestures of the man of God; wherewith now being warmed, she was soone enflamed with so great a fer∣uour, as acknowledging with a liuely, and most chast fayth in th•…•… person of her Ghest, the same of Christ, she determined to repre∣sent in her selfe both the Sisters of Lazarus: and as in sitting at th•…•… feete of the Saint, and hearing of the diuine word, she had imi∣tated Mary; so in seruing, and feeding him she would not be a whi•…•… inferiour to Martha.

With this purpose, she intreated him, very earnestly to daign•…•… to receiue a sober refection particularly from her: which S. Mar•…•… precisely denying her, as he, who abhorred all vanity, and such li•…•… familiarity with women, yet she very firme in her deliberation had recourse to her husband, and with him togeather, began afresh to importune the Bishop; in so much, as partly not to contristate such Princes, and partly not to preiudice the cause of the poore, which then he handled, at last suffered himselfe to be ouercome. Where•…•…∣pon the good Empresse, without other wayters as all, hauing 〈◊〉〈◊〉 him at the table, began to put before him the meate which she had dressed and seasoned with her owne hands, and likewise presen•…•… him his drinke, and in summe, during the dinner, like an humble handmayd, stood attending with her eyes modestly fixed on the Table, & with her whole person attentiue and prompt to the serui∣ce. And finally, the cloth being reuerently taken away, and the re∣mainder, with the crums, with diligence voyded, she tooke th•…•… with her, most triumphant, and glad, with infinite thanks to God, as one laden with many exceeding rich spoyles▪

Surely, not without a great confusion, and shame to some wo∣men of our tymes, who not bearing respect, eyther to the Decre•…•… of Councells, or euen to the dreadfull Mistery of the Aultar, are won•…•… themselues no lesse impious, then impudently, to be serued by the Priests of the Highest, insteed of Wayters, and Pages. Though in∣deed the Clerks themselues for their parts, are not wholy witho•…•… fault, since they for the vile interests of ambition, or gayne, perm•…•… that degree to be trampled on by men, which euen the Angels thē∣selues

do reuerence. From which adulation and basenes of theyrs, how far off S. Martyn euer was, and with what decorum, especially in publique, he conserued the Episcopall dignity, may be easily ga∣thered by that which we shall set downe in the next Chapter.

How S. Martyn was feasted by the Emperour: & how he bare himselfe therin. Chap. 17.

THe aforesaid Maximus had very oftentymes inuited S. Martin to dyne with him, but alwayes in vayne; yet notwithstanding he so perseuered with intreatyes, as finally he yeilded thereunto, with no lesse gladnes of the Emperour, then if he had conquered a kingdome. There were thither inuited withall, as to a great feast, three principall Lords of the Court, the Consull Euodius, and two Counts, the one the Brother, the other the vncle to the Emperour: be∣tween these two, was placed the Priest, who was S. Martins compa∣nion. The holy Bishops Chayr, was put besides Maximus himselfe. The Feast was now by this tyme, prety forwards, when according to custome, there was a Cup of wine presented to the Emperour, who commaunded it sudenly to be commended to S. Martyn, expecting with a kind of ambition, to receiue it afterwards from his hand. But the great Prelat, hauing tasted therof, drank to his Priest, giuing to vnderstand therby, in that assembly was none more worthy then he to pledge him; esteeming he had done ill, if eyther the Empe∣rour himselfe, or his chiefest Fauourits, or neerest to him, had beene preferred by him before that poore Seruant of God.

They receiued all much edification heerat: & being slighted in that case, tooke it so much the better, as the most of the other Bishops in Court were subiect to base flattery, and with much indignity sought the grace and fauour of the Officers, and Ministers of Cesar. True it is, that this liberty, and confidence of S. Martin, had not been so conuenient and fit for all, not hauing equal splendour of life, nor such diuinity of miracles, as he. Wherof, though we haue mentio∣ned some already, notwithstanding of an infinite number of others yet remayning, we shall not spare to set downe some few, which without preiudice to the Reader, and in some manner without in∣iury of the Saint himselfe, may not well be let passed.

