The Holy life of Philip Nerius founder of the Congregation of the Oratory. To which is annexed a relation written by S. Augustine of the miracles in his dayes, wrought many of them in or near the city wherein he resided and well-known to him. And a relation of sundry miracles wrought at the monastery of Port-Royall in Paris, A.D. 1656. publikcly [sic] attested by many witnesses. / Translated out of a French copie published at Paris. 1656.

THE FIFTH BOOK, of the LIFE of PHILIP NERI. Of the Miracles which He did whilst he lived.

CHAP. I. Miracles done by him with the Sign of the Cross.

HAving in the preceding Books spoken of Philip from his Birth to his Death; and brought down the relation of his Vertues thus far, intermixed with many strange Occurrents; it now rests, that we particularize, which on purpose was before ommited, the rest of the Mi∣racles wrought by his means: not doubting, but they that read them, may again no less, than by perusall of his Life. That so those who read and see the Sanctity of the B. man confirmed by so many and so manifest signes and wonders, may be the more easily won to the imitation of his Vertues.

First then, to begin with our own, Prometheus Peregrinus a Priest of the Congregation was so misera∣bly wrung with the Cholick, as if his Bowels had been pulled asunder from him. His pains increa∣sing still, Philip comes to visit him, and lay∣ing

his hands on him, cros∣sed the part affected, saying in a jesting srot, it is nothng: easing him thereby of all his greife and torment.

Antonia Caraccia was desperately ill of a Putrid Fever, and a pain of her sides, whereof she lay sick fifteen dayes and was now not able to stir, her Husband, desirous of his Wifes health, acquaints Philip with it who bid him; Go we will pray for her. But, her dis∣sease still growing upon her, she could neither rest, nor eat: her Husband returns to Philip and tells him; Antonia is a dying, I bid you quoth he, not long since, doubt not, it will come to nothing, go, and I will follow: and straight way coming to her he asked, Where is your grief? she shewed him her right side. He laying his hand on it, and crossing it, told her, This is nothing, it is gone. Scarce had he turned his back but forthwith her disease left her. The people of the house would have noised the Miracle, but Antonia bid them; Hold your peace, lest the Father take it ill: for he charged me to keep my Bed two or three dayes, that I might not seem to recover so quickly.

Angela Lippea for divers years had been troubled with a pain in her Shoulders, so that she could scarce∣ly breathe, and was so disabled in her right arme, as she had no use of it. Her Daughter Julia told her, Mother, pray go to Philip, and intreat him, but to sayt he Lords Prayer once over you, or the Angeli∣call Salutation, and you will be well. She did as her Daughter counselled her. Philip asked her; Why doth not she that sent you do as you say? at which the Woman went away sad; but he pittying her said: Go to, let us pray together; and griping her hand

hard, where her gteatest pain lay, he made the sign of the Cross upon the place, and presently the Wo∣man was restored to her health.

Virginia Martellia had very sore eyes, and coming to Philip she desired him to procure her help from Almighty God. The Servant of Christ, dipping his fin∣ger in a Bason of water that was by, & stroking her eyes, made the sign of the Cross on them, and they were instantly cured.

Maria Paganella affirms, that she was many times cured of the Headach, with Philips crossing her fore∣head only with his finger: insomuch as passing tho∣row the Church, she would come to him, and desire to be marked with that sign, and saying nothing at all to him of her malady, was healed straight. The like she said befell her, as oft as she was ill at her Stomack.

In Turris Speculorum, Isabella Mareria had a Cham∣ber hard by a Lime-pit, which had been newly wa∣tered: and it chanced, about midnight the steam of the Lime evaporating filled her Room all over, so that rising to Mattens, as she used, a Dizziness in the head took her, that she fell backward, and trying twice or thirce to stand up, she failed still. So being had to bed, she lay there for a Moneth; and as oft as she ventured to rise that Giddiness seized her. Her Physician, fearing she might go away on the sudden, gave order, she should be watched: in the mean∣time the H. man comes thither on some other occa∣sions; which she hearing of, gat up, and went to him, acquaints him with her disease: saith Philip to her: Be of good chear, you will do well: and hold∣ing her head hard betwixt his handes made a many Crosses on it: whereupon a filthy matter issued out at her Nostrils, which afforded her present ease, and in short time she was perfectly well.

CHAP. II. Miracles wrought by the Touch of his hands.

A Noble Roman had an Ulcer broke out upon him, that put him to such anguish and torture, as he could not rest for it; and fearing it might prove the disease called S. Antony's fire he in a fright comes to Philip for direction, who looking at him, as he made toward him, before ever he had spoke a word to him, said: Shut the doors and shew me the part affected. he did so, and the H. man lifting up his eyes to heaven, and praying, fell a trembling, as he was wont, then stroking the Boil with his hand twice or thrice, healed him immediately of his pain. Where∣upon he cries out; Thou art a Saint indeed, Father, I will into in the City, and proclaim thee Holy in every Street. He clapping his hand upon his mouth enjoin∣ed him silence; and would not let him stir thence, before he promised him, that he would not speak of it. The Noble man engaged to him: but Philip dying, he declared the whole proceeding, and that upon Oath.

