THE PEARL AMONG THE VIRTUES
97
be tempted to consider unnecessary. But they knew the weakness of human nature, they knew that in temptations against purity, flight ensures victory; that, "he who loves danger shall perish therein;" lastly, that treasures are only safe from robbers, when they are carefully guarded by lock and key. How often has not a small spark caused a great conflagration? Thus a like result is produced by the evil thought, which was caused by the evil glance.
Make, therefore, Youth, a covenant with your eyes, for the benefit of your soul. Be cautious, watchful, manly. Incline rather to an excess of care, than to irresoluteness. "A wise man feareth and declineth from