How S. Martin miraculously escaped burning. Chap. 18.

SAINT Martyn being gone, in the midst of winter, to visit a place of his diocesse, a lodging was prepared him by his Clerks, in the precincts of the Church, and to ayre the chamber there w•…•… a great fire made vnderneath, and insteed of a bed, was strewed a good quantity of dry litter and straw; whereon S. Martin at night reposing, and setling himselfe to sleepe, and being accustomed (as we haue said) to lye on the hard ground, could not away with such softnes, and as it were displeased therewith, immediately putting the straw aside, returned to his ordinary manner of lodging: but a•…•… the flore was broken, and full of cle•…•…s, it happened, that the force of the fire piercing through them, by little, and little, it came to en∣kindle the straw, and furiously to burne. Whereupon, S. Martyn awaking, and seeing himselfe sudenly in so great a danger, without hauing tyme, or to say better, aduertence to call vpon the diuine ayde, with a naturall motion which he had, got vp on his feete, & ran in hast to open the doore, but it pleased God he found it so b•…•…∣red, as that while he laboured and toyled himselfe, to put back the bolt, the fire approaching had now taken hold of his Cassock.

Then finally S. Martin returning to himselfe, and perceiuing that his remedy consisted not in flying away, but in crauing ayde from heauen, taking hold of the sheild of fayth, and prayer; 〈◊〉〈◊〉 himselfe on his knees in the midst of the flames, which euen hee•…•… likewise sudenly, as it were affrighted thereat, withdrew themsel∣ues, while he stood immoueable still pursuing his prayers. In the meane tyme, the Monks, who were companions to the Saint, •…•…e∣mayning in the next Chamber, being awaked with the noyse, and terrifyed at the chance, by force, and not without some delay & dif∣ficulty, brake open the doore, and thinking by that tyme to haue found the blessed Father consumed and dead, they saw him, beyond all hope, amidst the flames both aliue, and entire; and comming boldly vnto him, tooke out his body from thence. The blessed man confessed afterwards, not without sighs, his owne fault. For that he hauing among other his spirituall employments, an ancient cu∣stome, in awaking alwayes, before any other thing, to lift vp his mind to God, and to sanctify with the perfume of prayer, the Aul∣tar of his hart, and so to shut vp the Temple of his soule, that no

vncleane, or hurtfull beast of euill thoughts, might seeme to put •…•…heir foote therinto; yet howsoeuer at that tyme, eyther out of hu∣man feare, or subtility of the enemy, being quite, as it were, besides himselfe, and wholy vnmindfull of his good custome, he had first made his recourse to visible remedyes, then to the inuisible: affir∣ming for certayne, that he was in extreme danger of burning, being alone, while he laboured, with a troubled mind to open the bolt. But that after he had betaken himselfe to the armes of the holy Crosse, and prayer, the flames were on a sudden (as he sayd) so contracted within themselues, as they left him vntouched, through diuine power.

How Euantius was cured of a grieuous sicknes by S. Martin: and what other notable things he wrought besides. Chap. 19.

ABout this tyme, a certayne honourable person, and a man of much piety, by name Euantius, fell mortally sicke, and be∣ing now as it were despaired of by the Phisitians, with a great deale of fayth called for S. Martyn, who without all delay, went his waies thither. An admirable thing: he was not yet gone halfe way, when the sicke man felt the benefit thereof, and hauing suddenly receiued health, came in person to meete with him, and to entertayne him as a Ghest. And S. Martin being willing to depart the next day, with humble intreatyes and much importunity, he was enforced at last to remayne a while with him. In that interim, a Page of the house, was stung with a venemous Serpent, so pestiferous indeed, as he was now euen ready to giue vp the last breath. When lo, the same Euantius, taking him on his shoulders, with great confidence, car∣ryed him to the feete of the Saint. And now was the euill already spread through all his lymmes; when you might haue seene the skinne to swell in euery veyne, and the vitall parts to stretch like a bladder, till S. Martyn which his blessed hand feeling them heere & there, at last with his finger touched the wound it selfe. At the point whereof, might cleerely be seen, the poyson retyring it selfe, to runne to the fingars end, and thence by the narrow mouth of the wound, with long spinning to gush forth mingled with bloud, like the milke which sprinkles from the tea•…•…, being hardly wrung. Wherewith the youth arose vp •…•…ound, and the standers by remay∣ned astonished, confessing vnder Heaue•…•… nothing to be any a∣whit

comparable to S. Martin. Nor was the worke lesse famous, that followes after.

