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Treatise concerning the christian priesthood

6.

But as in the case of wonder-workers, a large apparatus is required, both wheels and ropes and daggers; while the philosopher has the whole of his art stored up in his mind, not requiring any external appliances: So accordingly in the case before us. The recluse requires both a good condition of body, and a place suitable for his course of life, in order that such may not be settled too far from intercourse with their fellow men, and may have the tranquillity which belongs to desert places, and yet further, may not fail to enjoy the most favorable climate. For nothing is so unbearable to a body worn with fastings as a climate which is not equable. And what trouble they are compelled to take in the preparation of their clothing and daily food, as they are themselves ambitious of doing all with their own hands, I need not speak of now. But the Priest will require none of these things to supply his wants, but is unconcerned about them, and participates in all things which are harmless, while he has all his skill stored up in the treasure-house of his mind. But if any one admire a solitary life, and retirement from the society of the multitude, I should say myself that such a life was a token of patience, but not a sufficient proof of entire fortitude of soul. For the man who sits at the helm in harbor, does not yet give any certain proof of his art. But if one is able to guide his ship safely in the midst of the sea, no one would deny him to be an excellent steersman.

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Traité du Sacerdoce

6.

Le prêtre n’a pas besoin de tout cet attirail , de tout ce matériel, pour ainsi dire. Simple et vivant comme tout le monde, lorsqu’il n’y a pas de mal à le faire, il tient toute sa science renfermée dans les trésors de son âme. Mais me dira quelqu’un, il est cependant beau de vivre tout entier à soi-même et isolé de la société des hommes; ce genre de vie dénote une certaine vertu de tempérance dans ceux qui le pratiquent, je l’avoue; cependant ce n’est pas un signe auquel je reconnaîtrai la présence certaine d’un mérite accompli. Ce n’est pas dans l’intérieur du port que le pilote, quoique assis au gouvernail, peut donner la preuve irrécusable de son talent; mais a-t-il pu, en pleine mer, résister à la tempête et sauver son navire, personne alors ne pourra lui refuser le titre de bon pilote.