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NEW YORK : D. & J. 8ADLIER & CO., 81 BARCLAY STREEf. HONTBIilAL : OOE. NOTRE DAMB AND ST. FRANCIS XAVIIE STBEITB. 1872. I um iii > i » i| il ii a i i* i « r « ir;i feff iiit ft) iN rt^ Entered according to Act of ConKre", »n the year 1872, By D. & J. 8ADLIEU & CO., In the Offloe of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. II- 'biio/ 8t»i»o»J|>«dl>y'IN<'BNT DILL, »J Ic *T New-Cli»inlnn 8t, N. Y. f The to the rend < partal ter, in althoii true, { religio Blossc "The others tural einbel M,— 1 the si eccles atitlie rence, I 1 presei TRANSLATOR'S PREFACE. !onKre»», 'n the year 1872, LIEU & CO., )f CongreM, at Washington. ?f?^/ I The "Legends of St. Joseph," hovo given ■ to tlie public, have boon gathered by the rove- rend compiler from many Hources. Tliey all partake, more or less, of tho legendary charac- ter, in so far us tho manner of relating goes, although several are strictly and historically true, and taken from the archives of cities or religious houses. Some, like " The Bod in Blossom," "The Shepherds of Bethlehem," "The First Christmas Night," and a few others, are in strict conformity with tho Scrip- tmal narrative ; while others are more or less embellished by the pious fancies of tlie faith- ful, — filling up, as it were, in process of time, the somewhat meagre details of gospel and ecclesiastical history. Some, again, are well authenticated facts of quite recent occur- rence. I have endeavored, as far as possible, to preserve throughout the simple phraseology of Tbanslatob's Preface. tlio original, so*wt)ll bciitting popular Icgciuls. Tlio poems I havo done my best to roiulor faithfully : no easy matter it is, as tlio rtsador will understand, to carry the versification of one language into another. In each of tlio poems I havo retained the original measuro, us being very suitable to the ballad style, and, at the same time, musical enough to please the oar. It is with grateful satisfnction that I find uiyself finishing the translutitm, and writing this Preface, on the first AVednesday in March, the month which Christian piety sets apart for the special honor of St. Joseph ; and I luunbly trust that the beloved Patron of the Church, and the special protector of Christian families, Avill accept my share of the work as the hum- ble offering of a heart that loves hira and his Immaculate Spouse Avith a truly fiUal love, and that he will bless this little book, so that it may tend to make him known and loved by the children of the Church as the kind, good father, and faithful friend of those who seek his blessed patronage. M. A. S. Nbw York, March 6, 1872. M Ippro We hook ( There traditii ciety ti sacred pious 1 of "Lt hy the in thei by the the id lieauti garded deeply lEFACE. g pdpnlar Icgciuls. iiy boHt to rondor t is, as the viMiilor lie versiticiitiou of In each of the orij^iniil inoiiHnro, ) biilUul 8t,> lo, ami, enough to please "action that I find tttion, and writing itlncsday in March, piety sets apart for cph ; and I humbly [•on of the Church, ' Christian families, 3 work as the hum- loves him and his truly fiUal love, and le book, so that it lown and loved by 1 as the kind, good of those who seek M. A. S. Ippi'obiitioit of tjjc |Msj)op of lllontrcal. We have read, with lively int(;rest, a book entitled "Legends of St. J<)se])li." There are, as every one knows, family triulitions perpetuated in Christian so- ciety to maintain the spirit of faith and piety, although they form no part of the sacred deposit of Catholic faitli. These j)i()us traditions are known by the name of "Legends," and our fathers, animated by the spirit of faith, took great delight in them. In that they were guided, not by the rules of severe criticism, hut by the ideas generally followed in those beautiful ages when falsehood was re- jrarded with horror, because men were deeply imbued with the truth that it .,_ »*-c^ ^ 1, VI APPROBATION OF THE gives death to tlie soul ; and as, in those times of innocence and simplicity, people took care not to deceive others, so they could not believe that others wished to deceive their brethren. It is with this rule of simple good faith that the "Legends of St. Joseph" nuist be read, if one would find in them the sweet attraction which such reading always has. The lessons conveyed in them, under different forms, all of the most pleasing kind, make the perusal of this book useful and advantageous. From the examples given we may learn that no one ever has recourse in vain to the good St. Joseph, the worthy spouse of the immaculate Virgin, the gracious foster-father of the Son of God made man, the powerful patron of the Catholic Church. We believe, then, that good Christians will find in the reading of these Legends wherewith to nourish their piety, their OF THE BISHOP OF MONTOEAL. vu ; and as, in those 1 simplicity, people ive others, so they t others wished to e of simple good ids of St. Joseph" rould find in them vhich such reading isons conveyed in forms, all of the make the perusal and advantageous. ;iven we may learn recourse in vain to the worthy spouse irgin, the gracious 5on of God made iron of the Catholic hat good Christians ig of these Legends 1 their piety, their confidence in, and their devotion to, that great Saint. Doubtless there are not wanting many other good books written in honor of this admirable Patriarch; but he is so great and so worthy of praise from the entire world, that there could never be good books enough to make him known, nor eloquent tongues enough to proclaim his greatness and his goodness. Hence it is that we hesitate not to recommend these " Legends of St. Joseph. Given at Montreal, May 20th, 1811. »h IGNATIUS, Bishop of Montreal. Tbanslai Appkoda' II. in. ': IV. '. V. ] VI. ■] VII. 1 VIII. 'j IX. 'J XI. XII. XTII. XIV. XV. XVI. XVII. CONTENTS. FAQB Thanslator's PnEFACE iii Appkocation of the Bishop ok Montreal . . . v I. The Morning and Evening Star ... 11 II. Ville Marie (now Montreal) ; or, The Marvel- ous Foundation 19 in. The Rod in Blossom 27 IV. The First Cliristmas Night .... 30 V. Dut^ Before All 39 VI. The Value of a Mass 47 VII. The Unexpected Pilot 55 VIII. The Lighting of Naples 58 IX. Tlic Shepherds of Bethlehem ... 66 X. Tlie Clirigtmas Dinner 78 XI. The Paris Dressmalier 88 XII. A Meeting 96 XIII. The Palm Grove 107 XIV. The Good Thief 114 XV. The Caravan 123 XVI. The Desert 132 XVII. The Return to Nazareth 138 Contents. XVm. The Hawthorn Bush . XIX. The Second Meeting . XX. OM-Time Windows . XXI. The Snake . XXII. The Panther XXIII. Tlxc Ursulines of Quebec XXIV. Ave, Joseph ! XXV. Tlic Mysterious Hosts . XXVI. An Extraordinary Vocation XXVII. The Little Cabin-Boy . XXVIII. Tlie Pearl Lost and Found XXIX. Scenes in Nazareth XXX. Tlie Saw . XXXI. Tlie Choice of a King . XXXII. An Apparition . XXXIII. The Lost Children XXXIV. The Bird cf Paradise and the Bird .... XXXV. The Last Moments of St. Joseph XXXVI. The Holy House XXXVII. The Advocate of Hopeless Cases Humming royalty APPENDIX 316 }. nrt the . Joseph B8 Cases Humming LEGENDS OF ST. JOSEPH. THE MORNING AND EVENING STAR. |T is often asked why God so long delayed, not only the crowning of, but even the general diffusion of devotion to St. Joseph? Is his royalty of such recent date ? It is a universally-admitted principle, that iu the Church, devotion to the Saints has its beginning, its progress, its perfection. Very different is the light of the sun at dawn and at noonday. These several degrees are always regulated by Infinite Wisdom, which "reaches from end to end mightily, and disposeth all 12 Legends of St. Joseph. things sweetly." (Wisd., viii., 1.) At the out- set of the preaching of the Gospel, the Virgin, as it were, veiled herself from our eyes, tho better to bring out the grand figure of Christ. Is it not by a similar abnegation, an abnega- tion which makes the Angela wonder, that St. Joseph has remained so long in tho shade? Was it not that he would have Jesus, then Mary, first take possession of all hearts, that devotion to them should be firmly established in the Church, before he advanced his own claims to our love and veneration ? We can- not doubt it. But it is unmistakably true, that Joseph, although hidden, was ever living in the Church, seen by her and felt by her chil- dren, like a faithful friend who remains un- known to us under our roof, quietly averting from us every danger, and even providing us with the means of living. Yes, we shall unceasingly repeat, Joseph, like Mary, always lived in the Church. He always sustained her by his powerful, al- though which merit, of Ho Mai'y, i 16.) 1 j i"*<. h; of just j Mary t " Beho I sorrow I recogu 'He V I Hence sight c is seei strikin endea^ cnthu^ Here ruins [the r< I stamp Joseph. Legends of St. Joseph. 18 iii., 1.) At the out- Gospel, the Virgin, from our eyes, tho ,nd figure of Christ. >egation, an abnega- ;el8 wonder, that St. long in the shade? Id have Jesus, then m of all hearts, that )e firmly established I advanced his own ineration ? We can- f true, that Joseph, ever living in the id felt by her chil- id who remains un- roof, quietly averting id even providing us ngly repeat, Joseph, in the Church. He )y his powerful, al- though secret influence. Were not tho words which express all his dignity, his viituo, his merit, and his glory, inscribed in tho pages [of Holy Writ?— "Joseph, the husband of Maiy, of whom was born Jesus." (St. Matt. i. 16.) This Divine spouse the Holy Ghost calls jimt, by a sort of excellence and universality of justice, as the Sacred Doctors interpret it. [Mary even styles him the "father" of Jesus: " Behold ! Thy father and I have sought Thee sorrowing." (St. Luke, ii. 49.) Jesus Himself I recognized this supreme paternal authority : " He was subject to them." (St. Luke, ii. 50.) I Hence the Fathers of the Church cannot lose sight of this divine personage : from their pen is seen going forth, here and there, tho most striking testimony of his glory; they seem endeavoring to confine within due limits the enthusiasm of their love and admiration. Here and there, too, are found, amongst the ruins of ancient temples, images that prove the remembrance of Joseph. His name ia I stamped on all our sacred antiquities. 2 ■i^;'«- -VWWf-' 14 Legends of St. JosErii. Joseph lived :ab!^vhy.bouia.os«PpreB. the fact? He hved wholly and always with Mary, in a sort of terrestrial parn^lise, where the/haa, as it were, taken up then- aho.h. Who knows not that Mary was nonoml bv Elias and his followers, called the clulclren of the Prophets, on Mount Cannel, nine eentu- ries before her appearance on earth. Iho mystery of a fruitful Virgin was traditional on the holy mountain ; no sooner was it accom- pushed" than Joseph had his share in the homage of Carmel. Intercourse was so easy, BO fi-equent, so sweet, between the cottage of Nazareth and the cave of EUas and the Prophets! There it was that the Dmne blossom grew. Who knows not, Uiei-efore. the blessings wherewith the Holy Scripture covers the favored mountain? Who has not remarked the celestial dews and rains where ■ with Heaven watered and made ever fruitful the flower-enameled sides and miraculous summits of Carmel? In fine. Joseph Uved on earth ; the ages felt ■■ *--s&*.,'«a«^iWt'fe^(£jISfejl(^'?is;-i.J;'^ Legends op St. Joseph. 15 mV\ wo fiuppress aud ftlways with I imrmlisc, wliero up their fthodo. was honored hy (h1 the children of irmol, nine centu- , on earth? The was traditional on mer was it accom- his share in the rturse was so easy, tween the cottage ) of Ehas and the s that the Divine >ws not, therefore, the Holy Scripture ain? Who has not ws and rains where- l made ever fruitful es and miraculous 1 earth ; the ages felt liira. They saw the day of his universal honor dawning afar off, like a rising sun. Hence the appearance, at intcvvalH, of fervent servitors, who launched on the world a species of pro- phecies, the accomplishment of which delights us now. And these, moreover, are but echoes of the doctrines of ages gone before. Let UH first hear Isidore of I'lsle. His voice comes to us from the sixteenth century : — " God raised up and glorified St. Joseph for tlie honor of His own name, establishing him as head and patron of the Church Militant, His glory is far from being at its height. As, before the last judgment, all nations must know the name of, and venerate and adore, the only true God, so also must all admire the long-hidden, yet inestimable gifts whereof St. Joseph was the recipient. Yes, all gifts shall be granted unto him In that favored time, the Lord will give a more subtle intelli- gence to the mind and the heart of His elect ; they shall scrutinize the heart of St. Joseph, to admire therein the loving marvels of grace, iiatiMdSim- 16 LE0END9 OF ST. JoSEPn. and they slwvll find an achnirablo troasiire, such as the Patiiavcbs of the 0U\ Law never either aiscovoretl or snspccteil. That mag- nificent outpouring of light and gU)ry shall be the special work of tho Hdy Angels. Thu9 shall he who is first amongst tho Saints of Heaven take, on earth, that first rank which is his duo!" A century later. Father Jacquinot, of the Company of Jesus, delighted to repeat these prophecies, making them still more clear. "Towards the end of the world," says he. « God will tear asunder the veil which con- ceals from us the marvels of the shrine of Joseph's holy heart; the Holy Spirit will act on the hearts of the faithful, moving them to exalt the glory of that divine personage ; re- ■ ligiotis houses shall be consecrated and temples hum to him, and people will recognize as a special protector that Saint who protected Jesus Christ; the Sovereign Pontiffs thera- Belves shall decree, by a holy inspiration from above, that this great Patriarch bo solemnly isErn. LEQEND8 OP St. Joseph. 17 liniblo treasure, 3 OKI Law never teil. That mag- aml glory shall 10 Holy Angels, •st amongst the earth, that first Jacqiiinot, of the 11 to repeat these still more elear. worlil," says he, e veil which cou- of the shrine of loly Spirit will act 111, moving them to ine personage ; re- 'cratcd and kmplcs ,vill recognize as a iijt who protected ign Pontiffn thera- aly inspiration from tiiarch be solemnly honored throughout the whole spiritual do- main of St. Peter." Have not all these prophecies been fully accomphshed in our days? Has not the de- votion to St. Joseph made rapid progress? Has it not, by a secret impulse of God, as- sumed proportions hitherto unknown? Eve- rywhere it is seen rewarded by favors the most precious. St. Joseph is truly the Just Man praised by God, the Man of our time. From every country arise eloquent panegyrists who proclaim his greatness. The pages of each relate new marvels. Our age has seen the Evening Star rising all radiant beside the Morning Star. Both are before our eyes. Both shine henceforth over the world's troubled sea. Joseph and Mary appear to us united on earth as they are in heaven. Like Mary, Joseph has his temples, his altars, his festivals. Like her, he has his religious con]gi'egations, devoted to him. The year sets apart a mouth for him, the week a day. In honor of Joseph, as in 19 Lroknds ov St. Johki-h. honor of M-vvy. aro orectocl Ar.lK.o,.t.aterni- tioB. AHHocialions, and Co„«r.«alu.„s. not o Bpeak of tlio holy fanulios whoso father ho w. ItiB aecnocl an honors to ^vear his hvory. Hi8 Cora has bocomo the charnni.g appond- affo of the Scapuhir. And why HhouUl ho not shavo in all the l,,,o.s paid to his divino Hpousc? Arc not th.ir goods in common, and by reason of their virtues? Was there not a day to come, O Joseph, when it should bo given thee to share with Mary the only glory of whieh thou didst seem to be deprived? The erown of thy Spouse was to be. as it were, doubled, with- out taking any thing from its splendor, and to rest on thee? That happiness wo owe to . the illustrious Pius IX. May Heaven reward him for evermore 1 VILLE Tl earth works Jean the SI ont oi which of hii his ci men ( tion ; blessj haviK ^r«-li<'t)ufraterni- ivjrivliouH, not to [)go fiither ho is. veivr his Uv«»y. lunniiig nppeud- shiivo in all the l)ouHO? Aro not jy reason of their iliiy to como, ivcn theo to share which tliou didst lio crown of thy re, doubled, with- its Hploudor, and ppiness wo owe to ay Heaven reward X #5)-'C n. VILLE MMIIE {NOW MONTREAL); OR, THE MAUVE LOUS FOUNDATION. jN the first years of the sixteenth century there Hved in Paris, in St. Paul's parish, a num who was to signalize his passage on earth as much by his lofty virtues as by works of zeal and charity; his name was Jean OUer. His father was a nioniber of the State Council, and became Superintend- ent of Lyons under Louis XIII. The name which the young OUer bore, the high rank of his family, his rare qualities, his talents, his connection with the most distinguished men of his time, early attracted public atten- tion ; he Lad the signal honor of being blessed by the saintly Bishop of Geneva, of having for director St. Vincent de Paul, and 20 Legends of St. Joseph. also Father de Condreu, Superior of the Ora- tory. But one thing more remains to be added ; he was the founder of the Company of St. Sulpice. Such was the man who was to estabUsh in Canada the devotion to the Holy Family. There lived, at the same time, in Anjou, a gentleman named Jerome le Koyer de la Dauversiere, collector of taxes at La Fleche. He was a man of great piety, of rare abne- gation, and the father of six children. God had made known to him that He wished to be particularly honored in the island of Mon- treal, by the veneration of the Holy Family, and that He chose him to make the person of St. Joseph honored. To this intent He had several times ordered him to establish in that island, as yet barren and uncultivated, a hospital, designed for the relief and instruc- tion of the sick, and to form, for the manage- ment of this house, a Congregation of Hos- pital Nuns, specially devoted to the honor of that great Saint. la H h€ in CO of kr ui so of m to oi BC ai P« d( la tr tl t( j_i.,ji.-^';/,Y^'-:yfSi;--;-'T)*iv "ij T. Joseph. Superior of the Ora- more remains to be itler of the Company as the man who was the devotion to the ime time, in Anjou, a ime le Koyer de la f taxes at La Fleche. t piety, of rare abne- of six children. God m that He wished to in the island of Mon- 1 of the Holy Family, Q to make the person I. To this intent He ered him to establish anen and uncultivated, the relief and instruc- 3 form, for the manage- Congregation of Hos- 3Voted to the honor of Legends of St. Joseph. 21 An order so extraordinary had thrown M. do la Dauversiere into the strangest perplexity. He did not uudeistand how, in his position, he could undertake the foundation of a coUmy in America, and the establishment of a new congregation of women devoted to the service of St. Joseph. The island of Montreal he knew not even by name. Nor did his pecuni- ary means warrant him in undertaking works so important. He had not even that facility of speech which presents enterprises in the most favorable light, and persuades people to embark in them. Nevertheless, the same orders were so often renewed, in a manner so urgent, with instructions so clear and so precise concerning the situation of Montreal and Canada, the quality and character of the persons who were to aid in executing this design, that at length the confessor of M. de la Dauversiere, after having for a long time treated the project as wild and impracticable, thought that he ought to let him go to Paris, to see if Providence would present him with 22 Legends of St. Joseph. any opportunity of carrying out tliis so ex- traordinary enterprise. Arrived in the capital, M. de la Dauver- siere went to present himself to the minister, the Keeper of the Crown Seals, who resided at Moudon, and in the gallery of the castle met Mr. Olier. These two men were not acquainted, had never seen each other, and had never had the slightest intercourse one with the other. Impelled by a Divine inspi- ration, they meet like two friends who had been long separated, and embrace one another with the warmest affection, as though their hearts were one ; they salute each other by name, as we read of St. Domiuick and St. Francis of Assissium. Mr. Olier congratu- lates M. de la Dauversi^re on the cause of his journey, and placing in his hands a roll of one hundred pounds in gold [about five hundred dollars], he said: "Sir, I want to have a share in the work ; I know your mten- tiou, and am going to recommend it to God." Next day, Mr. OUer celebrated the Holy i.;;^^**.!^-;;'.-,'-'*''-'^'^*'^^'^*^*'**'''^'"*'^^ / iEPH. Legends op St. Joseph. 23 out tiiis so ex- de la Daiiver- to the luiuister, ials, who resided ry of the castle ) men wcic uot each other, aud ; hitcicourse one y a Divhie inspi- fiieuds who had brace oue another as though their te each other by ;)oiuiuick and St. •. Olier cougratu- ) on the cause of X his hands a roll 1 gold [about five : "Sir, I want to [ know your inten- mmend it to God." ebrated the Holy Mass, at which M. de la Dauversi^re received communion. After the thanksgiving both re- tired to the park of the castle, and comnm- nicated to each other the plans they had formed to promote the glory of God in the island of Montreal. Their conversation last- ed three hours. It was clearly ascertained that both had received the same lights, the same orders, and proposed the same means to be taken for insuring success. Mr. Olier formed a company of persons of great piety, known by the name of the Company of Our Lady of Montreal, most of them very wealthy, all called by God to contribute, by their prayers or their donations, to the suc- cess of the work. Some time after he assem- bled all the members, and introduced M. de la Dauversi^re, who stated, with his wonted simplicity, the communications and orders he had received from God concerning this new settlement. How hazardous soever such an enterprise might appear, the words of M. • de la Dauversi^re, although simple and un- :^.-**CS^i'i*'fVW»:^«i***" 24 Legends of St. Joseph. Btudied, founcl an echo in those hearts so well aisposed.' All were fully convinced of his mission, and readily opened their purses, deeming themselves happy in being chosen to contribute to the execution of a design 8o advantageous for the glory of God and the good of His Church. The first steps they took was to secure the island of Montreal. M. de Lauson, who had received it from the great Canada Com- pany, made it over to them on easy terms, renouncing his first intentions, and making a sacrifice of his personal interests. The . royal authority failed not soon to ratify this transfer; so that the action of Providence was made manifest, contrary to all human foresight. In receiving the ownership and dominion of the island, the Associates pledged them- selves to found a colony therein, and to establish three communities: First, a semi- nary of ecclesiastics, ten or twelve in .num- ber, destined for the ministry of the altar, the pr€ of con island, Olid, a the ed for th( these agreen goodiif new d and cl furthei and tl abroac iugs, a nience savage The bound Josep! of th( this I mal ii ". iU.%:i.>^. ■;7ji^^'--'-^"h'-^-'>' ri^ ■>?»Sl^*4£l"»«i'i^!i^"Sv^^ JSEPH. Legends of St. Joseph. 25 those hearts so Uy convinceil of uetl their purses, iu being chosen tiou of a design lory of God and »k was to secure . de Lauson, who reat Canada Com- m on easy terras, ;ions, and making il interests. Tlie soon to ratify this ion of Providence •ary to all human ship and dominion ates pledged them- ly therein, and to ies : First, a semi- or twelve in .num- nistry of the altar, the preaching of the Holy Gospel, the work of converting the savage aborigines of the island, and to keep a school for boys ; sec- ond, a community of religious teachers for tlie education of girls ; and, third, a hospital for the service of the sick. By means of these measures, say they in their Act of agreement, the Associates hope, through the goodness of God, to see, in a little time, a new church, which shall inutate the purity and charity >i the primitive Church. They furthermore hope that in after years they and their successors may be able to spread abroad over the country, to erect new dwell- ings, as much to contribute to public conve- nience as to facilitate the conversion of the savages. The three communities here mentioned bound themselves to honor Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, each one to partake of the spirit of their august patrons, to imbue therewith this new Church. From that time the for- mal intention of the Associates was to con- ■._j^ .^.p69j5f!i.i"««-j^*i"^- 26 Legends of St. Joseph. fide the direction of the future Hospital to the religious whom M. de la Dauversiore would establish in honor of St. Joseph ; the management of the Seminary to Mr. Olier, who began, shortly after, the foundation of the Company so well known in France nnder the name of St. Sulpice; and, finally, they hoped to give in charge the community of teachers to the person whom Providence might have chosen for that purpose. This was Sister Bourgeoys, specially destined to make the Blessed Virgin Mary honored in the colony of Montreal. She was the foun- dress, in Canada, of the Congregation of Our Lady of Montreal. Who does not admire the action of Provi- dence in the creation of these various estab- lishments? But yc The; And 8 The -.f *:^i ^■.n'.*Vi-i:=i»*f<*.-~* .fm^j^^^ms^-^^-M^'^^-^mt-^^-'^'^'^'*^ ■ Joseph. iiture Hospital to e la Dauversiore )f St. Joseph ; the lary to Mr. Olier, the foundation of n in France under and, finally, they the community of whom Providence lat purpose. This ecially destined to Mary honored in She was the foun- iongregation of Our the action of Provi- these various estab- .^ III. TEE ROD IN BLOSSOM. ilROUND the sacred ark the sons ot Juda stand, Sending to Heaven above their hum- ble, fervent prayer ; What hath brought unto the temple the young men of the land, And wherefore in each hand a wither'd branch and bare? But yester eve, with joyous, hopeful heart. They laid upon the altar each dry and mystic rod ; And sadly now they gaze, and their fondest hopes depart — The branches still are leafless, no change hath come from God 1 Behold them once again praying the Lord Most High; But one, before unseen, has join'd their band — 4j**«ii«at»-si«»i» 28 Legends of St. Joseph, One in whose calm and brightly-beaming eye Are imaged virtues heroic and grand. Lofty is his brow, majestic and serene ; He, too, doth in his hand a dry branch bear, Seeming the while amazed that he hath been Call'd to contest a prize so passing rare. Humble he is, although of lineage high. Deeming himself, of all, the least and last. And matchless pure in heart, wherefore th' all-see- ing Eye Hath been on him with special favor cast. "Joseph, draw nearl" from God the high-priest speaks. And Joseph, in his turn, lays down his rod. Oh, wondrous prodigy ! full soon it breaks Forth into leaves and flow'rs-all praise to God ! O Joseph, son of David ! hail, all hail ! Thou art the favor'd one, the Virgin thine— The Virgin whose bright name shall never pale, . Who crushes Satan's head with power divine ! Thine is That 1 The Lo To g Favor'd Brigl Comes Recc ».,, s,v..i3«JCW*<^«*'-4*S«(***«^'-''=-^-^***'''''" "*' 08EPH. ■beaming eye 1 grand. serene ; Jry brancli beor, he hath bceu passing rare. age high, east and last, wherefore tli' all-see- ;ial favor cast. God the high-priest Legends of St. Joseph. 29 Thine is that lily fair, that spotless dove. That fragrant flower that bloouVd for Edcns bow'rs, The Lord hath chosen thee, with special love. To guard His fairest one of all earth's flow'rs 1 Pavor'd art thou, and lo I thy destined bride, Bri.'ht as the stars and more than heavenly pure, Comer forth, the Lord with her, and at thy side Receives the ring that makes the compact sure. Hail then, chaste spouse of Mary, hail, thrice haU I For Heaven, in giving her a spouse like thee, So pure, so God-like, surely will not fail To make thee our Protector, too, to be ! 's down his rod. on it breaks •s — all praise to God ! all hail ! ;he Virgin thine — e shall never pale, . with power divine ! lUiW ivWUfeV^i™* IV. THE FIRST GHUISTMAS NTOHT. IN the year of the world 4004, on the 24th of Decomber, an old man and a young woman were journeying towards the cily ui Bethlehem, in Judea. The young woraat. beautiful beyond conception, and mspmng virtue by her chaste and modest look, was seated on the back of an ass which the old man led by the bridle. This old man, whose mien was at once mild and venerable, turned often to see whether his young companion wanted anything, trying, at the same time, to lead the animal over the smoothest gi'ound, so as to avoid any shock. "I much fear," said he, urging the beast to quicken its pace; "I much fear that we shall reach Bethlehem too late to procure lodging for the night. For me, it is of small -'UraKNf^S"'''^''" «S;.satl»»«iSSV»^» ,_jy5j*^;.-rJ5.a,slt--AiaSfe'->-U*V>'^'- Legends of St. Joseph. 81 >^.' [AS mOHT. ,e workl 4004, on >ecomber, an old ang woman were arcls the cily ui le young woniai, an, and inspiring modest look, was ass which the old liis old man, whose 1 venerable, tnrned y«^ung companion at the same time, smoothest ground, », urging the beast much fear that we 30 late to procure 3r me, it is of small account; but for theo, who hast so much need of rest!" "Have confidince, father!" h-aid the young woman ui a tone of meek re8i},'nation, " God will provide for us." And the old man, to whom these simple words seemed to give now strength, went on his way praying. And the shades of evening were falling on the earth ; and the moon was already shining in mild radiance in the firmament above, as though to invite the poor pilgrims to rest, when they reached the gates of the city. » * * * * All denoted one of those clear, cold winter nights which are so much the harder on peo- ple in the East, because they are less accus- tomed to them. What the old man had fore- seen came to pass. The inns were full of travellers, brought thither for enrollment by an edict of Csesar Augustus. Nowhere was there place for the last arrivals. Knock at what door he would, how touch- ing soever his prayers and supplications, he J J:-"->ii,-3^.-"*^***"V*''&*'''* ' 32 Legends of St. Jomru. found himflclf. lionvH aftor. h.ic\ and dojoctccl, Htm on tho road lio had h.. oft.m travcwod, aeekinR sholtor, at least for his conipanion. And seeing nothinfi, tho old man lamented. And his young companion, as it were, indif- ferent to all the rebnfls and refusals thoy had met, with tho Psalmist, raised her eyes and her heart to the holy mountains. All at onco she said ; " Father, bo not dis- couraged; the people whoso hardness of heart so afflicts you, know lis not. ... I " alone am the cause of what has happened, since it is for me, and tho child I bear in my womb, that you tarried by tho way. . . . Listen, now, to what I am about to say. But a little way from here I remarked, on onr first entering into the city, a deserted stable ; that may be the shelter to which Providenco calls us; let us go thither." The old man wiping away a tear, stUl hesitated. "God wills it so, my father," she meekly added. • # *■ * • • The jugged tho inl man, i spouse on hei with 81 as th< flight, )8Erii. id and dnjcctod, ottim travoreod, Ills compftnion. » * il man lanionted. [VH it were, indif- rcfnsals tlioy had icd her eyes and taina. ither, bo not dis- ose hardness of ns not. ... I at has happened, •hild I bear in my the way. . . . ibout to say. But remarked, on our ft deserted stable ; which Providence r." The old man hesitated. " God meekly added. Legends of St. .ToHEru. B3 The stable to wliich thoy retired was roughly hewn out of the rock, and had been loii^' deserted. That night two animals, an ox and an ass, were niieUeri'd theni, brought fioni a neighboring inn because of the throng ill the city. To this fortunate circumstance the old nuiu and his compaiiicm were iu- (It'bted for some fresh straw which tlit^y found in the cave. * * * * * The moonbeams, penetrating through the jugged cliffs at the entrance, partially lit up the interior of the grotto. Whilst the old man, mindful of the wants of his youthful spouse, prepared a couch for her, she fell on her knees, and prayed so silently and with so little outward motion, tliat it seemed as though lier soul, taking a heavenward flight, had left there only a mortal covering. ***** But when she had prayed, the young woman proceeded to unfold some clothes of a coarse texture, but exquisitely clean, which 84 Legends of St. Joseph. she had brought with her, and which, with sweet forethought, she had placed in her bosom to keep them warm. The old man lool«d on with respectful attention, "is the happy moment, then, come?" said he at length. "What! in this lonely stable! la the company of these ani- mals?" "Canst thou wonder?" replied the young wife. " Ah ! what is this new abasement for the Word mmie Flesh, since He has deigned to come down and rest in my womb ! Oh, incomprehensible mystery of the love of the Creator for the creature! To dwell with men, God himself did not disdain to clothe Himself with human nature, and it is in poverty He chooses to be born, because He comes to ennoble, to save, to .elevate the poor ! " At these words the old man became more collected. "And then, Mary, dost thou not suffer ? " "Suffer, my father? I suffer! Never has ^ zlii An a ] < lei r. Joseph. Legends of St. Joseph. 36 ler, and which, with had placed in her L'm. on with respectful ippy moment, then, th. "What! in this mpany of these ani- >" replied the young is new abasement for riuce He has deigned t in my womb! Oh, sry of the love of the ire! To dwell with not disdain to clothe nature, and it is in be born, because He save, to -elevate the old man became more 1, Mary, dost thou not I suffer! Never has the fruit of benediction conceived in my womb, the mysterious work of the Divine Spirit, caused me the least pain. Doubtless He smiles at this moment, so long desired, when His holy humanity is going, by its first sufferings, to begin the work of Eedemp- tion." "Oh, yes!" she added, rising, "He m- Hames my heart; I am already inundated with the purest delight ; I no longer live, it is Jesus who hvcth in me! He is mine, I am His. A sweet ecstasy takes possession of my being. My heart no longer feels its human life. Kneel! the prodigy is being wrought; I am the Mother of my God!" ***** While she spoke thus a strong and daz- zling light filled the stable of Bethlehem. And the Virgin of Isaiah disappeared for a moment from mortal sight. Joseph, humbly prostrate, adored in si- lence. 86 Legends of St. Joseph. The night had reached the middle of its course ; the moment of majestic silence iu nature, the solemn and ever mysterious hour marked out by the Prophets for the birth of the promised Deliverer. * * * # * And the light gi'adually faded. And Joseph, in expectation of the great prodigy, his heart inflamed with all the ardor of the desires of the Patriarchs and Prophets, raised his eyes. . . . And the Virgin Mother api^eared in a re- splendent cloud, surrounded by Angels, hold- ing out to him the fairest Child that earth had ever seen, the First-Born amongst men, the Saviour of the world, the Prince of Peace, the Mighty God — a little Babe ! His heart glowed with faith and love. And as he bowed down to adore, and con- template, in his turn, mute with awe and admiration, the Child held out His hands so graciously to him that lie was attracted towards Him, as it were, in spite of himself -, and ben arms Hii and whc tain! And \ by sighi deUghte* again in And \ disappei sumcd a low : immacu was Jes Then swaddh ished p Him in And from 1 -^?)S^^^3ISM^^ss. «Jfef3*w<«» Joseph. lie middle of its ajestic silence in I* mysterious hour ets for the birth aded. ion of the great ed with all the e Patriarchs and • • ippeared in a re- , by Angels, hold- Child that earth >rn amongst men, 1, the Prince of little Babe ! faith and love. ) adore, and con- ie with awe and I out His hands lie was attracted spite of himself j Legends of St. Joseph. 37 and bending lovingly down, received in his arms Him whose glory the heavens proclaim, and whom the whole universe cannot con- tain! ♦ » » » » And when he had wholly satiated himself by sight and by touch, clasping the Babe delightedly in his arms, Joseph placed Jesus again in his Mother's arms. « * » * * And the cloud vanished. And the Angels disappeared. And the Child's abode re- sumed its former aspect. Then was heard a low moaning cry. It was Jesus, whose immaculate flesh began to feel the cold; it was Jesus beginning His Saviour-life. » « « * * Then the Virgin wrapped the Child in swaddling-clothes, and when Joseph had fin- ished preparing the crib, weeping, they laici Him in it. And Jesus still cried. An Angel descended from heaven, bearing a cup, which he put 88 Legends of St. Joseph. ^t:^^ to the lips of the ChUd, murmuring the name of Gethsemane. And the Virgin shuddered. . . . Then the Angel disappeared, brnshing with his wing, as he passed, the sleeping animak And the shepherds, coming to the sta- ble directed by the Angels, saw the Child, warmed by the breath of the ox and the ass, who were already submissive to the caresses of Mary and Joseph. her mi fair ai of her them i The ruined just w a situ keep losing a deal nion, famil] OSEPH. murmuring the 1« • • • red, bnislung with sleeping aiiimak ling to the sta- Is, saw the Child, ' the ox and the mbmissive to the sph. V. DUTY BEFOIiE ALL. jlFTER great reverses of fortnne and long years of tribulation, borne with trae maternal cour- age, Madame C had seen her misfortunes crowned by the loss of two fair and promising children, and, finally, that of her husband, who, in a little, time, followed them to the grave. The sorrows and privations which had ruined the father's health snatched him away just when he was on the point of obtaining a situation that would have enabled him to keep his family at least above want. In losing him, his widow had not only to lament a dear and constant friend, a faithful compa- nion, but also the principal support of her family. ^,pa,aBAi««««S31ill»!»«»«»i^«''>*»^ ifu^ .^J^*rt»^^^^^i*'^**^^^'^^^*' ^ 40 Legends of St. Joseph. t This family, consisting still of four chil- dren, hftJ thenceforth no other sui^port than two young sons, the eUlest of whom hiul jnst reacheil his twentieth year. The remunera- tion they received for their work was so small that it promised but little relief to the fanjily, and, notwithstanding all their devotedness, they could not do much to assist their mother, especially as their father had left some debts. To satisfy the credit- ors, some of whom were very pressing, and provide the necessaries of life for her chil- dren, so as to keep them from sinking like their father, were very difficult tasks for the poor widow. She had vainly endeavored to procure employment for herself ; and her health, shattered by this long train of mis- fortunes, scarcely enabled her to work, even if she had it to do. The eldest of her daughtei-s was just six- teen ; she was strong, well formed, discreet, modest, and amiable. The indigent circum- stances of the family had prevented her from r rents a: but stil The vented bad mi necessa there m cook, i unless which they hi The terest : her lea to find exposii who hj When found, beyond friends teachii )8EPH. ill of four chil- ler su]iport tliau [ -whom liiul just The reinunera- ir work Avas so t little relief to amling all their lot do much to ly as their father latisfy the credit- ery pressing, and life for her chil- froni sinking like cnlt tasks for the 'ainly endeavored herself; and her long train of mis- her to work, even itei-s was jnst six- 1 formed, discreet, e indigent circum- Lul prevented her Legends of St. Josepu. 41 from receiving a complete education; pa- rents and friends had, by turns, lent a hand, but still her education was very deficient. The same circumstances which had pre- vented Helen from learning much at school had made her a good housekeeper, the most necessary of all qualities in a woman. Only, there was little use in her knowing how to cook, if there was nothing to be cooked, unless it might be stone soup, the story of which I ahull not tell my readers, supposing they have all heard of it. The friends of the family who took an in- terest in Helen urged her mother to have her learn some trade ; but it was not so easy to find an opportunity of doing so without exposing the innocence of the young girl, who had never been away from her mother. When such an opportunity was at length found, the conditions were such that it was beyond the reach of Helen's mother and her friends. The girl's want of instruction put teaching, the most honorable of all careers, .*^(lteWJ-»«%/rt»»^l-*«Mf«l#4(A|■arB^ ._j^j(^-5j3R{^ajBUBW*ai5ir**:**^=>*''**^***w' 42 Legends of St. Joseph. out of the question, and. on the other hand, apprenticeship to any trade was open to many objections. Some respectable women offered to teach Helen their own busmesa. Bome flower-making, others dress-making others plain sewing; but none of them could lodge her, and they lived so far away that the young apprentice would have had to go through all Paris morning and evening. Moreover, wlien a fee could not be paid, Helen would have had to work several years without any pay. which did not suit a poor famUy that stood in urgent need of some immediate assistance. In this indescribable embarrassment, the poor mother conceived the happy thought of having recourse to St. Joseph, the patron of and provider for famiUes. Troubled as she was. she did not even think of making a Novena to him ; but she Uuo or three tims addressed him in earnest supplication, gomg from the heart-and the hoped-for aid was not long in coming. A good situation in a )8ErH. the other hand, e was open to ipectable women ir own bnsiness, 8 dress- making, ne of them could JO far away that Id have had to ing and evening, lid not be paid, rork several years 1 not suit a poor at need of some nbarraosment, the IB happy thought Joseph, the patron lies. Troubled as 1 think of making Uvo or three tirms supplication, going hoped-for aid was 'ood situation in a Legends of St. Joseph. 