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Of Purgatory. 1. Part.
COnsider 1. As Hell is ordained for punish∣ment of Mortal Sin, so is Purgatory for Venial. And here likewise Sinners suffer for a time pain both of Sense, and Losse. Ponder therefore the grievousnesse of the pains of Sense. 1. In re∣gard of the place, which is also under ground, dark and joyning to Hell. 2. For the nature and con∣dition of the Fire, which is of the same kind and activity (as Divines teach) with that of Hell. 3. For the excesse of torment: for (as St. Augustine saith) that purging fire is more grievous then what pain soever we can see, feel,* 1.1 or even imagine in this world. 4. For the long durance; for although those torments be not everlasting, yet to very many they last for many years, and to some even till the day of Judgement; as appeareth by divers very credible and authentick Histories.* 1.2 Who can dwell with devouring fire?
* 1.3Consider 2. The pain of Losse, which the Souls sustain here for the delay of the Beatifical Vision, which they most ardently long for. Hope that is deferred afflicteth the soul: Much more the hopes of so great a happiness as is the seeing and enjoying of God. Think if you were promised a King∣dom, what a longing condition you would be in, till you were in possession: with much greater desire are the Souls there inflamed, and they grieve the more, for that so great a good is deferred for their own carelesnesse and negligence in this life.