Peter Victricius of Parma, while he was Servant to Cardinall Boncompagno, who was afterward Gregory the Thirteenth, fell so dangerously ill that the Doctors left him, as despairing of his Life. To him comes Philip, and after he had done praying in his Chamber, he lays his hand upon the sick party; who strangely and suddenly recovers, publishing it to all, where ever he came, that at the Prayers of Philip he was made whole. Whereupon, he was so addicted to the B. man, that he chose him for his Confessor; using to disburden his Conscience to him

thrice aweek, and receive the B. Sacrament: he di∣ed rich in good works, in the ninety seventh year of his Age.

Mauricius Anerius also lay very desperately sick, being so grievously pained at his Stomack, that he was bereft of his speech, and his Pulse had left beat∣ing, the Physicians giving him over. To him re∣pairs Philip, who kneelling down at his bed side, and praying, as he used to do, said to them that were by, I pray repeat the Lords Prayer once, and the An∣gels Salutation, for I should be sorry he should dye of this disease. Having so said, laying his hand on the Patients head and stomack, he went away silent; scarce was he departed, when Mauricius felt him∣self quit of all pain, recovering his Pulse and his Speech, and the next day rose, and was perfectly well.

Before he was acquainted with Philip, he was much incumbred with Secular business; and seldome going to Confession himself, had interdicted his Wife the so often going to Confession; yea he forbid her particularly to repair to the H. man. She relates all to Philip, who wished her, not to give over her course begun; for her Husband should shortly become a most Religious and devout Person. And so it proved, for not long after Maurice chose Philip for his Confessor, and was most ready and forward to works of piety all his life after.

Maurice had a son, named John Francis about fourteen years old, who fell into so violent a pestilentiall Fever, that the Doctors would come no more to him. Lying thus for seventeen dayes

with-out either eating, or stirring, or any sign of Life, save that he was discerned to breathe somewhat softly, Julia Ʋrsina Rangonia, the Mar∣chioness, hearing of it comes to the dying Person, de∣sirous, as she said, to see this prodigious Mira∣cle. Philip foresaw all this, who anon coming in∣to the Room, and praying after his usuall manner, requested the standers by to say the Lords Prayer once, and the Salutation of the Angel. Then put∣ting his hand upon the Child, and squeezing his forehead hard, he calls his Mother, and after a jest∣ing way said to her; It is well done, to let your Son perish for want of Victuals, bring him some Wine. They did so he puts a little into the Boys mouth, which as soon as he had tasted, he drank up a whole cup full: and instantly came to his senses again, grew better, and some few dayes after got out of his bed, and was as well as ever.

Carlo Ʋrsino, of about thirteen years of age, was sick of a Pleurisie, whom the Phy∣sicians gave for lost; his Mother comes to Philip, desiring he would take his Confession, as he lay a dy∣ing. He went and approaching neer his Bed side, dismissed the Company, and asked the Youth, where his pain lay? he answered, on the left side of his stomack. The Ser∣vant of God kneeling down pressed the part with his hand, that it seemed to the patient to go to his ve∣ry Intrals. Then after his Confession taken, Philip perceiving his disease more violent, the Penance which he had enjoined the sick party he undertook to perform himself; and bid him; Doubt not, for you shall not dy of this sickness; so went his way. He was no sooner gone, but the youth, calling to his

Mother, said; O Mother I am well: she would not believe him: he tells her a second time; Indeed I am well they bring him meat, he eats, and slept soundly. And the Physician coming to him found him in per∣fect health.

Fabius Ʋrsinus likewise fell into a pestelentiall Fe∣ver, which brought him so low, that he was deprived of speech, and being anointed with the sacred Oyle lay drawing on, but having before hand told his Aunt, the Marchioness of Rangonia, that he reposed much in Philips prayers, she desirous to satisfy her Nephew, caused him to be sent for. He came, and taking the sick parties head in his hand, held his brest to his own, the patient asked who is it? Philip answered, it was he; asking, Where his pain was? At my heart; quoth he. The H. man laying his right hand upon the place, pressed it hard, which Fabius felt colder than Ice, and presently told his Aunt, He was well: so he rose from his bed quite cured, to the admiration both of the Physicians, and the Neighbours.

John Baptist Boniperto was extreamly tormented with the Headach; Philip coming to him laid his right hand upon his Head, and fetched a great groan from his Heart twice together, when immediately he was quit of his pain, without using any other Remedy.

In the year One thousand five hundred and ninety, Mark Antonio Maffa, oft heretofore recited, dis∣ceases being at that time rife, by reason of Tyber overflowing, was in great danger of death, from a malignant Fever, and a pain in his head together. The B. man, coming to visit him, and as he used joyning his brest to his own holds his head hard be∣tween both his hands, his heart leaped, and prayed

a while and went his way: at which the Abbot forth∣with was released from his grief.

John Baptista Crescius was in such a burning Fe∣ver, and violent pain of the head that he thought his Temples even beaten in pieces with hammers; insomuch that he was minded to throw himself out of his window into a well, The B. man being sent to, came, and as soon as the sick Person saw him, he earnestly besought him, since he was not able any longer to endure it, that he would obtain for him either a mitigation of his torment, or speedy death. With that, Philip laid his hand on his head, counselling him, to recom∣mend his condition in devout manner to the assist∣ance of the B. Virgin and forsake his sins; as soon as he had done speaking to him, his pain was gone, his Fever abated and he within few dayes restored to his former strength, him had Philip cured of sore eyes, when he was an Infant, by the mere touch of his hands in like manner.