48 respectable mercantile house was unexpect- edly offered to her daughter, with eight hun- dred francs a year, and board besides, in a locaUty not far from her mother's house, so that she was able to go home in the even- ing, and had, moreover, Sundays and holy days to herself. This unhoped-for position, for so young a person, was accepted, as may be supposed, with great joy, although not without anxiety; for was it certain that Helen would be able to discharge duties that required practice and experience? But does St. Joseph ever leave his work imfinished ? The timid girl displayed in her new and strange position a steadiness and abUity that could scarcely be expected. She made herself equally es- teemed by her employers, beloved by her companions, and respected by the clerks employed in the house. It would have been almost too much if this auspicious beginning had not been stamped with the seal of trialL Helen had to inaugu- 44 Legends of St. Joseph. rate her new position by a little sacrifice. The mother of her chief employer, a woman of austere piety, accustomed to see around her only persons of mature age, thought it her duty to object to Helen's way of arrang- ing her hair. Although very plain and sim- ple in Helen's case, yet being in accordance with the prevailing style, it jarred on the habits and notions of the worthy nuitron, who insisted on a change. Those of my readers who have long renounced the world may not appreciate the full value of the sac- rifice required of her ; but if any young girl should read this, or any one who romenibers having been young, they will admit that the self-forgetfulness which consists in adoi)ting through obedience a fashion that is out of date, or any way ridicidous, is one of the most painful sacrifices that can be imposed on a woman who has not bid adieu to the illusions of life. Would you have done it, dear Julia, you who know so well how to arrange your fair SEPH. little saorifioe. )loycr, u woman I to see around age, thought it 3 way of arrang- ' j>lain anil sim- ig in accoi'dance ; jiineil on the worthy matron, Those of my unced the world iralue of the sac- f any young girl wlio romenibers 1 admit that the dsts in adopting n that is out of 3, is one of the can be imposed bid adieu to the , dear Julia, you arrange your fair Legends or St. Joseph. 4B tresses in the way most becoming to your fresh, blooming face? Would you have done it at sixteen, Emily, you whose brow has now no other ornament than the white baud of the religious? Amongst the gay companions with whom Helen went on Sunday, more than one said to Helen: "It is not I that would consent to be drilled after that fashion. I would rather give up the situation than nuike my- self so dowdy as you do!" We will not take upon us to say that Helen did not say something of the kind to herself, but the sense of duty very soon regained the mas- tery, and God and St. Joseph helpuig, she was able to resist these tempting suggostions and submit to make the required sacrifice. Let us add that she looked none the worse for it. Is not virginal modesty the fairest ornament? Adorned, especially, with an ex- cellent reputation, Helen made herself so remarkable by her faithful discharge of her duty, and her general conduct, that the rela- ^**i^..»*^W«?*«i'i»'**'«'^~*«**********^'^' ^^^l>»tV*»W 46 Leqendb op St. Jobeph. lives ami frioiulH, long projndiccd against her, began to hco their error and make advances towards the renewal of friendly relations, which wag very agreeable and even advan- t«g(K)U-. to the family, and sunily very honor- able to the yonng girl, who had succoeded in (overcoming nnjnst prejudices and reviving a well-merited interest in her and hers. This littlo btory being true, is simple. Had it been fiction, it wonld, doubthiss, have been more embellished with incidents. May it excite incMiased confidence in that revered patronage under which every family ought to take shelter. )BEpn. iced against her, 1 muko atlvances ieniUy relations, nd even advan- mily very honor- ) had Buccoeded ices and reviving ir and hers. , is simple. Had btloHS, luive been jidents. May it in that revered n-y family ought VI. THE VALVE OF A MASS. [EFOllE going to seek eni])l()yment for the day, a poor working-man named Joseph Willielin, went yv<^- ularly to say his prayers and hear Mass in the neighboring church. One morn- ing he rose earUer than usual, and, contrary to his pious custom, went to look for work without performing his devotions. He soon found that, with reasonable exer- tion on his own part, it was better to count on a fatherly Providence than on mere hu- man prudence. Like himself, a crowd of men of all trades were there waiting for employ- ment; but no one came to offer them work. "What is to be done?" said he to himself. His heart, in accordance with his faith, dic- tated the answer. He went to church, said . A*i!i •"(i^V*"'" -"■ ~ ■'' ^ »t^Jt»i.l!fle, Master Barnaby ge was not precisely ligious man; but he I point, and especially } rest and the obliga- on that day, notions er orthodox. He had lay, without much ap- lat be had neglected }ais and also, I beUeve, Hiis did not prevent rs of his kind, from an honest man, and Legends of St. Joseph. 49 enjoying the esteem of all his fellow-towns- men. A few words from Joseph made the worthy burgher understand the cause of his dejec- tion. "I have no work to give you, my good man," said he. " I have all the men I want just at present. But where were you while the other men were waiting for work?" "I was at Mass." "At Mass! at Mass! It is, doubtless, very good to go to Mass. I don't deny but I like that ; but, nevertheless, my man, people must live; and in order to Uve, one must work, when one hasn't the means of hviug with- out it." "But, master, I work every day, all the year round, except Sundays and holy days, only to-day ' "Very good! You love the church and the Mass, I see that. Well, since you have nothing to do, for want of bettor employ- ment, go to church; hear Mass, and pray ...^.;it..--^T-v.---^--'i.^i:^v-^-''^^f**^**"'''*^^ 60 Legends of St. Joseph. for me cluring the time you would have been at work ; and when evening comes, I wdl pay you the usual price for your day's work. What do you think of that?" "I accept your offer, with gi-iititudo," an- swered AVilhelm, with a low bow. And off he went to the church, where he faithfully fulfilled his engagement. Evening being come, Joseph betook hira- self to the burgher's house, where he duly received twelve sous, the usual pay for a days work, and also a loaf of bread. Wilhelm, well pleased, was retracing his homeward way, praying as he went, when he met an old man of noble and majestic mien, who seemed well acquainted with all the m- cidents of the day. "Go back," said he in a grave, commanding voice, "and tell that man that he has not given you all he owes you; and that if he does not add something more to what he has given you, it will be ■worse for him." The workman did not dare to make any objecti osEpn. would have been comes, I will pay your day's work. ?" th griititudo," an- w bow. And off here he faithfully seph betook him- se, where he duly UBual pay for a I of bread. was retracing his I he went, when he and majestic mien, ;ed with all the in- , back," said he, in ice, "and tell that en you all he owes not add something iven you, it will he dare to make any Legends of St. Joseph »1 objection, and deUvared the authoritative mes- sage, not without great embarrassment. A slight shiver ran, at first, throngh the rich man's members. But he speedily re- covered himself, thinking it was, pei-haps, a stratagem of the pious Avorkman, in order to make him open his purse-strings. "Ah ha! my good friend," said he, good humoredly, "the appetite grows with eatmg, I perceive. Did I not give you what I give all my la- borers, twelve good sous and a loaf of bread? If you keep on in that way, you'll do a thriving business." T' <;P, stopping short, he muttered to himself; ' "^ay be all right. He ought to know €. n ) of Masses and prayers better than I cio." And he counted him oat five sous. Poor Wilhelm was possessed of both feel- ing and intelligence, and he understood, with sorrow, that what he did, solely through obedience, was attributed to motives diamet- rically opposed to his sentiments. His first impulse, — and a very natural one, too,— was (VAaiaWMs-ii* *• 52 Legends of St. Joseph. to give back to Master Barnaby the twelve sous lie had given him, >vith the five over and above. But he feared that by giving way to this natural feeling, he would make the worthy burgher angry, and sin himself against the virtues of charity and humility. So he went away. But, behold! he had only gone a few paces when he came fuU upon the same old man. He was jnst going to ease his heart by teU- ing him of his trouble; but without leaving him time to open his mouth : " Go," said the mysterious personage again, " tell that man that he has not given you all he owes you, and that some misfortune will befall him if he does not give you more pay." The perplexity of the honest laborer may be easier imagined than described. " If I do as the old man bids me," said he to himself, "I offend the honorable Zimmermann, who, after all, was very good to me this morning, and has given me more than we agreed upon. It, on the other hand, I refuse His impers )SEPH. naby the twelve th the five over that by giving he would make and sin himself ity and humility. gone a few paces le same old man. his heart by tell- it without leaving 11 : " Go," said the n, "tell that man all he owes you, will befall him if 5 pay." onest laborer may iscribed. " If I do said he to himself, Zimmermann, who, ) me this morning, B than we agreed and, I refuse " Legends of St. Joseph. W His internal colloquy was cut short by an imperative look from the unknown, and Wil- hehu had to resign himself to go back agam with the strange message. This time, the burgher was struck with indefinable terror. He ran to his money-chest, hastily thrust in both his hands, and drew them out full of coin, which he gave, without counting them, to the surprised and grateful laborer. That very night, Christ Jesus appeared to Master Barnaby Zimmermann. He was seat- ed on his tribunal: His face was exi.iessive of majestic and ineffable serenity. Ho enu- merated the faults of the honorable and wor- thy burglier; He reproached him with them in terms that made his blood run cold to hear. Then continuing: "Know," said he, "that if that poor man whom you humbled had not heard Mass to your intention, it would have been all over with you. Sudden death would have overtaken you: you were damned forever. See, now, if you have given him all you owe bim." ,,— ^■>:.i.-*T'-i i^^-a^^-^^'"^^ 64 Legends of St. Joseph. So saying, lio disappeared. When om- burgher awoke, he was no onger the cardoss and somewhat skeptical phdoso- r,her of the day before ; he was covered with r!::at:and as pale as death. ^^^ that^,no- „,eut he ceased to consider prayer as a make- Xa; and. above all. understood bette.. the value of a Mass. How many others, unknown to themselves were indebted to the Mass for the success of their material enterprises in tins hfe. and in the other, an eternity of bliss! We thought this story naturally found ^^ placeinthe-Legends of St. Joseph. Who indeed, could the mysterious old man here : question be. if not the august Fmanc. to whom it has been given to W-- *^^ spiritual and temporal goods whereof God 1 made him the dispenser. -the spec, patron, and. consequently, the regulator of the interests of the working class; and final- ly, the particular patron of the worthy Joseph Wilhelm? >SEPU. lie was no longer ikeptical pliiloso- was coveietl with From that mo- prayer as a make- i-stootl better the wn to themselves, for the success of Q this life, and in iss! laturally found its ;t. Joseph." Who, OU8 old man here } august Financier 3n to appraise the pods whereof God enser,— the special yr, the regulator of ng class ; and, final- f the worthy Joseph vn. THE UNEXPECTED PILOT. pERE is no practice more pleasing to St. Joseph than the commemo- ration of his seven joys and seven sorrows; there is no surer means of obtaining his assistance. Tins pious de- votion derives its origin from a well-known occun-ence related by all the authoi-s who have written on St. Joseph. It is as fol- lows : — _ Two religious of the Order of St. Francis were sailing on the Sea of Flanders; all at once there arose a tempest so furious that the vessel was swaUowed up, with all on hoard; that is to say, more than three hun- dred persons. The two monks were so for- tunate as to get hold of a fragment of the 5e Leoeiidb of St. Josem. „.eck, to wbiol. tUey cUmg. They wo for U„c. .Uy» H.,a Ihroe .inUts oxposd to tbo ;„,.y ot »i,„ls «Kl — . W.,U a teavM «t„,vlio„- Thei. steengtU begm. to t.ul »^d beco„,ing gnuTually moro oxbm«tea bo, eoulJ, at last, scarcely keep tlu« boUl ou the pl.u,k of safety. At U«s mo.oeot W Vg,i to invoke St Joseph, tor whom they U„d always bad a pavtiealar 'l"ofo„. On the thirf day, St. Josepb appeavs to hem under the form of a strong, ma,e«t,c nan. He deigns to take bis place between them, .„d to unite bis efforts ..ith tbo,« vrbae sharing, as it o-ere, their danger, be gra- lusly salutes them, and that V ; sa^^ seems to revive their failing conra^ md g«e them new strength. Very soon he ,kes the direction of their singular craft, and brmgs U,em sat. and sound to shore The good religious first thank Heaven for bav.ng saved them, then turning to the unknown, tbey beg „, bim to tell them bis name. "I am Jo- sepb" be replied. "I am he whose heart Thoy wove for cxi»oscil to the What a fenvful ftivn to fail, and ixhaustea, they ) their \w\i\ on is moment they for whom they \x devotion. On appears to them g, majestic man. e between them, ;ith theirs, while danger; he gra- that V ; salute ; conrat "id give soon he .kes the craft, and brings shore. The good n for having saved unknown, they beg name. "I am Jo- n he whose heart Legends of St. Joseph. 67 was overwhelmed with seven joys, and torn by seven swords of sorrow. My protection is sine to all those who shall mnko a remem- brance of thom on earth. Profit by this ad- vice, and make others do so, likewise. Ho then disappeared, leaving the monks full of joy and gratitude. vin. THE LiailTING OF NAPLES. IHEEE lived in Naples, a very long timo ogo, a good monk ^vho, by his cluuity and indefatigable de- votion to all, bad acquired sucb an influence over the populace, tbat a vord from bin. .as sufficient to make tbem do whatever be ^visbed. On account of Ins small stature, tbe I^zzaroni called bim no- thing but "tbe little Fatber:" be .vas for them at once 'preacher, physician, and magis- trate, and day and night they found Inm always ready to sex-ve them. Hence, he had become a real power in the city. Now. at tbat time, the city of Naples did not yet enjoy the advantage of having its streets lit by night, and vicious people of al sorts turned tbe darkness to good account Legends op St. Joseph. 69 ^j:p KArLES. pies, a very long 1 monk wlio, by inclefiitigablo de- ,cl acquivoil such iace, that a word > make them do account of his i called him no- ler;" he was for sician, and mngis- they found him 1. Hence, ho had le city. ;ity of Naples did age of having its cious people of all J to good account against the honest and wcU-disposed amongst the pocplo. In order to remedy this state of tliii.gs, the city council, by order of the Govenmient, decided that the three principal streets of the city, Toledo, Chiuia, and I'ona, should bo henceforth lighted. Son.o H.xty lamps were accordingly prepared for the Btreets named, to the great contentment of all honest people, who rejoiced in being no longer exposed to the dangers of former days. But they counted without the Lazzanm. lu fact, those gentry, the sworn enemies of all that interfered with their habits could uot peaceably see themselves deprived of their old facility in robbing, antl even of their peculiar way of sleeping; it was touch- ing them on the sore spot. So, waxing fu- rious, they broke, in one night, all the lamps. The magistrates, unwiUing to give way to the rioters, soon had the lamps replaced by others, with the threat of imprisonment for whoever dared to injure them. But it was talking to the deaf, and notwithstanding all 80 Lmwiim o» St. Ooseph. :„ Lew no bettor, Th" I-- ^-'1'" " ctU,ua,io., wooing t„o„,.c.vo, tUu. a.t^. tad f ..o of tl,o ..o„.bc« of tl,o couucl. !;T,\,,ol,ttloFatl«»oaiao,.l,co.n„toou ■• „al,l lu. "tho rictory would cclamly ::;«:■• 'T.ati,t.W> ««U> an tbootW. ..,vo «ut tta little rall.or'8 1.«lP- T«° J„bor, of tho eouncil «e.o fo.tUw.th do- ::ted to «o and recuest bhn to con.e ^d talk the matter over with tbem. Ibc goo 'ptbcr aceepts the invltatioo, 1*„^ ^ J^ tbat is «a(d, refteets a mon,ent and fclb them that he hopes to got them ont of then- d ffl- IX and Lure tho success of thou- en^r- ;i provided tho, let him aet with pcrfeci fcoodom. Ihoy readily promise to do so, and separate full of hope and joy. Without delay tho little Father, v-ho had quieklj formed his plan, set about putUng it in exec of two least flepU Hi Icdo H squiiro Willi, o thitii ti pictuvt Tho tho in luoreo from < to loo liiiviuj was q Wh place( Tlio ] Fathe aud I iirouE follov Legends op St. Joseph. 61 )H£PH. icoiul lumiuiuies A ihmX ttltompl poor NeiipoUtan Ivos IhuH dufoat- fiving "P '^^'^ ""' ca caiiio into tUo ffl o£ tho couucil. only como to ouv f woiikl cevtainly mill all tho others; icr'8 help." Two rcro forthwith dc- him to conio and , them. The good ,tiou, listens to all lent, and tells thorn n out of their diffi- cess of their euter- am act with perfect promise to do so, 5 and joy. le Father, who hod set about putting it in execution. He goes inunediately in HOiirch of two or three painters, tho poorest and litvst employed ; ho conducts them to 8t. Jo- rtcpli street, which opens, at ono end, on To- ledo street, and at the other on Mtnlina Hiiniuo; he stops with them before a hi^'h wall, orders them to whiten it carefully, and thtai to paint on it at full length a luuulsomo pictiiro of St. Joseph. Tho Lazmroni, who had no suspicion of tlio innocent snare laid for them, and who, moreover, are artists by nature, stopped first from curiosity, and afterwards with interest, to look at the painting the little Father was hiiviug done, tho more so that tho picture was quite a good one. When all was finished, tho little Father placed a lamp before St. Joseph's image. Tlie Lazzaroni only concluded that tho good Father had a special devotion to St. Joseph, iiud as the lamp did not throw laucli light around no one minded its being there. The following evening, the Father added a second 62 Legends of St. Joseph. lamp to the first, sceiug ^vlxicU the Lazzarom began to show some discontent, because it was a novelty to have so much hght ma street that had hitherto been so dark. The M day, at the same hour, the little Eath. arrives with three lamps, which he arranges before the image. Then the Lazzarom. inove numerous than on the previous days, lost al patience, and began to complain loudly. Bu the Father, appearing to take no notice o their complaints, returned a fourth tune, and it was to fasten a bright lamp to the wall. From this step the Lazzaroni clearly saw that his intention was to support the action of the authorities against the mutmeers, ami take sides .vith honest people against rob- bers ; in a word, that he wanted he it) to be lit. Thereupon, popular indignation reached its height, the lamp was broken, and the whole angry mob began to shout: ..Death to St. Joseph! death to all the en.- ndesoiihe Lazzaroni!" The little Father waited, with much com- .suvhich he is to speak. , , , The zealous preacher spoke to the hearts of that beheving people so tonchingly and so efficaciously, that when he had finished his discourse, and, with a persuasive smile, put this question to them: "Well, children, now that you know the excellence and the merits of St. Joseph, tell me if one poor taper would suffice to express our veneration for BO glorious a protector: tell me if you were right in being angry with me. because I wished to honor him with a bright .mp? the whole crowd, as it were, electrified, cried with one voice : ^ , i, "What! one lamp! He deserves ten! he deserves twenty! a hundred!... St. Joseph, the guardian of Jesus, for ever! ... Long live the little Father!..." And at the close of the discourse, the whole of St. Joseph street others desert was li Thi self V tion \ and < .^.waK*'****" '*'*'«~* ^ Legends op St. Joseph. 65 )8EPH. er nppears, and imation, followed silence as soon from which he is >ke to the hearts tonchingly and so had finished his suasive smile, put rell, children, now ice and the merits I one poor taper 3ur veneration for bU me if you were th me, because I 1 a bright 'vmp?" ire, electrified, cried [e deserves ten! he ed! . . . St. Joseph, or ever! . . . I'v)ng ." And at the close hole of St. Joseph street was provided with lamps ; after a while, others were placed in the darkest and most deserted streets, and soon the whole city was lit. Thanks to Providence, the unbehever him- self will be forced to acknowledge that devo- tion to a Saint may be favorable to progress and civilization. f IX. THE SHEPHERDS OF BETHLEHEM. fOMULlTS had raised a temple in '' Borne in honor of Janus^or- shipped as the god of Peace. Its doors were thrown open in ,. of war The enemies of the Roman time of war ^i^vays to have arms neot)le compeUmg them aiwa;y ^ i^ ^f ^^ ■ 1 A. the doors of this temple of forth. Augi that tl tht' yo anc, G aboi!e, abanl Mt Ccd Ari up in the U - _»B»<,»«««««'' .^t^M0iSvr'f^^*^^^'- „»**)we«fc*<"-*' ■""^'^ Legends op St. Joseph. 67 BETHLEHEM. ^ised a temple in r of Janus, wor- j god of Peace. thrown open in 3S of the Roman ways to have arms of this temple of ice before the reign just been closed a irsaries. It pleased to be born at the earth should enjoy tottered, then, on Us that, m an obscure a virgin had brought Augustus learned from the oracle of Apollo, that the demons were forced to fly before tlu^ young child of Heber, master of the gods, anc, God himself, to return to their gloomy abocJe, and that their silent altars must be abanloned. Mt puer Hcbreus, divos Dcub ipse gubernans, Cedere sebc jubet, tristemquc rcdire sub : Aris ergo dehine tacitis ftbstedito nostris. Two hecatombs had obtained this answer for him. The Senate, whose members voted as one man, had just decreed him altars and the in- cense reserved for gods. Augustus, instead of accepting such honors, acknowledged that he was but a mortal ; and shutting himself up in a remote room of his palace, alone with the pythoness, he inquired of her if there was not to come into the world a man greater than he. This was precisely on the day of Our Lord's nativity. The Virgin Motlier of God appeared to him at that moment on the summit of the Capitol, holding her Divine 68 Legends of St. Joseph. I' Son in her arms. The Sibyl, seized with the spirit that moved her iu lier inspirations, immediately cried out: Am primogcnUi Deu BohJld the altar of the first-born of God! That child is greater than thee. He it is who must be adored. (Suidas. Nicephorus. Vincent de Beauvais. Jacques de Vonvgme, Baronius, and others.) Constantine the Great caused a temple to be built on that very spot, says CorneiUe de la Pierre, m memory of this event and m honor of the most pure Virgin and her Son, which temple still exists, and is called by the people of Borne Ara Cvas likewise an the perfect adora- mingled with that from their thrones ) tlie Word made mplishment of what : the loveliest types y his brethren, cast Legends of St. Joseph. e» into prison, and subsequently made the stew- ard of Pharaoh, to save the life of his family. The pheaves which he bound in dreams were Halnted by those of his brethren, and ho saw himself worshipped by the sun and the moon as well as the stars. Which presaged not only his elevation and the humbling of Jacob and all his sons before him, but also the glory of Jesus and the homage to be paid him by His Mother, His adopted father, and His brethren. And who were His brethren? All men, for He had entered the family of Adam. He gave them the name of brothers, and God declares that He is His first-born. Men were, then, to come to His feet to adore Him in their turn. The first invited to pay Him that tribute are poor keepers of sheep, be- cause He is to take the title of Pastor, and will give His life for His sheep. "There were in the same country," says the Gospel, " shepherds watching, and keep- ing the night-watches over their flock. And 7(y Leoeuds of St. Joseph. I ^f ilifi Lord Btoocl by thorn, rC« 1 tu to them, Te.- not. .or be- oluUg ,ou «ooa tU,i.,p o. ^ea P^ *Hat.U»U.etoa«tcI.op. r^^^^^^^^ i. bo™ to JO. a 8a^v«n, , .^ ^,,„„ ^'■'^"Jly^. all «..at,,e Infant rp::^:'— .;e,otUe..a«a.U,.a by a numerouB company oi • • fV,fi Tiord and singing: ^^lory r"r.Se;t,a.apeaceo„ea..tbt„ -;« rl:tl Wee. had ceased to be , , the echo of their wrfrous melody heard, the ^^^ ,„„. „addiedawayjbe^'>a , Jig,,, r.r^atXt-'o/the.a.^tthe seemed as though their eye ' *- iar*i-*"ft-^W'^' ((ij^jtj's.Ma-^i***!^-"' 8EPH. stoocl by thom, me round about great fear. And ear not, for bo- ig8 of great joy, ,le. For thi3 day ,ho is Christ the And this shall xll find the Infant les, and laid in a 5 Angel was joined the heavenly host, tnging: "Glory to peace on earth to had ceased to be wondrous melody mt forms had van- ly a train of ligbt I the stars, yet the azing upwards. It eyes still saw the Legends of St. Joseph. 71 bright vision, and their ears still hoard the heavenly harmonies. They remained motion- less, leaning on their crooks, unable to over- come their ecstasy. Raising themselves, at last, they said one to the other: "Let ns go over to Bethlehem, and see what has come to pass." They took the best offerings their poor dwelliiigs afforded : milk, fruits, lambs, and by the light of the stars journeyed towards the little city of David. Moses, of old, at- tracted by the flames of a bush that was burning, yet not consumed, left the flocks of Jethro, his father-in-law, and heard the voice of God announcing to him the deliverance of the people of Israel. The shepherds of Bethlehem found the true burning bush at the end of their journey. The heart of Mary was a focuS of the bright- est and most intense fire. Holy and inex- tinguishable, those flames consumed it not, but made it blossom, and it brought forth the Word of God, who delivers us from the ,j2 Leoe«p8 of Sr. .Toseph, • • ..f tin. bliick riuvi-ftoh. AnA He '"Goi„B t...tU from Hi» ■nolU«-« ™ >, ■ ,at ' tl>o Saviour a,„.oa>o,a .l,i„n.B Uke H,« 2 emorai-g hom Ao nMn o( Iho .1..,, 3 :: h„:. o. »iaui«W »»s 0U«...ea to ^'ZX. tUe eav«„ *o .., ana «,e v.,t It^al the poor cave of BetUe,.e,„M tltioas to Joseph and M„y seemed o them u»elc»». They aAed not »1.J tl e ch.W *nlnceatotl,ema,theOh«oftl,eLo,d Tad not been born in a samptuous palace thy hi. brow was not crowned. «.l,y be d,d :' wear purple, why ieweU did BO »p»«e 1 his elothins. «by bi» cradle d.d not re "„.ble a tbrone. why he was not surrounded by soldiers and ministers? Tl,e signs that were given them to know ^ in whose regard worlds are but atoms ,ere poor swaddling-clothes, a manger, a SEPH, i-ftoh. AnA He Vincent Ferrer, nty, sliono afar; hev's womb," h« shininp like the ita of the dawn, was chaugetl to 3ca, and the vast eplierds loss won- >t Bethlehem. All Mary seemed to not why the child Christ of the Lord sumptuous palace, awned, why he did els did not sparkle cradle did not rc- ,vas not surrounded ? iven them to know >rlds are but atoms, 3thes, a manger, ft Legends of St. Joseph. 73 little straw. Thoy saw all that as they had seen the wonders that brought them thither. Their faith was not a surprise ; an unknown ardor intlaracd thorn. Thoy prostrated them- selves, and offered their gifts. Th.m, they related to Mary and Joseph the words of the Angels, and the wonders which had taken place. Joseph confirmed all. Ho removed even the slightest clouds from their eyes by the discreet revelation of what he had himself seen. He made known to them how the Angel had dispelled his doubt, the prophecy of Micheas, the greatness of the Messiah, and other facts that strengthened their con- viction and increased their devotion, and put on their lips praises that were soon spread abroad through every land for the glory of God. As for Mary, she remained silent. It was uot for her to make known mysteries of whJch she was the principal instrument. Modesty commended that reserve. 7 74 Legends of St. Joseph. Slio mcaitatcd with a joyful heart on tho giftH of tho Lord. And what nioro tit to ah- Borb hor every thon^ht. and to oxcito unut- terable fcM.linRs within her? Tho pn.n.is.H of the Arcliun^el ClaV)ri(>l, tho propheeies of Za.-hary and Elizabeth, the Hanctification of Jolui ihe Baptist, the enlightening of St. Joseph, whoHe uncertainty was for ever dis- pelled, her own virginal maternity, tho desti- tution of her Son, 11 in weakness. His poverty, tho adoration of the Shepherds-what an in- exhaustible source of reflection! Might not each particidar fact, or tho connection and comparison between one and tho otlier, keep her in a continual ecstasy? What happy effects she afterwards saw flow from these events! Men who, in their rash and fatal te- merity, had thought to become like unto God, became now gods, the Divinity being made flesh of her flesh : Caro ChrisH, caro Maricr, all things were repaired, and the glory of God would be more known and more extended. This contemplation imprinted on her memory the ind tiu'ts hIi i^flists. than th fi)r the iu its e tliat K tlianks roturnr sweet, tho ev aud fr Tra( Jiiys g tion ol of Je! Bothh ceivetl FoHEPn. yful heart on the it more tit to nh- (1 to oxcito unut- r? Tho proiiiisiH tho proiihopios of Hiiiu'tification of iili^liti'iiing of St. was for ever dis- atornity, tho desti- kiiesa, His poverty, lionls— what an iu- L'ction ! Might not lio connection and uid the other, keep sy? What happy w flow from these ir rash and fatal te- ronio Uko unto God, >iviuity being made Chrisfi, caro Maricr, ind the glory of God md more extended, inted on her memory Leqendh of St. Joskph. 76 tho indolil)lo reuuiiihraiu'O of all tho divine tiictrt Hho waa ou.^ day to confide to tho Kvuu- t^ilistH. It had more ofToct on the nhtpherds amn tho words of Jo8ei)h. It was imposHil)lo lor them to rcHist a hapi)inoHs ho elo(iuent ill its silence. Tliey, therefore, did not leave tliat Hac-iod place without roturuing new thiinks to God; and when once they had roturned to their flocks there was nothing so sweet, so enjoyable to them, us to toll over the events of the holy night to their families ftud friends. Tradition has transniitted even to our own days gnicoful facts which followed the Adora- tion of the SlH^diortls, ultesting the piosenco of Jesus and Mary in the neighborhood of Bethlehem, and which have ever been re- ceived with respect. ^ One day, Mary chanced to find herself at the entrance of the village where the shep- herds dwelt. She wanted to quench her thirst and that of the Child ; but the water was far down in the well, and those who were 76 Legends of St. Joseph. uC I 1 i , there refused to come to her aid. Scai'ce y had she leaned over the edge of the well, when the water, of itself, rose up to her. That was henceforth Mary's Well. Two hundred paces. from Bethlehem is the Grotto of Mary's Milk. The Yirgin Mother having gone in there to suckle her Son. some drops of her virginal milk, falling on the ground, gave the place a virtue which con- tinues even yet. Pilgrims go there to pray, and take back to their own land a wlnte water that springs from the rock, under .h« name of the Virgin's Milk. Midway between Bethlehem and Jerusa- lem was also Mary's Tree. Mary and Jo- seph were resting in its shade. Its branch- es, springing together, formed a magnificent crown over tae head of Jesus, as though doing homage to the God of nature and His I \ -xx fL- It might be admired evenl^e. august Mothex*. it migai | ^^^ now, after eighteen hundred years o« ^xist-l ence. had it not been destroyed by the pro- P^c prietor of an adjoining field, under pretence ■*- "■■^«^«Wa*A;^^^3ei* : V-'B^'.a^-*' s»a«at«»*^******'*-'"*^**'**''^''''*^*^*^^ r. Joseph. Legends of St. Joseph. 77 her aid. Scai'cely le edge of the well, self, rose up to her. ary's Well, rom Bethlehem is the The Yirgin Mother suckle her Son, some milk, faUiiig on the J a virtue which con- ims go there to pray, sir own land a white m the rock, under thfi Vlilk. lethlehem and Jerusa- , Tree. Mary and Jo- its shade. Its branch- •, formed a magnificent 1 of Jesus, as though God of nature and His might he admired even hundred years of exist- n destroyed by the pro- ing field, under pretence that his harvest was constantly trampled under foot by Christians and pilgrims. His incredulity was punished, a short time alter, by a miserable death. Finally, it is related that one of the brave Arab tribes, on hearing of the marvelous things which had come to pass at Bethlehem, descended from its mountains, and came to swear fidelity to Jesus, in His cradle. What is certain is, that the image of Mary, holding her Divine Son on her knee, was painted on a pillar of the Kaaba, their temple or sacred house, and that Jesus and Mary were placed amongst their three hundred and sixty deities. They prostrated themselves before them to ask them for favorable winds and seasons. History even assures us that after the Mas- sacre ci the Innocents, they rose up, with fierce cries of blood and death, to avenge Jesus and Mary, and that they dared to attack Herod, defended by his army and the Bomaus. ^,^^^5,-5C.^^/,^»i^*#**»^>--*^>-^ X. THE CHRISTMAS DINNER. lEPITA, my good Pepita," a good burgher of Valencia ventured to say to his housekeeper, after turn- ing his tongue at least seven times in his mouth before he decided on speaking; "Pepita, I would like to ask you to prepare a real good dinner for Christmas Day." At this begmning, which indicated the fear wherewith she inspired her master, Pepita knit her brows, and showed in all her move- ments, the contradiction which the worthy Spanish burgher might have expected. "You are very late in telling me, master," 8he replied in a sharp tone; "we are at the 23d of December, and the day after next will be Christmas.'" (l^ the ver Legends of St. Joseph. 79 J DINNER. ,d Pepita," a good lencia ventured to iekeeper, after turn- at least seven times 3cided on speaking ; ask you to prepare •istmas Day." ii indicated the fear her master, Pepita red in all her move- which the worthy lave expected. telling me, master," )ne; "we are at the le day after next will "But you have more than twenty -four hours to make your preparations " ..Are you jesting, master? It is easy seen that you hav'nt the least idea of the trouble that housekeeping gives! Are not those twenty-four hours more than emp oyed already? Have I not to pohsh the furni- ture, wash the windows, and clean up the ,vhole house, as I do before every great fes- tival?" "You can put that off for a week or so. the house is as clean as it needs to be," « One can see plainly that you know no- thing about it. And then, my conscience ! nmst I not clean it, too? You are good n^aster; it seems that no one but yourself has a right to work out their salvation If you want to go to communion on Christmas night, why don't you want me to do the same? Is it that my soul is not worth as much as yours?" "No. no, my good Pepita; you know I am very far from having such thoughts as that. ■■;.Ai' '. ««*i..iiS**»»*«»=« „.g*aWB*i»*»*w^*^*^***'"* .,»a«»a»F.««"-*"«"~' 80 Legends of St. Joseph. On the contrary, I want to make you merit heaven " "By patience, is it not? You exercise it remarkably well, master ! I don't know what keeps me from going to end my days m a convent, where I might, at least, make -y devotions in peace." "Oh, do not leave me, Pepita! What would become of me without your care? Wait till I. die to retire to a convent; you wUl then have the means of paying some- thing for your board." "Why do you speak of death?" said the housekeeper, wiping away a tear, either real or pretended; "you wiU hve a long time yet, please God! I take such good care of you." "I know, my good Pepita. all I owe to your care and attention ; but could you not add to the obligation by getting me up a nice Uttle dinner on Christmas Day?" "Provided you don't have many people!" "I will only have one family— a man, a woman, and a child." gnes who Joseph. to make you merit ? You exercise it I don't know what ' end my days in a at least, make Try ne, Pepita! What nthout your care? to a convent; you QS of paying some- of death?" said the ,y a tear, either real Uve a long time yet, good care of you." Pepita, all I owe to ; but could you not getting me up a nice las Day?" have many people!" ae family— a man, a Legends of St. Joseph. 81 «I think an olla podrida* and a roast would be enough for that." "Undoubtedly ; but these are people whom I want to treat with all possible respect; so let the roast be a good pair of pheasants, stuffed with truffles; then some nice pastry, and some of those sweet dishes you make in such perfection, Pepita." "If they are people of distinction, thought the housekeeper, «'they will, maybe, give me a present, as it is customary to do." She prepared everything, accorduigly, with riKht good will ; but great was her disappoint- uTent when she discovered in the expected guests poor neighbors of humble condition whom her master received with the greatest cordiality, and even affection. She waited upon them in the worst pos- Bible temper, which the host did his best to . A favorite di.h all through Spain. It i« a sort of ...t.w" made up of fowl and various other ,ngre .ent^ T,ri.*^-:''-'**-'^* 84 Lkgends of St. Joseph. Notwithstanding her bad temper, Pepita had some ^.utimentB of piety, and thxsappoa to her heart was not made in vam. So t is that true charity is contagious. Pepita, therefore, welcomed her master's guests tt^ time vitli more kindness, and ever after tieat- ed them hospitably when Christmas Day came round, ^vithout placing any further ob- stacle in the way of their entertainment. Henceforth, she even assisted the old rnan in the distribution of his alms ; and. although .he ne^ver failed to help him a little m getting over his purgatory, she thus went with him I to the very gate of Paradise. Having reached an advanced age. the| worthy burgher at last saw his end approach- in.. Notwithstanding his pure and charit- able life, which seemed to promise him a holy | and a happy death, he judged hnnself se- verely by the dawning light of eternity. He reproached himself for not having been fervent, or mortified enough; and, above all,| for not having given more alms. Joseph. ad temper, Pepita ety, and this appeal ido in vain. So it ontagioua. Pepita, master's guests this and ever after treat- len Christmas Day jing any further oh- their entertainment, agisted the old man , alms ; and, althougli him a little in getting thus went with him idise. advanced age, the jaw his end approach- his pure and charit- to promise him a holy le judged himself se- light of eternity, elf for not having been nough ; and, above all, dore alms. Legends of St. Joseph. 86 "What good," said he, "will that money I have taken such care of be to me now, when I can take uoiif of it with me? '' " It is true I have poured some little of it into the lap of the poor ; but if I were to be- gin my life again, judging the things of this world as I now do, I would have been much less sparing of it."" The devil strove to turn this disposition to account by throwing him into despair, and inspire him with terror, which the voice of Pepita, still somewhat sharp, could not calm ; indeed, it was only that of the priest, who brought him the last helps of religion, that gave him any comfort. His agony was just beginning. All at once the door of the sick-room, from which all strangers were excluded, opened of it- self, and three august visitors presented them- selves at the bedside of the dying man. , They were Jesus and Mary, the hope and salvation of the dying, and Joseph, the patron of a good death 1 f.:-.>-Sj-^^ja*ia:»>S:£#*^^'-'**^'^"^"'"'''"' ■" '" ,rfc?t*;-~"^i^-- gg LBOF.SDB or St. Joseph. The y. V ^IfiiirT^l^'M havo brisht- ;„l^r.o,„«.oir«a«odmo„tU.iUe»oco„»„l. '"';.C;:i:,t rotten seated v., at tMtaUc thatitisonlyinstftat-*"*'™""'""' to invite tlieo to a seat at ours. '^;;„„iivine.yco„»,le.UUesick™a,U-.ol« 1,1. soul in the peace and joy of the Lor 1, "Jd CoTto taUe i.is plaee at the heave* 'IL a««.e.tieity of this mir^«lo„s ^tor, i„ ™„anteed by St. Vincent Ferrer. Pope Piu^ VII. consecrated the touching example riven by the burgher ol Valencia, by granhng rLl^ence of seven years, and as man ,„„ntiuestoa,.pe,^ns.h„sh^ .j;^« tioor persons to eat, in memoi;y S^;,'and Joseph, provided they bave tr,« Itrition tor their sins. THs .ndulgencc be- Tome, plenary, if, on that day, the author e this good work has confessed and recervd Legends of St. Joseph. 87 OSEPH. m\A liavo brifiht- of the ajing man, 3 Hwellea when ho iths these consol- ed us at thy tabic, houia como at last >i iirs. 10 sick man yieldctl id joy of the Lord, 36 at the heavenly 8 miraculous story cent Ferrer. Pope e touching example Valencia, by granting years, and as many , who shall give three t memory of Jesus, ided they have true This indulgence be- at day, the author oi infessed and received communion. As for the members of the fam- ily who contribute, were it only by tlunr pres- ence, to that hospitable net, and the servants who assist in its pcrfornuince, they each gain an hundred days' indulgence, (rius VII., 1815.) j^***v*.tA**»»«>^»^-"i *''^ l^^V*;S^---*Vi^*** -T^.* XI. THE PARIS DRESSMAKER. I VINTS have been seen iu all Htates, aii.l professions that sooin the least compatible wiili an evaiigolioal life, have iu heavtv> their rei)reseiita- tives, rvhose works are so mnch the more meritoric'-M that they were exercised in the midst of el.;mi iita the least favorable to salva- tion. Kvory one knows this truth, and yet it is no sr.if,ll subject of surprise when we find in a di '^Hsnmkor the truest sanctity, living as she f'".' in the bosom of a capital called, with gooa reason, the modern Babylon. It is that "the Spirit blows wheresoever it will," and chooses its elect wherever, it pleases. The person of whom we are about to speak had been tried in her earliest years by the selfishness and harshness of a mother who SSMAKEli. n seen iu all states, that Hcem the least in evanRflioiil life, K their representa- 10 much the more •0 cxercisetl in the favorable to salva- lis truth, and yet it •prise when we find it sanctity, living as , capital called, with Babylon. ilows wheresoever it ; wherever, it pleases. are about to speak arliest years by the IS of a mother who ^5T7Kf ?!iS?'.^-''^^'^?^?£7?^^V.?^^V* -^ 'k^ e>. IMAGE EVALUATION TEST TARGET (MT-3) 1.0 I.I Ui ■ 40 2.0 1.8 1.25 1.4 III ,.6 -^ — 6" ► Photographic Sciences Corporation •/ 23 WEST MAIN STRiiET WEBSTER, N.Y. 14580 (716) 872-4503 ^ ^. r/.s.