or because of the duties of his profession, he abandoned the custom, which he had until then observed, of reciting the whole rosary daily, contenting himself with reciting only a portion. He entered for the degree in theology, and for the literary duties annexed to that degree, applied himself very earnestly to his studies, but with so little fruit of his application that he could scarcely understand anything that he studied. "What is this," he said in surprise, "when I was in college did I not grasp whatever I studied? But what is this that is happening to me now that I can scarcely understand what I am studying?" Then he bethought himself of the fact of his error, and he understood the origin of his lack of intelligence. Consequently, he reformed his past lukewarmness, and again began to recite the whole rosary daily. By this diligence alone he found that he could grasp what before he could not understand. Mary is the most holy mother, not only of the fear and love of God, but also of learning and knowledge, as she herself says by the mouth of the Preacher. Consequently, it is not surprising that she communicates light for intelligence and for progress in their studies to those who pray to her as her sons and venerate her as a mother, and praise her in that devotion so pleasing to her. [107] LAW REGULATING MARRIAGES OF STUDENTS Royal decree ordering that pupils, students, and members of the universities, seminaries, and colleges for the Indians, subject to the royal patronage and protection, may not contract betrothal without the permission expressed.