know how much thou art beloved and defend∣ed by that Divine Lord, in the midst of thy lo∣ving torments, thou wouldst find 'em so sweet, that it would be necessary that God should work a Miracle, to let thee live. Be constant, O happy Soul, be constant and of good courage; for however intolerable thou art to thy self, yet thou wilt be protected, inriched, and beloved by that greatest Good, as if he had nothing else to do, than to lead thee to Perfection, by the the highest steps of love: and if thou do'st not turn away but perseverest constantly, without leaving off thy undertaking, know, that thou offerest to God the most accepted Sacrifice; so, that if this Lord were capable of pain, he would find no ease till he has compleated this loving Union with thy Soul.
41. If from the Chaos of Nothing, his Omni∣potence has produced so many Wonders, what will he do in thy Soul, created after his own Image and Likeness, if thou keepest constant, quiet, and resigned, with a true knowledge of thy Nothing? Happy Soul, which, even when 'tis disturbed, afflicted and disconsolate, keeps steady there within, without going forth to de∣clare exteriour Comfort.
42. Afflict not thy self too much, and with inquietude, because these sharp Martyrdoms may continue; persevere in Humility, and go not out of thy self to seek aid; for all the good consists in being silent, suffering, and holding patience with rest and resignation: there wilt thou find the Divine Strength to overcome so