There was in the Citty of Chartres, a young girle of twelue yeare old, so dumbe, as till that time, she could neuer frame a wor•…•… Now S. Martin being in the company of other two Bishops, V•…•… tinian and Vi•…•…us by name, the sayd little girle, was presented to him by her sad Father, that by his meanes, her tongue might be loosed: when as S. Martin, with much modesty began to put of that office to those two Prelates; alledging, that to their fayth, and vertue, nothing would be impossible. But they on the other side, vniting their intreatyes with the Suppliant, began to vrge him much to vouchsafe to comfort him. Whereupon S. Martin, without more delay, shewing no lesse piety, in the prompt execution, then humility in the first refusall, gaue order, that the multitude of peo∣ple, should stand off, and he remayning only, with the Bishops, and with the Father of the child, according to his custome puts him∣selfe into prayer: then blessing a litle oyle, with the preface of the Exorcisme, and taking hold of the tongue of the dumbe Creature with his fingar, he dropped a litle of that holy liquour vpon it, not without present effect. Because the Girle, being demaunded what was her Fathers name, suddenly answered thereunto very readily▪ Whereat, the sayd Father, lifting vp his voyce with ioy, & teares at once, very deerly imbraced the knees of the Man of God, affir∣ming this to be the first word, that he had euer heard his daughter speake; who afterwards, with the vniuersall wonder of all, retey∣ned still the vse of her speach. And this truly was vpon one alone▪ but that which now we shall tell you, concerned many together.

For there being entred into the family of a principall man, by name Licontius, a kind of disease, so grieuous and contagious with∣all, as that throughout the whole howse, there was nothing to be seen, heere and there, but the sick to lye, vp and downe, without hope or strength: Licontius for a last refuge, craued succour of S. Mar∣tyn, by letters; to whome the blessed man answered, it would be a very difficult thing to do, forseeing in spirit, that the scourge of God, was ouer that howse: and yet notwithstanding for compas∣sion, he disposed himself to pacify by all meanes the heauēly wrath, and retiring himselfe, he continued in fasting, and cilices for seauē whole nights and dayes together, with so feruent prayer, as finally he obteined what he would. Wherupon Licontius, being exceeding∣ly

comforted, went flying in hast, with a thousand thanks, to bring •…•…e good newes to S. Martyn. And offered him moreouer, a hundred •…•…unds of siluer: Which the holy Bishop, neyther refused, nor alto∣•…•…ether accepted, but with a meane betweene both, & not suffering •…•…e same to enter into the gates of his Monastery, applied it sudainly 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the ransome of Captiues; When it being suggested to him by the •…•…ōks, to retayne some part therof, for the necessityes of the house, which at that tyme, was in some distresse, he answered, that the or∣•…•…nary assignement of his Church, was sufficient for that purpose.

This cure wrought S. Martin, and many others of sundry infir∣•…•…ityes, as we•…•… in presence, as in absence. But what wonder is it, •…•…at he should haue power vpon humane bodyes, who had so much •…•…ower ouer spirits? This is certaine, the possessed being brought to •…•…e Cathedrall Church to be deliuered by him, assoone as he put but •…•…s foote forth of his Cell, to come to the Citty, they would begin to •…•…hreech with horrid gestures, and houlings, full of dreadfulnes to •…•…ehold: insomuch as the Clerks, with this signe only, were wont to •…•…nderstand before hand of the Bishops comming thither. And he be∣•…•…des, not as other Exorcists are wont, who through force of threats, •…•…nd cryes, vse to cast out Deuils; but being sprinckled with ashes, with wearing sharpe cilices, with prostrating himselfe on the groūd •…•…nd with the armes of holy prayer withall, would mayster them. Nor yet let any thinke the while, that among so many graces from Heauen, that S. Martin was wholy without the Gift of Prophecy •…•…lso. Forasmuch as diuers accidents being farre remote in tyme, & •…•…lace, were manifested to him, partly immediately from God, part∣•…•…y also through the ministery (as hath beene sayd) of the Angels. Of which, and of many other meruayles besides (for breuity sake vntouched by vs) whosoeuer would seeme to haue a more distinct •…•…otice, let him read Sulpitius Seuerus in his Dialogues: howbeyt, he also, not to be tedious, confesseth, that of purpose, he had concealed 〈◊〉〈◊〉 great part of them. But now, it is tyme, in fine, for vs to come to the last act of this representation, certainely no lesse notable, or lesse perfect, then the others; but so much more worthy of applause, as it more assures vs of the reward.