Livia Vestria, Wife to Valerius Ʋrsinus, being ve∣ry subject to a dizziness in her head had lien above a Moneth in grie∣vous pains of her head, and being something eased one day, she for∣ced her self and went to Vallicella. Where as she was in Confession, she felt her head on a sudden run round, insomuch as He that Confessed Her sent for Philip. He coming, and laying his right hand on her Head, said, No harm; and instantly both her dizziness and her pain left her, and she was never after taken so any more.

Sigismunda de Rusticis, the Wife of Alexander Vitelleschius, was pained with a continuall headach;

the H. man at that time used, after the exercises of the Oratory were over, to resort, together with his Sons, to the Gardens belonging to this Family, there to recreate themselves: where it so fell out, that as he came, Sigismunda was in the place, and being more vehemently tortured then, than at other times, she ran toward Philip, and humbly craved help of him. He taking her head be∣twixt both his hand, and squeezing it, cured her, who never after complained of the Headach more.

Katherine the Daughter of Hieronymo Ruissio, some five years old, had certain Scabs grew about her Nose, and having tried severall Medicines, her malady, that seemed to be lessened at first, in a while returned worse than e∣ver. Her mother hereupon brings her to Philip to be healed, who seeing the Child in such a miserable case, strook with compassion, toucheth her infected Nostrills, say∣ing Doubt not, it will be nothing; and straight that Scurf began to fall off, and in short time she was re∣stored as whole as ever.

Peter Ruissius, Katherines own Brother, had a grie∣vous headach, his Father importunately requested Philip to cure him of it, he told him; It were bet-for your Son to dy; but because I pity you, I will do all I can that Almighty God may restore him his health; and immediately laying his hand on his head, he freed him of his pain. Hereupon Hieronymo began to attribute such honour to him, that he confident∣ly sent another of his Sons, who was exceedingly troubled with the same pain and other infirmityes, to be healed by him. And his hope was not fru∣strate; for as soon as Philip but touched the Child

with his hand, he became presently well.

Victoria Varesia was taken with a pain in her left shoulder, which so disquieted her, that she could neither sleep, nor ly in her Bed. And remembring how she had formerly been cured by the Holy man, she repairs to him, acquaints him, how afflicted she was. He pleasantly an∣swered; Away, you are always troubling me; and pre∣sently asked her; Where is your grief? she touching her Shoulder, shewed him there her disease lay. At that Philip thrusting out his Arme, strook the part affected with his Fist saying; Never doubt it you are well. And presently the Woman found ease, and before she got home, was wholly freed of her distem∣per.

Ersilia Bucca lay desperately sick, by her Physicians doomed to death, and by her family lamented as already dead. Her Husband requesting Philip, to vouchsafe to come and see his sick Wife, he consented, and when he was come said; Ersilia shall not dy of this disease; then ap∣proching to the Bed, laid his hand upon her head, saying; Put away your fear, you shall not dy. At which she was very joyfull, and her sickness abating presently, within three days she was quite well.

Lucretia Garzia had such a dreadfull Ulcer broke out upon one of her Brests, that the Physicians deter∣mined to sear it with a red hot iron. She dreading the torment of fire though she were enjoined to keep her Bed, goes to, Philip, and tels him the whole passage. He pitying her asked, Where was her sore: the Woman shews him; who touching the part with his hand, said, as his fashion was Doubt

not, for hereafter you will do very well, When she was come home, as she sate at table, on a sudden she cries out; What is this? my pain disturbs me no more, and, if I mistake not, me thinks I am perfectly recove∣red. She looks, and tries, finds her self compleat∣ly cured, and the Surgeons coming, to sear her, were amazed to see her well.

Laura Hier. Moronus's Daughter, about thirteen years of age, fell so dangerously ill, that her Parents bewailed her as dead. So, being prepared by H. Ʋnction, the Habit, and all things else provided for her Fune∣rall, it came in her Fathers mind to send for Philip, to assist her by his Prayers, as she lay adying. He comes, and she, having her eyes shut, was not able to speak a word, when the B. man exulting in the Spirit, and shaking with his wonted trembling, breathes in her face, and as it were sportingly hits her a Boxe on the ear and taking her by the hair of the head jogs her to and fro, bid∣ding her recite the Venerable Name of Jesus: at which she, that was ready to dy, opens her eyes, and pronouncing the Name of Jesus, begins to mend, and in short time regained her former health.

Julia Lippia for almost two years was wofully tormented with pains in her head; which, when they came, held her two or three days together. And going to Mass one to day to Vallicella, she was sud∣denly so surprized with them, that she could not stir from her place; therefore she sate; and when Phi∣lip went by, she said; Father, I am taken with such a huge pain in my head, that I am not able to returne home. Then he, holding her head betwixt his hands, being seized with his accustomed trembling, asked,

How she did. Better, replied she, but yet not quite well. Then the B. man held her harder, and asked her again, How she did. who answered, She was very well; and so returned to her house without any pain at all.

Katherine Corradiana lay sick of a most dangerous disease, and being already anointed with the H. Oile was now drawing on; Philip coming thither lays his hand on her, and made certain Singers which he brought with him, sing some pious Verses wherein the Name of Jesus was oft repeated. They did so, and upon their singing the Woman felt her self eased, and in a short time recovered. As she was be∣ginning to mend, the Devil annoyed her ever and anon, and appearing to her asked; Why doth this Paltry fellow Philip come to you? But she wisely an∣swered him never a word, and meerly by her Pray∣ers vanquished the wily Adversary.

