added glorious exploits, and who had acquired in the neighborhood the title of " My Lord Nicolas des Sarrasius." After passing a great portion of his life in battles he had returned to his domestic fireside, intending to administer his estate, and enjoy a fortune; he made merry with his friends, and promised himself a long career. Eternal Goodness, who wills the death of none, inspired the knight's lady, and some pious relatives with a design of engaging him to go to confession and do penance for the sins committed in the lengthy wars, which had occupied the former portion of his life; but he, all devoted to visible things, derided these prudent counsels, and cared little for his eternal salvation.
At this period, the blessed Catherine enlightened the city of Sienna by her virtues, and was particularly remarkable by the conversion of sinners the most hardened, who were either completely converted, or at least renounced a portion of their evil customs. The individuals who were interesting themselves in the salvation of the knight, perceiving the futility of their efforts, requested
I him to hold a conversation with Catherine. " What have I to do with that good woman ? Pray, what service could she render me ? " His wife who was strongly attached to Catherine went to her and informed her how hardened was her husband, and entreated her to pray to God for his conversion. It happened one night that the blessed Catherine appeared in a dream to our chevalier, and warned him to listen to the good advice of his wife, if he would avoid eternal damnation. On awaking, he said to his lady: " Last night, I saw in my dreams, that Catherine of whom you so often speak with me; I should like to have an interview with her, and see if she really looks as she appeared to me." His wife