The Death of S. Martin, with the Lamentation made by all, & the great 〈◊〉〈◊〉 for his Body. Chap. 20.

THE blessed Man, was now arriued to the 81. yeare, or as others will haue it, to the 87. of his age, when through di∣uine reuelation, he himselfe knew, that his end approached, and cleerely foretold it to his disciples. But yet for all that, continued he his wonted deuotions and abstinences, and diligently attended to his pastorall office. And because, in those dayes, there fell out a scandalous discord, among the Clerks of a certayne place, which is called Candacum, he determined in person to go thither, to quiet them; esteeming he could not more happily end his life, then by leauing all his Churches in good peace and concord. Being gone then thither, and with diuine grace, hauing setled matters, he was now ready to turne backe to his Monastery agayne, when he be∣gan to feele in himselfe, some notable defect of forces: and there∣fore gathering his disciples togeather, he told them how his Ta∣bernacle was now ready to be dissolued, whence of necessity he must needs leaue them.

When lo, amidst very dolefull sighes and teares, there was ray∣sed this common voyce amongst them, saying: And why do you leaue vs so, holy Father? To whome do you recommend vs so dis∣consolate, and afflicted? The rauenous wolues will assayle your flocke, and the Shepheard being lost, who is he that can defend vs? We know very well, you desire to go to Christ, but your re∣wards are safe inough, and guerdons which differred a while, are not lessened a whit: then take you pitty on vs rather, who remayne in such manifest danger. The Seruant of Christ, being mollifyed at these words, could not conteyne himselfe from weeping, but with great affect, turning himselfe to Heauen, sayd: O Lord, if I yet be necessary to this people, I fly no labour, thy most holy will be done. Wherein, being as it were put in ballance, he shewed, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 knew not, which of the two was deerest to him, eyther to remaine on earth for Christ, or to leaue the earth for Christ. Wherein he gaue example to the faythfull, how in such prayers, they are not to en∣cline with desire, eyther to the one, or other side; but a with reall, and simple indifferency, to remit themselues in all, and through all, to the diuine arbitrement.

The good Bishop, for some dayes now, was tormented with a •…•…uell feuer, and yet neuerthelesse continued he night and day in •…•…editation and vigils, susteyning with the vehemency of his spirit▪ •…•…e weakenes of his body, lying so, in that his soft and delicate bed 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ashes, and hayrecloth; when being with much instance intrea∣•…•…d by his Monkes, to suffer at least some vile •…•…ackloth to lye vnder •…•…im: It is not fit, sayd he, O children, that a Christian should seeme 〈◊〉〈◊〉 dye otherwise, then vpon ashes: and if I giue you not example •…•…ereof, the fault is mine. This sayd, he turned with his face vp∣wards, to cast vp his eyes and hands to the starres. In which posi∣•…•…on now immoueable, lying as drawing to his end, he was v•…•…ry •…•…rnestly intreated by the Priests (who in great number were •…•…ome to visit him) to turne himself at least on one side, to take some •…•…st, but he replyed: Let me alone Brothers, and suffer me rather to •…•…oke to heauen-wards, then to the earth, and to put my soule into •…•…to the right way, being euen now ready to passe to the Creatour.