The B. Father one time had heard, that Clement the Eighth then Pope kept his Bed sick of the Gout; so to him he went, whom as soon as the Pope saw entring his Chamber, he charged him not to come near him, as not enduring, that the ve∣ry sheets should be touched, by reason of the anguish of his dis∣ease. But he notwithstanding passing along the Room, the Pope cried out again, Touch me not. Philip replied, Doubt not Blessed Fa∣ther: and therewith taking him by the right hand, where lay his pain, he griped it hard, trembling as he used to do. As soon as the Pope felt him; Go on Father, saith he, and touch me so again, for I am ex∣treamly pleased wi••h it: so his pain left him. This

Clement himself often attested, and especially in the Congregation for the Examination of Bishops.

It pleased Almighty God to renew the same Mira∣cle again, by his Servant Juvenall Ancina, Bishop of Salucioe, of whom we have formerly spoken, and written his Life in Italian some years ago. For in the year One thousand six hundred and two it chanced, in the City of Fossano, Thomas Baua then Governour of the place, and after a Senator of Taurini, was sick of the Gout; whom Juvenall coming to see, without any Ceremony presently tels him; This disease, Baua, was thus cured by my Father Philip: and att he same time labours to take hold of his hand that was diseased; but the Patient pulled it away, fearing he would pain him worse. Juvenall bids him, Be of good chear; for thus, said he, catching him by the diseased hand, my Father Philip cured Clement VIII of his Gout. He had no sooner said those words, but Baua was quit of his pain, and could use his fingers at pleasure, clutching his Fist divers times together, being never after affected with that Malady.

The like happened to Attilius Tinozzius; who being pained so with the Gout, that he might not be touched, was visited by Philip, who asked him, How he did; Very ill, saith he, but have a care you do not touch my foot. Doubt not, replies Philip, and on the sudden taking him by the foot, crossed it, and immediately he was cured; yea he who had been often troubled with the Gout before, never had it af∣ter.

John Manzolius aff••rms, that whensoever he was ill of the Gout, he used no other Remedy but to go to the H. Father, and intreat him to touch the distem∣pered part but with his hand, and thereby was in∣stantly

healed: the same divers others do testify to have befallen them.

In brief, it was so usuall for him to cure diseases, by the bare touching the sick with his hands, that Cardinall Taurusius was wont to say, That Sacred and Soveragin hand of his, by the meer touch thereof did both comfort the sad, and cure the sick. And An∣gelus Victorius, Philips Physician having been oft freed of the Headach by him, said; That he rather gained Remedy from Philip, than gave any to him.

CHAP. III. Cures wrought by his Prayers.

LAurentius Christianus a Priest Beneficed in the Va∣tican Church, whose Confession Philip was used to take, had a most violent Fever, which brought him so low, that being fortified by receiving the B. Sa∣crament and Extream Ʋnction, he lay a drawing on. The H. man being assistant to him, falling into his wonted tremblings, and exultation of Spirit, kneels down by him and prayes: which done, Laurentius, saith he, shall not dy now; and coming nearer, lays his hand on his head, calling him by his Name. He straight opens his eyes, knows Philips voice, and by and by lost his Fever.

Barth. Fuginius, a Roman, lying desperately sick was anointed, and by the Phy∣sicians left as past hope. Philip asked Angelus Vellius, who was his Confessor, before many that were by, how the ••linick did; this was about Evening: he answered

He is a dying; for the Physicians said, he would scarce live till Morning. At that saith Philip to his Sons; Will ye have the Man live or, dy? they all an∣swered, Live, if it be possible. Then quoth he; Let every one say five Pater Nosters, and as many Ave Marias: they did so, and in the Morning Fuginius was perfectly recovered.

Barsum Archdeacon of Alexandria began to be af∣fected with a consumptive Fever, for he spit bloud, and the Doctors gave him over. Hier. Viecchiettus, who brought Barsum from Egypt to Rome, repairs hereupon to Phi∣lip, desiring him to recommend the sad condition of the Archdeacon to God. And as Philip was at Mass, they perceived Barsum in a quiet sleep, who for three dayes and nights had not so much as slumbred: afterward the B. man appointed Barsum should be brought to Him; Hie∣rom tells him, he must get up, and take Coach, for saith he, Philip hath commanded so. He answers, He could not possibly. Hierom was urgent with him to rise, if it were but only because Philip required him. So Barsum takes heart, and riseth, and is had in a Coach to Philip: the Good man goes to meet him, kisseth and embraceth him, where they spent some time in mutuall Caresses. Barsum meanwhile, find∣ing his strength come to him, intreats Philip to con∣tinue his prayers for him hoping by this means to obtain health from the Most high God, as he called him. The Father promiseth him, and bids him go to Cardinall Frederic Borromeo upon some certain business: and as they went, See, saith Barsum, I am perfectly well. For so he was, and in few dayes became so lusty, that those who had seen him sick,

not knowing him by his looks, said in merriment; This is not Barsum, but some other like him.

He not long after returning to Alexandria, when Philip was dead, came again to Rome, where in an Oration to Clement VIII. recounting the particular Favours, he had received in the City, he made a large and honourable mention among the rest, of his Health restored to him at at the prayers of Philip.