^ji:t:^'^iit'^;s:'-yt^mi^m^imsmmi^immm^?^iS3ssBm-- ? 6 f i •i. fe; '< CIHM/ICMH Microfiche Series. CIHIVI/ICIVIH Collection de microfiches. Canadian Institute for Historical Microreproductions / Institut Canadian de microreproductions historiq ues &L ^iteJgajjesaB^^i'i^^aiT.c**-, -*«i-- hac bee ten hal sell nee all iuv a ] 0ft( t au( I lati ] J So: I lia( i all 1 thi CO] t po 1, mi] I wa B foi 3 be Legends of St. Joseph. 89 had made her suffer severely. Having thus been exercised in abnegation from her most tender j'ears, she early contracted the salutar • habit of a very uncommon submissiveness and self-denial, of which she was to have great need all her life through. She referred to God all her actions and all her sacrifices, and often invoked Mary and Joseph, in whom she felt a most filial confidence, — a confidence that often brought her to the foot of their altar, and made her there find her sweetest conso- lation. Reverses of fortune were her lightest griefs. Sought in marriage by an estimable man who had noticed her from her childhood, she saw all her hopes of domestic happiness over- thrown by her mother, who compelled her to contract a marriage against her will. In this position, which would serve as an excuse for many a young woman, temptations were not wanting to that poor, thwarted heart. The former lover died of grief; but she who had been his betrothed found in the sense of duty . ,1^^ wVi^c*S*«*»'*nrf'i»«»*Mi^'!Siiair«ifc^ «^!«^ ■ jj-*j(xti«.. .--.i^Wit^' J vifciVift' ■ 90 Legends of St. Joseph. courage to live ; and yet that duty was made very bitter to her by the unworthy husband whom her fiUal submission had forced her to accept. Addicted to idleness and love of jjlea- sure, he found it convenient to leave all the burden of household expenses on his wife, and also his own support. Every employment was too laborious for him, but nothing was good enough or fine enough for his personal wants. To excuse this conduct, as well as his odious brutality, he published calumnies concerning his wife, which no one believed, so evident was her virtue. After long years of such trials, patiently endured by the meek ^'ictim, her tormentor having at last found a situation to his liliing, he thought fit to enjoy it alone, and quitted his wife's home, carrying off from it everything he could, leaving the poor woman only empty rooms, the charge of four children, and for all indemnity, only the benefit of his absence. Be it understood that bread was dear just then, and the little earnings of the poor mo- Joseph. Legends of St. Joseph.- 91 at duty was made mwoithy husband had forced her to 3 and love of plea- it to leave all the es on his wife, and y employment was nothing was good lis personal wants, well as his odious amnies concerning ved, so evident was ars of such trials, meek ^'ictim, her Dund a situation to enjoy it alone, and arrying off from it ig the poor woman ge of four children, r the benefit of his read was dear just 358 of the poor mo- ther were often insufficient for the wants of the family. Then the deserted wife went to some church, to prostrate herself before the Blessed Virgm's altar, and there, addressing the au- gust spouses of Nazareth, who had lived, like her, by their own toil, she told them of her distress, with trusting simplicity, — and never was her prayer in vain. On one of these occasions she was returning home, serene and joyful, especially on account of the evident assistance of her holy protec- tors, having just received a small sum of mo- ney, her first use of which was the purchase of a large loaf of bread, and some trimmings for her work. All at once she perceived that she had lost the pocket-book containing her treasure. By no means alarmed, she goes back to the church, where she had prayed successfully some time before, and, addressing herself to Joseph and Mary, she reminds them that it is to them she is indebted for her small means, and beseeches them not to allow her to lose the fruit of their benefit. "Tou are .««i,*ieB»w»a«ie*«iM-iSffl*w«3^ssWK««H«'»»**''=^ ;ja«:^?^':a!^i£-7^s«pHV.S*«s:i' XII. A MEETING. lORTY days have passed since the night of the miraculous birth, and the moment has come when tho Virgin Mother is to go up to the Temple of the Lord to present the Child Jesus. Before following the Holy Family in this mysterious journey to Jerusalem, let us pause a moment in Bethlehem, and ponder with loving, docile hearts on the mysteries about to be accomplished. The law of Moses, the perfect typo of theo- cratic government, must already have con- Ktantly reminded the Hebrew people of their entire dependence on the Creator. Shut up in a small portion of the earth, that privi- leged nation was to keep there the sacred deposit of the primitive truths, disfigured by Lf.oends of St. Joseph. 97 riNO. ave passed since the miraculous birth, and has come when tho BT is to go up to the to present the Child 5 the Holy Family in ■ to Jerusalem, let us thlehem, and ponder rts on the mysteries ed. B perfect typo of theo- st already have con- [ebrew people of their ;he Creator. Shut up tho earth, that privi- :eep there the sacred e truths, disfigured by tho fabulous cosmogonies and philosophical ahcnations of the pagans. With a similar oiul in view, Moses could not allow to pass unnoticed, in tho life of the Jo\vi.sh woman, tho benefit of tho blessing given to her womb. The honor of having a flouviHliiiig posterity WHS too great for her not to testify her grati- tude to the Lord ; and, on the other hand, the belief in the original stain caused the mother of the new-born child to be defiled with a legal impurity. Hence the two sacri- fices of holocaust and of expiation, imposed ou the woman who had newly brought forth. A second Divine command declared all tho first-born tho property of the Lord, and pre- scribed the way to redeem them. The price of this ransom was five hiickels, of the sanc- tuary weight, equal to about twenty far- tiiiugs. Mary, a daughter of Israel, had brought forth; Jesus was her first-born; doubtless, such a child-bearing, such a new-burn, re- quhed not the accomplishment of the Jewish ■4-j»0iWt«^i%'-i a«««3aER^VBiaCT«E«SW»5W,'^^^'^' Cf'^'f^f^'^ ?,C3'"S'S'W0C "3 98 Legends of St. Jobeph. law What connection was there between the Bp„u8CH of men and the chaste SpouHO of the Holy Ghost, a Virgin in the conception of her Son a Virgin in her ineffable chiUl-beanng, ever r^^'e. ^"^ still more pure after bearuig i„ her womb, and bringing into the world the (led of all HolineHS? If she considered the Bublime quality of Him who deigned to he born of her, that majesty of the Creator ho Prince of Peace, the Sovereign Arbiter of the ■universe, how could she think that such a Son was subject to the humiliation of the ransom, like the veriest slave ? But Mary was the humblest of women; Bhe remembered her duties as a daughter of Sion and to fulfil them neglected her prerog- ative's as the Mother of God. The Virgin did not think it derogatory to the honor of 1 her Son, nor to the glorious merit of her own purity, to eome to seek an external purifica- tion of which she had no need. Thus, at the appointed time, she set out to present m the temple her Child and her modest offering- Legends op St. Joseph, 99 L\ JOBEPH. as there between the chaste Spouse of the the concoptiou of her offable chihl-bearing, e pure after bearing ag into the world the [{ she consiclerecl the I Avho deigned to he I ly of the Creator, the vereign Arbiter of the think that such a Son illation of the ransom, humblest of women; ttties as a daughter of 1 neglected her prerog- of God. The Virgin' ;atory to the honor of 1 lious merit of her own k an external purifica- no need. Thus, at the )t out to present in the her modest offering- innocent birds, typifying, first, chastity and fidelity; and secondly, innocence and sim- plicity. What an admirable journey was that of Miiry and Joseph going from Bethlehem to Jorusalem ! The old man carries the humblo offering of two doves and five shekels, tho ransom of tho first-bom son. The Divino Child reposes gently in His Mother's arms ; slie presses Him to her heart all the way on that auspicious journey. Heaven, earth, all nature, are sanctified by the benign presence of their merciful Creator. The men amongst whom that Mother passes along with her tender Infant regard her, some with indiffer- ence, others with interest; but no one of them yet penetrates the mystery which is to save them all. At length, that holy and sublime Family has entered Jerusalem. Jerusalem, Bethle- hem, Nazareth ! Do not the names of these three places, associated with the mortal life of the Redeemer, recall, in their magnificent ^■,iia»H jiiKtr-e^jtii-'jis^-c* 100 Legends of St. Joseph progression, the most striking marvels ef power and goodness? The Saviour of tho world is conceived in Nazareth, which signi- fies the floiccr, for He is, as He says in the mysterious Canticle of love, the flower of the fields and the lily of the valley, and Hia Divine odor delights us. He is born at Bethlehem, the house of h-ead, in order to be our nourishment, our life, the precious germ . of our immortality. Near Jerusalem, a sacred city whose name signifies vision of peace, He is offered in sacrifice on the cross, and by His blood He restores peace between heaven and earth, peace amongst men, peace in our souls, that ravishing peace which surpasses all understanding. On this solemn day, crossing the threshold of the temple. He is about to give the earn- est of that Divine, unknown, unutterable peace. Amongst ihat concourse of sacrifi- cers, in the midst of that crowd of the chil- dren of Israel that throngs the several pre- cincts of the temple, many are looking for >F St. Joseph )8t striking marvels cf s? The Saviour of tho n Naziu-etli, which signi- le is, as He says in the of love, the flower of the of the valley, and His ^ts us. He is born at 2 of h-ead, in order to be ar life, the precious germ Near Jerusalem, a sacred gnifies vision of peact; He ice on the cross, and by res peace between heaven mongst men, peace in our ng peace which surpasses lay, crossing the threshold is about to give the earn- ae, unknown, unutterable that concourse of sacrifi- of that crowd of the chil- it throngs the several pre- iple, many are looking for Legends of St. Joseph. 101 the Deliverer, and know that the hour of His manifestation is at hand ; but none of them know that at that very moment the expected Messiah has just entered into the house of God. Meanwhile, the humble daughter of the tribe of Juda, the living ark, bearing her Di- vine burden, ascends the steps of the holy place; she comes, like the other women of Israel, to offer the sacrifice of purification, for the birth of the Son whom she had con- ceived by the Holy Ghost, but who was to be presented in the temple as the Son of Mary, spouse of Joseph. Tlie slight offering of the daughter of kings Avas accepted, in consider- ation of her extreme poverty. Perchance the man m the purple cloak and gilt sandals, within the sacred enclosure, may have let fall some contemptuous words, or cast a disdain- ful glance on the couple who brought to the altar only the two doves of the poor. And yet, that couple, so timid, so simple, so ob- scure, present another offering, far more pre- ;«t.--*:i?,-i:-r^'l >fifat,v!tK»3»w«^,sr-?- 102 Legends of St. Joseph. cious than that of the haughty and the rich ; it is the Infant God, the Lamb without spot, •who bears in His veins the blood of the world's redemption. But Jesus is specially offered to His Father, although the price of His ransom has been paid, us being one day to be the Priest and tlie Victim of a new sacrifice, more perfect in itself and more efficacious than all those of the old Law. Thus, the synagogue began to give place to the Church, bright with the hope of a resplendent future ; thus, Christian- ity, the law of love, of meekness, and of hu- mility, came to deliver the old Jewish and pagan society from servile fear as from the pride of sages, and to enter upon an immense career of progress and of regeneration. The shades and figures wherein was enveloped the second temple, whose future glory was an- nounced by the prophet Aggeus to the Jews returned from exile, were opening to the rays of the Sun of justice and of truth. The tiara of the high priest was losing its last . Joseph. ughty and the rich ; Lamb without spot, , the blood of the ffered to His Father, 8 ransom has been be the Priest and lice, more perfect in us than all those of synagogue began to ch, bright with the ure ; thus, Christian- leekness, and of hu- the old Jewish and ile fear as from the iter upon an immense )f regeneration. The )in was enveloped the future glory was an- t Aggeus to the Jews •e opening to the rays and of truth. The ,t was losing its last Legends of St. Joseph. 103 gem; the precious stones of his "rational" were, shedding their last rays. The society of which ho was the head was soon to be, in regard to Jesus Christ, but an old and cruel stepmother, drunk with wrath and envy. The Holy Family was about to leave the sacred enclosure wherein so many incompre- hensible mysteries were accomplished, and retrace the way to their humble dwelling, when the spirit of the prophets, the last sub- lime power of the Mosaic legislation, came, in the person of Simeon and Anna, to bear its testimony, too, to the future King of Israel. Simeon, a just and God-fearing man, spent his days in expectation of the Desired of nations; and, as the price of his hope, the Holy Ghost, whose voice never deceives when it speaks, had told him thailns eyes should not close in death until he had seen the Christ. At the moment when Mary and Jo- seph were ascending the steps of the sac- red enclosure, the pious old man feels him- 104 Legends of St. Joseph. self moved interiorlyby the irresistible force of the Divine Spirit; he goes forth from his dwelling, he directs his tottering steps towards the temple, sustained by the ardor of his desires. On the threshold of God's house, amongst the mothers who are there in crowds with their infants, his inspired eyes have soon recognized the fruitful Virgin fore- told by Isaiah, and his heart flies to the new- born Babe she holds in her arms. Mary, instructed by the same Holy Spirit, allows the old man to approach; she places m his trembhng arms the dear object of her love. Happy Simeon, livmg image of the ancient world, grown old in expectation, and ready to fall: scarcely has he received the sweet Fruit of Life, when his youth is renewed like that of the eagle. In him is accomplished the marvelous transformation which is to be wrought in the human race, when once Cath- - olicity is substituted for the ancient idolatry. From the blessed lips of the old man es- ' cape that beautiful hymn of thanksgiving: Joseph. e irresistible force ) goes forth from iiis tottering steps lined by the ardor threshold of God's ers who are there ;s, his inspired eyes fruitful Virgin fore- art flies to the new- , her arms. Mary, Holy Spirit, allows l; she places in his object of her love, nage of the ancient )ectation, and ready received the sweet i^outh is renewed like him is accomplished lation which is to be •ace, when once Cath- the ancient idolatry. 3 of the old man es- mn of thanksgiving: Legends op St. Joseph. 105 "Now, Thou dost dismiss Thy servant, Lord, according to Thy word, in peace. Be- cause my eyes have seen Thy salvation, which Thou hast prepared before the face of all peoples : a light to the revelation of the Gen- tiles, and the glory of Thy people, Israel." After these words, he restores to the arras of tlie Most Pure Mother the Son she is about to oflfer to the Lord, blesses the spouses, and in the inspiration that animates him, he fore- sees the bloody expiation of the Golgotha. "This child," he exclaims, after a grave and mournful silence, "is come for the ruin and the resurrection of many in Israel, and for a sign that shall be contradicted. Thine own soul, O Mary, a sword shall pierce, that out of many hearts thoughts may be revealed," adds the old man; and very soon his soul, disengaged from the bonds of the body, goes forth to bear to the elect who repose in Abra- ham's bosom the news of the peace that is appearing on earth and will soon throw hea- ven open to them. 106 Legends of St. Joseph. There was also in Jerusalem a prophetess named Anna, daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser. This widow, illustrious by her piety, and venerable to all the people by her gi-eat age, dwelt constantly in the temple, offering her prayers and fasts to God night and day ; and, when she had heard the Can- ticle of Simeon, she also set about celebra- ting the auspicious coming of the Child o! Promise. And Mary, ever Virgin, pressmg to her heart the Divme Emmanuel, and ac companied by her faithful spouse, descended tJxe steps of the temple, and in silence re- gained the village where she dwelt. , Joseph. salem a prophetess jf Pbanuel, of the w, illustrious by her 11 the people by her ntly in the temple, . fasts to God night had heard the Can- lo set about celebra- ing of the Child o! iver Virgin, pressing Emmanuel, and ac- ful spouse, descended e, and in silence re- I she dwelt. XIII. THE PALM GROVE. [HE holy old man Simeon had.^as we have related, foretold to the Virgin Mary that a sword of sor- row should pierce her heart; and it was written in heaven that these words were soon to be accomplished. It was about the middle of February when the voice of Jehovah broke by night on the peaceful sleep of Joseph, and these were the words he heard: "Arise, and take the Child and his Mother, and fly into Egypt; and be there until I shall tell thee. . For it will come to pass that Herod will seek the Child to de- stroy Him." The echo of the mysterious revelation was still soundmg in Joseph's ears, when, going hastily to the door of his holy Spouse's room, M-«->—- wr-"»"-r 108 Legends of St. Joseph. he sftid, in a trembling voice : " Mary, arise quickly, take Jesus in tliino arms, and prepare to set out on a long and perilous journey."- Mary, who was by the side of her Son's cradle, went quickly to open the door for her husband. "To leave Nazareth!" said the Virgin. "•Whither, then, would the Lord have us bend our steps?" "Into Egypt; so God commands. Herod is seeking for the Child, that he may put Him to death." • Mary groans pitoously, and, bending over her Son's cradle, embraces Him fondly, and clasps Him to her bosom, as if to shield Him from the murderous dagger. The Divine Child awoke, giving His dis- mayed Mother an angelic smile; that smile, like the sunbeam after the storm, quieted the Virgin's troubled mind. Turning to her holy spouse, she says: "Joseph, fear nothing; Jesus smiles, and His smile is like the evening rainbow dispelling the stormy clouds," , Joseph. Legends op St. Joseph. 109 wee : " Mary, ariao arras, and prepare jrilous journey."' 1 side of her Son's on tlio door for her " said tho Virgin, the Lord have us commands. Herod lat he may put Him * , and, bending over les Him fondly, and as if to shield Him ar. oke, giving His dis- ic smile ; that smile, e storm, quieted the Turning to her holy iseph, fear nothing; ile is like the evening ormy clouds." " God commands us to do what I have told thee," answered tho patriarch. " Let us go, then," added Mary, with holy resignation, "and may Jehovah, from the highest heavens, watch over us ! " The spoitses quickly prepared what was needful for the journey ; but, alas ! they were 80 poor, that in a few moments all was ready. The earthly Trinity set out from Nazareth, with tearful eyes and sorrowing hearts, when the star of night was mid-way on its mystic course. The Angel had announced to Joseph a great danger, but he had not told hun how he should avoid it. From Nazareth to Egypt there was a dis- tance of one hundred and sixty leagues. How was that long journey to be made ? A new obstacle presented itself. How were they to cross the sandy plains of the desert with no other conveyance than a poor ass? How could they avoid the bands of Arabs whom even the best-armed caravans could not re- 10 I 110 Legends of St. Joseph. siBt? Our poor travellers will have only tears and suppUcations wherewith to oppose the weapons of the enemy. ' The day was already beginning to dawn, and the fugitives, who were yet no farther than the tribe of Zabulon.-fearh.g lest they xnight bo discovered by the soldiers of Herod, concealed themselves in a grove of palms, the Bolitudo and dense «haxie of which promised them shelter during the hours of day. The „,„rmur of the waters of a neighboring stream, the sighing of the breeze amid the branches, together with the tender cooing of the turtle. and the measured song of the sparrow, charm- ed with their melodious echoes the sojourn of the fugitives in that hospitable vale. The smile of the innocent child, the tran- sparent sky. and the balmy air of the fields, were beginning to calm the anguish of Mary s heart, when Joseph, who was busy preparmg their simple repast, stopped short all at once, and stood listening with an anxious ear, then said : " Didst thou not hear, Mary? " clui ^■;#*,*6>.*B««*l*-^** ■ ■ r. Joseph. 1 will liiive only tears with to oppose the beginning to dawn, were y«t no farther ,ii^_ fearing lest they ;he soldiers of Herod, a grovo of palms, the le of which promised i hours of day. The a neighboring stream, e amid the branches, r cooing of the turtle, of the sparrow, charm- echoes the sojourn of ipitable vale, aocent child, the tran- ,almy air of the fields, I the anguish of Mary's ho was busy preparing )pped short all at once, th an anxious ear, then hear, Mary?" Leqknds op St. Joseph. Ill The young Virgin listened a moment, sud- denly turned pale, and instantly clasped her beloved Son to her heart. The Child smiled no more, the cooing of the doves was no longer hoard, and the song of the birds had ceased. At this moment a dark cloud obscured the sun's radiant disc. " I hear," murmured Maiy, in a low voice, "a sound Uke the clash of arms and the tramping of horses, at the opposite extremity of this valley." "Yes, on the mountain side, towards the Roman road that leads to Uspies. But it is doubtless some merchants from Ptolemaide or Tyre, retracing their homeward way." " If they were Herodians 1 " said Mary, with shrinking dread. " Have no fear," said Joseph, " this vale is far from the high road." A few moments and the tramping of horses was heard distinctly. Mary hid Jesus in the folds of her large loose cloak, and raised her supplicating eyes to heaven. 112 Legends of St. Joseph. JoHoph, on his side, stood-muto and motioii- lesH, l....kii.K sadly towards tho placo whonco tho Homuls that so alarmed him sceu.od to proceed. A clear, manly voice, was soon heard sinR- ing a martial air, the rin«iiiK notes of which reached the ears of the fugitives, where they sat beneath tho lofty palm-trees. "They are llomans," murmured Joseph. " I cannot understand their words." Mary remained silent, pressing her Divine Son to her bosom. Nearer and nearer the voices came, and soon the breeze bore to the ears of tho Holy Family the words of a Koinan song. A mo- ment after, the voice ceased. The steps of the horses were heard quite near the thicket. The fugitives hardly breathed. The glitter of the Boman helmets and the soldiers' arras were now seen through the thick foliage. Mary was seized with fear, and turning her mild eyes upward, she said, m piteous tones : " Oh ! beautiful palm-tree, that 'ii^e-^ifip;^**'!'^'^^****' Joseph. Legenpb of St. Joseph. 113 xl-muto and motioii- [h tho place whonco uod liim sceiDud to ■as Hoon luuinl siiip- if^iiif? notes of whicli fugitives, where they in-tvees. niunmired Joseph, oir words." pressing her Divine he voices canio, and the ears of tho Holy Koinan song. A uio- ised. The steps of the near the thicket. The d. )man helmets and the ow seen through the IS seized with fear, and 1 upward, she said, in eautiful palm-tree, that roarcBt thy mighty top to heaven, thou who sat nearer Jehovah than thin poor Moth.^r, • tell Him not to abandon my innocent Child ! '• At this moment the tree bent down to the ground, the large leaves of its broad green crown covering the Holy Family. The Hohliers of Herod passed close by the protecting palm-tree without seeing those whom its thick foliage concealed. Some thirty paces distant was a fountain whose clear and limpid waters oflferod refresh- ment to the soldiers. But whilst they were quenching their thirst and chatting about the object of their journey, God sent to the Holy Family a refreshing sleep, doubtless in order that the afflicted Mother might not hear the conversation of her Child's persecutors. >«Q1 • ^ XIV. THE GOOD THIEF. RAVING enjoyed a sweet, refreshing sleep in the shade of the hospita- ble palm-tree, Mary and Joseph awoke, just when the silvery rays of the moon, penetrating the foliage, rested i,» calm beauty on the brow of Jesus. A smile of inexpressible tenderness played on the lips of the Holy Child, and a loving glance directed towards His Mother renewed in the heart of the Nazarene Vu'gm all the courage her soul required in order to con- tinue that painful journey. "Is this a dream?" said she, pressmg her Sou to h.r heart. « He who is the Life of nxy life still lives ! God of goodness His ^- pious persecutors have not, then, shed His precious blood!" C ire^tV^jL^***^ -'-J >■ ' ■••^■^ Legends of St. Joseph. 115 XIV. OOB THIEF. ajoyed a sweet, refreshing the shade of the hospita- n-tree, Mary and Joseph just when the silvery rays trating the foUage, rested he brow of Jesus, ressible tenderness played Holy Child, and a loving mrds His Mother renewed e Nazarene Virgin all the required in order to con- journey. m?"said she, pressing her "He who is the Life of God of goodness. His im- have not, then, shed His "Yes, Mary, yes," answered Joseph, "the Angels of God announce danger to us, and the mighty hand of the Lord makes us avoid it. But time is precious, and the night will protect our march till we have reached the . frontiers of Syria; then only shall we begin to be in safety." At these words, the poor Virgin arose, and arming herself with that courage only pos- sessed by mothers when the life of their chU- dren is in danger, she quitted the hospitable wood, and foUowed her spouse with the res- ignation of a martyr. In this painful voyage, what troubles, what bitterness, what mortifications awaited the Holy Spouses ! At that period, bands of robbers were rav- aging Palestine, profiting by the hatred of the Jews for the Eoman soldiers; every day they committed scandalous robberies, horri- ble* murders, and the traders of the neigh- boring countries could only travel weU armed and in caravans. I I 116 Legends OF St. Joseph. By day, the Holy Family took refuge in the Jl seLed caves, waiting for the s^ad. of night, to continue their journey. In this Ja^the; reached, after many perils, the con. fines of Samaria. Now, one nigM, -hen the weathor "^ cold J v«W.«« Holy Spouses, «ith the Dm™ 7L, we travelling .lo»g a .leep and looelj tt;,wUen St. Joseph, walking in tront, was stopped by a harsh, i,npe.ious jo.ce, saymg. "Halt there, or yon are dead. Mary, frightened at the *ought that to barbarous man was going to '"ke her ClnW away from her. hid Him in the folds of he " T^' was the second time, since leaving Nazareth, that her mysterions journey had been interrupted by the voice of men. Be^ tee the unfortunate traveUers had trme to think of the danger that threatened then, Z saw themselves surrounded by a crow of men who came out from amongst the] tlwld and brambles of the ravine. Dag- lier thus t ii,».»«=«Btaiwv»a«w« irinim.*"^'"*— j*^" c. Joseph. Legends of St. Joseph. 117 ily took refuge in the liting for the shades ,| eir journey. In this many perils, the con- the weather was cold ,use8, with the Divine ong a deep and lonely , walking in front, was iperious voice, saying: e dead!" the thought that this ,ing to take her Child im in the folds of her ad time, since leaving aysterious journey had the voice of men. Be- travellers had time to that threatened them, surrounded by a crowd out from amongst the bles of the ravine. Dag- gers were already flashing above their heads, when St. Joseph said, in tones of mild en- treaty : "What harm have this poor Mother and lier innocent Child done to you, that you thus raise your arms against them?" "Old man, thou art right," said a strong masculine voice ; " these men will not injure voa in any way ; they will swear it, and I am . sure they will keep their oath." He who thus spoke was named Dim as. In his youth he had known the practice of vir- tue ; but a crime committed through paternal love threw him into the way of crime, and, on account of his courage, he had been chosen as captain by this band of robbers. He had no sooner spoken than a passage opened through his companions, and ap- proaching Joseph, who was mute and motion- less with surprise, he again said ; " Fear nothing, old man ; thy wiiite hairs are thy security. And as for that poor wo- man who clasps her child so tenderly, fearful r: '.ii,. f: 118 Legends of St. Joseph. that he may be taken from her, thou mayest reassure her: she is in no danger from us. If anv one dared to harm her, our dagger would soon deal out justice. But the night is cold, and I see the poor young woman is suffering from the rain: here, put n.y doak around her." And Dimas, taking off the goafs skin garment that covered his shoul- ders, gave it to Joseph. "Oh. thanks, thanks, kind, compassionate man! May Jehovah reward thpe as thou deservest, at the hour of thy death." And Joseph, shedding tears of gratitude, co^M3red his spouse and her Son with the robbers cloak. .,, ,, "Now, good old man, foUow me with thy spouse. My stronghold is close by, and 1 hope thou wilt accept the hospitality I offer till the tempest roaring above our heads has somewhat subsided." The holy travellers accepted the captains offer, and some moments after they were m- stalled in the kitchen of the rude fortress. an( chi If "ewtassisrwiiS^s^isftiJfe^-- -'' .,iMSa*»iSS»il**Sffl*»«P*'"" aXiStralWMKi"**"****"*' r. Joseph •om her, tho\i mayest no danger from us. arm her, our dagger stice. But the night poor young woman is ; here, put my rloak limas, taking off the at covered his shoul- I, kind, compassionate reward thpe as thou of thy death." And 1 of gratitude, covered 3on with the robber's in, follow me with thy Id is close by, and 1 ; the hospitality I offei ig above our heads has accepted the captains ents after they were in- n of the rude fortress. Legends of St. Joseph. 119 where Dimas had a large fire made, so as to dry their drenched garments! The robber chief treated his guests with tlie utmost care and attention. He had a plentiful meal served to them, and with his own hands prepared two beds with cloaks and skins, so that they might rest after the fatigue of their journey. Before retirmg, he asked the Mother if she would allow him to kiss her little Child; and Mary presented her Son, saying : "Kiss my Son, since thou dost protect Him." Dimas kissed the Babe and withdrew. When once more alone with his comrades, he told them: "I know not what I felt within me when my lips touched that Child ; but, since, it seems to me that I breathe more freely, and that aU my blood has been purified by His touch. A little while after, and all were asleep within the castle. Next morning, when Dimas entered- the 1 chamber of his guests, they received him with CIS 120 Legends of St. Joseph. a su^ile of Qr.^^^^r^o.v^i.h\e brigand had the morning meal prepared, and requent. ed the Holy Family to go out and take the air in front of the castle. » The day is fine," said he ; " come with me, that your Son may breathe the pure mountain air. Mary and Joseph followed Djma^ -- „,iring the robber's kindness of heart. A for The latter, he was so fascinated by the look of Jesus, that he could not keep his eyes a moment from his face. When they reached the court-yard. Dimas took Jesus in his arms, and, sho^ving Him through the loop-holes some flocks that ^re grazing near the castle moat, he said to Him in a kindly tone :— "Seest Thou those sheep that are grazmg quietly in the shadow of these walls. They are ours, and that little lamb, white as its mo- ther's milk, is Thine : I give it to Thee tha Thou mayst recall the hospitality offered] Thee by the brigand of the mountains of Sa- maria." her S4-»i»«"«»8*«*«*****" Joseph. hospitable brigand pared, and requeat- > out and take the he ; " come with me, ie the pure mountain followed Dimas, ad- css of heart. As for scinated by the look not keep his eyes a he court-yard, Dimas 3, and, showing Him 3ome flocks that were moat, he said to Him heep that are grazing of these walls. They lamb, white as its mo- I give it to Thee, that he hospitality offered E the mountains of Sa- Leqends of St. Joseph. 121 Jesus smiled as if he understood these words, and His tiny hands stroked down the bandit's hair. The tender Virgin silently wept tears of gratitude, while contemplating this man bound to the way of crime, who treated her Son so kindly. The Holv Family remained in the castle till sunset. During their stay tliey were con- stantly treated by the captain with the utmost kindness and attention. But the moment of departure came at last. Whilst St. Joseph assisted Mary to place herself on the peaceful ass, Dimas held the Child in his arms. Jesus, as though He would reward him who had received Him so kindly, put His little arms around the bandit's neck. Then Dimas heard a sweet, melodious voice, Uke the sound of an ^olian harp when the night wind stirs its strings, and it said :— "Thy death shall be glorious, and Thou shalt die with Me." Dimas was struck dumb— astounded by such la prodigy. Whence came those mysterious SiVil*-s(te*«M>*^*"*'- 122 Leqends of St. Joseph. ^1 accents? Who had spoken those words? The Child in his arms was scarcely four months old. Feeling that his strength was failing, and fearing lest the mysterious Child should fall from his arms, Dimas placed Him again in those of His Mother, who received Him with a loving smile. Then the Holy Family, after thanking their host, quitted the castle. Dimas stood motionless, his eyes fixed on the holy personages who were receding from his view, till at last they disappeared behind the mountains. At length, stretching out his arms in the direction they had taken, he cried, with an indefinable feeling :— " O Thou, the fairest of the children of men, and blessed above all, if Thou canst one day let me hear a word of mercy, remember me, and be mindful of my hospitality!" Two-and-thirty years after, Christ on the Cross rewarded the charitable hospitaUty of the good thief by these words: "This day thou shalt be with Me in Paradise ! " ^-^ , Joseph. I those words ? The sarcely four months ;th was failing, and IS Child should fall aced Him again in I received Him with 3 Holy Family, after id the castle. IS, his eyes fixed on were receding from disappeared behind h, stretching out his r had taken, he cried, J • — 3 ■ : the children of men, Thou canst one day nercy, remember me, 3pitaUty!" after, Christ on the ritable hospitaUty of e words: "This day] Paradise 1 " XV. THE CARAVAN. lAZA, a maritime city of the East, the precious gem of the Philis- tines, whose walls are perpetually washed by the waves of the sea, was, from time immemorial, the meeting-place of caravans trading with Egypt. Near this city the Holy Family arrived one morning at dawn, after travelling for several days. The suflferings endured by our Galilean travellers during the journey were very severe. Their usual refuge during the day hours were lonely grottoes, gloomy caverns, damp ravines, or wild woods. But if they had great dangers to avoid, they had difficulties no less I great to overcome. Joseph stopped by a syca- more tree, and, having assisted his spouse to alight, he placed her sitting at the foot of the 124 Legends of St. Joseph. tree. Ho then freed the ass from its light burden, the little baggage that formed the sole patrimony of the Holy Family. Dimas had kept his word, for a little white lamb began to jump around Mary, who, with fond, motherly care, showed her Sou the rob- ber's gift. "Mary," said Joseph, after finishing his work, " God has vouchsafed to guide and pro- tect us to the borders of the desert. He will bring us forth safe and sound from amid the awful solitudes we are soon to traverse." " In God abideth all power ; from Him are all that mortals admire of great and wonder- ful," meekly replied the august Virgin. "Thy resignation doth comfo/t me much, Mary; but I am about to leave thee for a short space. We must sell a part of our effects, so that the journey may be less pain- ful. We are poor; but I hope we may still have the sum required to pay our passage in the first caravan bound for Egypt." Thereupon Joseph, taking with him his [•. Joseph. Legends op St. Joseph, 126 3 ass from its light that formed tho sole imily. ord, for a little white ind Mary, who, with ed her Sou the rob- after finishing hie fed to guide and pro- the desert. He will lOund from amid the on to traverse." }ower ; from Him are of great and wonder- lugust Virgin. ti comfo/t me much, to leave thee for a sell a part of our ley may be less pain- I hope we may still to pay our passage md for Egypt." laking with him his humble beast, directed his steps towards the city of Gaza, whose walls arose some three hundred paces from there. Mary remained alone, with her Adorable Son, sitting at the foot of tho sycamore. A tear moistened her eyelids. That tear was the Virgin's mute and sad farewell to the peaceful animal which had done her such good service during her journey, and with which she was now parting for ever, since her spouse was taking him to Oaza with the intention of selling him. Having wiped away her tears, she spread a skin on the smooth sward, and laid her Son upon it. Then she went to work to arrange on a large palm-leaf the materials for their frugal repast, so that her spouse might find it Teady on his return. Intent on her occupations, Mary had not perceived that within a short distance of the tree that served her and hers as a shelter arose two Arab tents, around which ten or twelve dromedaries were lying. Neither had «*^«ii»'*-"** 126 Lkoendb op St. Joheph. she roinaikod that Home men wero going to a neighboiiiiK fountain, unci filling largn leath- ern bottU'8, which thoy then caiufnily placed on the niched back of tlieir dionxjdavy. Amongst these men there wuk an Arab advanc(!d in ycarH, and who appeared to bo chief of all the others, for he gave them his orders, in a low voice, without taking any part in the fatiguing labors of his companions. The old man walked, with folded arms, by the side of the tents as far as the spring. For a moment his eyes rested on the syca- more which sheltered the Virgin and her Child. Seeing Mary, the Arab was disturbed, as though he had recognized in her a person of his acquaintance. He then remained a moment undecided, his eyes still fixed on the Galilean. ■ The latter, solely intent on her Son, had not perceived that she was the object of crit- ical attention on the part of the Arab. At length the silent observer of the Virgin, with that peculiar motion of the head which indi- slig I the whom kings pay their aidest in a stable, thou ber into the immense Pharaam, on foot and snerate thee, although I lee. Say to thy spouse, Q the city, that Hassaf, 3aw at the fountain of to-day for the City of will afterwards journey that he offers him his mels ; should he accept, it." An hour after Joseph returned from Gaza, and rejoined his spouse, his face sad and careworn. Mary received him with a smile, and asked him the cause of his dejection. " What aileth thee, my dear husband?" she' sweetly said. " We must make the journey alone, with- out a guide to show us the unknown way through the desert, without a camel to short- en, for us, the immense solitudes we have to traverse." "God doth not forget His own," replied the Virgin ; " whilst thou wert seeking a car- avan that would receive us for a small sum of money, God sent us a charitable merchant, who offers to conduct us to Heliopolis." " God be praised ! " cried Joseph, joyfully. " Look I " resumed the Virgin. "Seest thou that old man who walks with folded arms, be- fore his tents ? Well, that is the chief of the caravan which is encamped near the ruins. He stts out to-day for the City of the Sun, and he has offered to convey us thither." <« «i<^»3teMM».*. r**»«ia6»**» 130 Legends of St. Joseph. With a joyful heart Joseph went to meet the Arab, and the latter, with his rude frank- ness, offered him a camel for his wife and Son, without any remuneration. "Jew," said Hassaf, "I offer thee but one camel, because I have no more to spare. All those that thou seest lying around belong to me, but they are all hired out to merchants of Gaza bound for HeliopoUs, Cairo, or Alexan- dria. It grieves me, therefore, that thou must make the journey on foot with my ser- vants." " It matters Uttle about me," said Joseph, joyfully, "if only my wife and Son journey without fatigue." The patriarch forgot the grievous troubles that awaited him in the desert. Mary and Jesus had a camel for the jom-ney — that was his sole desire. He at once loaded the camel lent him by the Arab with his few effects, amongst which were his carpenter's tools; for, in Egypt, he was to have no other means of support than that which gave him and Joseph. Legends op St. Joseph. 131 3ph went to meet th his rude frank- r bis wife and Son, offer thee but one aore to spare. All ; around belong to )ut to merchants of i, Cairo, or Alexan- srefore, that thou I foot with my ser- me," said Joseph, ) and Son journey e grievous troubles desert. Mary and jom-ney — that was se loaded the camel ith his few effects, carpenter's tools; ave no other means lich gave him and his a living at Nazareth, the labor of his hands. A little while and all was ready. The traders from Gaza joined others from Egypt, and Hassaf, having had his tents taken up, gave the signal for departure. «!i-*^S«**«^ , vWiSuflhikftlW*^"'' XVI. THE DESERT. lAVING left tlie suV-mbs of Gaza, the caravan took the way to Matarah, and, some hours after, the camels' feotwere treacling the barren fields of Syria. Then lay stretched before the eyes of the travellers the boundless plains they had to cross. Far away to the distant horizon nothing was seen but sky and sand ; a scorch- ing wind, like the breath of a fiery furnace, produced a stifling heat. The Arab, crossing his arms on his breast, and his feet on his dromedary's back, closed his eyes and meditated, as though seeking to lose sight of the immensity of space. That child of the desert regards those sohtudes as his country. His body is strong as his imagi- nation is fanciful; he knows the perils to which Legends of St. Joseph. 