After this, seing the Deuil to appeare before him: What dost •…•…ou heere (sayd he) thou bloudy beast? Thou shalt find nothing 〈◊〉〈◊〉 me. O Thiefe! Arahams bosome lyes open, and ready for me. And with these words, he yeilded vp his spirit, vpon Saturday about •…•…idnight, in the tyme of Honorius, and Arcadius Emperours, in the •…•…eare of our Lord 397. or as others will haue it 402. hauing his •…•…ce so resplendant, and all those members and fle•…•…h of his, so ill in∣•…•…eated before, and mortifyed, now so white, fresh, and sweete to •…•…ehold, as they seemed already to be transformed into the state of •…•…ory. At the very same tyme, were heard most sweet ha•…•…onyes •…•…boue, of Angelicall Quires; and this not only in those parts, but •…•…uen likewise in the Citty of Colen, where the blessed Se•…•…erinus Bi∣•…•…op, together with his Archdeacon, was pa•…•… of so gratefull ac∣•…•…ents also: and the same Bishop, had reue•…•… besides, how in that •…•…und, so continued in his eares, the seuere ministers of the eternall •…•…ustice, were, at his passage, though in vayne, withholding and •…•…xamining S. Martyn. Whence euery one may consider with what •…•…gour, sinners are there handled, since so without respect, the very •…•…st are so strictly dealt with.

The newes being spread abroad of his des•…•…e, who were •…•…le to expresse the mourning of all, and the solemnity of the Exe∣•…•…uyes there made? When not only of Towers, and all the Countrey •…•…ereabous, but euen from sundry other neighbour Cittyes likewise

all the Inhabitants came forth to honour the body, while the co•…•… trary affects at once then combated in their soules, both of ioy & 〈◊〉〈◊〉 nes: notwithstanding the number of those was much greater, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 moued with the losse of such a Father, Pastour, and Maister, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 their only refuge, went sighing and lamenting bitterly amidst 〈◊〉〈◊〉 hymnes & canticles. But especially the assembly of two tho•…•… Monkes, all trayned vp by the S•…•…int; and partly a chast and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Quire of Virgins, all eleuated in spirit, & diuine praises, gaue fo•…•… pious, and noble spectacle to behold.

With such a trayne then, a great deale more glorious, th•…•…n 〈◊〉〈◊〉 triumphes of Emperours, and of Caesars, were the sacred spoyle•…•… 〈◊〉〈◊〉 posed, in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 certaine place of that Countrey, vntill it was thro•…•… determined, where it should be placed, in a proper and stable 〈◊〉〈◊〉 pulcher. Now there being in those dayes, a great controuersy 〈◊〉〈◊〉 thereabouts, betweene the inhabitants of Towers, and those of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 tiers; in the one of which places, S. Martin had led a good while 〈◊〉〈◊〉 priuate life; and in the other had gouerned the Church to his dyi•…•… day: And they being not able, in so great diuersity of minds, by 〈◊〉〈◊〉 mane wayes▪ to come vnto accord therin; and both the one and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ther people cōtending with ech other about the same, in strict 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and custody of the sacred treasure: It pleased our Lord, that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Poytiers, about midnight should remayne all oppressed, with 〈◊〉〈◊〉 profound a sleepe, as that their aduersaries being aware therof, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the space to let downe the body quietly by a window, into a Ba•…•… there ready in the riuer. Whereupon looke with how much ioy & triumph for so great a purchase, they went conducting it home: 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the others, became as sorowfull & perplexed for the losse, the next day morning.

There was afterwards, by the Bishops, successours to S. Ma•…•… built to his honour in Towers, a sumptuous & magnificent Church, where with great veneration was kept, that noble instrument 〈◊〉〈◊〉 diuine wisedome, vntill this vnhappy age, in which the Sunne ha•…•… not seen a worse deed, then the impious scattering of those blessed Reliques in the riuer of Lu•…•…ra, by the hands of sacrilegious Here∣tiques. But howbeyt, through diuine permission, they had the for∣ce, to disperse the bones, and ashes of the Saint: Yet were they no•…•… able, nor euer shall be, to extinguish the memory of his manifold miracles, nor the good odour of his excellent Vertues.

FINIS.