John Manzolius, being about seventy years of age, was taken with a Flux, and Fever, and anointed with the H. Ʋnction, as unlikely to live, who calling his Nephew to him, bad him go to Philip, and pray him from me to send a Priest, to commend my soul to God, now I am a dying, and to as∣sign me a place of Buriall when I am dead, as he shall think fit. His Nephew did as he bid him, and Philip sent Matthias Maffeus, a Priest whom he lov∣ed entirely. Now the Phisicians had declared, that within two hours he would certainly dye, and his kinred had provided Mourning ready; nay the Bro∣thers of the Society of Misericordia were invited to his Funerall, and Montes Zazzara, one of them, in the Morning told Philip, that Manzolius was dead. The B. man replyed, Manzolius neither was dead, nor would dy of this sickness: and therewith sends for Maffeus, and asks, How he did; be times this Morn∣ing I hear he dyed, says he. You are much mistaken, replied Philip; go again, and be sure you see him your self. He goes and finds him alive, and well. For that night the H. man had put up long and most fervent Prayers for him, and knew very well what he had obtained of God. Manzolius had long before

desired Philip to be with him at his death; who an∣swered; I shall dy before you. And so it proved, for Man∣zolius survived Philip two years.

Alexander Corvinus a Noble man, who had lived much in the Court of Rome, fell dangerously ill; whereupon sayes Philip to his Sons; We must take some care of Alexander. So he presently repairs to him, as he lay and sayes Mass with him, for there was a Chappell there; but whilst he was cele∣brating those Divine Mysteries, he began to be transported with such a Fervour of Holy Love, showr∣ing down such plenty of Tears, and sending forth such Vollies of sighes, that you would easily affirm he must needs procure health to the sick Person. So soon as Mass was done he bid the Clinick chear up, and assuring him of his recovery went away: two days after Corvinus left his bed, and came to the Court and shewed himself in as good plight as ever.

Pompeius Paterius Priest of the Congregation falling into a violent Fever, Philip comes to him, hears his confession, and being seized with his wonted trembling, having prayed awhile, laid his hands on his head, saying as his manner was, doubt not: at which very words he was instant∣ly eased, eat his meat with his usuall appetite, and re∣gained his Former strength.

Another time going into ▪S. James's▪ Hospitall of the Incurabili, He found a sick man sensless, and speechless, with a Crucifix, and a lighted Taper set by him, according to the custome, adrawing on. Philip fervent in Spirit, falling on his knees prayes, and excites all that were present to do the same; whereupon he forthwith returned to his senses. Then He made the Sickman be lift up, and fit upright in

his bed and meat to be set before him. The next day one of his went to see the man and found him perfectly recovered.

Victoria Varesia was unsufferably tormented with an Humour that fell down into her right hand, and swelled it, which, though she had tried severall Me∣dicines, yet every day grew worse, insomuch that the Sinews and Nerves waxed stiff; so coming to Philip, she told him. This Rehem that troubles me, runs almost all over my body, and I am affraid my right hand will be benummed. He looking up to heaven, and shooke with his wonted trembling, presseth the grieved part with his hand, bidding her hope well and so dispatcheth her. As she went home, she be∣thought her self, whether it were best to chafe her hand with Ointments, as she used to do, or throw away the Sear-cloth; as she was thus in suspence, she said to her self; What dare I not trust the Sanctity of Philip? Have I not placed all the hope of my recovery in him? Why do I yet stick at it? And immediately pulling off her Searcloth, she flung it into the fire, and presently was able to turn her hand as nimbly, and follow her employments, as she did formerly, in a short space regaining her lost strength.

John Baptist Guerrius, a Brother of the Congregati∣on, as he was one evening putting up Silk Hangings in the Church, fell of the Ladder which was some twenty five handfulls high, dash∣ing his head against the Marble Pavement, where he lay for dead. The People running in, take him him up, lay him into his Bed, send for the Physicians, some of which affirm, he was past cure; others, that hi••

wound must be searched; and his Skull opened. Meanwhile it comes to Philip, who immediately be takes him to his Prayers, and bids the rest do so too. After this Angelus Victorius the Physician sends for him, telling him the wound was mortall: at which Philip smiled, saying; I would not have him dy now, therefore I will beg him of God, by fervent and effectuall Prayer. And he made good his words, for that night Guerrius slept well, and in the Morning rose, and went about his occasions, though they would have had him keep his bed, and when the Physicians came thinking to find him with his Fever and Convulsion upon him, he was in firm strength.

Bertinus Riccardus of Vercellae, one of the Congre∣gation too, was taken with an acute Fever, which brought him into a Frenzy, and extream perill of Death; whom, for that he had neither received the Sacraments, nor ordered his affairs, Philip pitying, earnestly besought God, that he might partake in the Sacraments, and settle all other business. After Prayer the man instantly returned to his right mind, confessed his Sins, took the H. Eucharist, made his Will, and having disposed of every thing relapsed into his Frenzy, and duly prepared by H. Vnction ended his life.

The like hapned to one that was sick in the Hos∣pitall of Santo Spirito. Philip coming thither with his Sons, said; Let us go, whither God calls me: and went directly to a man, whom he found speechless and a dying. So he betook him to his Prayers, and in a little while the sick party recovered his Speech, disburden••d his conscience, received the Celestiall Viands; and rendring thanks to God, peaceably died. For he came to the Hospitall, but was not able to make his Confess••on, for the violence of his disease.