133 iV.ui'bs of Gaza, the .e way to Matarah, 3 after, the camels' ig the barren fields ed before the eyes ess plains they had le distant horizon nd sand ; a scorch- of a fiery furnace, irms on his breast, idary's back, closed } though seeking to ity of space. That 3 those sohtudes as strong as his imagi- rs the perils to which he iri exposed, and, nevertheless, he bears them with the courage of a child of nature. Bnt the tender Virgin, the delicate flower of Galilee, what must she not liave suffered dur- ing that first journey? What must have been her anxiety for her beloved Son whom she bore in her arms ? How long those first hours must have seemod to her maternal heart ! MeanAvhile, the intense heat of the fiery sun inflamed the atmosphere, and numerous flies annoyed the little Infant Jesus, whilst He slept in His Mother's arms. Forgetting her fatigues and sufferings, to think only of those of her Divine Son, and unable to keep off that swarm of troublesome flies, Mary raised her eyes to heaven and breathed a fervent prayer. At that moment, the Infant God awoke, and gave His Mother one of those divine looks that made her forget all her pains and toils. He then stretched forth His little hands. Im- mediately the flies were changed into little birds with sparkluig wings of the richest hues. And this bright-winged flock, flying joyously 12 t'.vK'^;^^ ,.tBcs#T»w*'4*>s*«*«:i;;**-»«.vi 134 Legends op St. Joseph. around the Holy Family, charmed them by the splendor of their plumage, and the merry music of their warbling notes. Night came on, and the intolerable heat of the burning sun at length ceased. The moon's silvery disc shone bright over those imposing solitudes, and the Arabs came to a halt. The merchants put up their tents ; the dri- vers unloaded the camels, and, having fastened them in a cirolo to stakes driven far down into the sand, they silently commenced their mo- dest supper, composed of dates and dried wheaten cakes. The Holy Family spread upon the sand a palm-tree cloth, which was to be their only couch. Their only tent was the starry dome of heaven glittering far above their heads. Poor, deserted, more destitute than the lowest servants of the caravan, they were offering to God the prayer of their hearts, when the old Arab, who had been their protector since their leaving Gaza, approached them with a cup in his hand. Joseph. charmed them by ige, and the merry 3S. intolerable heat of eased. The moon's (ver those imposing me to a halt. ;heir tents ; the dri- md, having fastened Jriven far down into namenced their mo- if dates and dried id upon the sand a IS to be their only vas the starry dome above their heads, tute than the lowest hey were offering to learts, when the old protector since their I them with a cup in Legends op St. Joseph. 135 " Galilean," said he to Mary, " the Arab in* the desert is sober through necessity, but ho loves children, respects mothers, and is hos- pitable. Take this ; it is a share of my daily allowance of camel's milk. To-morrow I may not be able to offer thee a single drop of water." And without waiting for thanks, the Arab went to rejoin his companions. Mary accepted the old man's delicate offer, penetrated with gratitude for his generosity. All that night the Galilean Virgin could not close her eyes. The vicinity of hungry and ferocious beasts filled her heart with ceaseless terror; their savage cries, their constant howl- ing, reached her ears, and made her fear for the safety of her adorable Son. How many bitter pains and troubles, what anguish of mind and body must the Holy Family have suffered during that long and perilous crossing of the desert, with the heat of a fiery sun, the scorchipg gusts of wind, and the cruel deception of the mirage, show- H « -"«»r« «S=^-. » trf*aVi»»<* 136 Legends op St. Joseph. ing them in the distance a lake suiTonnded by fresh shade, ever receding, and vanishing at List ! Faith alone sustained our Hi)ly Trav- ellers under the trials and privations of that long journey. At length, after much suffering and fatigue, the Holy Family perceived afar off the plains of Giseh, amid which arose the Pyramids like vast giants. Danger had disappeared. Heliopolis, the City of the Sun, with its graceful obelisks, its tapering minarets, and the steel cupolas of its pagan temples, was in sight. After a short rest, the caravan entered the city. Wlien the Holy Travellers passed under the granite arches of the principal gate of Heliopolis, all the idols of a neighboring tem- ple fell flat on the ground, saluting, from their profane pedestals, the true and only God, who came, a fugitive, to seek hospitaUty from the idolatrous Egyptians. Meanwhile, the J)ivine Travellers avoided the populous Heliopolis, where living must h - 38EPH. lake suiToiinded g, and vanishiug d our Holy Tiav- jiivationa of that ring and fatigue, far off the plains 36 the Pyramids Heliopolis, the iceful obelisks, its steel cupolas of ;ht. . - ravan entered the Uers passed under principal gate of I, neighboring tem- aluting, from their e and only God, ik hospitality from Legends of St. Joseph. 137 be too dear, and continued their journey to Matarieh, a charming little village in that vicinity, which possesses the only fountain of fresh water that there is in Egpyt. The Galilean fugitives stopped some two hundred paces from the village. A shady sycamore served them as a tent during that first night in Egypt. Some hours after, the Holy Family were lodged in an humble cottage, which they owed to the charity of a colony of Jews who had settled m that country some years before, and there the virtuous Gahlean and her worthy Spouse breathed in peace, far from the ter- rible Herod, the inhuman persecutor of the Infant Jesus. Travellers avoided where living must ^r.',. w.-mtt-?. ■»* --^-- XVII. THE BET URN TO- NAZARETH. BET us transport ourselves to the age of Augustus, and, in thought, passing over time and space, pic- ture to ourselves the fertile val- ley of the Nile. The last rays of the setting sun were gild- ing with their faint light the Egyptian village of Matarieh. At the eastei-n extremity of the village, and not far from the small p roup of houses of which it is composed, a little straw -roofed cottage may be seen. Some paces from its lowly door, a sycamore spreads its leafy branches, as though it would shelter that poor dove's nest beneath its protecting shade. A young woman, with a calm, serene look, a chaste brow, a mild and affable exterior, 0C( Legends of St. Joseph. 189 UZARETH. ourselves to the ?, and, in thought, ne and space, pic- es the fertile vai- ling sun were gild- le Egyptian village stern extremity of m the small proup composed, a little 'J be seen. Some a sycamore spreads igh it would shelter leath its protecting 1 calm, serene look, nd affable exterior, is Heated at the foot of that tree. Her cos- tume consisted of a woolen tunic, confined at the waist by a girdle, and a short linen veil. She was engaged in fabricating that Syrian lace so much sought by the daughters of Israel. From time to time she raises her eyes from her work, casts a glance towards the village, pauses a moment, as if expecting some one, and then, with a sigh, resumes her occupation. The light of day was already receding be- fore the shades of night, and still the young woman continues her work. The evening breeze begins to sigh through the branches above her head ; the small birds sing fare- well to the departing sun ; the bloating flocks come down from the neighboring mountains to their fold, and the nigl^ingales usher in the night by their melodious song. The young woman looks once more towards Matarieh ; a loving smile is on her rosy Ups. "Ahl" she exclaims in a joyous tone, "they come, at last ! " 140 Legends of St. Jobeph. And graceful us tho young pnlm-tree ol Yemen, Htately hh Quoou Esther, she rises up and moveff towards tho villaRo. A Cluld of Hix or seven years and a vouorablo old man are coming along the path which leads to the cottage. The old man carries a heavy axe, tho Child a little bundle of wood. The youDg woman goes to meet them, and they cordially salute each other. Thou die takes the Child by tho hand and takes Him towards the cottage. The old man, who follows them, raises his eyes to heaven, and on his venerable countenance is depicted the sweet emotions of his heart. The lovely Child is clad in a simple tunic of a dark color ; His hair falls gracefully on His shoulders, and His glauco is as radiant as the day. A small deal table is set within the cottage. The repast is frugal, but peace and love dweU beneath that humble roof. The old man blesses the table with a patri- archal air, and the meal is begun. "How thou workest, Joseph!" says the \WUi. )8ErH. ng palm-tree of isthor, hUo rises nllftRo. A Cliild a vonerablo old n\i\\ which leads u carries a heavy e of wood. The them, and they by the hand and attage. The old UHfis his eyes to able countenance ons of his heart, in a simple tunio [alls gracefully on mco is as radiant table is set within I frugal, but peace khat humble roof, table with a patri- ) begun, oseph!" says the IjEoends op St. Joseph. 141 young woium, pliioing a dinh of herbs before the patriarch. " Lot us blcHS God, who wills it ho, Miiry," rt'plit^H Joseph ; " what troubles me most is this tender Child." "Work never tires mo; I am happy in Klmriiig your poverty," says the Child in His Uun ; and His voice has a sweet echo that penetrates the very sonl. "Son of my heart!" cries Mary, fondly kissing His forehead, " the bread of exile is bitter. O Thou, soul of my soul, light of my life, sacred deposit given me by Jehovah, Thou, fair Child, who hast ou Thy brow the majesty of Israel's kings, on Thy mouth the smile of Angels, and in Thy look the splendor of the invisible God of Moses, Thou endurest the hardship of our poverty without a mur- mur of complaint escaping Thy lips!" " Mother," gravely replies the Child, " God, my Father, so ordained it. Let us adore His decrees, and await the hour fixed in His eter- nal designs." 142 toEBM OF St. Joseph. The Holy ^w7h^™g &"«"<■* '"^^ Jerusalem, and sang the hym . , I ..I in Vr little chamber-, Jesus v™ tired to rest in lie" u> .„j the patriarch 1 HU bed ol mats, an* '"" I"" pared His bed ^^^j gtrotched Ms »eary limbs on in -"«"'" '"'""ntn t«o, then three; the ^"^°"\P"rl"':;^UMn the cabin were „igUt »as dark and all wt ;rbtrsectroirandsnpernat„. r.rr'c:me:or.r:rr,r . rj»--"'-rrro:ratr fair-haired young man of majestic mien las obewaswhiteasthatofthevir^sofSuiu a star glittered on his bro«, and a ray dirine light shone in his azure eyes. The heavenly messenger moves vath . ..,.»—.,.— ■■»> 3t. Joseph. tiaving finislied their dr tearful eyes towards le hy^n of thanksgiv- prayer. Then Joseph jir dwelling; Mary re- le chamber; Jesus pre- ,ats, and the patriarch ,mbs on the straw that a. entwo,then three; the aU within the cabin were i the just. Then might cdrous and supernatural iite and shining as the ,e down from heaven, and branches of the tree that The sides of that ra- , and there came forth a Ian of majestic mien; his hat of the virgins of Sion; I his brow, and a ray o! n his azure eyes. messenger moves with a Legends of St. Joseph. 143 stately step towards the cabin; the door opens before him, and, approaching the pa- triarch, he says : "I am Gabriel, the chosen envoy of the Lord. I come to tell thee, Joseph, to arise, take the Child and His Mother, and return to the land of Israel; for they are dead who sought the Child's Ufe." Having ceased to speak, Gabriel bowed his beauteous head on his bosom, and remained some moments in that humble posture. Then the cloud wrapping him around, he left the dwellings of men and disappeared in the air. Joseph arose and communicated to Mary the orders of the celestial messenger. The following day the exiles quitted the hospit- able village of Matarieh. XVIII. THE HAWTHORN BUSH- IT the entraiuce of the desert, Jo- seph's brow darkened, and Mary's eyes filled with tears. But Jesus encouraged them with a look. Our travellers journeyed a long way Ihrough those immense wastes of yellow sand, with- out tree, or bush, or blade of. grass^without even a drop of dew. The rays of the sun were so hot and glaring that they made the yellow sands burn and shine like gold. The Holy Virgin and St. Joseph suffered from hunger and from heat; but they resigned themselves through love for their Child, and, full of confidence, they prayed instead of murmuring. ■ All at once the ass stopped and refused to go on; they were about midway in the des- s,5:»EW:*ae*^^"'"' Legends op St. Joseph. 145 7 BUSH.. i the desert, Jo- kened, and Mary's tears. But Jesus n with a look, iloog waylhrough jrellow sand, with- of. grass^-without 5 rays of the sun iiat they made the ne Uke gold. The eph suffered from but they resigned or their Child, and, prayed instead of aped and refused to midway in the des- ert and in the heat of the day. St. Joseph looked anxiously at the Virgin, who was ten- derly regarding her Son. " My Child," said Mary, " what wilt Thou that we do?" Jesus answered by a sweet smile and stretched out His hand. Then the travellers beheld, only a few paces from them, a little stunted withered bush, which they had not before observed. St. Joseph assisted the Holy Virgin to alight, and Mary spread her cloak under the bush, so that her Divine Son might rest. But behold ! when they arose, in ^ad of the poor withered shrub, they saw it, ense haw- thorn bush, covered with .c.,y, fragiant flowers ; in its shade had sprung up a verdant sward, from amid which flowed a crystal spring, and, whilst they were thanking God, legions of Angels, with white robes and gold- en wings, came, bearing delicious fruits to reUeve their hunger and thirst. And white. Joseph and the Holy Virgin marveled at this prodigy, the Child-God said to His Mother : 18 ....VS^JV-Sfl-^"^ .-..J_ 146 Leobsm OS St. toraH. ..My Mother, even a. this ^i<-^^f ^^ h»th blossomed «.aer th, »hite ve.l, so shril bLm for my eieroa. court dl those souls^ho .hall seek a shelter ia thy heart. As a pkdge ".this promise, it is my »ai that th» bush, L seeds o. whieh my aagels shall ea^^ teoughoat the earth, may blossom ever mo^ hereafter in the month that *all >« " '*^ times consecrated to thee, and its flo«r, .dom the altars ..herever men regenerated by „y Wood shall place thine image. And now. J ns go whither my Heavenly Father sends w so that His word may be Mailed. Then the Blessed Virgto took up her now perfumed clo^ whereon the Child Jesus h^ Lken His rest ; and whilst *e travellers wn on their way towards the land of Israel, the Angels, dividmg the branches of the blessed tree, carried them to the several parts of the world, singing the praises of God. At sunset, three days after, our traveUers cached the conSnes of Egypt. The, had now only to cross Idomea to enter the land of S.r5«W«BtKStS5E«'*«»!WfSfi. r^ ^si9*i •srst'-- • t^M^mJimVi.^ BEPH. withered shrub lite veil, so shall those souls who irt. As ft pledge that this bush, tels shall carry lossom ever more ihall be in future and its flowers m regenerated by mage. And now, enly Father sends , fulfilled." took up her now le Child Jesus had the travellers went land of Israel, the hes of the blessed everal parts of the )f God. after, our travellers ypt. They had now , enter the land of Legends of St. Joseph. 147 Juda. Joseph remarked with surprise that the great wastes of sand seemed to disappear beneath their feet. It was a miracle of Divine power. Mary and Joseph regarded with worshipping love the Divine Child who was, in His turn, their guide through the desert. XIX. THE SECOND MEETING. IE AN WHILE, the sun had just set behind the horizon, and our Holy Travellers had to seek a refuge for the night. They saw a cavern a little way off. Jesus entered first, and a mysterious light shone on its gloomy interior. There, without other bed than their poor gar- ments, their -heads resting on the bare stone, the Holy Travellers took their rest. About midnight, two men presented them- selves at the mouth of the cave : one of them came from Egypt, the other from the land of Juda. . " Dimas?" said the former, in a tone of m- quiry. " Gestas ! " rejoined the other. " I have been punctual, thou seest." x»ssv»ss^^si t*s^^aBiwaf=*«®«'W*^**'»*'^**'*''** Dim out live «) fatig T] grou Fane repo (t I paui settl liEaENDs OF St. Joseph. U9 ^TING. lun had just set >n, aud our Holy seek a refuge iiey saw a cavern ived first, and a 1 gloomy interior, ku their poor gar- 1 the bare stone, ,r rest. presented them- ave : one of them from the land of ir, in a tone of in- ther. aou seest." "And I no less so." "Shall we go in?" The other assented, and both entered the cavern. "Wilt thou that we strike a light?" asked Dimas. " Wherefore ? We can speak together with- out that; we are birds of night, destined to live in darkness." " Thou savest well. Let us sit down ; I am fatigued." The two men seated themselves on the ground. Whilst they conversed thus, the Holy Family continued to enjoy the sweets of calm repose. " Thy messenger," said Dimas, after a short pause, " informed me that it is thy pui'pose to settle in Samaria with thy people." " Yes," answered Gestas, " the desert is lit- tle frequented, and my soldiers, attracted by the hope of booty, are tu-ed of waiting whole days in vain, under the scorching sun, in the deserts of Etham and Paraham. They want 150 Legends of St. Joseph. me to lead them into Samaria ; as thou art the chief of these mountains, I would fain know whether thou wilt give us hospitality, or. ra- ther, if thou wilt allow thy castle to serve us as a refuge, and we will share our booty with thee as good friends." "I have never refused hospitality to him who asked it at my door. There is my hand." Gestas shook the hand held out to him, say- ing: "It is, then, agreed?" "Even so. Thou mayst come when thou wilt; my soldiers shall have no arms against thine." " The treaty is made ? " " I never break my word." At these words, a deep sigh was heard i va the depth of the cavern. Gestas put his hu^d to his belt to seize his knife, and said in a low voice : — " There is some one here." " I believe there is," answered Dimas. * « "Wait ; let us strike a light." Ge ] Ge pie oul < del tui ■ ^**«»a&s«s^^iM*©*E*4««ai""^ 8EPH. ; a3 thou art the voulcl fain know )8pitality, or, ra- istle to serve us 5 our booty with jspitality to him . There is my d out to him, say- come when thou 5 no arms against gh was heard 1 m lestas put his hu^d , and said in a low ivered Dimas. * ght; Leoends of St. Joseph. 151 Gestas drew forth a sulphurated cord which he carried rolled up in his belt, and, going out of the cavern, he sought two stones, which he rubbed hard together, till the cord took fire, shedding a yellowish light and a suffocating smell. Provided with this torch he entered the cave, and both commenced their search. Di- mas was the first who saw the Holy Travel- lers asleep, and he started as though he had recognized them. "Ha! there is ah unexpected chance!" said Gestas. moving towards them. Dimas seized him by the arm. " Hark thee, Gestas," said he, " looking at these poor peo- ple, I felt my heart beating as if it would go out of my breast." " Bah ! " said Gestas, shrugging his shoul- ders. " I tell thee truly 1 " " Well ! what would'st thou ? " " That we respect the sleep of these unfor- tunates." i^g^<«i«fc(i»tii*!«ii»*«a*<^ 162 Legends op St. Joseph. -i * "I allow no such favorable opportunity to escape me. The Eomans will do the same by me when they catch me." « I beseech thee, by what is dearest to thee in the world, respect their sleep." » What I love most in this world is money. "Well! touch them not, and I give thee twenty drachms." " It is very little ! " "I will further give thee this copper girdle, and this Damascus knife." Gestas examined the objects. Dimas, see- ing him hesitate, added :— "If thou wilt not accept mine oflfer, I swear I will defend these people ! " These reasons decided Gestas. " I agree," said he. Dimas gave him the money and the articles specified. Just then was heard a voice from within the cave, saying :— "Dimas! Gestas! you shaU die with me: one on my right hand, the other on my left/' These words were, one day, to be fulfiUed. >8EFH. LEiKNDs OF St. Joseph. 153 e opportunity to 1 do the same by L8 dearest to thee ;ep. world is money." and I give thee ihis copper girdle, ects, Dimas, see- mine offer, I swear II estas. ley and the articles heard a voice from shall die with me: other on my left." lay, to be fulfilled. Let us transport ourselves, in thought, twenty-five years later, to the top of Golgotha, at the solemn moment when Jesus consum- mated His sacrifice on the cross. Two rob- bers were fastened on either side of Him. One, hardened in crime, joined his insults to those of the multitude: it was Gostas, the merciless robber; the other, to the right of Jesus, testified his faith and his repentance, and had the happiness of hearing the words : " To-day thou shalt be with me in Paradise." It was Dimas, who, in the flight into Egypt, had saved the Infant God from the dagger of lis comrades. But let us return to our Holy Travellers, whom we left near the mountain of Thabord. Their eyes had already caught sight of the verdant plains of Nazareth. Who could tell their happiness ? The time of exile was ended, their fatigue forgotten. They entered the town of Nazareth, amid the feUcitations of all the inhabitants, who hastened to testify their joy at this unlooked-for return. IH Legends of St. Joseph. Joseph and Mary found thoir doar abode again. Thoy dwelt there in profound pence, Boeing JcHUS grow from day to day, in ago, in wisdom, and in grace, till the time marked out for the preaching of the Holy Gospel. ft Thoi Tl In Ami Hen El Tl A m ■^^ ;i^,Bwi5:Ks3K3ft«J" «!ej*<»'-^S'=- £;-,-xt^S5ji«^4M-'S"«''<''^^'-'-*^-*»^'-'>'- ■t^i,- ■; -«4.'^ ■■^a*-''** — ** ..iites*4: OHEPH. their tloar abode I prof«)uml peiico, to clay, in ago, in 3 time marked out y Gospel. XX. OLD-TIM I<: WINDOWS. I. OW I lovo tho old MisHals, with pictures so (|iiiiint, And tlic simple designs of tlio windows tif old, — They quicken my heart, and I pause to behold The artlesH portrayal of Martyr and Saint. Though stiff the position, and dry each detail, The coloring harsh, and too slender the fiorra, In the eyes beams a tender light, mystical, warm, And faith, hope, and love in each aspect prevail. Here the aged man is crowu'd with a halo of light, ' Erect, rapt in spirit, and with clasped hands. The Virgin bows down, and Our Lord smiling stands, A martyr kneels here, there an Archangel bright. 156 Legends of St. Joseph. How I love to behold them in tunics of gold With hoods, as it were, of the soft living hgh^ Through their face is the soul seen, all radmnt and bright — Once more we look on ye, fair visions of old 1 Here the " Sucker of Jesse," near Booz and Ruth. Here Judas, his soldiers, the Magi behold- Our Lord, 'neath His cross, mark, heart proud and cold ; _ But the FUght into Egypt most charms me, m sooth. n. Slowly paces the ass 'neath a fiery sun. The spouse, staff in hand, praying, journeys along. Leading the animal, patient and strong. While the Virgin smiles down on her fair sleepmg One. Young Mother, that Babe, closely clasp'd in thine arms. , 'Tis for Him that thou fearest the length of the way — The hunger, the thirst, and the sun's scorchmg ray- Tis for Him that thou feclest a thousand alarms 1 St. Joseph. Legends op St. Joseph. 157 m in tunics of gold, of the soft living light— le soul seen, all radiant and fair visions of old I Be " near Booz and Ruth, rs, the Magi behold— , cross, mark, heart proud ^pt most charms me, in sooth. 11. sath a fiery sun, hand, praying, journeys along, patient and strong, 1 down on her fair sleeping One. Babe, closely clasp'd in thine thou fearest the length of the ■st, and the sun's scorching ray— a feclest a thousand alarms ! What fearest thou. Virgin ? Though eastvirard be- low A fierce, cruel king vainly furaetli, at bay ; And, though Egypt be far in the blue mist away, The Lord is still with thee. His power to show. Everywhere the bare plain : to the horizon dry. Nought, nought but the, desert's dread sameness ifl seen ; No tree intercepts, in its foliage green. The fierce rays that fall from a tropical sky. The fair, spotless Child, in whom God takes delight, Heaves a sigh in His infantile slumber, and wakes, — But, hasten 1 those fields, those green meadows and lakes, Illusions too fair of the waste-weary sight 1 The ground, it is smoking ; sand flies in the air — The steaming waste stretching before and behind ; Like the dreadful simoom is the breath of the wind — For her Infant sore grieved is that young Mother fair. U S.:^i,«W«.:i*«K.«ia»»K»:sW8»iaS-««*S=«»'> 168 Legends of St. Joseph. She says to her spouse, with an accent of woe : " Oh, had we but water and shade for the Child ! We must sinlc 'neath our pains in this desert so wild. If Our Merciful Lord will not comfort bestow." O Virgin, the Lord hears the voice of thy prayer 1 A tree is before thee, all plumy and green ! And hark 1 that faint sound where its shadow is seen — Tis the trickling of water that sounds on the air ! Lo 1 a palm tree, all laden with fruit— strange to tell! And a blue, limpid spring, looking cool, fresh, and bright ! But the fruits— who can reach them, because oP their height. Or draw the cool water from out of the well ? The sweet Jesus opens His eyes, and, behold 1 O travellers blessed, ye find some relief ; ' « The tree bends its branches — of wonders the chief — And the water uprises, clear, sparkling, and cold ! In . Joseph. n accent of woe : i shade for the Child ! pains in this desert so ; comfort bestow." voice of thy prayer 1 umy and greeu ! ind where its shadow is it sounds on the air ! with fruit— strange to looking cool, fresh, and reach them, because of* I out of the well ? yes, and, behold 1 id some relief ; nches — of wonders the •, sparkling, and cold I Legends op St. Joseph. 169 Behold, now the wayfarers sit in the shade, The ass browzes near on the fresh, new-sprung grass; Fear is gone, and the Angels pass and repass, In attendance on Jesus and the fair Mother-maid. But a drop of the water the Babe Divine drank, And a fruit he was eating — both fell to the ground. When the fresh herbage, upspringing around, Made that resting-place sacred — a green, flow'ry bank 1 ' m. In those days lived, in hope of the Saviour to come. Whose reign was to bring back the glories of old, A man who expected, ere yet he went home. That promised Redeemer his eyes might behold. A leper he was, and his plague-stricken form Was an object of fear and disgust unto all ; He wander'd alone through the sunshine and storm, All calm and resign'd ta whate'er might befall. naii^ieanaiiiiBW »!>"•«•«'' .,camtiimjimtcMfi'<-aifiitisxa!>i'V 160 Legends of St. Joseph. The shade was his shelter. Yet, shunn'd and ab- horr'd, For all creatures he still had a kiud, loving heart ; He was merciful, e'en as the Merciful Lord, To the sufFring he fain would some comfort impart. " The One who hath come may look kindly on me," Was oft-times his thought ; for the shepherds had told How the Angels came down, Christ's glad heralds to be. And the Wonderful Infant their eyes did behold. He himself had once seen the good Kings from afar, Who came with rich presents to lay at His feet ; . To whose presence they journey'd, ler. on by a star, That Babe of the Grotto, so fai- and so sweet. When wakeful one night, in the depth of his woe, He saw — as God will'd it, to cheer his lone heartr^— When warn'd by the Angel to Egypt to go, ..'-* The three Holy Travellers sadly depart. : , Joseph. Yet, shunn'd and ab- J a kiud, loving heart ; lerciful Lord, id some comfort impart. y look kindly on me," for the shepherds had I, Christ's glad heralds their eyes did behold, the good Kings from resents to lay at His ley'd, ler. on by a star, so fai' and so sweet. the depth of his woe, i it, to cheer his lono to Egypt to go, * 1 sadly depart. Legends ot St. Joseph. 161 "Ah I" thought he, "conld I see but that aspect so mildl Might I touch but His garment, my woes would soon cease 1 While I breathe the same air with that Mother and Child, ■ I can live upon hope, I can journey in peace 1 " If I follow wherever the Infant may go, : Beseeching His mercy, perchance He may hear ; He may listen with pity, j^nd mercy bestow. Who was laid upon straw in a birth-place so drear I" , . . • Far away, far away through the mists of the dawn. Was a motionless speck on the horizon dim, From it were the leper's eyes never withdrawn, — 'Twas the Virgin and Joseph, and the ass that bore Him I .... _ . .;. .:,; ,,-1 On the promise divine and the long-promised day Of the coming Messiah, he ponder'd and pray'd,— A sweet, soothing hope, chasing sadness away, *. Still onward he went, of no danger afraid. ' f.K ' 1 \ •'id ii 162 Lkqends of St. Joseph. While he saw in the distance the Travellers blest, The sight cheer'd him on with fresh ardor to go ; But they vanish'd at last, and his eyes could but rest On the dreary horizon, so level and low. Already the desert was circling him round, Its gloomy immensity fill'd him with dread ; | He listened in vain for one life-speaking sound, AH was silent and lone as the halls of the dead. Then the torment of thirst he began to endure, His limbs they were failing, his throat parch'd and dry : " Saviour ! " he cried, " of Thy mercy I'm sure,— I love Thee, I hope in Thee,— wretched am 1 1 " What sees he? though burning with fever's wild pain, He runs— lo ! a spring and a stately palm-tree ! But alas 1 the sweet succor to him comes in vain,— The high fruit and low water he only can see ! He falls by the well, and in sUence awaits The death he feels coming— O myst'ry sublime t— As it were from the earth a ftesh air animates His Umbs with the vigor and strength of his prime I Joseph. e Travellers blest, 1 fresh ardor to go ; lis eyes could but rest el and low, , him round, im with dread ; i?peaking sound, e halls of the dead. )egan to endure, his throat parch'd and 'hy mercy I'm sure, — ^ — wretched am 1 1 " g with fever's wild pain, a stately palm-treo ! I him comes in vain, — er he only can see ! ilence awaits -O myst'ry sublime t — tesh air animates id strength of his prime I Legends of St. Joseph. 163 All fainting he came to that thrice-hallow'd place, Where Thou, Divine Infant, had'st tarried a while I And purified, now, as by baptismal grace. The leper goes forth with glad heart and bright smile. IT. Months had pass'd. In a Judean village away, A matron stood list'ning at close of the day, To the tale that a dust-cover'd traveller told — 'Twus the leper and holy Elizabeth old ! He spoke of the long-promised Christ, who was born Of Mary, at Bethlehem, poor and forlorn, — These things did the Saint in her deep heart record, And she cried, in an ecstasy, " Praise to the Lord ! " r. O windows of the olden days, What hallow'd legends ye recall, While dreamily I stand and gaze Where your bright-tinted shadows fall. In the deep arch's shade I stand. Leaning against a column high, Musing on your old pictures grand, — While hours roll all unheeded by ! A 1 - ) -,.««-i*'-^ 164 Legends of St. Joseph. I ponder'd on those Saints of old, When lo ! the sun gave forth his rays, And pour'd a Bood of radiant gold From oat those forms of other days ! Ah 1 speak ye ever to my soul 1 Enkindle in my heart the flame That gvudes us to our heavenly goal— Ye works which lively faith proclaim I When our belief we scarce dare own. When faith has lost its ancient glow, When man's frail works with pride are shown, And earthly hopes rule here below 1 Tells us, eloquent remains Of pious ages long gone by, ,. ,, ,. . What prodigies earth yet retains Of faith-taught art that cannot die ! , And now, when in discussions vain, Our modern Babel strives, : :i ; Oh ! speak of heavenly things agam, Of old-time hallow'd lives 1 :i .'■A "'A On An Ai Joseph. of old, ' • ' forth his rays, ant gold r other days 1 soul 1 le flame - ?euly goal — raith proclaim I B dare own, ancient glow, irith pride are shown, 5 here below I I lins leby, , , •> b retains it cannot die t , j- ssions vain, 'ives, • ■■" '«;' I things agam, >; lives! , -\k XXI. THE SNAKE. JIHAT long caravan through the desert plods on, All Heaven looking down with a wond'ring delight ? One would say 'twas a beam o'er the bleak sands that shone, — And the hosts of the Angels are round it in might ! An old man, a young woman, a delicate child, So fair that it charms one to look on His face ; And Eastern women, whose eyes, dark and wild. Are veil'd by their tears with a sorrowful grace ! And children, with glad, sun-brown'd faces, are there, Unshadow'd by grief, or by life's chilling fears ; They chase the bright butterflies, pluck flow'rets rare. And sport as though earth had nor sorrows, nor tears. 1:1 *[ -f-. ■^} 166 Legends of St. Joseph. Then round the fair Infant they come iA their glee, To offer Him flowers, the fairest of all, Their frolicRorae play, all so blithesome and free, RonsinR flocks of bright birdlings, with loud laugh and call. n. And the women all said, in their sadness of heart : " Ah ! must ye, then, leave ub, in far climes to roam ? Though the great God of Israel bids ye depart, O Mary and Joseph, again will ye come ? "That thrice-holy God whom to us ye made known, Doth punish us now, on this sorrowful day ; Ah 1 it may be that too little kindness we've shown, That we did not do more to make happy your stay ! " But she who by Mary s sweet name they address'd, Look'd upward and pointed to Heaven's blue dome, And said, in a voice like soft winds from the west,— " We shall meet once again in our only true home!" Ii Joseph. come iA their glee, •est of oil, ;he8omc and free, llings, with loud laagh Leqends of St. Joseph. 167 ir sadness of heart : e UB, in far climes to il bids ye depart, will ye come ? to us ye made known, I sorrowful day ; kindness we've shown, ! to make happy your name they address'd, i to Heaven's blue dome, winds from the west, — I in our only true home!" But hark I what loud cries Are heard close at hand, That, in wildest surprise, Tlic poor mothers all stand ? With the echoes' lament And the wind's hollow moan, The sad cry, now blent, O'er the desert is sent In a faint dying groan ! To their woll-beloved children the mothers all run, A heart-rending sight meets their fear-stricken eyes: All the late-smiling little ones, terrified, shmi A playmate, who, pale and inanimate lies I Round his head a black snake is seen coil'd, like a ring ;^ Its poison has blighted the child's smiling bloom 1 Like the bird by the fatal dart struck, on the wing, nic sweet victim Ues as though cold in the tomb I U his hands he still holds the bright garlands he twined, The flo\f ers yet fresh in their beauty and grace ; Like the children the Indians with floral wreaths bhid Ere they're laid in the serial tomb of their race. ■i[l Ml 168 Leqbndb op St. Joseph. Hcart-rciiding tho Hccno i«. . . • »ut Mnry Ih there 1 She whispers a word to the ChiUl iit her knee ; Ami the Hwect Jesus, sinihnK, advances to where Tlie dead infant lies-si«ht of sorrow to see ! The snake feels His presence, and quickly unwinds His murderous folds from the fair drooping head ; The Master of Nature uU plainly he finds In the Child who approaches to raise np tho dead. " reptile 1 " said Jesus, " who causcst such woe, Say, who hath cmpower'd thee this infant to kill? For this deed thou shalt die, that thou thereby may'st know The justice and power of the Almighty Will I " O wonder !— tho vile reptile rolls on tho ground, And dies, on the instant, in agonized pain,— And the child I— on his cheek are the rose-tints soon found ! He opens his eyes, and is smiling agaip I And kneeling before the Child Jesus, he speaks, The spirit of prophecy guiding his voice :— Joseph. . But Mary is there ! MM ivt litT knco ; iilvancoH to where f sorrow to see ! nd quickly unwinds I! fair drooping lieiul ; ily he finds a to raise np the dead. causcat such woe, liee this infant to kill ? iiat thou thereby may'st e Almighty Will ! " oils on the ground, 1 agonized poin, — k are the rose-tints soon miling agaiu I d Jesus, he speaks, ling his voice : — Legends of St. Johepii. 169 " Prals'd and honor'd be Thou whom the weary sonl seeks, — Thou judgest the guilty, makest sad ones rejoice ! 'The snake's deadly sting Thou hust heal'd on this day, But one day Thou shalt save from a more cruel doom The condemn'd race of man, in a wonderful way. And raise all the dead from the sleep of the tombP X.i *: ■■ 15 ii 1 I XXII. THE PANTHER. • [HE scene of the favor here to be related, and the place where it was asked, are very far apart. The prayer was offered up in France, and— in Cochin China the favor was obtained. But what are thousands of leaguec to the Saints? Om' great St. Joseph acted, in this case, very promptly— with greater de- spatch thaii even the telegraph operator. It is that there is no telegraphy Uke prayer, which ascends in a moment from earth to heaven, and bringf down celestial graces. Here is the story:-- It was during the last expedition to Cochin China ; a body ot French troops lay encamped on the outskirts of a forest, and for some days men, having rashly ventured too far, had dis- I- Legends of St. Joseph. 171 PANTHER. of the favor here to be and the place where it Lcd, are very far apart, ayer was offered up in >chin China the favor was ,t are thousands of leaguec u' great St. Joseph acted, •romptl}' — with greater de- he telegraph operator. It lO telegraphy like prayer, a moment from earth to rf down celestial graces. e last expedition to Cochin French troops lay encamped a forest, and for some days Y ventured too far, had dis- appeared. The footprints of a wild beast had been seen iu the vicinity of the camp, and it was suspected that the unfortunate men had been devomed. A courageous young soldier resolved to prevent the recurrence of such accidents, and went to ask leave of his com- manding officer to go into the forest and beat up the enemy's quarters. The officer tried to convince him of the danger attending such an enterprise; but aU in vain— the young man still persisted in his design. Permission was at last given him, on condition that he brought some twenty men with him. But so great was the danger that it was impossible to find the twenty men required. Our brave* soldier, no wise disheartened, returns to the charge, and prevails on his commander to let him go with six men only. It was not easy even to find six men for an adventure so perilous. Our young man uses some address : he goes privately and speaks to those whom he knows to be the bravest, animates their oourf^e, makes them ashamed r^ 172 Legends op St. Joseph. r to refuse, and so obtains the consent of each individually ; the requisite number is com- pleted, and the little band sets out on its march. Guided by the traces of the animal, they at length reach a part of the forest which they suppose to be near his lair : .hey tie be- tween two trees a sheep, which they had brought for the purpose, and retire some dis- tance. There our huntsmen post themselves in ambush, as best they may; but some of them being still a little fearful, they allow their leader to take the most advantageous position, and place himself some paces in ad- vance. - They wait thus, their eyes fixed on the mark, trying to place their muskets in the proper direction ; for the night is falling, and they will probably have to fire through the darkness. Night closes in, and yet they hear no noise. All at once comes a sound: it would seem to be that of an animal bounding: the noise increases, approaches the spot where the , bait had been placed ; nothing more was heard '^1 '5 4 Legends op St. Joseph. 173 Joseph. e consent of eacb number is corn- el sets out on its ces of the animal, of the forest which is lair : .hey tie be- ,, which they had tid retire some dis- en post themselves may; but some of fearful, they allow most advantageous If some paces in ad- eyes fixed on the leir muskets in the night is falling, and to fire through the n, and yet they hear les a sound : it would nimal bounding : the es the spot where the thing more was heard except a faint bleating, indicating that the fierce beast must have reached its victim. The young man instantly discharges his mus- ket, with steady aim : the others fire after him, but with less caution, and less confidence. The shots are followed by a profound stillness. Our huntsmen remain some time motionless, listening attentively, but they hear no further noise. They then advance cautiously, through the gloom, in the direction of the bait, and find the sheep stretched Ufeless on the giound, torn by the claws and teeth of the ferocious animal ; and as the night is dark, they cannot possibly continue their search. They return, therefore, to the camp, knowing only that the animal had fled, abandoning his prey, but ignorant whether he was wounded or merely frightened by the shots. Next morning, when it was light, they resumed their search, and at last discovered, in a thick brake, the body of an enormous panther. The beast, mortally wounded, had dragged himself to this brake, and there expired. v 174: Legends of St. Joseph. I' P ■3 I At this sight, the astonishment of the hunt- ers was not less thon their joy. The panther ^as wounded in the shoulder; that is to say, in the unly spot where the wound could be mortal. Who had fired that marvellous shot ? Of that there could be no doubt! It was, evidently, the leader of the band, who, posted in advance of the others, had alone fired with a sure hand and a steady aim. But how did it happen that, dark as the night was, he had just struck the vulnerable point? This was a mystery, and his comrades kept talking of a shot so remarkable. The you .g man himself thought nothing more about it. When, on their return to the camp, they told the story, their comrades were amazed; but finally aU was attributed to chance. A very convenient explanation, to which there is only one objec- tion, viz., that there is no sense in it, and that it explains nothing whatever ! We are quite sure that many a soldier, remembering the lessons of a Christian mother, referred the honor of this marvellous shot where it was Joseph. ament of the hunt- joy. The panther ier ; that is to say, te wound could be it marvellous shot? lo doubt 1 It was, ) band, who, posted lad alone fired with aim. But how did e night was, he had point? This was a 3S kept talking of a you ig man himself bout it. When, on they told the story, azed ; but finally all A very convenient re is only one objec- ) sense in it, and that ever! We are quite er, remembering the mother, referred the IS shot where it was Leoends op St. Joseph. 