emperors or kings; but even to the lowest of men. But when the interests of God are concerned, we should recognise no human consideration, as we look to God alone. The most frightful torture, far from alarming me, would give me joy.
"Threaten as you will, put all kinds of outrages into execution, do your worst, go tell your master; for you will gain nothing. Were you to reach the height of your cruel threats, you will never be able to force us to subscribe to your impious doctrines."
The prefect, astonished at his firmness, told him that no one had ever spoken to him in that bold way.
"Perhaps," replied the saint, "you have never spoken to a bishop before."
*******
It is an error to suppose that priests and missionaries ought alone to be zealous. There is not one who has not a mission to fulfil, without going out of his state in life; not a single person who ought not to connect his own salvation with that of his brethren. Your own sanctification is, of course, your first and greatest business. Every one should look to this; but every one is bound to edify his neighbour, by giving a good example. This zeal is common to all, and to all conditions of life.
Are you in office, have you inferiors, have you the cares of a family and servants? Few professed missionaries have so much to answer for, and have to give an account of their salvation as you have.
Take especial care not to neglect this duty; do not leave it to others; watch continually over the conduct of those whom God has confided to your care. Children, servants, inferiors, are all, so to speak, so many trusts of