In short, what ever the H. man by his Prayers and Supplications procured for others, he ordinarily obtained, when he was in dangers, for himself. Whereof take these two of many instances. He some∣times went with his in a Coach to the seven Churches, when on a sudden fell such a fierce storm, that he was forced to go back; And as they came to the Bank of Tiber, beneath Mount Aventine, the Rain had so overflown the ways, that the Coach fell into a deep trench; but before they were far sunk into it, through the Mercy of God they all got out at the hinder end of the Coach: Philip going to his Pray∣ers at the next Church, the rest to get Oxen, to draw their Horses forth. But no sooner had the H. man kneeled down, but the Horses with the Coach came out safe of themselves.

Another time, going with his in a Coach to the seven Churches, those that were with him leaping out, he alone stayed in it. In the way was a Narrow Bridge, where as the Coach came, the Wheels of it were seen carried upon the air by the side of the Bridge, which they that went on foot beholding cri∣ed out, O Jesu! but the Coach went over secure; they all attributing it to a Miracle. Afterwards a Gravell-pit in like manner was in their way, which he passed over without any harm, beyond all ex∣pectation: and yet some Noble Matrons, presently after falling into it, were shrewdly hurt, their Coach breaking, one of the Horses killed, and one of the Ladies having her Arme, the other her Leg broke.

CHAP. IIII. He drives away diseases by his Command.

ANna Morona lay very ill, and her desease pro∣ceeded so far, that those about her dispaired of her life. To her comes Philip trembling, as he used to do, and lays his hand on her, calling her by her name, and saying; Anna, say with me, Lord, Phi∣lip bids me live still. And as she repeated the words, she revived, and immediately grew well.

In Turris Speculorum, Maria Felix a Castro had been sick of a Fever about one hundred days, and be∣ing even at last gasp almost, sends for the Servant of God, who coming in hastily asked, what was her dis∣ease. A Fever; saith she. Chear up, quoth he, doubt not, and withall laying his r••ght hand on her, said; I command thee O Fever, to depart from this creature of Gods. He had no sooner said so, but the Fever went away, and never troubled her more.

In the same House, Sigismunda Capozucchia for five Moneths together had a Quartan Ague, and Phi∣lip accidentally coming thither, she desired his Prayers to God for her health. He lifting up his hand said; I will not have the, any more tormented with thy Ague. Philip departs, and with all the Fever straight.

He was once in company with his Scholars, when on a sudden comes a man, earnestly recommend∣ing to him one that was sick. The Good man smiled and turning to those that were by, asked: Will you have this sick man well? they all answer, Yea. Then quoth he to the Messenger, Go tell the party, Philip forbids you to dy. He went and did so, and the man believed him, and recovered. The

same many confess hath befallen them.

The Cook of the Congregation one time fell sick: a man so vertuous, and so favoured of God, that when ever he dressed any fish, and went away in hast from them, he would leave them to the Cats to keep, who punctually obeyed his commands. Philip bearing much affection to the man, wished Caesar Baronius to take care of him, and be with him, who by rea∣son of the continuall pains he took, fell into a Fe∣ver. The Father bids him, command the Fever in his Name to be gone; he relying on the B. man said; In the name of Philip, I charge thee, O Fever, to depart from me. And as he said those words, he put on his cloths, and rose, diligently attending the Cook, as well as ever.

Once he said to Anto••ina Raida that good woman Look you be not sick, before you ask me leave first. In∣somuch that as oft as she felt any grudgings of a di∣sease on her, she would go to Philip, and say: Fa∣ther, is't your pleasure, I should be sick? if he an∣swered, It is: the disease increased; If he said No: it went away presently. Which she affirmed, she had often tried.

Another Woman, alike vertuous, had many dayes kept her bed, whom Philip visits, enjoyning her to go to the next day to Church to hear Mass; & lo▪ that night her fever left her, she was well, & went to Mass in the morning to S. Hieroms Church, being never after troubled with her disease.

Alexander Illuminatus, a Brother of the Oratory, one appointed to wait on the H. Father, had a vein sprung in his Stomack, that he spit bloud. So Phi∣lip one day calling to him said: I will not have you molested any more with this malady: upon the very ut∣tering of which words he never after voided bloud.

The like betided Pet. Focilius, to whom Philip came, as he lay a dying, his Mother coming to meet him, said; Father, help me: he answered; Doubt not, for your Son shall not dy; for I would not have him dy now. And straight way he began to mend, and recovered.

One Ambrosio that lay Bed-rid, insomuch as he could not sit up in his Bed, but as he was lifted by o∣thers, upon Philips coming to him, and saying, Ambrosio, Rise; presently sate up, and within a while after was re∣stored to his former health.

CHAP. V. His various Miraculous Cures wrought on divers.

TOrquatus de Comitibus lay sick of a grievous dis∣ease, so that Taurusius perswaded him to con∣fess his Sins to Philip, hoping by that means he might recover his health: he followed his counsell, and thereupon the H. man was sent for. When Torquatus, being in the middle of his Confession, per∣ceived himself presently cured.