176 due, and gave thanks to Providence : of that number must have been our young hero. In after days he well knew who to thank : but let us not anticipate the sequel of our narrative. The expedition over, the young soldier re- turned to France ; he had a mother and sis- ter at home, and hastened to pay them a visit. After the first heart-warm greetings, the first thing he did was to relate his adven- ture ; it was listened to with all the interest that a mother and sister would naturally take in such a recital. When he spoke of his wonderful shot and the general surprise it .had excited, an idea appeared suddenly to strike his mother, and she quickly asked when the occurrence took place : the young man mentioned the exact time. " That's it," cried the mother ; " that's just it ! It was our good Ht. Joseph did that, and no other : let us thank him together." And as the astonished face of the young man seemed to ask for an explanation, his mother hastened to give it. 1 1 9 -a r ^6 Leoends of St. Joseph. " It was a long time, my dear son, since I had heard anything of you," said she, " and I was very uneasy ; so I went, one day, with vour sister, to the altar of our good St. Jo- seph, and we got a taper burned before his venerated statue, begging of him to watch over you and bring you home to us safe and sound. Judge now whether our prayer was heard and was of use to you : it was the very night after we had done this (it might have been at the very moment, on account of the difference in time between Cochin China and France) that your courage and devotion brought you into such great danger, from which you had such a wonderful escape! There is no doubt about it: it was St. Jo- seph himself, to whom we had been praying, and, perhaps, were praying then, that di- rected the shot; it was by his all-powerful protection that your ball went straight to its mark, through the darkness, and killed that frightful panther!" : ■ ' i-'««M^m«« The fact was too evident to faith-illumined eye it; hai mc die gri ev( pr Joseph. Legends op St.. Joseph. 177 y dear son, since I u," said she, "and «rent, one day, with )f our good St. Jo- burned before his of him to watch Lome to us safe and lier our prayer was ou : it was the very this (it might have mt, on account of bween Cochin China >urage and devotion great danger, from wonderful escape ! t it: it was St. Jo- 3 had been praying, ying then, that di- by his all-powerful I went straight to its less, and killed that ent to faith-illumined eyes for the young man to think of disputing it ; but he had no wish to do so, and he hastened to join his thanks to those of his mother and sister. Many and many a time did that happy family repeat, with love and gratitude, the name of St. Joseph, who was ever after considered its powerful and kind protector. ,,; iQjCPjj r^ j— y-.*j>.iM-ifw^ ^M " XXIII. THE UBSULINES OF QUEBEC (A PAOB raOM TIIEIB HIBTOBY.) , VOW made to St. Joseph having obtained for our Monastery its dear and holy foundress, it was very natural that from the estab- lishment of that house St. Joseph should be regarded as its first and principal guardian. Thenceforward, in every class-room, over all the principal dooi-s, was placed an image of that good Father who, from the highest heavens, protects his children ; the cross of the old steeple* bore on high the praise of his venerated name, whilst his tall, majestic * It was in 1830 that., to make room for the erection of St. Ureuia'8 clasB-rooms, it was found necessiny to take down this old steeple, which had given, for more than one hundred and ninety years so monastic an air to St. Augus- tine's wing. Legends of St. Joseph. 179 OF QUEBEC. I HIBTOBY.) , St. Joseph having our Monastery its y foundress, it was hat from the estab- it. Joseph should be rincipal guardian, ry class-room, over ras placed an image lo, from the highest ildren; the cross of I high the praise of list his tall, majestic ce room for the erection of B found nccessaiy to take id given, for more than one onaatic an air to St. Augoa- figure, above the portal, kept watch over the lioly place. But go back in thought, dear readers, to the interior of the cloister, on the day (the 19th of March)'on which tL^i church (ind the altar were adorned with their richest ornaments in honor of their holy patron. Almost the whole day is spent before his iiltiirs ; nuns and pupils are tendering to St. Joseph the homage of their gratitude for the past, of their love for the present, of their hopes and wishes for the future. Is it not true that his face then appears still more radiant? for/ie loves to be charged with com- missions and requests for the sweet and Divine Child whom he holds in his arms. .' » When that day of grace is drawing to a close, the religious family assembles anew to salute its glorious protector. They repair to the places over which St. Joseph has watched all the year long. Instead of the bonfires of former times, the pictures and statues of the beloved patron are surrounded with lights and flowers. Here, it is St. Joseph of money. *art#WV»««M«9SW5*vrt»*. 180 Legends of St. Joseph. who guards the stores and keeps away rob- bers; at the I. |) of the great staircase lead- ing to the granary is St. Joseph of wheat, charged with providing his children with their daily bread ; in the kitchen, it is St. Joseph of tvork, blessing, for two hundred years, the humble labors of the servants of the Lord, and thence extending his care over the de- tails of the out-door economy. But let us pause before the infirmary to salute with a 8tiU sweeter song him who guards its en- trance ; St. Joseph reserves his most gracious smile for us 'there, pledging hijpself to con- sole us in sickness and to make our death joyful. Here we are now in the holy place. Let US gather round the Uttle altar where he guards the reUcs of our mothers with the same fideUty as he guarded their work. This greeting is the last, as it is the sweetest to the heart. What a charm there is in those hymns whose fervor and devotion are their oliief harmony, and which the Angels, doubt- lic.fitjftmiiffiwMfAiMe-'tfwa Joseph. [ keeps away rob- eat staircase lead- Joseph of wheal, children with their m, it is St. Joseph hundred years, the vants of the Lord, care over the de- nomy. But let us :y to salute with a irho guards its en- )s his most gracious ing hijjQself to con- to make our death he holy place. Let ttle altar where he T mothers with the ed their work. This it is the sweetest to rm there is in those d devotion are their h the Angels, doubt- Leoends of St. Joseph. 181 less, haste to gather up to bear them to him who shares their functions as guardian and gu'de. The great festival being over, other minor ones come in their turn to keep up fiUal piety towards the holy spouse of Mary Immacu- late, homage is still paid him in prose and in verse,* and, on all occasions, each one knows who to apply to, in order to have their peti- tions laid kt the feet of the Eternal. But we must not leave this subject without speaking of the "Treasury of St. Joseph." Our readers may say: "And what treasury is that? Is it a trifling bauble in the number of visible things?" Yes, truly, that tremury of St. Joseph's is quite visible, especially to those who have the consolation of drawing from it. Let us explain. About the time of the profession of the first novices, the Demoiselles Barr6, de Bou- logne, de Lauzon, and Bourdon, Mother Incar- nation, wishing to secvire the temporal, or, in • See pjvge 184. 16 182 Legends of St. Joseph. '4 I &■ i i; the langiiage of our age, the maien^'' interests of the Monastery, conceived the idc.«. of depos- iting in a cash-box. apart from the other money of the house, the portiou^ of the rehgious, as well as the payment for board. This wise forethought of our Mother was so blessed by God that the cash-box never failed to provide the community witli something for the poor, notwithstanding all the mischuues and re- verses of two hundred years. Well, dear vender, the cash-box of bene- diction still eri 48, and therein is now placed that portion of the annual revenue that may be di-^posed of on bd.alf of others. Accord- ing to our au.ak, this treasury has never failed for any g-od work ; but we ought not to be surpri-oa at this, since wo know that it waP to Si. Joseph our venerable Mother con- fidodthekey. There yet remains to be noticed the ancient niche in the garden, to which some of our readers have made many a pilgrimage of love. There it is that St. Joseph watches ever his f fc,iia**«^**«*'«*^***^' ■"' "^ Joseph. e maU'.in'! interests i the idea, of depos- om the other money of the religious, as board. This wise r was so blessed by rer failed to provide ething for the poor, misch.uufls and re- ars. I cash-box of bene- lierein is now placed al revenue that may [ of others. Accord- treasury has never ; but we ought not to nee wo know that it enerable Mother con- be noticed the ancient ) which some of our y a pilgrimage of love, ieph watches ever his a»«M*B»d*a**«*'»"**^^' IMAGE EVALUATION TEST TARGET (MT-3) 1.0 I.I 1^128 |2.5 :^ 1^ 12.0 m 1.25 |||.4 1.6 ■• 6" ► Hiotographic Sciences Corporation y ^^ ^' 23 WEST MAIN STREET WEBSTER, N.Y. 14580 (716)872-4503 i,.'; %"' . :::nwi~ffr--^r'^'^'^<^^^^-y''''!sstimi:tr' &'<< ^ CIHM/ICMH Microfiche Series. CIHM/ICMH Collection de microfiches. Canadian Institute for Historical IVIicroreproductions / Institut Canadian de microreproductions historiques . r«!»sa&as»s sm^''m&»^}^^tfM«a«MMB(MWil XXV. THE MYSTERIOUS HOSTS. lATHEE Jerome of Pistoia, a Oa- puohin, and Missionary ApostoUo, was sent one day by the Sove- reign Pontiff to Venice, where he was to embark for Oandia, with a comp«.- ion of his own order. Jonmeying on foot. Uke ihe Apostles, the two Fathers, wandenng at the close of day. lost their way. Having walked on for some time without foidrng jt again, they were obliged to ^^V,Jot ih'l were e^austed with hunger and fatjg^. Ealling on their knees, invoking Jesus. Mary, and Joseph, the August Three, who are ever the protectors of traveUers, ha^ known their needs and experienced their dangers. Prayer always brings happiness, and the two rehgious soon found that tiieirs was Legends of St. Joseph. 187 J. lOUS HOSTS. me of Pistoia, a Oa- Missionary Apostolic, ne day by the Sove- iff to Venice, where 1 3andia, with a compaa- Jonmeying on foot, 5WO Fathers, wandering )st their way. Having time without finding it iged to stop, for they hunger and fatigue. B, invoking Jesus, Mary, ist Three, who are ever ayellers, having known ienced their dangers, ngs happiness, and the found that theirs was heard, for they aU at once perceived a hght at a Uttle distance. They arrived at a smaU house inhabited by a family of three persons, -an elderly man, a young woman, and a chad All in the house was so exquisitely neat and clean that it did one good to see it ; and although the tools hung on the wall mdi- cated the dwelling of a mechanic, there was something refined and distinguished, although extremely simple, in the manners and appear- ance of the head of the family. The features of the young woman were wonderfuUy sweet and fair to look upon ; her voice was soft and melodious, and her mien was characterized by a mixture of candor, grace, and dignity. As for the chUd asleep in the cradle, one would have taken him for the heir of a throne. The traveUers were received with such kind hos- pitaUty that their hearts were filled with the Uveliest gratitude. A simple but plentiful meal was served to them; and, after return- ing thanks to Heaven, they slept a refreshmg deep, of which they were much in need. ii|WHHIII»«l'M'i»««W«HII«l' 188 Lbqbnds of St. Joseth. Awaking next morning at the dawn of day, animated with the desire of renewing their thanks to their charitable entertainers, they were surprised to find themselves in the open fields, and to see no trace of the house wherein they had spent the night. They then perceived that the mysterious hosts whose hospitality they had received, were no other than the Holy Family itself. Humbling them- selves profoundly, and admiring the divine goodness, they chanted a hymn of thanksgiv- ing, and went on then- way rejoicing, con- tinually blessing the names of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. > St. Joseth. ning at the dawn of he desire of renewing charitable entertainers, 3 find themselves in the e no trace of the house it the night. They then aysterious hosts whose received, were no other itself. Humbling them- id admiring the divine d a hymn of thanksgiv- leu- way rejoicing, con- names of Jesus, Mary, XXVI. AN EXTRAORDINARY VOCATION. IMONGST the numerous monuments that strike the eye of the traveller who visits Montreal for the first time, there exists one which is at once remarkable for its site and its vast pro- portions. This magnificent establishment, popularly known as the Hotel Dieu, is seated on the slope of Mount Eoyal, and commands a view of the whole city. It is inhabited by a congregation of virgins, much devoted to the glorious Patriarch : hence the name of "Hos- pital Nuns of St. Joseph," which they took at the very beginning of their Institute. The reader must, however, bear in mind that this house was originally founded in the very heart jrfMIMiyMjM'WlWltW Leobnbs of St. Joseph. of the city, close by the ancient church of Notre Dame. There it was that, for over two centuries, the generous Daughters of St. JoHeph carried on their work of charity and devotion. There, too, occurred the fact wo are about to relate. We will give it as it is related in the history of this institution. The record states that at the time when the Reverend Mother C^loron directed the house of the Hospital Nuns of St. Joseph, in Mon- treal, the Lord conducted to His Sanctuary, by most marvellous ways, a young American Pro- testant. Brought up in the bosom of heresy, and converted to CathoUcity, she revived in that house the edifying example and the apos- tolic zeal formerly admired in Sister^ilver. We speak of Miss Allen, daughter of the American officer, Ethan Allen, born in the State of Ver- mont. Her mother, Fran^oise Montr^sor, hav- ing lost her heroic husband when her daughter ^as still very young, had married, as her second husband, Dr. Penniman., Miss Allen, endowed with a precocious and penetratmg «'!3 Jt. Joseph. > be ancient church of was that, for over two )aughter8 of St. Joseph charity and tlevotion. 3 fact wo are abont to as it is related in the n. ,t at the time when the ■on directed the house of St. Joseph, in Mon- jd to His Sanctuary, by a young American Pro- 1 the bosom of heresy, loUcity, she revived in 5 example and the apos- iredinSister^ilver. We lughter of the American orn in the State of Ver- •an§oise Montr^sor, hav- band when her daughter , had married, as her Penniman. , Miss Allen, 30ciou8 and penetrating Lboends of St. JosRpn. 191 mind, early applied herself to reading. But having only under her hand romances, or works written by Deists, she became an un- believer, even before knowing religion. Never- theless, the natural rectitude of her judgment made her suspect that the truth could not be found in such works, and she often had con- ferences with her mother, trying to discern the true from the false. Having heard people speak of Catholics, who were described to her in the most unfavorable colors, she wished to make a journey to Montreal, to see for herself whethov wlia,t wus said of them was time. She foresaw that her step-father, who was tenderly attached to her, would hardly consent to her going, in the fear that she might embrace the Catholic religion. Without disclosing, then, the real motive of her journey, she gave as a reason her wish to learn the French language, and Dr. Penniman yielded to her entreaties. Nevertheless, before her departure, her parents insisted that she should receive baptism. She long resisted 'i ttmlitmi 192 Leoends op St. Joseph. their will ; at length, to please her mother, she complied with their wishes. Being then an unbeliever, she did nothing but laugh during the ceremony, for which reason the Presby- tevian minister. Mr. Barber, could not help giving her a severe reprimand. She was then about twenty-one. In Montreal, she presented herself at tho boarding-school of the Sisters of the Congre- gation of Our Lady; and whatever inconve- nience there might have been in admitting a young Protestant into that house, they wil- lingly received her, hoping that while learning the French tongue, she would gain the still more precious knowledge of the true faith. She was soon remarked for a fixed adherence to her own opinions. It was only on the most indisputable proof that she adopted the views of others, and never concealed from her teach- ers her incredulity in matters of religion. One day, one of the Sisters, by an impulse which must be attributed to Divine inspira- tion, asked Miss Allen if she would not take '. Joseph. ease her mother, she 168. Being then an ng but laugh during reason the Presby- rber, could not help nand. She was then jented herself at tho Jisters of the Oongre- nd whatever inconve- 9 been in admitting a that house, they wil- ing that while learning I would gain the still Ige of the true faith. I for a fixed adherence t was only on the most she adopted the views icealed from her teach- latters of religion. Sisters, by an impulse ited to Divine inspira- if she would not take Legends of St. Joseph. 193 to the altar where the Blessed Sacrament re- posed, a vase of flowers which had been given her : at the same time, she recommended her to adore Our Lord on entering the sanctuary. The young lady went off laughing, resolved to do nothing of the kind. Having reached the railing, she opens the door, and suddenly feels herself stopped, and without power tp go far- ther. Surprised at an obstruction so extra- ordinary, she makes three several attempts to go on; at length, struck and overcome, she falls on her knees, and, in the sincerity of her .heart, adores Jesus Christ, of whose presence she is that very moment convinced. She immediately retires to the lower end of the church, where, bursting into tears, she says : "After such a miracle, I must give myself up to my Saviour." Still, she said nothing to her teachers of what had occurred ; only, she asked to be in- structed, and soon after consented to go to confession. When srfficiently instructed, she made her solemn abjuration, and was baptised 17 .1^' 194 Legends of St. Joseph. by Mr. Le Saulnier, at that time Vicar of Montreal, her former baptism having been null by reason of the want of consent on her part. Finally, she made her first communion, and resolved, from that moment, to embrace the rehgious life. Mr. and Mrs. Penniman, informed of the ^ change, arrived in Montreal, very much dis- pleased, and took their daughter home. There she sp^nt six months, during which she had much to suffer, especially fi'om her stepfather, who was bitterly opposed to the CathoUc re- ligion. Lent being come, she rigorously ob- served the fast and abstmence, and carried her austerities so far that she injured her health, naturally very deUcate. Disregarding . all family ties, she declared to her parents that she would embrace the religious life, and had made her final decision. Her mother, who loved her tenderly, and desired only her daughter's happiness, at length gave her con- sent, and accompanied her to Montreal in the following Spring. OF St. Joseph. Legends of St. Joseph. 195 )r, at that time Vicar of ler baptism having been he want of consent on her made her first communion, that moment, to embrace 'enniman, informed of the Montreal, very much dis- heir daughter home. There iths, during which she had )ecially from her stepfather, apposed to the Catholic re- ig come, she rigorously ob- ,nd abstinence, and carried ) far that she injured her very delicate. Disregarding he declared to her parents nbrace the religious life, and Inal decision. Her mother, nderly, and desired only her oess, at length gave her con- anied her to Montreal in the As yet. Miss Allen thought of no community in particular, her only desire being to conse- crate herself to God by a religious life. With a view to know her vocation, she visited the churches of Ville-Marie, and amongst others that of the Hotel Dieu. Scarcely had she cast her eyes on the picture over the high altar, representing the Holy Family, and fixed them on the face of St. Joseph, than she cried aloud to her mother : "That is just his portrait. You see, my dear mother, St. Joseph wants me here. He it was who saved my hfe, by delivering, me from the monster that was going to devour me. s.WWj ,i»v»i- She then reminded her mother of a mem- orable fact that had taken place when she was about twelve years old. Walking on the banks of a river, and turning her attention to the water, which was in violent motion, she saw coming up out of it a huge animal of monstrous form, who, coming towards her, made her terribly afraid. What increase^ I m ini Mi ll n' w iT HW"^ 196 Legends op St. Joseph. her terror was that it seemed as though she could not take her eyes from off this monster, and could not make even the slightest at- tempt to fly. In this fearful emergency, she thought she perceived near her a bald old man, clad in a brown cloak, and with a staff in his hand, who took her by the arm and enabled her to move, saying: "Little girl, what dost thou here? Fly." Wliich she quickly did. When a little way off, she turned to look at the old man, but there was nothing to be seen. As soon, as she reached home, her mother, see- ing her so scared and bewildered, understood that something unusual had occurred to her. The child related, as well as she could, tjxe cause of her fright, and the assistance she had received from the unknown old man. Her mother immediately sent a servant in search of the old man, in order to testify her gratitude. After a most diligent search, no traces of him being found, no one ever knew what had become of him. T. Joseph. emed as though she rom off this monster, ren the slightest at- incy, she thought she Id old man, clad in a a staff in his hand, n and enabled her to girl, -what dost thou le quickly did. When led to look at the old hing to be seen. As Dme, her mother, see- )ewildered, understood [ had occurred to her. veil as she could, t^e ad the assistance she ) unknown old man. ely sent a servant in in order to testify her )st diligent search, no and, no one ever kne'W m. Lkqends op St. Joseph. 197 Recognizing, then, in the features of St. Joseph, in the picture of the Holy Family, the face of that old man, to whom she owed her Ufe, Miss Allen felt herself more confirmed than ever in her wish to embrace the reli- gious Ufe, and was convinced that she was to become a daughter of St. Joseph. It matters little whether that monster and that old man showed themselves to her in a real and cor- poral manner, or whether that sight was but an impression made on her mind. In what- ever way it had occurred. Miss Allen re- mained convinced that the old man had pre- served her from death, and the remembrance of his features was so stamped on her mind, that, as we have said, thirteen years after, when she cast her eyes upon the picture in the Hotel Dieu, she was struch with the iden- tity of that face and that costume, and could not help expressing her surprise aloud. That animal, whose approach she could not fly, and who was ready to devour her, was, doubtless, a figure of the still more cruel monster of 198 liEOifflM o> St. Jostoh. heresy .nd «n^«^^-\St. Joseph InsUtute OS a safe refuge. ' Some months later, Miss Allen entered the no^Tate of the daughters of 8t Jos^h rai her death, ..hich took place u. the elev Lh year after her ehtering into rdag.on,»h, justifted, by her zeal, her 'ur poor Uttle cabin-boy. irstood that St. Joseph is To-morrow let us all go tor a golden heart in the ew." •mmander," broke in the lUow us, we will all oon- irpose. What say you, Lboends of St. Joseph. 205 ••Well, as you all wish it, let us offer the heart together 1 I will see to the rest." (The rest was a pair of magnificent chandeUers for St. Joseph's altar, in the church of ). " Come, boys, St. Joseph for ever ! " " St. Joseph for ever !— Long live the com- mander!" shouted the three hundred men who formed the crew of the frigate. 18 __^'r^^ i*i»** XXVIII. TEE PEARL LOST AND FOUND. IHE weather has been fine during the Feast of the Azymes, which has just taken place. The fami- lies of pilgrims are leaving Jeru- salem, each one hastening to take their home- ward way. On the road to GaUlee there is a crowd of people, like an army compressed into a mountain gorge. These are the people from the seashore, and the banks of the Jor- dan, and from Nairn, and Oana, and Capha^ naum, who, dwelling in the same district, group together for the homeward journey. If the night must be passed on the road, if any unlooked-for occurrence takes place, it will be more convenient for all to travel in company. Leoendb of St. Jobbph. 207 nn. ST AND FOUND. [. has been fine during of the Azymes, which jiken place. The fami- grims are leaving Jeru- tiing to take their home- )ad to Galilee there is a e an army compressed I. These are the people id the banks of the Jor- , and Oana, and Caphaj> ^ in the same district, the homeward journey. B passed on the road, if scurrence takes place, it aient for all to travel in The beauty of the spring was already abroad on the land; the fig-tree was in bud and blossom; almond and date-trees flour- ifllied here.and there; the scent of rosemary was wafted on the air, and the warbling of birds was heard on every side. And man, too, is changed in the spring-time ; his heart seems more pious, more disposed to the love of God. As far as the eye can reach that fair AprU day, groups are to be seen journeying along, full of gaiety and glee. Of a suddeu the old men commence aloud: "Alleluia! blessed be Thou, O God of Abraham 1" Farther on, maid and matron repeat the prayer, word by word, in their hearts, and, although thoughts vary according to the divei-sity of charac- ters, nevertheless, woman, notwithstanding her weakness, is more apt to praise God, for she loves more. Men of mature age talk over the gossip of the day, animadvert on their governor, the rapacious Roman, and curse those uninvited guests. The young men ap- 208 Legends of St. Joseph. plaud, and, with ligbt hearts, sing and chat about the young girls. The children, oh ! the children laugh merrily, and skim around like swallows. Here and there the asses under their charge bray in the meadows, as if m answer. \ So the tedium of the road is beguiled: a league, two leagues, are soon passed. By nightfall they have journeyed several leagues. A grove of olive-trees appears just in time to give a shelter for the night; water is not wantmg, for a fresh, limpid stream winds along tLe outskirt of the wood. The tribe at length pitches its tents. Each famUy busies itself preparing the evening meal. Wallets are emptied of their remain- ing contents ; some sUces of cooked lamb and bread, some dried fish— more than enough for. the simple meal. The people are not hard to please ; at home or abroad, they are con- tent with Uttle. Some vegetables, a fig or two, a vurtcous companion— that is quite enough for a journey. Legends of St. Joseph, 209 OP St. Joseph. ght hearts, sing and chat :1s. The children, oh ! the rily, and skim around like nd there the asses under in the meadows, as if in of the road is beguiled: a es, are soon passed. By ) journeyed several leagues, •ees appears just in time to r the night; water is not resh, limpid stream winds b of the wood. igth pitches its tents. Each self preparing the evening re emptied of their remain- le slices of cooked lamb and I fish— more than enough for The people are not hard me or abroad, they are con- Some vegetables, a fig or companion— that is quite imey. The young people run rigVi and left, some near, some far, to fetch water and wood ; some go to the neighboring cottages to seek salt and vessels, and the women are all at work preparing the meal. People there- abouts are very hospitable ; flocks are graz- ing aU around, and the children jump with joy around the camp-fires, for they are sure of having milk. MeanwhUe, night approaches and sUence begins to prevail ; the weary birds drop into their nests, and. nature reposes in twilight calm. n. Here and there a star appeared, and soon the calm, azure vault was full of gUttering Ughts. like a shoal of little fish, with golden scales, bathing in the cahu. Umpid ether The frugal supper was soon ended; night spread its gloomy curtain over all; the rus- thng of the trees and the hum of human voices ascend together in prayer to Him who in the inaccessible heights of His eternal 210 Legends of St. Jo8bpi=i. dwelUng-place, worketh so many marvels. He seems to praise Himself in His works before our world, that men may love and revere Him. After the moon, then at the full, had set, the night was dark and still, deliciously mild . and balmy, disposing to sleep. And the pil- giims slept, although here and there might still be heard, at times, some sighs of sorrow, bome watchers there were, who, considering face to face the ineffable mysteries, held com- munion with the unseen world beneath that dazzling dome of gold and jewels. Oh! the child, by his faith; the virgin, by her love; the old man, by his hope, tend unceasingly towards their Father, and raise their weeping eyes to heaven ; sleep does not so soon weigh down their eyelids. Suddenly a noise resounds through the* wood ; a wailing voice and a clapping of hands are confusedly heard. Louder and more dis- tinctly comes the sound to the ear, and soon it awakens all the echoes of the hills. Those '«''»fi«r 8t. Josbpf.. a so many marvels, limself in His works b men may love and a at the full, had set, d still, deliciously mild 3 sleep. And the pil- here and there might , some sighs of sorrow, were, who, considering lie mysteries, held com- len world beneath that and jewels. Oh ! the le virgin, by her love ; hope, tend unceasingly and raise their weeping does not so soon weigh resounds through the ' and a clapping of hands Louder and more dis- nd to the ear, and soon loes of the hills. Those Legends of St. Joseph. 211 who are still awake first raise their heads and listen : they are seeking some one who is lost ; the sweet accents of a touchingly mournful voice are heard unceasingly. " It is our Mary," said the Nazarenes, "our holy, our beloved sister, Mary. Alasl it is too true ; her Child has not once been seen since the journey began. Poor Mary! how acute must be her sufferings ! " And they all hasten towards her, through the thickly-falling dew. At the same time the name of Jesus, " O Jesus ! Jesus ! " is everywhere heard, and all over the so-lately slumbering camp that sweet name is being repeated. The entire tribe is in motion ; the heaviest sleepers waking with a start, are, in their turn, deeply touched by the misfortune of their neighbor. The old men, as usual, indulge in recollection. "Yea, blessed," they say, "were that family —Joseph, Mary, and the Child Jesus! This triple branch of the house of David flourished visibly before our eyes, smelling sweetly before ai2 Legends of St. Joseph. the Lord. And Jehovah is their protector. Our eyes liave seen miracles. And do not the prophecies say that in Bethlehem was to be bom that herald, that Messiah of God, for His people Israel? And was not Jesus bom in Bethlehem ? And that beautiful star that was seen above His crib! And those wise men, those kings from far countries! Was ever such sweetness seen in a child's eyes as there is in those of Jesus ? And His face, why it is like unto that of a holy prophet! Tmly, in all this God conceals something extraordinary. As to Joseph, ye know he is our old friend; but this Mary, she truly looks a queen." A strong, but broken voice now re-echoes through the wood. It is undoubtedly Joseph, worn out with fatigue, caUing to his spouse, and advising her to seek repose. Very soon the noise of the sdarch dies away, and aU is again silent. Far away from the sleeping crowd might be heard the voice of mourning, and words of consolation. "Peace be with thee, Mary!" one was heaid ■MMH 4 r. Joseph. li is their protector, sles. And do not the Jethlehem was to be assiah of God, for His ts not Jesus bom in )eautiful star that was And those wise men, jountri^s! Was ever ft child's eyes as there jid His face, why it is y prophet ! Ti-uly, in [nething extraordinary. he is our old friend; r looks a queen." a voice now re-echoes is undoubtedly Joseph, calling to his spouse, jek repose. Very soon h dies away, and all is ray from the sleeping the voice of mourning, on. >, Mary I" one was heard Legends of St. iTosEPH. 218 to say. "Wherefore dost thou weep thus? No harm hath befallen, nor can befall, the Child. The hairs of our heads are numbered, how much His steps, which Angels guard. If I am His guardian, and thou His mother, it is only by a special favor of the Almighty. Ta the' end that His holy wiU may be done, He is pleased to make us the servants of His Son. What harm hath Herod,*with aU his power, been able to do Him? Cahn thy fears, then, young and too tender mother ! The Child cannot be far off. Perchance, He may be en- joying His wonted delight in solitary prayer, somewhere in the desert. To-morrow thou wilt forget what hath to-day caused thee so much suffering, and we shall easily find Him, perhaps even in the city." The counsels of Joseph were wise ; but where is the mother that can overcome her emo- tions?— whose heart does not sink within her at the bare possibiUty of danger to her child? Mary, too, must have her disquietude; she must be accustomed to the trials and troubles -gj! ;|.>te*S.-iAf^ BH 214 Legends of St. Joseph. of a mother. It may be that even now a sad foreboding strikes her soul from afar, warning her of what she is one day to endure. And she wept burning tears. AU heaven compassionated her sorrow The Archangels of the heavenly court were sent to wait upon then- immaculate Queen. With their own hands they supported the couch on which her head rested. They gently closed her moistened eyeUds, and soothed her to sleep. That ra- diant, but silent court, motioned the earth to silence, and the earth was still. It dared not disturb the sleeper, even by a breath. m. All was dark and silent ; but, through the darkness and the silence, the lights of the firmament rolled on and on in their appointed course. The Lord himself regulates and watches over their motions. He folds and re-folds worlds at will, like so many leaves. The moon was about to set behind the moun- tains, resting on the rocky ramparts, and shed- ■WMIWWIWilW 9t. Joseph. e that even now a sad oul from afar, warning lay to endure. Jig tears. All heaven rrow The Archangels ifere sent to wait upon sen. "With their own he couch on which her ;ly closed her moistened ler to sleep. That ra- motioned the earth to was still. It dared not m by a breath. n. lilent; but, through the ence, the lights of the nd on in their appointed himself regulates and notions. He folds and ill, like BO many leaves. to set behind the moun- ocky ramparts, and shed- Leobnds of St. Joseph. 216 ding its drowsy light here and there. East- ward the vault of heaven spreads its rosy curtains right and left. The stars are pahng ; the fair fresh dawn appears aU radiant at her window, pouring forth her first cheering rays resting lovingly on the brow and eyelids of Mary; and, Uke a twin sister from a heavenly couch, greets her with a fond embrace The Blessed Virgin, that morning dawn of our earth, at length opens her eyes. Oh ! how fair and fresh was she ! The brightness of her face was stUl clearer and more cheering even than that of the dawn. It must have been a delicious dream that charmed away her sor- row and trouble of the evening previous; a sweet smUe plays around her Ups. ^^ «Arise,Joseph!" she graciously said ; itis time to set out. He is in Jerusalem. Tester- day I troubled thee with my complaints; I was beside myself, and I was wrong, but truly I could not help it." At either extremity of the vast azure di»- tence was the sun rising and the moon setting, • 216 Legends of St. JosEPn. the reflected light of each meeting in mid- heaven, and forming a glorious arch. The firmament appeared, as it were, thrown open. The stars retired into the blue depths. The woods were sleeping, and the kneeling hills were seen more and more distinctly in their forms and colors, in that matinal splendor. From time to time was heard the distant cheery caU of chanticleer, awaking the slum- bering earth to renewed life. IV. Joseph and Mary, journeying on, had al- ready ascended the third hUl. The ass moved briskly in the freshness of the morn- ing bearing his burden Ughtly. The air was everywhere instinct with life: birds were ohaiiting their matin song in the solemn and holy hour. Like a king from his couch rose the sun, throwing aside his curtains of crim- son and gold. Louder and higher rose the song of the birds. The flowers gave forth more freely their fragrant perfumes. And mxn t am t ra m mgr— r— ■■""«—«« St. JosESTi. each meeting in mid- ft glorious arch. The » it were, thrown open, the blue depths. The and the kneeling hills nore distinctly in their that matinal splendor, uras heard the distant leer, awaking the slum- id life. IV. journeying on, had al- third hUl. The ass freshness of the morn- en lightly. The air was with life: birds were song in the solemn and ing from his couch rose ide his curtains of crim- der and higher rose the The flowers gave forth ragrant perfumes. And Legends of St. Joseph. 217 man, likewise, yielded a more fervent devo- tion to his Maker in that pure, fiesh morning hour. Every voice was raised in prayer for the daily bread. Joseph and Mary sang by tui-ns, joining, with heart and voice, in that terrestrial cho- rus of praise. They, at the same time, hur- ried on towards the city. Now a few pil- grims, now many, met them on their way, and all appeared to be from Nazareth, for still the greeting was : " Hail, Joseph 1 hail, Mary!" The day was long ; but even on the road the prayerful soul, Uke a dove on the wing, is not easily fatigued. So the holy couple went on, by turns repeating the psalms that came into their mind, and thinking of their holy ward. The different objects along the road were quickly left behind, and the sub- urbs of the city were at length gained. The city gates are passed ; the noise of the street is already heard. Joseph lays down before- hand the plan of the search : " Well, Mary," 19 ^-^!tW*i6.^fea,i<3&>»A*>''>*''^*^'^-^'*' "" ■ ■■"■ m Legends of St. Joseph. f -i'- I' said he, "we shall repair to the house of Zacliavy, where we are accustomed to stay. There we shall have rest and refreshment. Then we shall go in search of the Child. We must endeavor to leave the city this evening before the gates are closed." The ass, heated and panting, brays loudly as they approach the well-known abode: he, too, needs rest. So Joseph first attends to his wants, providing him with hay and oats. Mary has aheady knocked at the door: "Peace to the house," she sweetly said; "peace to my beloved in God!" "Hosan- nah!" replied a voice from the adjoining chamber. It is the aged Eh;.!! jeth who so cordially returns her greeting. She quits her work, her eyes sparkling with joy, for her heart tells her who the new-comers are. In her humility, she does not dare to kiss Mary's cheek; but, as her servant, she kisses the fold of her garment. Mary embraces her tenderly. Joseph soon appears, and all three Jr. Joseph. )air to the bouse of accustomed to stay. •est and refreshment. rch of the Child. We the city this evening led." panting, brays loudly 5 well -known abode: Joseph first attends ig him with hay and knocked at the door: B," she sweetly said; 1 in God!" "Hosan- 9 from the adjoining ged EU^Lf: jeth who so reeting. She quits her ling with joy, for her le new-comers are. In not dare to kiss Mary's aerrant, she kisses the Mary embraces her n appears, and aU three Legends of St. Joseph. 219 rejoice with the purest joy, the joy which is only known to holy souls. Oh, how sweet a peace reigned there I T. Elizabeth first bows down before the Mo- ther, and then whispers some details dbout hor Son. Mary's face, but lately so sad, brightens with joy. She says, in a low voice ; " He is, then, in the Temple, or at the house of Veronica ? Ever amongst tho learned He is sure to be." Elizabeth continued: "My dwelling is empty and silent ; my old husband is, since yesterday, in Jericho. My John is as a stranger. All my efforts are vain. I know not whither he goeth. His childhood is passed in the desert, in fasting and in prayer. Oh ! my dearest friends, what things he speaks of the shame and ignominy of I men! And he is the precursor of Him who cometh. Oh! yes, He cometh, He cometh, that Saviour of the world ; a breath from on High seems to announce it ; we inhale it, like 220 Lgoendr of St. Joseph. incense, into our bosoms. The Lonl, the Re- deemer, is even now almost in oiir midst. (Mary greedily drank in these words.) Jchus, thy JoHUH, is, indeed, my Lord. The hard- ened Souls of the Pharisees are already soft- ened, and begin to feel compunction. Yea, they will give glory to the Almighty, although, as yet, Jesus appeareth but as an unfledged bird." Mary listened attentively and with mo- therly interest. Her heart and soul were moved. She raised her eyes and her hands, and, falling on her knees, murmured these words of grace : " My soul doth magnify the Lord. My spirit hath rejoiced in God, my Saviour. He hath regarded the lowliness of His handmaiden. Behold, from henceforth, all generations shall call me blessed." EUzabeth and Joseph, seraph-like, joined in these praises with heart and voice : " He that is mighty hath done great things. His mercy is from generation to generation unto them that fear Him. He hath showed strength St. Joseph. Legends of Bi. Josura. 