Chapter I

Patience is often displeasing, but it assuages heavy hearts, and quenches malice. Happiness follows sorrow. It is better to suffer than to be angry. Matthew tells us of the promises made by Christ: Blessed are the poor, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are the meek, for they shall “wield the world.” Blessed are the mourners, for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the hungry, for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for mercy shall be their reward. Blessed are the clean of heart, for they shall see the Saviour. Blessed are the peace-makers, for they shall be called God’s sons. Blessed are they that live aright, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. These blessings are promised to those who follow poverty, pity, penance, meekness, mercy, chastity, peace and patience. Poverty and patience are to be treated together. They are “fettled in one form,” and have one meed. Poverty will dwell where she lists, and man must needs suffer. Poverty and patience are play-fellows. What avails impatience, if God send affliction? Patience is best. Did not Jonah incur danger by his folly?