A Country man, that was in a very sad disease, came from Palumbaria, a Town not far from Rome to Philip, desiring him to pray to God for him, ei∣ther to procure him health, or a mitigation of his pain. To whom the B. Man only prescribes Sacra∣mentall Confession, upon the performance whereof he soon recovered. Going home into his Coun∣trey, and proclaiming abroad what had befallen

him, his Countrey men seeing him so well, being themselves affected as he was, came divers of them up to Rome to Philip: saying; And we likewise would gladly be healed by you, as you cured our Countrey∣man of late: the Good man, taken with their Sim∣plicity, hears their Confession, and sent them home joyfull to Palumbaria.

Eugenia Mansueta was exceedingly afflicted, al∣most a year and a half together, with a grievous Boil; which so swelled her Nose, that she not on∣ly could not go abroad, but was even ashamed to be seen at home. And having used many Medicines could have no ease: but being wont to wash the Clouts and Rags which Philip used for an Issue; and taking one of them, more bloudied then the rest, she put it to her face with great confidence of help, and immediately her Ʋlcer left her for ever after.

Lucrecia Citara, a Roman having been four Moneths with child, grew so ill by reason of an Issue of blood, that no Remedies she tried would help her. Cassandra Raida, who had the H. mans Linnen by her to wash, hearing of it and pitying the Woman brought her a Cap of Philips, without his know∣ledge, telling her: This Cap is Father Philip Ne∣ri's, and if with faith you do apply it to your grief, I doubt not but you will find help. Lucrecia did so, and was instantly freed of her Malady. Philip knowing by Revelation what was done, and hating humane Applause, sharply chid Cassandra, and made her presently fetch him his Linnen.

Steven Calcinardus, for about a Moneth, had a continuall Fever, at last his Stomack grew so weak, he could retain no nutriment, but being anointed

with the H. Oile lay for dead. Francis Zazzara com∣ing to him, and bringing him some of the B. Fathers hair, then living, said: If you think you may recover your health by the Merits of Our Father Philip, I will lay these hairs to your brest: So I do; quoth he. When the hair was applied to his Stomack, he presently fell asleep, and after he had rested an hour he waked, and eat his meat with a good appetite, and it staid with him, his Fever straight left him, and within four dayes after he was in perfect health.

Hercules Cortisinius of Carpium, living at Rome with Montes Zazzara, and hearing so many and Marvailous things of Philip, had a huge desire to see and conferr with the H. man. Francis Zazzara takes him with him to the Father, who as soon as he saw the Old man, shook with a pious awe, and kneel∣ing besought his Blessing, heartily betaking him unto his Prayers. Departing thence after Philip thus seen, he was so in love with him, that he said; To day have I seen a Holy man indeed. And being to return in∣to his Country a while after, out of devotion to Philip, he desired some of his clothes with him, whom some of the House presented with a pair of his wol∣len Socks, and Philip also gave a Rosary of Our Ladys. So he returned to Carpium: and in August, as he was walking, a pain in his head took him, that he was not able to stand for the very anguish of it: and remembring that he brought some things of Philips from the City with him, he calls to his Wife, and bids her, Fetch me that I brought in a bag from Rome. She laughed, when she saw the woollen Socks, and asked; Husband, have you any need of such things as these? Hold your tongue, quoth Hercules, only do as I bid you. She obeys him, and he putting the Socks to his forehead made this prayer; I beseech thee, O

Lord, for the devout affection I bear to Father Philip, free me of these pains. No sooner had he said so, but his headach was gone. Not long after the Ne∣phew of Hercules being in a Pleurisy was like to dy; the Servants of the House did but apply one of those Socks to him, and his Pleurisy ceased, the Fever left him, and he was restored to his former health.

Patricius Patricius, else where named, kept his Bed, being ill in his Stomack, and troubled with the Colick, Germanicus Fidelius going from Philip to see him, courteously salutes him: who presently tels him: O Germanicus, hearken to a strange but true Story; this Night being in great torment, destitute of all help or direction, Our Philip came in my mind, to whom com∣mending my self, as if he had been present, I said: Fa∣ther Philip help me; pray for me. I had scarce spoke the word, but my pain quite ceased, and I was well.

Germanicus himself being troubled with a Rupture, and having used many Remedies, which made him rather worse, at length coming to Philip, like him in the Gospell, he said, Father, if you will, you can make me whole. He answered, Doubt not, you shall be healed. He depending on those words of Philip without any Medicine was cured straight.

CHAP. VI. He helps divers Women in Childbirth.

THe like Audience had he, when he prayed for such as were in Childbirth, freeing them oft∣times from the perils thereof. At Novaria, John Baptist Boniperto's Brothers Wife, having gone eight

Moneths of her time, miscarried to the hazard of her life: which Boniperto hearing of by Letters, he went to Philip and acquainted him with it. He bad him; Write to your Sister in Law, that I will not have her bring forth any more abortives: she upon the reciet of those Letters, not only escaped the dan∣ger wherein she was, but in her whole life after was very happily delivered still, although she had no less than twelve Children.