221 18. The Loril, the Re- almost in oiir inidHt. a these words.) Jchus, my Lord. The hnrd- risecs are already soft- lel compunction. Yea, the Ahnighty, although, tb but as an unfledged intively and with mo- heuit and soul were er eyes and her hands, cnees, murmured these ' soul doth magnify the b rejoiced in God, my garded the lowliness of ahold, from henceforth, call me blessed." )h, seraph-like, joined in krt and voice : " He that Teat things. His mercy > generation unto them hath showed strength with His arm ; He hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their heart. He hath put down the mighty from their seat, and hath exalted the humble." The triple harmony resounded like the music of a lyre, bringing back again the an- cient and splendid prophecies of Jeremiah and Ezekiel. The sun had well nigh reached his meri- dian height. The great square of the city was full of people discoursing together. The motley crowd rolled away noiselessly, hither and thither, like the waves of the sea when tossed by the wind. The poor went to their daily toil, the idle to their frivolous amuse- ments. Each one spoke of what concerned himself. Now was heard one thing, now another; now a joyous word, now a sad one, accord- ing to the mood of the several speakers: "To-day our governor gives his festival. 222 Legends op St. Joseph. They, say it will be more splendid even than in Borne." A building of vast proportions, and of won- drous beauty, strikes the eye, astonishing all strangers by its magnificent colonnades. It is the Temple, the House of God ; it is the thought of Solomon the Wise converted into stone, and shining out for generations. On a nearer view, the majestic proportions of the great edifice are lost sight of in the chiselled leaves and flowers, intertwming, like a trans- parent texture, light as the wind, like unto the veil of some chaste daughter of kings. All along the steps and in the porch are seen pillars, flowers, and divers sweet-smelling herbs. The stalls and booths are full of toys and dainties. The air is mild. Children and young peo- ple linger around, feasting their eyes on the tempting wares, the venders of which rejoice in the hope of gain. Youth, ah! youth re- joices even now ; it hovers, like a swarm of bees around its hive, and, humming its sense- p } OF St. Joseph. Legends op St. Joseph. 223 3 more splendid even than st proportions, and of won- [es the eye, astonishing all lagnificent colonnades. It e House of God; it is the on the Wise converted into out for generations. On a majestic proportions of the ost sight of in the chiselled 8, intertwining, like a trans- ght as the wind, like unto chaste daughter of kings, eps and in the porch are rs, and divers sweet-smelling 3 and booths are full of toys . Children and young peo- l, feasting their eyes on the he venders of which rejoice ain. Youth, ah! youth re- ; it hovers, like a swarm of live, and, humming its sense- less song, drowns with its voice the glad tid- ings that run from mouth to mouth amongst the people. Amongst the Doctors a Child is found ; and the Doctors themselves" are amazed at His knowledge. He discourses of God with more zeal and more confidence than ever did the Masters themselves, and a thousand times better than any amongst them. A couple pass unnoticed, and make their way through the crowd m the vestibule. One is an aged man, with a snowy beard, tall in stature, and of grave demeanor. By his side is a woman of the rarest beauty, of medium size, modest, deUcate, virginal. Now and then, beneath the folds of her veil, her features and her dove-Uke eyes are caught sight of. It is Jo- seph and Mary. vn. Like the tinkhng of a small silver bell was heard the voice of a child, echoing faint but clear beneath those gigantic white arches. 224 Lboends op St. Joseph. This dove-like voice, sweet and gracious, makes itself heard by that other dove, the soul, speaking to it of merciful hopes. Anx- ious that their Heavenly Guest should not be disturbed, people make frequent signs to each other to keep silence. Hearts frozen by old hatreds are melted by the rays of this new gi-ace-giving sun. Here and there contrite souls fall on thek knees. A deep and solemn silence reigns. On the women's side, the Vir- gin, full of grace, with tearful eyes and light step, advances farther into the Temple. Before the Ark, in which are kept the Ten Commandments, flickers a cheermg flame, by the rays of the sun made like to a peacock's tail. There the amazed Doctors are seated, in a semi-circle. On a carpeted elevation stands the Child, clad in a blue tunic. He speaks slowly; pauses from time to time; at every pause the crowd breaks forth into loud accla- mations ; aU eyes are fixed on the face of the Child, where the shade of thought seems to rest Uke a light cloud, and many an admiring toiB^V^. St. Joseph. Hweet and gracious, ' that other dove, the merciful hopes. Anx- ly Guest should not be frequent signs to each Hearts frozen by old r the rays of this new re and there contrite 8. A deep and solemn ) women's side, the Vir- tearful eyes and light into the Temple, yhich are kept the Ten rs a cheering flame, by aade like to a peacock's d Doctors are seated, in arpeted elevation stands blue tunic. He speaks time to time; at every ks forth into loud accla- fixed on the face of the de of thought seems to I, and many an admiring Legends of St. Joseph. 225 glance is cast on His beautiful fair hair, falling gracefully over His shoulders. At length, making a sign with His hand, He resumes; but what language can convey His words? Oh! all Eternity cannot embrace their import! "In the beginning," said He, "was the Word. The Word was with God, and the Word was God." He continued, with ft stronger voice: "This Word was the light and the life ; and this Word was made flesh. But men have not known the Incarnate." Thus spoke He, prodigy after prodigy, not in the dignity of a doctor commenting on Scripture, but in the plenitude of power from on High, as Master and as Lord, before whom, in the twinkling of an eye, heaven and earth must fall in adoration. And to make Himself more intelligible to the simple. He unfolded a luminous and ti'ansparent tissue of parables, which, like the surface of water, veil au the secret places of our soul. Truly it is seen by the expressive gestures of tiie multitude that the truth is sinking deep into their minds. 226 Legends of St. Jobepe. The old Doctors rack their brains to explain the meaning of these heaven-breathing para- bles : they discuss amongst themselves. Each one is moved according to the humility with which he is penetrated, or the pride of priestly learning that puflfs him up. " Let us try if we cannot argue him down " say they. But Jesus ends soon with a prayer, which He oflfers up alike for the learned and the unlearned. The Child, leaving His place, had only a sweet smile on His Ups. Suddenly He meets His Mother's anxious eye amongst the crowd, and, like a fish to the line,'He bounds towards her. Joseph, in heart, blamed Him not ; but the Mother, true to her Mother's nature, said to Him: "Why hast Thou done so to us? We have sought Thee, sorrowing." " Mother, beloved Mother, soul of my soul I have I not made known to thine that I must look after the business of my Father? " This reason was sufficient for the fond Mother. Jt. J08EPE. their brains to explain saven-breathing para- gst themselves. Each ; to the humility with )r the pride of priestly ap. " Let us try if we " say they. But Jesus r, which He oflfers up I the unlearned. lis place, had only a Suddenly He meets ire amongst the crowd, ae. He bounds towards blamed Him not ; but ■ Mother's nature, said Thou done so to us? sorrowing." other, soul of my soul I n to thine that I must of my Father?" uffioieut for the foud Lboends of St. Joseph. 227 VIII. Jesus, Mary, and Joseph went forth from the Temple hand in hand : the rumor followed them everywhere. Young and old whispered : " Lo ! here He comes 1 Tea, it is He ! It is the Prophet who cometh from the Lord, His wonderful Preacher!" Stirred by the spiri- tual teaching they had just heard, all those of the crowd who were humble in heart kissed the folds of the Son's and the Mother's gar- ments. The virgins offered fragrant flowers. Jesus accepted and saluted His people with a motion of His hand. Li the far-stretching shadow of the tower, and near the steps, a group of men was continually increasing. They kept asking each other: "Who or what is He?" "Whence cometh He?" "Whatl that Child from the neighborhood of Naza- reth? Impossible! Who ever heard of a prophet appearing in Nazareth? Yea, yea, Simeon,— yea, Nathaniel! From the tax-office and fiom your fishing-barks many vfiU follow 11 Legends of St. Jostjph. Him," said Levi, Csesar's publican. The grain seemed to take root in good soil. Jesus, His Mother, and their guardian, as yet in sight, gradually disappeared, as does the bow in the clouds. All was silent and vacant where lately was the bustling crowd. The old betook themselves to the windows of their houses, for it was the day of an imperial festival. The young seemed to be attracted outside the city. Jesus, Mary, and Joseph walked slowly towards the dwelling of Eliza- beth. They were already approaching her cottage, distinguished by its whiteness ; from its chimney a column of smoke was ascending. The court in front was covered with fresh green sward; the paths were smooth and clean; and the vestibule matted. The aged Elizabeth, gracious hostess that she was, stood at the door, surrounded by her kinsfolk, awaiting her guests. Jesus, as soon as He caught sight of them, joyfully saluted EUzabeth, together with Vero- nica, Martha, and, Salome. Having reached )P St. Jostjph. Legends of St. Joseph. 229 lar's publican. The grain n good soil. t, and their guardian, as ,lly disappeared, as does ids. All was silent and was the bustling crowd, mselves to tlie windows of as the day of an imperial ; seemed to be attracted Fesus, Mary, and Joseph ds the dwelling of Eliza- already approaching her d by its whiteness; from a of smoke was ascending, was covered with fresh paths were smooth and tibule matted. The aged lostess that she was, stood )unded by her kinsfolk, He caught sight of them, iabeth, together with Vero- Salome. Having reached the door, He tenderly embraces His young relatives. He is caressed by all as a fair and winning child; His Mother, too, is warmly and kindly gieeted, with tlie honor due to her ex- alted dignity. The venerable Joseph likewise receives his share of honor. The guests at length enter the house, the interior of which is handsomely and tastefully adorned. The table is already set, and abundantly furnished with refreshments. The snow-white Unen bears witness to the excellent housewifery of Elizabeth. The sunlight streaming in through several windows, gild the modest furniture. Freshness, grace, beauty, and gayety reign in the favored dwelling : flowers are there in pro- fusion. The Child Jesus likes the flowers much : He enjoys the sweetness of their per- fume ; the variety of their colors pleases Him. So He chooses some of the loveliest, wreathes a virginal crown, and whispering to His Mo- ther: "Thou Shalt be well crowned," He places it on her brow. A blush, like the first faint crimson of the dawn, suffuses the fair face of Lbqends of St. JoaBPH. Mary, hearing these words, and receiving the caresses of her Ohild. i ^ * I ; IX. Crowned thus, as Queen and Mother, she takes the first place at table, beside her Son and her beloved. The other guests remam standing, lower down, waiting till the gifts of God are blessed by the aged Joseph. Oh! the age and sanctity of a man find as much favor on High as priesthood. Joseph, therefore, re- peated the usual prayer for a blessing on the gifts. Jesus, in the capacity of Sacrificer, broke the bread and blessed it ; and Veronica hand- ed it round to the guests. The aged Elizabeth superintended all, and saw that each of her guests was duly cared for. The meats were simple, but well seasoned and palatable. It must be understood that Jesus prohibited His own kinsfolk from ab- staining from flesh, wishmg that all should rejoice while He was on earth. The table abounded with good things : a lamb, pigeons. II OF St. Jo'aEPU. Legends of St. Joseph. 231 words, and receiving the I. IX. , Queen and Mother, she B at table, beside her Son The other guests remain n, waiting till the gifts of the aged Joseph. Oh ! the a man find as much favor od. Joseph, therefore, re- •ayer for a blessing on the sapacity of Sacrificer, broke ,ed it ; and Veronica hand- uests. The aged Elizabeth Emd saw that each of her ed for. simple, but well seasoned must be understood that lis own kinsfolk from ab- 1, wishing that all should was on earth. The table >d things : a lamb, pigeons. dried fruits. There was also a little wine for refreshment; but the guests took only just what nourishment the body required, in order to obey the dictates of the soul. Another festival engaged their attention; yes, another, and it was not of this world. All the guests listened intently to the words of the Child, and reUshed them as the celestial bread — as food that could satisfy the hunger of their souls for all eternity. Thus did Jesus scatter seed abundantly in good soil. With a prophetic eye He glanced through the abyss of time, and in a whisper questioned Martha on the chalice. He then spoke of the holy mysteries of that chalice, saying that He was given to men to make the offering, and that He would still make it according to the New Law. He also gave some explanations as to Melchisedeck : " It was the Angel of the Lord, who, in old times, went about the earth, under a human form, everywhere teaching men to praise and glorify God. Little by little the nations have ii^ 282 Leqends of St. Jo8epr. i , I- , 1 turned away from the truth : they soon wor- ship the golden calf. Nevertheless, some drops of this living water yet remain here and there, at times purer than that of the Temple. These drops shall grow still larger, and spread into a living spring, for the Son of God takes the human form, and is made flesh." The face of the Child, as the Emmanuel so long desired, beamed with all its splendor ; scarce could mortal eye endure the sight. So, with heads bowed low, they chanted : " Ho- sannah I glory ! glory ! glory to God through- out all eternity ! " Their hearts were ravished with a mysterious wonder. The miracles they saw before them appeared like a dream. Passing fair was that vision of Paradise. Smiling, then, as a beloved and loving child, Jesus changes His divine countenance into that of a mere mortal. He admonishes and then consoles His female hearers, but does not forbid them innocent joys. At length, Joseph announces the hour of depart- ure ; but the hosts, full of affection for their p St. Joseph. Legends of St. Joseph. B fcruth : they soon wor- (^evertheless, some drops t remain here nud there, lat of the Temple. These larger, nud spread into e Son of God takes the lade flesh." ild, as the Emmanuel so I with all its splendor ; ye endure the sight. So, w, they chanted : " Ho- ! glory to God through- iieir hearts were ravished nder. The miracles they ppeared like a dream, vision of Paradise. a beloved and loving His divine countenance mortal. He admonishes Sis female hearers, but em innocent joys. At inces the hour of depart- Full of affection for their visitors, will not let them go without accom- panying them to the high road. The city breaks forth into rejoicing. Terp- sichore everywhere proclaims the Emperor's festival. A joyous tumult reigns amongst the richly -ottired, many-colored crowd. The arras and armor of the Boman soldiery glit- tered wherever the eye could reach. A swarm of profligate, effeminate-looking patri- cians strut along in the lion skins they wear on their shoulders. Pagans and Jewish lords, covered with gold and pearls, follow, step by step, on horseback, in full state. Bread and fine sights are gratuitously and in profusion given to the people. Dust and noise there are in abundance. The Jupiter of Bome is known to be lavish of his gifts. Joy, in a word ; and what joy I . . . But the soul! Ohl the soul knows not whether it exists. The shade of Tiberius is still abroad on the earth : that dark phantom, ll 284 Leobmds ov St. Jobbph. crowned with imperial laurels, soonrges un- ceasingly with both hands: while one rains rods, from the other falls the axe. Tlie gov- ) I ernor, that true Roman courtier of that day, that monster of cruelty, is known as Publius. Ask twenty years hence, and no one will bo able to tell you what was the great man's name. The divine group, pressed on its way by the crowd, glides timidly hither and thither, like birds in a storm. They try to get away. They hear only the noise of the pagan fes- tival, surging louder and louder amongst the crowd. One relates the exploits of a gladiator : " With one blow of his fist he felled a bull." "And killed him?" "Yea, he killed him;" and the answer was repeated on every side. "What gigantic strength have •• these people from the Euxine!" And no one deigns to oast a look on the Child to whom all nations are subject, and the footstool of whose glory is the whole earth. Yonder the Kedron winds along, in its f St. Josspr. Leo'icnds of 8t. Joseph. 286 %\ laurels, scourges un- hands: while one rains falls the axe. Tlie gov- an courtier of that day, ty, is known as Publius. nee, and no one will bo lat was the great man's pressed on its way by lidly hither and thither, They try to get away, noise of the pagan fes- and louder amongst the le exploits of a gladiator: lis fist he felled a bull." " Yea, he killed him ;" repeated on every side, ngth have --these people And no one deigns to hild to whom all nations footstool of whose glory ■on winds along, in its brightness, through the meadows; nearer, a smooth pond lies, glittering in the Hunlight. White flocks are grazmg on its banks, and many prattling children are there washing their lambs. Sportive mfiidens and gay young brides cast their garlands into the bright water, singiug glad songs the while. Laugh- ing and chatting, they run hither and thither, chasing each other in girlish glee. XI. Jesus proposes to halt here, for, soon, the friends will have to part company, and the travellers proceed alone on their journey. The aspect of the place pleases Him, for all around breathes of the country. Scarcely are the holy group seated on the sward, when, a boy here, a girl there, is seen to ap- proach, like the sparrows, beginning with the boldest, one following the other; and soon there may bo seen a crowd of children, who, ever easily put to flight, now stand motionless around. Jesus caresses them with His hands. li^ 286 Legends of St. Joseph. lb ! t Surprise is painted on every face. Jesus seems to them an old acquaintance; some- where, not long since, they thought they had fluttered with Him over flowers. A little farther away, a young servant-maid was trying in vain to soothe the child she car- ried in her arms; do what she would, she could not succeed. " Be silent, oh ! be silent, my little Stephen," she kept repeating; but the child would not be pacified. Suddenly the Uttle hand of Jesus is laid on its head. Stephen stretches his arms towards Him ; he twines his tiny fingers in His waving hair, and clings to His neck, like a bird under its moth- er's wings. Jesus kisses the little one ten- derly. And it is for that kiss— yea, even for that kiss— that Stephen shall one day shed his blood, and be the first to open the way for the martyrs. This scene of marvellous love touched all beholders. The aged friends of the travellers took their leave of them. And Joseph's ass trotted briskly on. Jesus and Mary wew s OF St. Joseph. LEOEin)s OF St. Joseph. 237 ,ed on every face. Jesus ,n old acquaintance ; some- ince, they thought they had 1 over flowers. away, a young servant-maid to soothe the child she car- ; do what she would, she . " Be silent, oh ! be silent, 1," she kept repeating; but not be pacified. Suddenly >f Jesus is laid on its head. I his arms towards Him ; he igers in His waving hair, and i, like a bu-d under its moth- is kisses the little one ten- 1 for that kiss — ^yea, even for Stephen shall one day shed e the first to open the way marvellous love touched all aged friends of the travellers of them. And Joseph's ass on. Jesus and Mary were mounted together on another. They waved a parting salute to the kind friends they left behind, and set forward on the road to Gali- lee. Jesus cast His eyes far along the road, as a messenger of glad tidmgs. His thoughts were in heaven above. All at once, as if some one had pulled Him by a fold of His garment, He turned His animated eyes to the right. There lies the silent Garden of Olives, the gloomy Golgotha ! Thence it is that the world's redemption by the cross shall come. At the idea of the cross, Jesus bows humbly before the will of His Father. His tears, like dew, moisten the earth. But soon, with His usual calmness, He raises His head heaven- ward. In the mirror of His eyes many thoughts are reflected. xn. "Mother," He said, "in an evil manner do men spend the days of their pilgrimage here below. They surround themselves with trou- ble and with weariness ; and yet muracles are 1^ 288 Legends of St. Jobsph. II ! ;" ■ i : strewn all along their way, but they deign not to cast a look upon them. They will not con- sider who it is that clothes this tree with ver- dure ; who it is that hath given the birds their many-colored plumage, and provideth for them food. Verily, these sportive birds sow not, neither do they reap. Behold, fairest Mother, the Hly, white as the snow ! With what ma- jesty it raiseth its head, even from the vile dust of the earth, out of which it groweth ! Neither Solomon in all his glory, nor the spouse of any king, hath been so splendidly adorned. And yet it is but a flower; fair though it be to look upon, it is only perishable dust. Man alone, by his soul or spirit, weighs something in the balance before the Divine Spirit. He alone is surrounded by a very special care and protection. But he himself extinguishes the spark of light within him. He allows his reason and his heart to be car- ried away by his will. By his unbridled wick- edness he heaps up, from day to day, sin on sin, and liveth in the darkness of his evil ways. ..^ iiMiiilrfiiWi St. Jossph. Leoends op St. Joseph 239 way, but they deign not em. They will not con- othes this tree with ver- ath given the birds their i, and provideth for them gportive birds sow not, Behold, fairest Mother, show ! With what ma- lead, even from the vile at of which it groweth! all his glory, nor the hath been so splendidly it is but a flower; fair ipon, it is only perishable his soul or spirit, weighs ilance before the Divine I surrounded by a very itection. But he himself xrk of light within him. and his heart to be car- . By his unbridled wick- , from day to day, sin on darkness of his evil ways. Hence it is that the Heavenly Father hath cast him off for ever. Nevertheless, there are yet promises ; there are all-powerful remedies : the blood of the Innocent One." His voice was choked with sobs. A long silence followed. Jesus began anew : " Mother, thou art a star amongst the elect ; surrounded by the court of ipy angels, thou shalt shed light upon this world, as the sole mediatrix of divine grace. The depths shall rejoice vfiih. the rays of thy glory." Long they remained clasped in a sweet but mute embrace. The prophetic words are again heard. The holy M..-.; ? gathers them in with delight, and hides ' ^ ^-ep down in her heart. The long jour. ', t ; emed to her but as a moment's length. The sun was now declining, and several leagues were already traversed. An olive grove is seen not far off, with a clear stieam runmng close by ; and there the Holy Family stop for the night. The sun is setting behmd crimson clouds, but he yet gUds Mount Thabor 240 Legends of St. JosEi-H. and the neighboring hill- tops with his roseate beams. The castle of Magdala is seen, with added splendor, in that flood of fiery light which overspreads the landscape, its bright hues made richer still by the gorgeous crimson of the far-famed vines of the country. Eising from amid those clustering vines a lofty palm- tree casts its shadow far down athwart the plain, and from forth their sheltering leaves the young Samaritan girl slowly and timidly moves away with her lamb ; she dares not cast a look behind, for she is accursed in Israel. An old, old feud, dating from the times of the Babylonish captivity, but existing yet in all its ancient strength and bitterness 1 Jesus followed the fugitive with His eyes. He pondered deeply in His heart. At length He opens His mouth, and proclaims that love of the new law, that love abounding in the purest delight, which, from the highest heaven, is to descend as a magic chain to our clouded earth, and bind together all mankind, recon- ciled with Qod, its Creator. St. JosEi-H. ill- tops with hia roseate Mogdala is seen, with tat flood of fiery light e landscape, its bright oy the gorgeous crimson of the country. Eising iring vines a lofty palm- far down athwart the their sheltering leaves girl slowly and timidly amb ; she dares not cast e is accursed in Israel, ig from the times of the but existing yet in all d bitterness 1 fugitive with His eyes, n His heart. At length and proclaims that love love abounding in the [rom the highest heaven, ^c chain to our clouded ;her all mankind, recon- sator. Legends op St. Joseph. 241 "Ah! yonder Samaritan," said He, "is poor Humanity, burning inwardly from father to son, and suflfering under the weight of that ancient condemnation. But it shall arise again ; yea, it shall arise in love, in faith, in hope, for the time is at hand when the new covenant shall embrace all eternity.". The silver-haired guardian of Jesus, revived by the dews of grace falling from the divine lips of his foster-Son, listened with delight, moved even to tears. Filled with compunc- tion, he bows his head on his knees ; Jesus, in a low voice, repeats to him the heavenly promise: "Besting on Me thou shalt be the guardian of souls, and in thy name I will mul- tiply thee in the new covenant." The night came on, with its shades and its silence. Here and there a star was seen in the blue expanse of heaven. The Holy Fam- ily fall on their knees, and Jesus begins in a clear, sweet voice : " Our Father, who art in Heaven, ..." He prayed for His beloved, and for Himself. When, at length, the Holy 21 T4" 242 Leoends of St. Joseph. Family slept, bright peaceful dreams hovered around, reflecting their mysteries. The stars come out by thousands. The guardian sun and the guardian moon are absent, keeping their watch far away in another hemisphere. The whole firmament, rolling on in its un- ending motion, appears to sing in ceaseless harmony : " Blessed for ever be Thou, O Son ofManI" f 1: • I ■ t mvmnwK A ' [ mMi. i |i|Miw wPI!glWBB 9 St. Joseph. teacefol dreams hovered ir mysteries. The stars ids. The guardian sun son are absent, keeping in another hemisphere, t, rolling on in its nn- ars to sing in ceaseless for ever be Thon, O i9on XXIX. SCENES IN NAZARETH. lEAR spouse, it is late, and our evening repast Is not ready, nor have I a morsel of bread ; This morning I gave our sweet Jesus the last, And He may be hungry — 'tis that which I dread." Thus speaks gentle Mary, and Joseph, who hears, To heaven looks up with his calm, trusting eyes : " Help will come to us, Mary, have thou no fears, Our God will provide for His Son in some wise. " See, here is some work, I am finishing now — A box I have fashion'd with all my best skill ; It is for the lord of yon palace below, That rises so grand at the foot of the iiUI. J^ raaRTEa?CE3«<^^'SSf'**V'^^'';'3HiJSi»M 244 Leqendb of St. Joseph. J " In less than an hour the work will bo done,— Onr dear Jesus shall carry it home, and be paid ; Then you shall have bread for your well-bcloved Son, And Heaven will thus send us help, as I've said." To his hard, ceaseless toil, with fresh courage he goes. Nor heeds the big drops from his hot brow that fall,— What are labor and sweat when the laborer knows He is working to nourish the Saviour of all? The work being finish'd, said Joseph : " My Son, Wilt Thou carry this box to the castle down there?" Yea, and, Joseph, thy hard, patient labo ath won Such guerdon aa never hath fall'n to tl share I At the door of the mansion the Saviour now stands, Full humbly he knocks in the portal's deep shade ; "What brings thee, ChUd, hither?" a menial de- mands : "Lol this box for thy master my father l»th made." ■ -•*-j-)kV»XK»Hi?WJt--e*1t« ■i.-ia 6 wr»tfgfirijJ'iiM i. ni ..'<' * i Mii i f « fin - wrww u . iiiijw '"""' !' St. Joseph. work will bo done, — ry it home, and be paid ; sad for your well-beloved 3nd ns help, as I've said." with fresh courage he goes, ps from his hot brow that i when the laborer knows ih the Savioarof all? aid Joseph : " My Son, I box to the castle down rd, patient labo ath wou hath fall'u to tl share I ion the Saviour now stands, 1 in the portal's deep shade ; iQd, hither?" a menial de- thy master my father l»th Legends of St. Joseph. 246 Quoth the lackey, in scorn: "Small chance hast thou now Of seeing my master— to-morrow come back." " I will wait," said young Jesus, a cloud on His brow ; Full well the Child knows what His dear parents lack. All trembling He lingers, in hope and in fear : At length comes the master : "This work is well done; It must needs please my lady, my Miriam dear— I wUl soon see thy father, if thou'rt Joseph's son." A blush overspreads the fair face of the Child,— Not from shame or from pride. He is humble of heart ; But He thinks of His parents— in words sweet and mild. He asks to receive of the payment a part. Cried the master, in anger, " Go, get thee away ! With low people like these, their work is scarce done, When, forsooth, thou art call'd on the very same day, To pay what thou owest before set of sun ! " 246 Legends of St. Joseph. Then Jesas, all sorrowful, turns from the door, And thinks how His parente must go without bread — ' When lo ! gentle Miriam, stepping before, With a pitying smile, lays her hand on His head. " O blame not my husband," she said, " gentle Child ; His cares they are many— to-morrow, thou'lt see, He will pay thee the better," and sweetly she smiled, "For the words that are now so displeasing to thee. " Meanwhile, I pray thee this bauble to take— Tis a ring which thy father may sell in the town ; The help it will bring thee I give for thy sake, I would not, dear Child, send thee home with a frown." The lady was gone, and the beautiful Child Stood musing a moment ; what thoughts had He then f Ah I gracious they were, f* he looked up and smiled, — There were mercy and goodness stUl found amongst men 1 p St. Josiph. Legends of St. Joseph. 247 , turns from the door, I parents most go without I, stepping before, lays her hand on His head. nd," she said, " gentle Child ; iny — to-morrow, thou'lt see, ;ter," and sweetly she smiled, t are now so displeasing to le this bauble to take- father may sell in the town ; lee I give for thy sake, )hild, send thee home with a I the beautiful Child aent ; what thoughts had He irerc, f(fir he looked up and id goodness still found amongst To His parents He quickly the jewel convey'd— "Wo have bread now," he said, "for a long time to come ; And Ho told them of all the sweet lady had said. And how kindly she sent Him with joy to their home. A blessing from Joseph, from Mary a prayer, « Rewarded the lady for what she had done, And Jesus said low, with His own God-like air, "By her goodness, fair Miriam my heaven hath won!" % 1T«'" ! I XXX. TffiS? SAW. INE day in Nn/areth, under a scoroh-^ ing sun, a luau was painfully saw- ing a long plank. This man was St. Joseph, the foster-father of Josus, a simple working man, whose sublime epitaph is thus found in the Gospel : A jtut man. The sweat was streaming from his brow, for the plank was broad and the teeth of the saw straight, as they were then made (says the le- gend), with difficulty catching the wood, at the third cut. Twenty times did St. Joseph wipe /his fore- head, his face, his beard, and resume his work, without a murmur, or the least sign of im- patience, doubtless o£fering up his toil and fatigue to God. 'SJ Leqendb of St. Jobbpu. m KX. SAW. a^.areth, under a scoroh-^ man was painfully saw- plauk. This man was 1, the foster-father of Dg man, \rhose sublime in the Gospel : A jtiat kming from his brow, for tnd the teeth of the saw then made (says the le- atching the wood, at the t. Joseph wipe /his fore- :d, and resume his work, r the least sign of im- fferiug up his toil and At length the saw gave its last silvery sound, to the great satisfaction of the workman, who, this timo, manifested his joy by a brightening up of hirt fine and venerable face. Mid-day n')j(/«.— The Amjelm was not said then, but tlie fervent Jews raised their souls to God. Joseph did so, and laying himself down on a bed of chips, he soon slept what is uptly called the sleep of the just. Now, Satan had been watching for some time at the door of the workshop. He had first seen a man hard at work; and, with- out knowing who he was, he said: "There is nothing to be done here I "... But the workman had laid down his saw, and was asleep. Then Satan, Uttle suspecting the quality of the dwellers in that house, resolved to play a trick on the slumberer, whose heavy breath- ing already assured Satan that he was fast asleep. Taking, then, a visible form, he began by examining the tools, one after another: chisels, If i"U 250 Legends of St. Joskph. hammers, planes, pincers. None of these seemed to give him the desired opportunity oi doing mischief. There remained the saw, which he angril] laid hold of. The saw of that tiine, the straigh teeth of which, standing in line, gave him th< drollest means of doing what he desired, eithe by breaking, or bending them, so as to plac( them farther apart, one from the other. B ohose the latter, as the surest means of mya tifying the artisan. But the devil, it would seem, was no mor of a mechanician than the Jews of that day and he little thought that he was thus givin St. Joseph the secret of the real teething of saw. So far from that was he, that when hi work was finished, his face expressed a mal cious pleasure that looked almost like jo; Then quitting his assumed form, he awaitc the awaking of the blessed sleeper. He had not to wait long. Joseph aros and, with eyes still dim and misty from slee he mechanically took up the saw, which 1 SHM Ds OF St. Joseph. i, pincers. None of these im the desired opportunity of id the saw, which he angrily 3 saw of that tiine, the straight tanding in line, gave him the E doing what he desired, either bending them, so as to place art, one from the other. He as the surest means of mys- m. , it would seem, was no more Q than the Jews of that day ; )ught that he was thus giving ecret of the real teething of a m that was he, that when his ed, his face expressed a mali- that looked almost like joy. his assumed form, he awaited the blessed sleeper, to wait long. Joseph arose, still dim and misty from sleep, y took up the saw, which he Legends of St. Joseph. 261 tried on a plank, according to his custom, before he commenced cutting anything. I leave you to guess his surprise, when, in- stead of a faint cut, the tool, in its going and coming, slipped over the wood with unwonted ease, and cut deep, to the great disappoint- ment of the devil, who took flight, and never went there again. The poor devil knew not that the holy man had prayed to God, and that God watches over the interests of those who invoke Him, whether they are asleep or awake. MH im—'T wi »Tiiiii1r'1iiyniiiM XXXI. THE CHOICE OF A KING. us a IBA, truly, this day we will choose ruler, Unto whom we shall all of ns sub- ject be. We shall honor him duly as lord and as master, — As kmg Archelaus mleth, so shall he. So long as he remaineth Wise, prudent, patient, kind, A true and faithful follower In each one of us he shall find.'' Twas Simon thus spoke, of the children the eldest— In their games and their frolics he led the rest ; Like a juTenile prophet, well noted wef e all his say- ings, And so free and fttink he was that his comrades loved him the best. XXI. 'E OF A KING. is day we will choose us a m we shall all of ns snb- e. as lord and as master, — eth, so shall be. laiaeth patient, kind, 'ul follower us he shall find." , of the children the eldest — eir frolics he led the rest ; , well noted wey e all his say- uk he was that his comrades St. Lboetob of St. Joseph. 253 «Let us now begin," said he; "Little John, come hither 1 Speak low, and tell me who will be thy choice ; I will inscribe the names-now, tell me who shall be master — Ha! beware that none of them hear thy yoice 1 " Timidly John drew nigh, casting his blue eyes down- ward. Fair as an Angel he was, light and waving his hair; He was only six years old, but so sweet and gentle his nature. That the children all would have his voice in tha'- grand affair. Said John, with a heavenly smUe, "I would like to have Jesus." He is not the oldest among us ; but me, I like Him the best — I would wish Him to be our kmg." " Thy judgment is good," quoth Simon, And, his dark eyes beaming approval, he smiling tum'd to the rest. 22 pi:|| •251 Leoends op St. Jo^bph. "Mathias! what sayest thou? Thoa art ever thoughtful and loving." Pensively smiled Mathias, a pale and delicate child ; Shunn'd and neglected he was at times by hU stur- dier comrades, Too grave and retiring was he to join in their gambols wild. But One there was, who loved and pitied Mathias, And at once from his pale lips fell the name of this generous friend. « Jesus," he whisper'd low; "I will have none but Jesus — No one Uke Him can pity, or comfort, or do- fend. i 1 1 "He is the One that takes care of me, weeps with me when I am sorrowfu' ; I would have Him for our king ; there is none so fitting as He." •Mathias, thou speakest well— wise thou art, littie comrade ; Now, Andrew, brother of mine, say, who will thy choice be ? " Mmmmr'immminsmft F St. Joseph. it thou? Thoa art ever (ving." thias, a pale and delicate he was at times by his stur- ng was he to join in 1 loved and pitied Mathian, is pale lips fell the name of end. low ; " I will have none but »n pity, or comfort, or de- takes care of me, weeps with lorrowfu' ; [pr our king ; there is none so est well— wise thou art, little lier of mine, say, who will thy Legends of St. Joseph. 256 Said Andrew: "Tis Mary's Son that ought to be our ruler ; Simon, I pray thee, see that he shall be our king. There is none of us half so good, so loving, so kkd I 80 patient — Oh ! no one is ever in trouble but comfort He's sure to bring. I know how kind He was to our mother when she • was nflSicted, When our father was taken away, and left her lonely and sad ; Our Jesus told her of heaven, where husbands and wives dwell united. Till he made her look again as if she were almost glad." "What thou sayest is troe, O Andrew ; no one bo kind as Jesus — So far, it seems to me wc are all of the very same mind. Fair Matthew, come hither, I pray, and who thott wilt choose now tell me ; Full soon thou wiK be a maI^-art thou to a ruler inclined?" 266 Leoenss of St. Joseph. li ' '■'- '' isHs \ % * I- ' " Yea, and 'tis Jesus I choose," gravely and slowly said Matthew. "Who else is so fitted to rule — so generous, wise, and jost 1 Moreover, He looks a king ; noble His face is and royal. If a ruler we fain would have, Jesus it shall be, and must." "Tis well, 'tis well I I see that justice prevails," qnoth Simon. " Come hither. Lord Jesus, I pray thee, and listen to what I say. Be not surprised to hear that Thou for our king art chosen — Each one of us here is promised thine orders to obey" Was He of earth, that Child, before whom they bent all lowly ? Or was He a heavenly spirit conccal'd in mortal guise? Ab ! truly He, and He only, merited all the honor, For the light of Heaven's deep glory beam'd ftom His wondrous eyes. I ill • ,?. or St. Joseph. Lbobkds of St. Joseph. m I choose," gravely and slowly ted to mle — so generons, irise, king ; noble His face is and ironld have, Jeinis it shall be, I see that justice preTails," I Jesus, I pray thee, and listen ear that Thou for our king art re is promised thine orders to k Child, before whom they bent enly spirit conccal'd in mortal e only, merited all the honor, iaven's deep glory beam'd from eyes. But a Mother is there who hears, and sees, and ponders On every word and action of the Child— " Fjw fair He is 1 how sweet I Look now, Jo- seph 1 How fit He is to rule them 1 " and she smiled. " How great one day shall be His royal power. When 'neath His bamiers all the nations range I Oh ! light as now it is, be then His sceptre ; But great, indeed, shall be the wondrous change 1" Said Joseph : " Great, indeed 1 But yet a sword of sorrow Shall pierce thy heart. But joy shall yet be thine, And'overflow thy soul : Mother of Man's B«deemer, With Him, in glory, thou shalt, one day, shine l" Thus did St. Joseph gently soothe and comfort His blessed spouse, with loving words and sweet, Foreshewing Jesus in resplendent glory. In that bright heaven where they were all to meet Tr;-^i'^^;K\T;v-!>^"'^^S^V>:',nii?'SS^Si5i'a>; xxxn. AN APPARITION. |T happened once that on the Feast of All Saints there died, in an TJr- sulme Convent, a good religious, named Gabriella of the Incarna- tion, who had been, in her lifetime, a model of all vbtues. She appeared, after her death, to her Superior, Mother Angela, who since died in the odor of sanctity, and who related to her director, in the foUowing terms, What had taken place : — "On the 6th of November, 1660, between three and four o'clock in the morning, after saying my prayers, I was preparing to write gome letters ; but I found it impossible : I felt myseU strongly impeUed to beg that God would show mercy to the good Mother Incar- nation ; and, if she were not in glory, to grant Legends of St. Joseph. :xn. >ARITION. once that on the Feast its there died, in an Ur- Qvent, a good religious, ibriella of the Incarna- in her lifetime, a model ppeared, after her death, ther Angela, who since ianctity, and who related le following terms, ifrhat November, 1660, between ok in the morning, after L was preparing to write jund it impossible : I felt jelled to beg that God J the good Mother Incar- rere not in glory, to grant it to her through the merits of Jesus Christ, His Divine Son, and by the intercession of the Blessed Virgin, whose holy scapular she had worn. The reason why I felt bound to ask this request was, that all night long I could not keep from thinking of that dear mother ; and often since her death, although I could fain have persuaded myself that she enjoyed God, my heart began to beat when- ever I thought of her. At last, I felt it incum- bent on me to ask Our Lord, that if it were for His glory and the welfare of souls. He would make known to us the state of that good religious. "A little while after, she appeared before me with a very mild aspect, looking more humbled than suflfering, although I saw well that she suffered much. At first, when I saw her so near me, I was very much frightened ; but as there was nothing in her appearance to make me afraid, I soon got over my fear. Having made the sign of the cross on myself, I besought Our Lord that I might not be de- IPs t Mi 2J0 Leoeubs ot St. Joskpb. Guardian. After lootogly -"«" "-^^ "j^ 1 re»olv«a to speak to her, mi a.ked her lhTlteehe»a,in.aBd.heiher«ecodd Tender her .»y service. She repUed lUat she las eatisCing the Divine ineiiee.nP3'°^, I begged of her to teU me »hat kept her there -il Go* ?