How few there are who would thus dare to address GOD each night: "LORD, deal with me to-morrow as I have this day dealt with others; ... those to whom I was harsh, and from malice, or to show my own superiority, exposed their failings; others, to whom, from pride or dislike, I refused to speak,--one I have avoided, another I cannot like because she displeases me; I will not forgive,--to whom I will not show any kindness."... And yet let us never forget that, sooner or later, God will do unto us even as we have done unto them. XIII. "Grant me, O LORD," said a humble soul, "that I may pass unnoticed through the world." This should be the wish, or rather the aim, of all true devotion. Small virtues require the praise of man to sustain them, just as little children require encouragement to walk or stand alone. But true virtue goes quietly through the world, scattering good around, and performing noble deeds, without even the knowledge that what it does is heroic. XIV. S. Chantal one day was excusing herself to S. Francois de Sales for having spoken hastily to some one, on the plea that it was in the cause of justice. The Saint replied, "You have been more just than righteous; but we should be more righteous than just." XV. A devout woman once wrote thus: "In my own family I try to be as little in the way as possible, satisfied with everything, and never to believe for a moment that any one means unkindly towards me. "If people are friendly and kind to me, I enjoy it; if they neglect me, or leave me, I am always happy alone. It all tends to my one aim, forgetfulness of self in order to please GOD." XVI. Learning is not without its effect upon the soul; it either lends it wings to bear it up to GOD, or leaves behind it tiny sparks, which little by little consume the whole being. If you would ascertain all the good or ill you have derived from all those hours devoted to historians, poets, novelists, or philosophers, put to yourself these questions: Since acquiring this knowledge, am I wiser? am I better? am I happier? Wiser?--That is to say, more self-controlled, less the slave of my passions, less irritated by small vexations, braver in bearing misfortunes, more careful to live for eternity? Better?--More forbearing towards others, more forgiving, less uncharitable, more reticent in opposing the faults of others, more solicitous for the happiness of those around me? Happier?--That would mean more contented with my station in life, striving to derive all possible benefits from it, to beautify rather than to alter it? Have I more faith in GOD, and more calmness and resignation in all the events of life? If you cannot reply in the affirmative, then examine your heart thoroughly, and you will find there, stifling the good that GOD has implanted, these three tyrants that have obtained dominion over, you: (1.) Pride; (2.) Ambition; (3.) Self-conceit.