Delia Buscallia, of Vicenza, after having been with child more then seven moneths was half delivered of a Still-born Child, and falling into a Swoon her body grew stiff, only her heart panted a little; the Midwife hear∣ing that they sent for the Physici∣ans, cryes out; What for? help must be fetched from heaven, and not from men; and this I assure you of, if ye pluck away the Child by force, it must necessarily be torn in pieces, and then the Woman is irrecoverably lost. Above two days was Delia tortured with these pangs, at last her Husband sends for Philip, who, as soon as he came into the Chamber, put his Cap on her; then kneeling down, and looking up to heaven, wept and said: Ho, you there, repeat the Lords Prayers, and Angelicall Salutation five times. After∣ward rising he put his mouth to her ears, and cries out, Delia: she asks Father, what is your will with me? That all study Holiness; quoth he: God grant it; replied she: but Father, I am very ill. Doubt not, you will do well again: sa••th Philip; and signing her with the signe of the Cross went his way. He was not quite at the bottom of the stairs, but he bid her Husband, that followed him, Go back, for your Wife is recovered. He returnes, finds her in health

and that Night she went about her business in the House, as if she had never bin ill at all, & left her bed. The same Delia, when she was sick of a Pleurisy, at a∣nother time, was by the H. man restored to health.

Faustina Capozucchia, the Wife of Domitius Cec∣chinus, having been with Child now seven Moneths, fell into such a violent sickness, that after twenty two days, she seemed past all hope of cure. The Ser∣vant of God coming to her, lifts up his Eyes to hea∣ven, and lays his right hand on her forehead, say¦ing: Lord, I will have the Soul of this Child, I will not be denied it, Lord; and so went away. By and by he returnes, and saying the same words again, departs. Mean-time Faustina was brought abed of a Daughter, which being Regenerate by Baptisme, both It, and the Mother after died.

Olympia Trojana lay for dead, in the throws of a hard travell, her Servants all bewailing her; and there remaining no expectancy of aid from men, she made Philip be sent for, whom she reverenced for his Holiness, having heard of the many Miracles done by him. The H. man pitying her, and especi∣ally that the Infant might not dy unbaptized, m••de hast to her, and being come into the Room, having prayed, he only laid his hand on her, and went a∣way. Being gone, the woman had a very quick delive∣ry, and was well; the Child also, be••ng Christened, was added to the Number of the Heavenly Quire.

Ersilia, formerly spoken of, was strongly con∣ceited, she should dy of the Child she then went with, wherein she was so peremptory, that none could perswade her out of her opinion. Being much perplexed about it, as she was going out of the Church one day, she light upon Philip, who said soft∣ly to her; See what a silly Woman fancieth to her self!

and laying his hand on her, bade her hope well: and immediately she became chearfull, left grieving, and in a few days after had a very easy Labour.

Besides divers others by the Prayers of Philip be∣came joyfull Mothers of Children, which are here omitted, Yet may it not be passed over, that though Philip used to crave Temporall Blessings of ••od under a Condition, he would say absolutely in the case of Women in Childbirth; Lord I will have this granted me, namely, that these Infants, which are to be born, be likewise Born anew by H. Baptisme. He was wont also, that the Miraculous effects, done daily by him at the Labour of Women, through the Blessing of God, might not be ascribed to his Merits, to carry a∣bout with him a certain Pouch very helpfull to Wo∣men in Travell, saying, that there were Reliques in it, and that he never applied it to any in Childbirth, but it availed much either to the Mother, or the Child.

Cleria Bonarda, the Wife of Claudius Neri, had always very difficult Labours; and being near her time, she was exceeding fearfull. Her Labour com∣ing on her, Philip sent her that Bag, which she de∣voutly applying, had so easy a Delivery, that she scarce knew she was brought abed. The like is re∣ported of many more.

When the B. Father was dead, some of his Sons, desirous to see what was in that Pouch, pulled forth a great many Beads, but found nothing at all, save a Handkerchief, in the middle of which was a little Cross, wrought with purple Silk, and a small Medall of S. Helen's, such as they use to hang about Chil∣drens necks. Whereby they perceived, that the Holy Man carried it to Travelling Women, to the end they might not attribute, as is said, the Miracles to him, but to those Holy and Sacred Reliques.

Notes

• This Promotheus testi¦fied upon oath.
• This Antonia and her Husband wit∣nessed upon oath.
• Of this were four sworn ey-witnesses (beside Jo. Fran∣cis) of whom one is that Noble Lady Julia Ursina Rangonia
• This Carlo and his Mother Livia Vestria both pub∣likely attested.
• This himself te∣stified.
• Testified by her self.
• Of this (besides Ka∣therine herself) are three sworn ey-wit∣nesses.
• Her self witnes∣sed this.
• This was receiv∣ed from her hus∣band; & witnessed by Ersilia her self upon oath.
• Of this (besides Laura her self) are three sworn ey-witnesses.
• This was taken from the Cardi∣nals, Cusanus, Borromeus, Tau∣rusiu, Baronius: who had it from the Pope himself.
• Of this are two sworn ey-witnes∣ses, besides Bar∣tholomew him∣self.
• This is attested publikly by two ey-witnesses, be∣sides the Arch∣deacon himself.
• Of this (besides Manzolius) are witnesses sworn of those that were present.
• Himself witnes∣sed it.
• Of this are nine sworn ey-witnes∣ses; among whom Angelus Victo∣rius is one who ascribed the cure to a miracle.
• Of this Julian Fus∣cherius a Priest, who was present, is a sworn witness.
• Of this (besides Eugenia herself) are two sworn ey-witnesses.
• This Delia her self, and Gaspar her husband af∣firmed upon oath.