«■"'"«* " "" °" Tf tn She heaved a deep sigh, and told n.e: Tan. there on ao«nnto. several aetsotneg- uLee in the ordinary routine of religions Me, aCity in giving in ..sentln-ents too pnr^ human in regard to the religions; but, above TL a habit of keeping smaU things for my * nse,anddisposmgofthemaceord,ngto „y wants, or to my natural .nchnaUons. I replied: '-Why, you had perm»sion. ^^ ^Ltimes I had,' she answered, • or presum^ Had- but that is not enough before God. Thetw ot poverty and the obligation of reh- ^ous perfeottou denfand a very d-ffe^nt de- !:« of strictness. God sees things w.th ve^ Silerent eyes from what we do, and J soub J" St. Joseph. ided myself to my Angel kingly attentively at her, to her, and asked her in, and whether we could je. She replied that she ivine justice in purgatory. , tell me what kept her aiitted it for our instruc- i deep sigh, and told me: unt of several acts of neg- „.y routine of religious life; in to sentiments too purely , the religious; but, above eeping smaU things for my jsing of them according to av notural inclinations.' I m had permission. les, she answered, 'or presumed is not enough before God. by and the obligation of reh- iedand a very different de- God sees things with very *m what we do, and if soulB Leobnm of St. Joseph. an only knew, during life, the wrong they do to God and to themselves by not aiming at per- fection, and how much they must suffer m order to expiate their weaknesses, their cow- ardly compliances, and their self-gratification, they would more easily overcome themselves in this Ufe, and foUow more faithfully the light of His grace.' " I besought her to tell me how our commu- nity and I could remedy this evil. She re- plied: 'There is generally a wtot of submis- Bion of mind, of interior recollection, of charity in bearing with the neighbor, and of subjec- tion to obedience: it was so with myself in my lifetime. As for you, in particular, you must be careful not to grant blindly, and through natural condescension, every little gratification to the senses. You should labor to destroy all tendency to partiality, and to estabUsh in the community the spirit of sim- pUcity and docility. I recommend to you those who are related to me; they often de- part from the ways of God.' i- ^Mfe'^^^*^'**^'^"-''- ""''''' 11, 262 LEamros of St. Joseph. " At the end of the discourse I asked lior if we could serve her in any way. She an- swered: 'I ardently desire to see and possess God, but I am content to satisfy His justice as long as He pleases.' I asked her if her pain was great. 'It would be inconceivable,' she said, ' to those who do not feel it.' I besought her to be our advocate with God, and recommended to her one person in par- ticular. 'That soul.' said she, 'is truly de- voted to God: let her pray for me, and you also.' Saying this, she approached my face, as if to take leave of me : it seemed to me as though a coal of fire had burned me, although her face did not touch mine, and my arm hav- ing rubbed a little against ber sleeve, was burned so that it pained me severely. At the same moment she disappeared. "The whole of my left cheek continued very sore, and the bum on my arm, right at the wrist, is larger than a crown piece, and very painful. "The same day, between eight and nine m iP St. Joseph. Leqkndb of St. Joseph. 268 discourse I asked hor i! in any way. She an- lesire to see and possess mt to satisfy His justice J6S.' I asked her if her would be inconceivable,' who do not feel it.' I our odvocate with God, o her one person in par- ; said she, • is truly de- ier pray for me, and you she approached my face, if me : it seemed to me as a had burned me, although ch mine, and my arm hav- 5 against her sleeve, was lined me severely. At the lisappeared. my left cheek continued bum on my arm, right at r than a crown piece, and , between eight and nine in the morning, my holy Angel appeared to me in my room, to which I had retired. (Her Augel Guardian often appeared to her.) I asked him if the vision I had had in the moruiug was real, and if it was the soul of my mother, Gabriella of the Incarnation. He replied: 'Yes, it is an abundance of grace that God has vouchsafed to you all, to let you know that the faults which people commit are greater than they suppose. This soul was of good wiU; profit by her ex. ample.' " On the. night between the 29th and 30th of the same month, being St. Andrew's day, this mother again appeared to me, and gave mo to understand that she was putting in a part of her purgatory in our midst, that she hoped to enter on eternal rest on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, and that tho amiable Mother of Jesus, and St. Joseph, to whom she had been very devout, had ob- tained mercy for her; that her purgatory would have been long, without their assiot- i--s KjTio.:s«ISiii*«sfc.>«s«J**^'' 264 Legends of St. Joseph. ill' ance. She told me that most religious had much to satisfy for in the other life, beoau8( they did not make a dirt:.f application to th< ordinary acts of religion, and that many o the actions of life are done through habil and have, therefore, little efficacy before God that very often they neglect to enter into th true light of grace, to avoid domg violence t nature ; that no soul is left without light t know the designs of God ; but that, as exect tion requires constraint, and a subjection ( nature and our own spirit, few persons wis to penetrate that light, and follow it in the conduct ; for which reason it is that few sou correspond with the designs of God, and thi that is one of the principal causes of the pu gatory of religious. I asked her what it is thi the soul suffers, ahe answered me: 'Tl soul feels withy i itself an ardent desii which, like a devouring fire, impels it to j and be united to its God, and it sees it8( bound and detained by a thousand little nt and cords, which are but very slowly co IDS OF &r. Joseph. me that most religious had for in the other life, because £6 a dirt-.^f application to the I religion, and that many of life are done through habit, ore, little efficacy before God; they neglect to enter into the ice, to avoid doing violence to ) soul is left without light to 8 of God ; but that, as execu- )nstraint, and a subjection of own spirit, few persons wish at light, and follow it in their lich reason it is that few souls 1 the designs of God, and that he principal causes of the pur- •us. I asked her what it is that •s. ohe answered me; 'The hiji itself an ardent desire, evouring fire, impels it to go to its God, and it sees itself ained by a thousand little nets lich are but very slowly con- % Lbigends of St. Joseph. 266 T I sumed by the activity of the fire. Its under- > I standing is illumined by a light which shows 1 I it the means it had of breaking these cords E I .luring Ufe, and the reproaches of its con- science make known to it that it basely quit- ted the straight way of grace, to follow that of nature and the senses ; wherefore, it con- demns itself. It sees the ways of God, and the designs He had formed upon it, with the little correspondence it had brought to them, ,md that sight is to it a great torment, be- cause of the immense goodness it knows in I~ God, whose ways it is itself obliged to jus- tify.' "On the 8th of December, 1660, between five and six o'clock in the evening, my good Mother of the Incarnation appeared to me, all shining, and, having come near, said to me: 'The goodness of God permits me to teU you that I am now gomg to enjoy Him. FareweU, my dear mother! Work for eter- nity, to which you aspire, and assure men that whatsoever is not done, said, or suffered 23 266 Legends ov St. JoBiS*H. < I-- for Gk)d, results but in pain and torment. There are many souls abused in their prac- tices.' I begged that she would be our advo- cate with God. She assured me she would, and that she would pray for us. I recom- mended to her certain persons who had re- quested me to do so. She sfc>=!med to receive my request kindly ond graciously, but with- out saying any^injj .v,ry distinctly in reply; and, approaching the window that overlooks the altar, where the Blessed Sacrament is, she made a profound genuflexion. After that, my holy Angel, who was with her, took her, as it were, by the hand, and both ascending upwards, vanished from my sight, leaving a sweet perfume in ray chamber, and my heart full of joy for the happiness of that dear mother. " It is because of the burn on my arm that I have not been able to write with mine own hand all this little narrative, but I have told all truly, as far as I could remember. I may simply say, that for a whole month I seem to F St. Jobjsfh. LEaEKDS OF St. Joseph. 267 r in pain and torment. Is abused in their prac- 1 she would be our advo- assured me she would, pray for us. I recom- in persons who had re- She sfcamed to receive nd graciously, but with- .v,ry distinctly in reply; B window that overlooks Blessed Sacrament is, she [enuflexion. After that, was with her, took her, and, and both ascending irom my sight, leaving a y chamber, and my heart happiness of that dear bbe burn on my arm that Q to write with mine own narrative, but I have told could remember. I may a whole month I seem to have Buffered a part of that good mother's purgatory, that she haunted me continually, and that I suffered severely from the pain of my burns. That state enables me to con- ceive the great purity of mind in whi^-h one must live in order to appear before God." MM iMtW>«-: ~]/X u^'-tl. xxxin. THE LOST CHILDREN. (Fbou Fabke's "Talks op th« Amoiui.") |IGH! sigh! sigh! said the midnight wind, as it swept over the great Brazilian forest. And the tall palms trembled, and waved their green fans, tp get all the sea's coolness, which came in the breeze ; and th air feathery domes swung to and fro, like ships rocking at an- chor. "Lililpa, death must be very beautiful!" said Oniato, " for death is God's night." " Ah ! Oniato," replied Lililpa, "but Ught is more beautiful than darkness." " Dearest sister, you must not say so," an- swered Oniato ; " darkness is more beautiful than light. We see God better in the dark- ness. >• Legends of St. Joseph. 269 nn. CHILDREN. us or THi Amoiu") sigh! said the midnight t swept over the great forest. And the tall nbled, and waved their be sea's coolness, which nd thair feathery domes ^e ships rocking at an- ist be very beautiful!" th is God's night." ied Lililpa, "but light is arkness." lu must not say so," an- rkness is more beautiful God better in the dark- «Why have your thoughts been so often wandering on God lately, my dearest brother ?'' said Lililpa. "God! God! it is a beautiful word, and makes a strange stir in my heart. Where is God? Who is God?" "I know not, Lililpa; but when things make a stir in our hearts they must be real things. There must be a God, though perhaps His name is not God." " Ah ! Oniato, I see why you love the dark- less. It is because it makes you think more of God. Beautiful darkness! it feels Uke a home." "Oh! yes, Lililpa; and when I have Us- tened to the missionaries reasoning with -ny father, I have sometimes thought that Ught was really darkness, and darkness really light, and that they had only agreed to look like each other, instead of looking like their own selves." ... t. Indeed, the night was beautiful ; ]ust such a night as would be Ukely to make children talk Uke angels. I wonder how much they under- 270 Leqends of St. Joseph. Btcod of what they were saying to each other. We are all of us bom poets, but only a few cf us find it out. They wandered On. They were lost in the forest. The boughs met above their heads like the roof of a cathedral. They heard the wild beasts arguing with each other, com- plainingly rather than savi^ely. Occasionally there were silences, and they thought they heard the earth breathe; but just as they were going to make certain of it, some night- bird from a lofty branch would suddenly pour forth gushes of clear song into the ear of the ancient night. ,Why is night ancient?— why should it be more ancient than day? Nobody knows, yet everybody says it is so, and feels that it is so. Every now and then they saw the stars fighting in the sky. So Lililpa thought ; but it was only the tossing of the branches, which kept showing and hiding the stars. There were many sights and many sounds in that wood, which the children did not understand. !■ St. Joseph. ire saying to each other, poets, but only a few cf They were lost in the met above their heads dedral. They heard the with each other, com- savs^ely. Occasionally and they thought they lathe; but just as they ;ertain of it, some night- ich would suddenly pour song into the ear of the is night ancient? — why 5ient than day? Nobody f says it is so, and feels hen they saw the stars So Lililpa thought ; but ig of the branches, which liding the stars. There ad many sounds in that dren did not understand. Lbgendb of St. Joseph. 271 But they felt them all ; and somehow, when they felt them, they whispered to themselves, " God ! God 1 " We enjoy the day-time. We feel the night-time. In the day-time God sees us. In the night-time we see God. On earth, to see God means to feel Him. Feeling is mostly the best kind of seeing. Why had these children left home? They will never return to it. The End of the World will come in an hour, and they shall die in the water^ of the wood; and, having been really dead before, will make themselves aUve by dying. Oh, Blessed Waters of the Wood! Blessed all waters, which have wood in them ^the wood of the Cross ! O Lililpa ! is not this very solemn ? Hark I how the wmd murmurs 1 It has a voice Uke that of our dead pale-faced mother. LUilpa, I sometimes see my mother when I sleep. But Usten to the wind 1 It sings as if it was unhappy. Perhaps the wind is a god ! " "But if it was a god, Oniato, it r/ould not be unhappy!" ^i^ilfe''3^i^^iSKS;^^'^"^* 872 Lboends of St. Joseph. "O Lililpa! more and more I ask who is God ? We have no God. We are not like the Christians with white faces, such as come to us, and such as they say were kings in this land thousands of years ago. They have a God whom they love. How grand the ruins of their churches are ! Our mother was white- faced, they say ; and she, too. had a God, and loved Him. Lililpa! I must have a God, if it is only to have something to love." Lililpa burst into tears. " Dearest LUUpa," said Oniato, "you know I love you ; you know what I mean." " Oh ! yes, brother," replied LiUlpa ; " I am not unhappy. I do know what you mean, for I feel the same myself ; and yet I love you, oh ! so much, so much, it hurts my heart sometimes!" And Oniato threw his arms round her, and said : "We will find God to-night!" And a star shone into LiUlpa's tearful eyes. Oh! sometimes the stars seem almost to speak by their shining. " Ah ! Oniato ! I wish our father would not •w )t. Joseph. LBaENDB OF St. Joseph. 27d d more I ask who is [. We are not like the ices, such as come to ay were kings in this fs ago. They have a How grand the ruins Our mother was white- ,e, too, had a God, and must have a God, if it ng to love." re. lid Oniato, " you know what I mean." replied Lililpa;" I am m what you mean, for I ud yet I love you, oh ! so } my heart sometimes!" is arms round her, and lod to-night!" And a )a's tearful eyes. Oh! jem almost to speak by sh our father would not hum those white-faced priests in the fires of the snake-temples. Even now it seems to me as if the wind was full of the sound of those sighs and murmurs which they make in the fire." "And yet, Lililpa, they are not Uke the murmurs of pain or anger." " No ! that is the strange thing." "Lililpa, I cannot breathe in my father's palace. I have enticed you here on purpose. Let UB find God. If not, let us live in the forest, and die here, like flowers. Let us seek the white-faced man of God whom my father drove into the forest to-day to die of hanger, or to be eaten by the wUd beasts. I have hidden a flask of wine in my clothes to take to him, if we can find him." "Oniato, shall we ask those dear stars to lead us to him?" " No, Lililpa; his God will know best where he is To be sure, the eyes of the stars seem to be everywhere. But I think we had better pray to his God instead." 874 Leqends of St. Joueph. " Oniato I see ! the earth is on fire I " "No, I-Hilpa; it is only the fire-flies. Let us follow them. They are the living stars of the wood. Pefhaps God has sent them to lead us." So they followed the fire-flies. Sigh ! sigh ! sigh ! sang the wind ; for it was very tired, as it had been all round the earth. And the fire-flies played round the heads of the children, like glories round the heads of Saints in pictures. Some swung like globe- shaped lamps in front of them, and seemed to lead the way. Many wild beasts were prowl- ing round. The flame-colored eyes of the pumas looked at the children as they passed. But they dared not touch them ; for the beasts saw three Angels with the children, whom the children did not see. Two were the Guardian Angels of the children, and the third was the Angel of the Sacrament of Baptism. What a silence ! Deep, deep, deep silence I Silence above 1 Silence below! Silence all round ! r St. Joueph. earth is on fire!" only the fire-flies. Let r are the living stars of Qod has sent them to 3 fire-flies. ing the wind ; for it was •een all round the earth, red round the heads of ies round the heads of ome swung like globe- of them, and seemed to ivild beasts were prowl- le-colored eyes of the hildren as they passed, ich them ; for the beasts the children, whom the Two were the Guardian i, and the third was the t of Baptism. )ep, deep, deep silence i 00 below! Silence all Legends of St. Joseph. 275 "Oniato," said Lililpa, " sUence is more like a god than wind." It was near midnight. Tn the heart of the wood a huge flower slowly opened out, and blossomed, and fiUed the forest with a most exquisite perfume. "O Lililpa! there is the Midnight Flower! Ho>v I should like to be a Midnight Flower, with nobody to see me blossom, nobody to smeU my fragrance, except God! 1 suppose He made the rest of the flowers for us, but that one for Himself. He keeps its sweetness for Himself in the lonely darkness. It smells like the flesh of the white-faced priests in the fires, so sweet! The smell of it sometimes comes into my window from the wood. It al- ways makes me think of God." Dear children ! They, too, were truly Mid- night Flowers, and the hour of tiieir blooming was at hand. "O Oniato! what beautiful soft thunder is that!" They had come near a waterfaU, under dark / I 276 Lkoends of St. Joseph. cedars. They saw the loam fiash under the dark branches. "Oniatol that watorfaU speaks to me Kke the voice of a God." "Perhaps, Lililvi, there is no God, except that Christ who makes the white-faced priests smell sweetly in the fire." "Hush! hush! Oniato,- li.ok at the globe of fire-flies under the palm tbere is the Chris- tian priest sitting on a rock by the river 1 His ■ back is rt>,-ilng against the tree." At thaf raoment it thundered under their feet. The forest rocked and creaked, and the gTor.nd quivered, like the sail of a ship when the wi.if'. siftokenB, They vcat up to the priest. He seemed aslet IK But it was not so. He had fainted from hunger. His face was very beautiful. When the fire-flies disappeared, it was the color of moonhght, and shone very marvel- lously in the dark night, with a soft shining. " Oniato," whispered LiUlpa, " it is the light of his God shining upon his face." iU. F St. Joseph. be loam iiash under the orfall speakB to me like there is no God, except es the white-faced priests fire." aiato,— li'ok at the globe ) palm tlisre is the Chris- a rock by the river 1 His ist the tree." it thundered under their eked and creaked, and the te the sail of a ship when the priest. He seemed i not so. He had fainted 1 face was very beautiful. 3 disappeared, it was the ;, and shone very marvel- light, with a soft shining. Bred LiUlpa," it is the light upon his face." IMAGE EVALUATION TEST TARGET (MT-3) 1.0 IfK- 11^ 2.0 1 — ui m I.I ^ m Hi >- L. 1.25 1.4 16 m om, V Photographic Sciences Corporation y 23 WEST MAIN STREET WEBSTER, N.Y. 14580 (716) 872-4503 kv- 'ir:i:iis=mmf'm 4- I S^ CIHM/ICMH Microfiche Series. CIHM/ICMH Collection de microfiches. Canadian Institute for Historical Microreproductions / Institut Canadian de microreproductions historiques ^....^.^^mi^^^sm^SBim!^:^m^&fmMis^^^^kssi^fiB&im^i-^^i^-£--f- '\ Legends of St. Joseph. 277 It thundered again under their feet. They looked up. Green, and purple, and crimson meteors were rushing about the sky, and crackling in the air. Strange children! they were not afraid. They fear nothing who are seeking God. They went up to the priest, and poured Bome wine down his throat, and he i>evived, and opened his eyes, and looked at them. " My children, who are you? " " We are the king's children. We want to know about your God." < ,,.,.,„*- He smiled, and blessed them, saymg, "You shall be king's children, indeed ! " n Then it thundered again under their feet, and it thundered over their heads, and the trees moaned, and the meteors crackled. And he told them about Bethlehem. They heard a hissing noise. A great dark mountain was opposite to them on the oUier side qt the river, and behold I a broad, solid flash of violet-colored lightning split the black mountain in two. Suddenly there was silence. ?* I t ^ u. n I" 3! '- ^k\4 278 Legends of St. Joseph. And he told them about Nazareth. A distant roar was heard. On came the whirlwind. It rooted up all the trees, and carried them miles into the air. The black mountain sank into the earth with a loud rumbUng. But they were not hurt. Then once more the rushing of the river was heard in the silent night. It wanted only a few minutes to midnight. And he told them about Calvary. And they clasped their heads and wept. Behold ! ten thousand wild beasts, howling and moaning, rushed past them, pursued by a great yellow fire, which had broken like a river out of the earth. It did not hurt the priest or the children. And he told them of the Mount of Olives, and the Ascension, and the coming again to Judgment. And Liillpa took hold of Oniata's hand, and they both looked up to heaven, and said, "Jesus! Jesus!" And the priest smiled, and wept. ^H I OF St. Joseph. a about Nazareth. was heard. On came the (ted up all the trees, and s into the air. The black to the earth with a loud ley were not hurt. Then liing of the river was heard it. It wanted only a few ht. oa about Calvary. cl their heads and wept. >usand wild beasts, howling ed past them, pursued by a hich had broken like a river It did not hurt the priest or em of the Mount of Olives, a, and the coming again to ok hold of Oniata's hand, ked up to heaven, and said, smiled, and wept. Legends of St. Joseph. 279 And a venerable white-haired old man sud- denly appeared at the other side of the river, and said, " It is time ! " And the priest said : " Blessed St. Joseph, I obey." . And he led the children to the edg^of the rock, and said : " You have given me wine : I will give you water, — water with the blood of Jesus hidden in it." And he explained Baptism ; and they begged to be baptized. And the heavens opened, with a fierce white light ; and a huge round glory, like a sunrise, was seen coming swiftly up fiom the east. And the priest said: "It is the Lord." And he baptised the children. And when they were baptized they said, " Come, sweet Jesus ! " And the earthquake shook the rock on which, they stood, and it rolled over into the deep, foamy water; and, as they fell, the priest's arm was round them; and they saw ft • ,Vi'\ m S60 Legends of St. Joseph. St. Joseph smiling at them ; and he pointed upwards, where a heavenly Lady, all dressed in golden light, was waiting for them. At first they thought it was their mother. But the Lady was more beautiful than their mother? and, though it seems strange to say so, her face was more full of love than their mother's was. Yet everybody, who sees that heavenly Lady for the first time, thinks her like his mother, because her beauty is so motherly. Then they kissed each other, and said: "The Angels are whispering in our hearts that it is Mary of Bethlehem;" and they cried, "Dear Mary!" And all three sank into the cold waters ; and it thundered louder than ever, and the water gurgled in their ears, and they clung closer together, and it was painful for a moment. Then their ears were full of the sound of harps ; and they opened their eyes, and the water was turned into light, and it was heaven ! And those two were the last children, and 'i OF St. Joseph. at them ; and he pointed eavenly Lady, all dressed waiting for them, aght it was their mother, more beautiful than their ti it seems strange to say )re full of love than their everybody, who sees that the first time, thinks her lecause her beauty is so d each other, and said : whispering in our hearts >f Bethlehem;" and they •y!" And all three sank 3 ; and it thundered louder water gurgled in their ears, loser together, and it was ent. Then their ears were of harps ; and they opened he water was turned into saven ! were the last children, and Leoekds 01? St. Joseph. 281 BO the world ended. Oh ! it was a beautiful midnight to Oniato and Lililpal It is day- time with them now, eternal day-time. O, happy children! who belong to Jesus, and have been saved by His Precious Blood ! 1 r ' XXXIV. TKE BIRD OF PARADISE AND THE HUMMING-BIRD. IHE days were accomplished. The great promise of the Messiah was about to be fulfilled. God, in His wisdom, had made choice of the privileged creature whom He would give as Mother to His Divine Son becoming incar- nate for the salvation of men. And soon the nativity of the August Virgin Mary came to gladden the whole world. By another de- cree of His admirable Providence, God pre- pared for the future Queen of Heaven a spouse worthy of her greatness and her vir- tues. ':■■'' --' '^^ ••"■ In a city of Juda, in a family, descending from David, but reduced, by the vicissitudes of fortune, to the humble rank of working people, a child came into the world: it was Legends op St. Joseph. XXIV. ^ARADTSE AND THE IINQ-BIRD. ivere accomplished. The omise of the Messiah was be fulfilled. God, in His had made choice of the whom He would give as ■ine Son becoming incar- n of men. And soon the ust Virgin Mary came to world. By another de- ,ble Providence, God pre- iire Queen of Heaven a ler greatness and her vir- ia, in a family, descending iduced, by the vicissitudes humble rank of working ae into the world: it was the young Joseph. Whilst the Angels sur- • rounded the cradle of the new-born babe, and celebrated his arrival in the world, a Bird of Paradise appeared in the vicinity of the lowly dwelling, and sang, in melodious tones : " Be- hold the child of benediction, the chosen of the Lord!" '' Joseph grew up, progressing more and more in the ways of perfection, like the sun advaiicii)g towards his meridian, and assum- ing every day, under the action of grace, a new resemblance to the august companion for whom he was reserved. Mary, on her side, grew in the shade of the Sanctuary, amongst the young maidens brought up with- in the precincts of the Temple of Jerusalem. The day had come when, according to the custom of the Jewish people, Mary was to be betrothed. The high priest, ignorant of the designs of God upon the August Vii^in, but moved by a Divine inspiration, had placed in the Ark the walking-sticks of the several candidates. By a miracle of God's almighty ■1' m i»i '^jit^- 284 Lkobndb of St. Joseph, power, when, on the third day, the sticka were taken from the Ark, that of Joseph was covered with flowers. At the same moment, there appeared mysteriously in the Temple the Bird of Paradise, bearing on his emerald wings the message from heaven: "Joseph is the chosen of the Lord ! " The heavens had dropped down dew on the earth, and the clouds had rained the Just One expected by the world. Warned by the Angel, during his sleep, of the sanguinnry projects of the cruel Herod, Joseph had promptly taken the Child and His Mother, and fled into Egypt. One day, during the painful journey through the desert, the Holy Family had stopped in the shade of a palm- tree, which immediately bent down to offer its fruit to our Holy Travellers. ^ ' Meanwhile, the air seemed ^11 on fire with the scorching rays of the sun, and number- less flies disturbed the little Infant Jesus, whilst He slept in His Mother's arms. For- ♦ getting her own suffermg and fatigue, and "I t St. Joseph. Legends of St. Joseph. 286 B third day, the sticks Ark, that of Joseph was At the same moment, teriously in the Temple , bearing on his emerald rom heaven: "Joseph is .rd!" Iropped down dew on the ds had rained the Just e world. Warned by the ileep, of the sangiiiunry uel Herod, Joseph had . Child and His Mother, >t. One day, during the )Ugh the desert, the Holy I in the shade of a palm- ately bent down to offer ' Travellers. ' lir seemed £^11 on fire with of the sun, and number- i the little Infant Jesus, His Mother's arms. For- sufferbg and fatigue, and thinking only of her Divine Son, Mary, un- able to drive away tliis swarm of troublesome flies, raised her eyes to heaven, and put up a fervent prayer. The Infant God at this mo- ment awoke, and gave His Mother one of those Divine looks which penetrated the soul of the August Virgin with heavenly consola- tion. He then stretched out His little hands. Immediately the flies were changed into tiny birds, sparkling with the colors of the most precious stones. They began to fly around the Holy Family, delighting them with the brilliant splendor of their many-tinted plu- mage. Whilst this flock of winged rubies circled around, doing homage to the King of Nature, appeared in their midst the Bird of Paradise, and, resting on Joseph's head, he said by his song : " Behold him whom the Lord chose to be the head, the protector, and the guide of His family!" Joseph had fulfilled his great mission upon earth. He was going to rejoin his fathers in :H 1i ■ti M ti'- ! 286 Leoensb of St. Joseph. the dwelling of hope, and to bring them the happy tidings of their approaching deliver- ance. Around his death-bed, Jesua and Mary min- istered to the wants of the dying Just Man and soothed him with their loving care. Sud- denly there appeared at the window of the humble cottage in Nazareth, the Bird of Para- dise. Spreading its beautiful wings before the eyes of Joseph, it warbled forth, in joyous strain : — " Courage, good and faithful servant ! Soon Shalt thou be with thy Son and thy God, in Paradise 1" )F St. Joseph. J, and to bring them the eir approaclnug deliver- l)ed, Jesua and Mary min- 9 of the dying Just Man h their loving care. Sud- id at the window of the azareth, the Bird of Para- beautiful wings before the warbled forth, in joyous nd faithful servant ! Soon thy Son and thy God, in ^4^ .^^5^ XXXV. THE LAST MOMENTS OF ST. JOSEPH. (FbOM "TiIB MYiTIOAl CiTT Of GOD.") BUIIING eight years St. Joseph had been exercised by pains and suffer- ings, and his generous spirit was ever more and more purified in the crucible of patience and divine love. With years his tortures increased, his strength diminished. The inevitable term of life, to which we pay the universal tribute of death, approached. His Blessed Spouse increased her devotion and her cares, to serve him with inviolable fidelity. This most holy Lady, knowing, through her infused science, that the last hour of her chaste bpouse in this place of exile was very near, went to find her Adorable Son, and said to Him : " My Lord and my God, the time for 288 LB5H1M or St. Jomph. the death of thy .errant Joseph yhich Thon h.sl determmed by an eternal .,11 « near at hand. I beseech Thee, Lord, by Thme. nfi- l,„odness,toa,sisthtainth^hou.so that his death may be as preaous to Thee as his Uie has been agreeable. Bemember, my slthelce^^dthehnmilityolThyservan _his merits, his *tues, and the pa.ns he has taken to preserve Tliy We and mme. tftKeu 11* F ^, J, Mother, Oar Sarioor replied to her. my ,„„r requests are pleasmg to me, and the Cits of Joseph are m my thoughts. I wrU Z. assist him, and I «m give him so emmen r^aoe among the princes of my peo^e, that itliU be a subject of admiration for the An- JeU and a motive for praises to them and to • S». I win not do for an_y nation that whrch I will do for your Spouse." ^ August Lady returned thanis to her inostswcetSonforthisprom.se. During the nine days that preceded the d^th of St. Joseph, ae Son and H.e Mother watched by him day and night. They soar- jr St. Jo&fiPH. rvant Joseph, which Thou an eternal will, is near at hee, Lord, by Thine infi- jsist him in this hour, so be as precious to Thee as agreeable. Remember, my lie humility of Thy servant tues, and the pains he has 'hy life and mine." lied to her: "My Mother, pleasing to me, and the ire in my thoughts. I will i I will give him so eminent princes of my people, that b of admiration for the An- for praises to them and to lo for any nation that which spouse." xdy returned thanks to her jr this promise, ne days that preceded the ,ph, the Son and the Mother dayandiiight. They so ar- Legends of St. Joseph. 289 ranged it that one or the other was always with him. Paring these nine days, the Angels chanted three iimes each day, by the Lord's command, celestial music for the holy patient. It was composed of canticles of praise to the Most High, and of benedictions for the Saint himself ; and, besides, so deUcious a fragrance pervaded aU that poor habitation, that not only the man of God was fortiBed and cheered by it, but many persons outside. A day before his death, all inflamed with divine love for so many benefits, he was ele- vated into a sublime ecstasy, which continued twenty-four hours, the Lord preserving his strength and life by a miraculous mterpo- sition. ij J.V In this ecstatic state he clearly beheld the Divine Essence, and discovered in it, without a veil, that which he had beUeved by faith, either in the incomprehensible Divinity, or m the mysteries of the Incarnation and Eedemp- tion-^the Church Militant and the Sacraments with which she is enriched. The Holy Trinity 25 a ii « i L i i i . i i i iiii i iMniinn'i 3i; . 290 Legends of St. Jos^-ph. destined him to be the precursor of Our Sa- viour Jesus Christ to the Saints ^vho were m Limbo, and commanded him to announce to them anew their redemption, and to prepare them for the visit which tlie same Lord was to make them to conduct them to eternal feUcity. St. Joseph returned from this ecstasy radiant in beauty, his soul divinised from the view of the being of God. He addressed himself to his spouse, and requested her benediction; but she prayed her most holy Son to give it, which His Divine Majesty was pleased to do. Our Blessed Lady, having knelt, besought St. Joseph to bless her, as her spouse and head. The man of God, not without a divine impulse, gave his benediction to his beloved spouse be- fore their separation. She afterwards kissed the hand with which he had blessed her, and requested him to salute for her the Saints m heaven. The most liumble Joseph, wishing to close his life by the seal of humility, asked pardon of his holy spouse for the faults which he f St. Jo8^-ph. Legends of St. Joseph. 291 ae precursor of Our Sa- the Saints who were in led him to announce to Binption, and to prepare ch the same Lord was to t them to eternal felicity, "rom this ecstasy radiant ivinised from the view of He addressed himself to [uested her benediction; most holy Son to give it, Eijesty was pleased to do. laving knelt, besought St. as her spouse and head, b without a divine impulse, to his beloved spouse be- a. She afterwards kissed 1 he had blessed her, and alute for her the Saints in e Joseph, wishing to close of humility, asked pardon ) for the faults which he might have committed in her service, as a feeble man of earthly mould. He entreated her to assist him in this last hour, and to in- tercede for him. He testified, above all, his gratitude to Our Adorable Saviour, for the benefits that he had received from His most hberal hand, during all his life, and particu- larly in this sickness. Then taking leave of his blessed Spouse, he said to her : "You are blessed among all women, and chosen above all creatures. Let angels and men praise you. Let all nations know and exalt your dignity. Let the name of the Most High through you be known, adored, and glorified in all future ages, and eternally praised by all the blessed spirts, for having created you so pleasing in His eyes. I trust to meet you in the heavenly ^^ After this, the man of God addressed Our Lord Jesus Christ ; and, wishing to speak to ■ His Majesty with profound respect, he made every effort to kneel on the ground. But the sweet Jesus approaching, received him in His I ;n. 292 Lbobndb of St. Joseph. arms, and the Saint, resting his head upon His shoulder, said : — " My Lord and my God, Son of the Eternal Father, Creator and Eedeemer of the world, give Thine eternal benediction to Thy servant, who is the work of Thy hands. Pardon the faults I have committed in Thy service and in Thy company. I confess Thee, I glorify Thee, I render to Thee, with a contrite and humble heart, eternal thanks for having chosen me, by Thine ineffable goodness, from among men, to be the Spouse of Thine own Mother. Grant, Lord, that Thine own glory may be the theme of my gratitude through all eter- nity." . I ? St. Joseph. resting his head upon God, Son of the Eternal Redeemer of the world, lediction to Thy servant, rhy hands. Pardon the ;ed in Thy service and in fess Thee, I glorify Thee, li a contrite and humble for having chosen me, jdness, from among men, 3f Thine own Mother, 'hine own glory may be ititude through all eter- XXXVI. THE HOLY HOUSE. [HERE are men to be found whose limited view sees, for man here below, only material well-being; their heart is dead to every senti- ment of a more elevated order. How Uttle in keeping that is with the nobility of our ori- gin' And is there, then, no consolation for this transitory life in helping to merit eter- nal years? Oh! how much better Religion knows our nature 1 The true friend of na- tions, she is far from bemg insensible to their physical prosperity; she favors them rather by the wisdom of her laws. But she knows that the first wants of men are the wants o their souls. No, factories are not of equal value with temples! Worth far more is the house of prayer, where eyes are raised to heaven, than the house of hard labor, where i'-i': m p.j»6!aES'*?ir!3r?-^ ^J*^ 294 Legends op St. Joseph. I they are kept bent on the ground. A temple, and especially a shrine, is a common centre, a spot where all may unite and mingle to- gether—those who are widely separated by distance or by fortune, those whose interests and inclinations are the most dissimilar ; it is the paternal roof, under which all the mem- bers of the great family, assembled round the same table, and storing up the same memo- ries, feel themselves children of the same father : it is the beloved abode of poor and faithful nations. A chapel of pilgrimage is a refuge for an afflicted soul, which has nothmg more to hope from men for relief to its pains ; it is a heavenly asylum for a heart disen- chanted of the world, and feeling the want of God. At the foot of a lonely altar, one more easily lends an ear to the voice that speaks to the soul, and far from the tumult of the world the peace of God makes itself better felt. Hence, the devotion of pilgrimage is con- nected with a feeling natural to the heart of man, and may be said to be as ancient as the •^ i St. Joseph. Legends of St. Joseph. 295 the ground. A temple, le, is a common centre, r unite and mingle to- •e widely separated by B, those whose interests le most dissimilar ; it is ler which all the mem- ly, assembled round the ng up the same memo- children of the same ived abode of poor and hapel of pilgrimage is a soul, which has nothing en for relief to its pains ; 'lum for a heart disen- , and feeling the want of a lonely altar, one more the voice that speaks to 1 the tumult of the world kes itself better felt, jn of pilgrimage is oon- 5 natural to the heart of d to be as ancient as the heart of man. Discouraged by the confusion of tongues, the sons of Noah and their chil- dren chose for their dwelling-place the tops of the highest mountains, to preserve them- selves, if possible, from a new deluge ; and they only descended into the plains when pas- turage for their flocks failed, and the soil refused to produce the gi-ain necessary for the support of their rising colonies. Thence comes the respect of the Orientals for their sacred mounts, a respect which they testify by annual visits, accompanied by vows, offer- ings, and prayers. Veneration for the cradle of nations was afterwards transferred to men wto made themselves illustrious by heroic deeds, and sites which recalled great memories, noble labors, lofty virtues. Thus it is that the gratitude of the Jewish people preserves from age to age the tomb of Esther and Mardochai, to which the Hebrews spread throughout Asia have gone on pilgrimage for two thou- sand years. Strange it is that the tomb of 296 Legends op St. Joseph. If i si two exiles, raised by the gratitude of some captives, has survived the great Assyrian em- pire, and alone saved from oblivion the rums of Ecbatana ! Man is like the ivy ; he must be supported by something in order that he may have cour- age to live. When he finds neither sympathy nor comfort amongst his fellow-beings, ho in- stinctively invokes the inhabitants of a better world, and demands of them that help which society either refuses or is powerless to grant him. Catholicity, which so well understands and knows how to sanctify the inclinations of our heart, has not retrenched from her wor- ship the 'devotion of pilgrimages; and, from the first ages of the Church, faithful Chris- tians were seen kneeling in the places sancti- fied by the suflferings of Jesus Christ, or made famous by mkacles obtained through the in- tercession of Mary. It was for Protestant- ism, which discolors and pulverizes all xt touches, to snatch this crown from the brow of Jesus and of Mary, by forbidding its secta- p St. Joseph. Legends of St. Joseph. 297 the gratitude of some I the great Assyrian em- i from oblivion the ruins r ; he must be supported r that he may have cour- le finds neither sympathy L his fellow-beings, ho in- 10 inhabitants of a better of them that help which 3 or is powerless to grant hieh so well understands janctify the inclinations of retrenched from her wor- f pilgrimages; and, from le Church, faithful Chris- eling in the places sancti- ;s of Jesus Christ, or made obtained through the in- . It was for Protestant- >rs and pulverizes all it this crown from the brow iry, by forbiddmg its secta- ries those pious visits which are so useful to man, since he finds therein consolation in his woes, support in his weakness, and relief in his miseries. The illustrious Robertson, unblinded by the narrow prejudices of his sect, openly acknow- ledges the benefits for which Europe is in- debted to foreign pilgrimages. First, the freedom of the communes, the creation of commerce and the navy, the propagation of intelligence, the improvement of agriculture. Then, it is the emancipation of the serfs to which pilgrimages contributed more than any- thing else ; for the feudal lord, who mingled, barefoot, with pilgrims of all conditions, un- derstood more easily, in his hours of humility and penance, that these despised slaves were yet his brethren before God ; and when he had obtained the grace he went to seek, in some ancient shrme far away from his own castle, the thought often came to him to free a certain number of his vassals m honor of Christ, the enemy of slavery, and of the i 1 298 Legends of St. Joseph. Blessed Virgin Mary, who is all sweetuesB and mercy. After the Holy Sepulchre and St. Peter's at Eome, there is no pilgrimage in all Chvisten- dom more famous than that of the most holy House of Loretto. The holy house of Naza- reth was venerated by Christians, even in the . life-time of the Apostles, and St. Helena built a temple around it, which received the name of St. Mary's. Under the rule of the Ara- bian caliphs, a multitude of French pilgrims went to adore Jesus and honor Mary in that poor and lowly dwelling, where they, led, for such a long space of time, a laborious and hidden life. But when the Turkish Seljou- cides had enslaved their former masters, the pilgrims from Europe who ventured into Sy- ria, to visit Jerusalem and Nazareth, were so barbarously treated that it roused to fury the entire West, which threw itself on Asia. When Godfrey de Bouillon had been pro- claimed king of Jerusalem, Tancred was named governor of Galilee. That prince, Stf !.V»iWi^i**-^«t -*^ • ' Leoends op St. JosEPn. 299 P St. Jobeph. , who is all sweetuesB ulchre and St. Petov's at Igiiniage in all Cluisten- in that of the most holy rhe holy house of Naza- y Christians, even in the ties, and St. Helena built ivhich received the name ler the rule of the Ara- itude of French pilgrims and honor Mary in tliat lUing, where they, led, for of time, a laborious and ■hen the Turkish Seljou- their former masters, the pe who ventured into Sy- lem and Nazareth, were bed that it roused to fury hich threw itself on Asia. Bouillon had been pro- Jerusalem, Tancred was f Galilee. That prince, who had a great devotion to Mary, proved it by the sumptuous offerings wherewith he en- riched the church of Nazareth. After the expedition of St. Louis, that corner of the earth, regarded as the cradle of Christianity, was defended, foot by foot, by the Knights of the Temple. Those valiant warriors shed tears of rage and giief at sight of the holy places profaned by the Saracens. Sometimes, forgetting the distance that separates the creature from the Creator, they carried their rash zeal so far as to be vexed with Him who guides the course of human affairs, and re- proached the God of Armies with the victo- ries of their enemies. Galilee, whitened with the bones of the Latin warriors, had become Mahometan. God willing not that the Holy House of Mary should remain exposed to the profanation of the Infidels, had it transported by Angels to Scla- vonia or Dalmatia, to a little mountain called Tei-sato. The miracles every day wrought in that house, the judicial investigation which !i Sis i i ttf 800 Leqendh op St. Joskph. 1 dcputicH from that country wont to Nazareth to make, in order to establish tlie fact of its removal to Dalmatia; finally, the universal porsniusiou of the nations, who came from all parts to venerate it, seemed to be incontostible proofs of the truth of the prodigy. It pleased God, nevertheless, to give yet onother, whereof all Italy and Dalmatia were in some sort the witness. After three years and seven months, the Holy House was transported across the Adriatic Sea, to the territory of Recanati, in the March of Ancona, in the midst of a wood belonging to a pious and noble widow, named Lauretta. An ancient tradition relates that, on the arrival of the Holy House, the great trees of the Italian forest bowed down in to- ken of respect, and so remained till the winds, the axe, or i^e laid them on the ground. This new removal grieved the people of Dalmatia so much that they could scarcely survive it. To console themselves, they built, • on the very spot, a church consecrated to the Mother of God, since in charge of the Fran- St. Johki'H. Leqendh )F St. Joseph. 301 untry wont to Nazareth establish tlie fact of its ; finally, the universal ions, who came from all omed to bo incontostible the prodigy. It plo-ised ^ive yet another, whereof % were in some sort the years and seven months, , transported across the territory of Becanati, in ,, in the midst of a wood and noble widow, named lit tradition relates that, e Holy House, the great forest bowed down in to- lo remained till the winds, ihem on the ground, d grieved the people of that they could scarcely ole themselves, they built, • shurch consecrated to the ce in chaise of the Fran- ciscans, and on the door of wliirh was placed this inscription : Hie vnt lot'im /» (jm J'uit sncra domuH NdXiirnitt, qiKr nunc I'n Efvlwtl jmrt'ilms colli II r. Many inhabitants of Dulinutia even caitio to Italy to fix their dwelling near the Holy House, and established there the com- pany of Corpus -Chnstl, so called by the Scla- voniaiiH, till the pontificate of Panl III. The event was so noised about in Christen- dom, that there came from almost all Europe an innumerable multitude of pilgrims to Ro- canati, in order to honor the Holy House of Loretto, as it was called. To establish more and more the truth of this miracle, the inhabi- tants of the province sent to Dalmatia, and afterwards to Nazareth, sixteen persons the best qualified for the task, who made a new investigation in those places. But God Him- self vouchsafed to make it manifest beyond all doubt, by suddenly renewing, twice in suc- cession, the prodigy of the removal in the very territory of Recanati. For, at the end of eight months, the forest of Loretto, being infested • m 302 Legends op St. Joseph. lis 11 t I* 1 by brigands who stopped pilgrims, the House was transported a thousand miles away, and placed on a little height belonging to two brothers of the family of Antici ; and finally, the latter having taken up arms one against the other, to divide the offerings of the pil- gi-iras, the Holy House was transported to i place farther off, and on the high road, where it remained, and where the town called Lorett< was afterwards built. The church of Loretto has been magnifi cently adorned by the Sovereign Pontiffs, wh have themselves often gone thither on pil grimage. Three doors of chased bronze giv entrance to the holy temple, in the centre ( which stands the Holy House, in its garb . white marble, adorned with superb hassi-rdiei The miraculous statue of Mary is carved cedar wood, covered with magnificent draper and placed on an altar resplendent with pi cious stones. The niche it occupies is lin with plates of gold, and lamps of massive sih burn night and day before it. May they as OP St. Joseph. Legends of St. Joseph. 303 stopped pilgrims, the House a thousand miles away, and ,le height belonging to two family of Antici ; and finally, 5 taken up arms one against ide the offerings of the pil- House was transported to a and on the high road, where where the town called Loretto )uilt. )f Loretto has been magnifi- oy the Sovereign Pontiffs, who s often gone thither on pil- 3 doors of chased bronze give holy temple, in the centre of he Holy House, in its garb of domed with superb bassi-relievi. i statue of Mary is carved in rered with magnificent drapery, an altar resplendent with pre- The niche it occupies is lined rold, and lamps of massive silver d day before it. May they be the image of our lasting love for the Divine Mother of the Saviour ! With the intention of thanking God for the great benefit He was pleased to confer ou Western Christendom, — when, to compensate for the loss of the Holy Sepulchre, He caused to be transported to a Catholic land the hum- ble yet august house wherein the Virgin Mary received the Angel's message, and where, by the consent of that Amiable Mother of God, the Word was made flesh and began to dwell with us,— the Church instituted a feast, under the name of the translation of, the Holy House of Loretto, — a feast which is celebrated during the holy time of Advent. Hitherto it has not been one of obligation in the Universal Church ; but it is kept at Eome and in all the Pontifical States, in Tuscany, in the Kiugdom of Naples, in Spain, in Belgium, and also in most of the religious Orders. Benedict XIV., of immortal memory, the Bollandists, a hundred Pontifical Bulls, estab- lish as a fact worthy of faith, that the Sane- n Legends op St. Joseph. tuary of Our Lady of Loretto, venerated by all Catholic nations, is the sacred he use in which the Word of God was conceived. Transported by Angels to the banks of the Adriatic, that poor house, more rich, more magnificent in the eyes of faith than the Tem- ple of Solomon, has been visited for six hun- dred years, by all that the Church has pro- duced greatest in the order of sanctity. St. Philip de Neri, St. Ignatius, St. Charles Bor- romeo, St. Francis de Sales, St. Yincent de Paul, and St. Alphonso Liguori, went to medi- tate, in the shadow of the walls which, for thirty-three years, sheltered Jesus and Mary, on the great mystery of eternal love. Sovereign Pontiffs,— powerful monarchs,— illustrious princesses,— men of genius,— rich and poor,— went also on pilgrimage to this Holy House, where, for nearly twenty cen- turies, the Creator of the world and the Queen of Heaven have dwelt. Humble abode, become, by the Incarnation of the Word, the hoUest place on earth, thy OP St. Joseph. of Loretto, venerated by 1, is the sacred htuse in of God was conceived. 5els to the banks of the house, more rich, more f'es of faith than the Tem- been visited for six hun- ;hat the Church has pro- he order of sanctity. St. Ignatius, St. Charles Bor- de Sales, St. Yincent de nso Liguori, went to medi- r of the viralls which, for sheltered Jesus and Mary, y of eternal love, fa, — ^powerful monarchs, — es, — men of genius, — rich Iso on pilgrimage to this e, for nearly twenty cen- f of the world and the lave dwelt. become, by the Incarnation hoUest place on earth, thy Lkoends of St. Joseph. 805 blessed walls must have melted away with wonder, when they felt themselves touched by the hand of the Infant God, when they had the glory of protecting the existence of His August Mother, when they were witness of the highest manifestation of Divine love. Let other nations boast their gigantic monu- ments, let Home and Greece propose for ad- miration their temples of marble and of por- phyry ; let them glory, as much as they will, iu their palaces, all glittering with gold and jewels: thou alone, O House of Nazareth, hast the proud boast of containing the King of kings, the Lord of lords, the Judge of the universe. Yes, sacred dwelling, it is under thy modest roof that infinite wisdom, power,^ and goodness have fully revealed themselves by the Incarnation. Ohl how these truths mako my heart beat! how they expand my sentiments of admiration and of gratitude for Jesus and His Divine Mother I .•J t XXXVII. THE ADVOCATE OF HOPELESS CASES. . PETER holds the keys of heaven's gate, ,4 Kind, but severe he is, old legends state ; For the poorest comer he finds a place, If he lived t^pd died in the Lord's sweet grace. But if any one comes who spent his days Far from God and His blessed ways. Neither crowu nor sceptre could favor win, Nor the Pope himself might enter in. Who knocks so ? — ^"Tis a mighty lord. Was his life a good one to record? Did he keep God's precepts night and day ? — No. — ^No heaven for him. Away ! away 1 — And who is this other ?— A miser.— Go I No lover of money will Jesus know. — Legends op St. Joseph. 307 IXXVII. OF HOPELESS CASES. L holds the keys of heaven's it severe he is, old legends ler he finds a place, I in the Lord's sweet grace. Bs who spent his days His blessed ways, sceptre could favor win, slf might enter in. 'Tis a mighty lord. I one to record? precepts night and day ? — •rhim. Away! away 1 — her ? — A miser. — Go 1 will Jesus know. — And the third ?— A clever attorney.— Nay, No conscienceless lawyer admit I may.— This other one ! What hath he to show ? Some eloquent writings. Let him go. And this artist ?— Great things hath he done.— Here by good works alone is glory won.— Ha ! this valiant soldier 1 how died he ?— He fought, lest his honor should tarnish'd be, > And so was slain.— But Our Lord once said, When He to Caiaphas' hall was led, , And cruelly struck, as the Scriptures say : " From him who strikes turn not away." — Now, who is this lady, in robes so fine ?— On earth, her beauty was call'd divine. » So ample her robes, it took folding-doors, To open her way to her marble floors. — * "'-' Ah I narrow the way is Our Lord hath made ; The brood way she chose, I am sore afraid. The flowery path leads down to hell. The thorny to heaven, as sages tell. If heaven were gain'd by the easy way. What need were there, then, to fast and pray? The just would have vigils and tears in vain, And sinners the profit, without the pain. . E , f i ^■^ 308 Leoendb of St. Joseph. In Naples, a story like this is told, A simple tale of the ages old, ' ■ From which may be taken both bad and good, According to what is the hearer's mood. By people in health it is oft abused, And by the dying with profit used. 'Mongfit the Lazzaroni it, then, occurr'd. - And the tale full many a heart hath stirr'd. f ' .'1 If Since Peter first kept watch and ward, A moment he had not been oflf guard ; Yet sinners so many had found their way Into heaven, he knew not what to say. " If those people are happy now," said he, " 'Tis not my fault, as all may see; . For, as to me, I take good care That no such persons shall enter there." 11)1 The beloved Apostle went that way : " What aileth thee, Peter ? " he stopped to say. " Is anything wrong with the Church below ?"— "No, I fear for the Church up here."— "How so?" " Say, hast thou not mark'd some faces here That little fitted for heaven appear ? OF St. Joseph. ke this is told, ages old, taken both bad and good, 8 the hearer's mood. it is oft abused, ith profit used. oni it, then, occurr'd. ' my a heart hath stirr'd. pt watch and ward, lot been off guard ; f had found their way sw not what to say. , •■ e happy now," said he, i 5' • as all may see; wtis *uv ke good care '> ' - ns shall enter there." le went that way : , Peter ? " he stopped to say. g with the Church below ? " — I Church up here."— "How so?" )t mark'd some faces here ir heaven appear ? Lboends of St. Joseph. 309 They needs must have led bad lives below ; You have but to look at them to know That heaven has cost them less to buy, Ay, an hundred-fold, than yon or I." _" 'Tis true," said John, " but you're not to blame, The keys of heaven you kept the same." " I know," said Peter, " but now, you see, 'Tis Joseph makes all this trouble for me. Let people on earth be what they may, Though they spend their lives in the very worst way, If they call upon him when death draws near, And cry ' MeSi culpa,' he brings them here. How he gets them in, wliy, I cannot tell ; But 'tis not by my gate, I know full well. Now, John, we must let the Master know." ^-" You may try," said John, " but before you go, I tell you that Peter has but small chance Should Joseph to plead his cause advance." Then Peter bethought him 'twere well to take ^ Advice, and of John a guide to make. " Dear Apostle," said he, " I remember now Hpw the Lord loved him of the gentle brow : When at the supper he told us all • Into treachery one of you twelve shall fall,' 810 Legends of St. Joseph. I, like the others, was stupified, And dared not ask 'How shall this woe betide?' How you on the Master's bosom lay, And were not afraid such words to say. So then I made you a sign to speak, And He turn'd to you with aspect meek, "When tve all shrank from His searching eye, And, of all, was none more afraid than I. Now, come with me, John, and I will not fear." — Together they seek the Master dear ; Peter looking a little confused, And John, as though he were much amused. Full soon they saw the Saviour stand ' With Mary and Joseph on either hand. " What would'st thou, Peter ? " the Master said. " I am troubled, dear Lord," and he rais'd his head; "John will tell Thee why I grieve, — It is that, without let or leave. All sorts of people Joseph lets in. Even those who have spent their life la sia ; If, at their death on him they call. Why, into heaven he brings them all ; — Indeed, good Lord, it is hardly fair To those who serve thee well down there." s OF St. Joseph. was stupified, ; 'How shall this woe betide?' [aster's bosom lay, id such words to say. lu a sign to speak, you with aspect meek, >k from His searching eye, one more afraid than I. »e, John, and I will not fear." eek the Master dear ; ;tle confused, ]gh he were much amused. J the Saviour stand oseph on either hand, thou, Peter ? " the Master said, ear Lord," and he rais'd his head; lee why I grieve, — ; let or leave, ) Joseph lets in, ave spent their life in sia ; on him they call, he brings them all ; — 1, it is hardly fair '6 thee well down there." Lboends op St. Joseph. 811 — " Bat, Peter, if I forgive his sins, A heavenly crown the sinner wins,— No soul to heaven hath Joseph brought Who had not first ray mercy sought." _" I know," said Peter, " to die in grace Is all that is needed to see Thy face ; 'Twas thus the good thief got entrance here, And such cases there may be yet, that's clear,- But, methinks 'tis not well for the Church below, That these elect of Joseph's to heaven go : If people on earth should come to hear That such sinners may find an entrance here, My successors may thunder forth in vain The terrible judgments, the endless pain. Awaiting the sinner beyond the grave, ' Who, in life, seeketh not his soul to save." . _" Peter, 'tis true ; but yet, I pray, How could I say my father nay ? For thee, friend Peter, let none in Who cannot show pardon for their sin." __" But if Joseph goes on in this singular way, What use is in my keeping watch, I say ? I close the gate, but the walls they scale, I'm sorry to have to tell the tale. 812 Legends of St. Joseph. \l\ 15 H 1 Now here is John who can safely sny That heaven growa worse from day to day, By letting in, every week or so, / A good thufov two, as we all of us know. I would not complain if the thing were rare, But heaven is full of them now, I declare." Far different was the Saviour's care. He who once died hif:h raised in air. Praying for mercy on His foes. And feeling, more tlian death's dread throes, The cruel thought that His suff 'rings dire Would not save all men from hell's fierce fire. So, hearing St. Peter's complaint. He smiled. And His look was so very sweet and miH Thd Teeter thought he had carried the day, And was henceforth to have his rightful way. " Now Peter," the sweet Lord Jesus said, — The Apostle, list'ning. bow'd his head,— " We will settle this matter once for all : You want none here but my chosen few. And would have heaven gain'd by service tme ; Now, I give it for love, as thou shalt see, And the fuller it is, the more pleasing to me : m 8 OF St. Joseph. who can safely say I worse from day to day, y week or so, i TO, as we all of us know, ain if the thing were rare, of them now, I declare." the Saviour's care, hif;!i raised in air, ■ ou His foes, than death's dread throes, ; that His sufif 'rings dire II men from hell's fierce fire, eter's complaint, He smiled, 8 so very sweet and miH ht he had carried the day, •th to have his rightful way. e sweet Lord Jesus said, — ning. bow'd his head, — ;hi8 matter once for all : lere but my chosen few, heaven gain'd by service true ; r love, as thou shalt see, is, the more pleasing to me : Legends of St. Joseph. 813 I have suffer'd so much to redeem mankind That to save them all I am well inclined ; In this, then, Joseph and I agree. And if our mercy displeases thee. Go choose a company of thine own, jAnd make it to suit thyself alone ; But Mary and Joseph and I, all three, Will have a heaven so fair and free That every sinner who contrite dies Shall there in endless glory rise." —"Friend Peter," said John, "What think yea now?" —Said Peter, "Lord, to Thy will I bow." • f-: if is n ^5 . '4' -5S!S33SSRrr' APPENDIX. 8T. JOSEPH'S NAME. TnB eighth day after hla birth, the son of Jacob was circimciRed, according to law, and was called Joseph. That blessed name, which signifies abun- dance and increwe, because it announced the trea- sures of grace and of merit wherewith his soul was to be enriched, is the noblest and the sweetest of all names, after those of Jesus and Mory. According to St. Anselm and St. John Damascene, it contained an epitome of the whole history of the new-born child. Under his auspices was to grow up that In- fant God, who, visiting the sterility of the anathe- matized earth, was to spread abroad over it the abundance of His graces and His benefits. He him- self, raised. up by that God from humiliation and r.l 316 Appendix. oblivion, was to acquire, before men and angels, an increase of honor and glory. The name of Joseph realizes, therefore, to the let- ter, its etymological signification. Everywhere there are towns, religions congregations, and Christians, who honor him by bearing it. It has designated, in history, many saints, many bishops, even many princes. Nor is its reign ended ; and it is to be hoped that it shall be placed, as a perftime and a sacred seal, on the brow of the children of this age, and that this generation will grow up, pure and active, after the image of St. Joseph. i'.i ¥4 n% B. AD BEATISSIMVM JOSEPH. IMVOCATIO. J esn nutritor pater, conjnxque Marise, O sidus radians, Coelicolumque decor ! S is tu nostra salus tetro sub limine lethi, E t nobis liceat, te recreante, mori 1 P rotector mentes miseras solare tuorum ^ H ymnos da aeternos mox ut ad astra canant 1 ^PENDIX. Appendix. 317 ire, before men and angels, an glory. ih realizes, therefore, to the let- ig'nification. Everywhere there congregations, and Christians, iaring it. It has designated, in nany bishops, even many princes. i ; and it is to be hoped that it perfume and a sacred seal, on dren of this age, and that this ' up, pure and active, after the (TIUVKStATION.J INVOCATION TO THE BLESSED ST. JOSEPH. Foster father of Jesus, chaste spouse of Mary, bright star of heaven, the glory and honor of the Saints, ah 1 be our safeguard at that sorrowful hour when we cross the threshold of our eternity. Grant us the favor of expiring gently under thy blessed eyesl Powerful Protector, comfort, on earth, the sorrowful soul of thy servants, and grant that they may one day go to chant in heaven the never-ceasing hymn of eternal felicity 1 % VTISSIMUM JOSEPH. IMVOCATIO. • iter, conjuxque Marise, *' Coelicolumque decor 1 lus tetro sub limine lethi, te recreante, mori 1 js miseras solare tuorum ^ rnos mox ut ad astra canant 1 -?nt 0. BAPTISM OF THE FIRST SA VAGE AT MONTREAL. The first savage baptized and married before the Church received in baptism the name of Joseph ; and that, says Father Vimont, to make him bear the name of the head of the first family presented by the clergy of Montreal as the model of the savages and the patron of the country. 818 Appendix. 8T. JOSEPH'S MARRIAGE RING. Benedict XIV., in his Treatise on the Beaiijka- Hon and Canonization of Saintn, represents, as wor- thy of veneration, the pious belief held by the inhab- itants of Perngia, that they possess that same ring which Joseph put on Mary's finger at the moment of their union. Pius IX., in the journey which he made in 1851, through the States of the Church, amidst the acclam- ations of his subjects, when celebrating the holy Mass in the cathedral of Perugia, requested that this famous relic should be exposed on the altar, vene- rated it with great devotion, then gave it to be kissed by the young Archduke of Tuscany, who had come, in the name of his family, to pay him homage. ■ ■ ' B. AFPARITION OF THE HOLY FAMILY TO MR. DE LA DAUVERSIERE. M. de la Dauversiere having one day gone into the church of Notre Dame, in Paris, and having there received Holy Communion with his usual fervor, lil. lPPENDIX. Appendix. 319 D. 'S MARRIAGE RING. his Treatise on the Beaiijka- n of SaintK, represents, as wor- pious belief held by the inh8,b- it they possess that same ring Mary's finger at the moment of jurney which he made in 1857, the Church, amidst the acclam- ts, when celebrating the holy I of Perugia, requested that this be exposed on the altar, vene- ivotion, then gave it to be kissed jke of Tuscany, who had come, mily, to pay him homage. HE HOLY FAMILY TO MR. DE DAUVERSIERE. siere having one day gone into Dame, in Paris, and having there imunion with his usual fervor, whilst making his thanksgiving alone near the statue of Mary, and profoundly recollected hi God, was rar vished out of himself, and saw distinctly the Holy Family— Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. As he contem- plated these august personages, he heard Our Lord say these words three times to the Most Holy Virgin: " Where can I find a faithful servant ? " and saw that the Divine Mother, taking himself by the hand, pre- sented him to her Divine Son, saying: "Behold, Lord, this faithful servant." That then Our Lord received him kindly, and said : "Thou shalt henceforth be my faithful servant. I will clothe thee with wisdom and with strength; thou shalt have thine Angel Guardian for a guide. Labor earnestly at my work; my grace is sufficient for thee, and it shall not be wanting to thee." Whereupon the Lord placed in his hand a ring engraved with the names of Jesus, Mary, Josqah, telling him to give such another to all the young girls who should consec ite themselves to the Holy Family, in the congregation he was going to establish. 820 Appendix. F. THE HOLY HOUSE. The Holy House is placed under the dome of the basilica iu which it is now inclosed. Its form is ob- long, running from east to west, according to the usual direction of large churches ; so that the eastern wall looks on the chancel of the church," and the west- em on the nave. The walls, little conformable to architectural rules, are placed without support, on ground shifting and uneven ; so that any one may sat- isfy himself, by passing his hands through the spaces left by accidmts to the w.»lls. that they rest on no IbundatioD. ; ^^ ■ The interior of the Holy House, now converted » into a chapel, is 29 feet 8 inches long; 12 feet 8 inches wide ; and 13 feet 3 inches high. On the north side, about the middle of the chapel, is seen an ancient mural door, with its deal lintel. Midway in the west wall there is a small wmdow. with a bronze grating, surmounted, within the chapel, by a wooden cross, the same in breadth as in height. This cross, brought from Nazareth with the Holy House, bears an image of Christ, painted on a canvas which covers PEMDEC F. 'OLY HOUSE. placed under the dome of the now inclosed. Its form is ob- 3t to west, according to the churches ; so that the eastern el of the church,' and the west- e walls, little conformable to ! placed without support, on sven ; so that any one may sat- his hands through the spaces le w^Us, that they rest on no Holy House, now converted 8 inches long; 12 feet 8 inches iches high. On the north side, the chapel, is seen an ancient deal lintel. Midway in the small wmdow, with a bronze ffithin the chapel, by a wooden ;adth as in height. This cross, th with the Holy House, bears linted on a canvas which covera Appendix. the wood. To the left of this cross, towards the angle formed by the two walls, is a little cupboard, in which are kept two small cups, believed to have been for- merly used by the Holy Family; in the lower part of the eastern wall may be seen an ancient fire-place, 4 feet 3 inches high; 2 feet 4 inches wide; and 6 inches deep. This fire-place, as was usual amongst the an- cients, has no vent for the smoke ; it merely indicates the place for the fire, which was sometimes made in the centre of a room, the smoke escaping through a window, or some other opening, made in the upper part of the wall. Above the fire-place, a niche, placed at equal distances from the two side walls, contains the ancient statue of the Virgin, also brought from Nazareth with the Holy House, and which an ancient tradition attributes to St. Luke. This statue, of cedar wood, rudely carved, is 2 feet 8 inches, and the Infant Jesus, which it bears in its arms, is 1 foot 2 inches in height. The altar, placed at a distance of some feet from the eastern wall, leaves at the bottom an empty space, which is called the Holy Chimney, because it contains the fireplace already referred to. The ancient altar is inclosed within another ; it is of stone, and was brought from Nazareth with the Holy House. f. JJ 322 Appendix. According to an ancient tradition, it was ^tajblished ] by the ApoBtles themselves, who celebrated the holy . mysteries upon it. , , , ..u i:* The ceiling was formerly level, and stndded with W tie golden sta... It was replaced, in the sixteenth century, by an elegant vault, supported by a stone comicT. the sky-blue ground being divided mto htt^ squares studded with gilt stars. On the walls are L very ancient paintings, partly effaced by t^e^ Most of these paintings represent the Blessed V.rg m and some other Saints; and there is every reason to believe that they are anterior to the date of he miraculous transportation of the Holy House, a« the most ancient accounte refer to these paintings as al- ready existing. ST. JOSEPH'S WORKSHOP. In accord vce with an ancient custom, which stfll exists amongst the Arabs and in great part of the East, Joseph worked at his trade in a different locahty from that in which Mary lived. His workshop, where Jesus Himself wrought, was a low room ten or tweWe feet wide and as many long. (Orsini. Ufe of th. PENDIX. Appendix. 828 t tradition, it was established ives, who celebrated the holy srly level, and studded with lit- ras replaced, in the sixteenth , vault, supported by a stone round being divided into little gilt stars. On the walls are itings, partly effaced by time. 8 represent the Blessed Virgin ,; and there is every reason to .. anterior to the date of the Aon of the Holy House, as the , refer to these paintings as al- G. JPff'S WORKSWP. I an ancient custom, which still Lrabs and in great part of the at his trade in a different locaUty lary lived. His workshop, where ht, was a low room, ten or twelve aany long. (Orsini, Life of the Mother of Ood, ch. viii.)— The same author cites, in a note, the following passage from Father de Geramb: "This house of Joseph is an hundred and thirty, or an hundred and forty paces firom that of St. Anne. The place is still pointed out as St. Joseph's workshop. This shop was converted into a good-sized church; the Turks destroyed a portion of it, but there remains a chapel wherein the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is daily celebrated."— Baron de Geramb's Pilgrimage to Jeru- salem.) These details are confirmed by Mgr. Mislin (Les Saints-Lieux, ch. xxxvi.) THE SAVIOUR'S CRIB. We must distinguish between the crib, properly so called (proBsgnwwi, as the Gospel says),— a sort of hollow cut in the solid rock of the cave,— and the holy cradle {Santa cvlla) formed of boards, made by St. Joseph, to carry the Divine Infant more conveniently into exile. These two holy relics are generally confounded: H is necessary, therefore, to say a word concermng e%ch. I i 824 APPETiDIX. The Crib, properly so called, in which the Savour was luid after His birth, on a little straw, is st.ll preserved at Bethlehem, in the grotto of the Nativity the primitive stable. It is a place hollowed ma part of the rock, resting nowou a marble pillarw luch tak. the place of several stones of the Crib given to certa. churches. One of these stones, of a considerable size was conveyed to Rome, and is venerated, even in o« own days, in the basilica of St. Mary Major, on h Esquiline; it is fitted into the altar in the crypt of th „.,gnificent chapel of the Holy Sacrament. In th Jious stone a hollow has been made, wherem is m Lesented the holy Infant Jesus laid on straw tl Blessed Virgin and St. Joseph kneeling in the attita< of contemplation. At Bethlehem, in order to preserve the Crib frc the pious ravages of the pilgrims, it has been cover with white marble, in the form of a cradle, four f long by two feet wide. Once a year, the Reve« PranciLn Fathers, who minister in the Church o Nativity, take off this marble covering, and, wit! brash, remove, and then distribute the Uttle fragm, that are naturally detached from it. The holy cradle {Santa cuUa) wa« transported f AppeiJdix. , 80 called, in which the Saviour birth, on a little straw, is still ,em, in the grotto of the Nativity, It is a place hollowed in a part aowon a marble pillar which takes stones of the Crib given to certain these stones, of a considerable size, orae, and is venerated, even in our .asilica of St. Mary Major, on the 5cl into the altar in the crypt of the of the Holy Sacrament. In this How has been made, wherein is seen oly Infant Jesus laid on straw, the 1 St. Joseph kneeling in the attitude ia order to preserve the Crib from of the pilgrims, it has been covered ,e, iu the form of a cradle, four feet wide. Once a year, the Reverend .rs, who minister in the Church of the I this marble covering, and, with a id then distribute the Uttle fragments ly detached fifom it. Je {Santa cuM) was transported from Appendix. 825 the Holy Land to Rome, in the year 642. It is cora- poscd of five small boards, the largest of which ap pears to be 24 feet iu length by 5 inches iu breadth. Worn away and blackened by time, they arc placed one over another and bound together by sealed rib- bons, and arc under sheets of crystal, in the form of a cradle, which are supported by angels. The upper part forms a little dome, wherein is seen' a straw bed, on which reposes a silver statue of the Divine Jesus. The whole is placed in a beautiful and si)lendid re- liquary, seemingly about six feet high. On the pedes- tal whereon is represented the Adoration of the Magi, may be read those words of the Angel to the Shep- herds : " Glory to God in the highest," &c. This holy relic can only be seen on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, when it remains exposed at diffe- rent parts of the Church. The rest of the time, the holy cradle is shut up in the superb crypt, under the high altar of the basilica, constructed at the expense of Pope Pius IX. It is of unequalled magnificence; the finest marbles, the most precious stones, are there combined. It was consecrated by His Holiness on the nth of April, 1864. In the crypt, under the chapel of the Blessed Sar 28 326 Appendix. cramcnt, already mentioned arc preserved some of the 8waddli..g-clothe8 wherein the Saviour was wrapped, and some of the hay on which lie lay. The cloak with which St. Joseph covered Him to save Him from the cold, is v....eratfd in the church of St. Anastasia, and the basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem has the privilege of possessing some of the hair of the holy Infant Jesus. In the cathedral of Aix-la-Chapelle there is like, wise preserved a portion of those same swaddling- clothes given by St. Helena. ' TOE GROTTO OF THE NATIVITY. Three convents-one Latin, one Greek, one Arme- nian-guard the rich treasure of Bethlehem, the pr«. cious jewel of Christendom, the grotto in wliich th< Saviour was born, protected by a Constantinian bas. lica. It is reached by a descent of sixteen steps. Th( grotto incloses the site of the stable and the maugci It measures nearly twelve yards in length, by five i width, and three in height It is entirely covere with marble. To the left of the staircase leading t iioncci urc preserved some of the •rein the Saviour wns wrapped, „ whicii He lay. The cloak with i-rcd Him to save Him from the ;hc church of St. AnaHtasin, and loly Crosfl in Jerusalem has the ,g some of the hair of the holy of Aix-la-Chapelle there is like, irtion of those same swaddling- Helena. I. . ■ ' W OF THE NATIVITY. K)ne Latin, one Greek, one Arme- ch treasure of Bethlehem, the pro- stcndora, the grotto in which the protected by a Constantiuian basi- by a descent of sixteen steps. The site of the stable and the manger, twelve yards in length, by five m iu height It is entirely covered the left of the staircase leading to Appendix. m the manger, on the eastern side, is a semiH^ircnlar excavation. This is where Our Lord Jesus Chnst was born. - . , .,i An altar, supported by two little marble p.Uars rises on this spot. In the centre of a rich mosaic of j„s,...r nnd porphyry, is read, engraved round a sdver star the words : Hie de Virgine Maria Je.u. Christus „aln. ed* A little farther down is found the place which the Crib occupied. It is known that the holy cradle has been conveyed to Rome, and is now vene- rated in St. Mary Major's, hiclosed in a magn.hcent monument, of bronze, marble, and precious stones, re- presenting the Temple of Jerusalem. In front of the Crib rises a small altar belonging to the Lati.«. dis- tinct from the first, which is the property of the Greeks. J. ENIGMA. In the classic days of old, I was the name of warrior bold ; But now my name breathes only peace, That peace whose charms can never cease; . ..Here Jesus Christ wa. bom of the Virgin Mary.- 328 Appendix. Each day to penance summon I, And men'H conHcienco purify; I sweep away the frost and snow, , Beneath my feet fresh flowrcts grow; I bring back Spring, and the smile of hope, To the poor tlie portals of plenty ope; "With a great Saint's honor I om allied, My name with his is identified; ■ , I usher in the festal time When Christ firom the dead rose in glory's prtme; It is to make hearts more glad and free That my predecessor gives place to me. THE SEPULCHRE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN AND THAT OF ST. JOSEPH. At the foot of Mount Olivet, beyond the hill of Kedron, stands the church built on the site of the Virgin's tomb, whence her sacred body was taken up to heaven. A square place, paved with fine stones, serves as a court. The entrance is no wise remarkable, but you descend to the sanctuary by a fine flight of flay steps, covered by a sounding arch, the echoes LPFENDIX. |)cnancc Bummon I, oiiHcicHco purify; I froHt and Hnow, j fresh flowretB grow; ing, and tho Hmile of hope, [lortalK of plenty ope; int'H honor I am allied, JH if) identified; ital time .1 n the dead rose in glory's prime; arts more glad ond free !88or gives place to me. F TUB BLESSED VIRGIN AND ' OF ST. JOSEl'II. lount Olivet, beyond the hill of church built on the site of the ice her sacred body was taken up re place, paved with fine stones, be entrance is no wise remarkable, the sanctuary by a fine flight of by a sounding arch, the echoes Appendix. 829 of which repeat the pious chant of the pilgrims who go down thither singing Litanies and hymns. Thin holy i)liice receives no other light than that from the door, wliich is at the top of the steps, and a narrow nponing behind the Sepulchre. This gloom inspires rccoUoction and respect, the eye soon becomes accn*. tomcd to it, and discovers the Tomb where the Divine Motiier of the Saviour triumphed over death. "The Virgin," says Chateaubriand, "was, oecord- ing to the opinion of many of the Fathers, miraculously buried at Gethsemane by the Apostles. Euthymius relates the history of these marvellous obsequies. St. Thomas having caused the coffin to be opened, nothing was found therein save a virginal robe, the poor and simple garment of the Queen of Glory, who had been carried by Angels to heaven." Thick walls support an arch which covers the monument, and forms a small chapel, so narrow that it can only contain three or four persons at a time. This Tomb is now an altar, and Mass is celebrated on the very spot where Mary's body reposed. The monument is covered with marble, and a great number of lamps are kept burning above the altar. All Christian nations desired to have the Holy Sacrifice Appendix. offered up in the Sanctuary consecrated by the Sepnl chre of the Mother of God. Thus are fulfilled be fore the Tomb of Mary the prophetic words of th. Magnificat: "All generations shall call me blessedJ The altar of the Greeks is placed behind the Tomb that of the Armenians is near the western entrance that of the Georgians is at the foot of the gran southern staircase ; that of the Copts is in the na, itself in front of the sepulchre. Before this alU there is a fountain of excellent water, which the p grims drink with devotion. The Latin Cathol. have for their altar the very Tomb of the Virgi and it is they who keep the lamps burning before night and day. The Mahometans themselves would have in 1 sanctuary of the Mother of Jesus, a place of pray They hollowed a niche in the south wall, and tl turn towards it to pray. The Emperor Theodosius is considered the f founder of this church, which was destroyed by CI roes, and rebuilt by the Crusaders. During the I agci the rums of Jerusalem, heaped in this part ' the Valley of Jehosophat, had covered the Toml . the Blessed Virgin. Appendix. mctuary consecrated by the Sepnl- r of God. Thus are fulfilled be- Mary the prophetic words of the reneratioiw shall call me blessed." reeks is placed behind the Tomb; ians is near the western entrance; lians is at the foot of the grand ; that of the Copts is in the nave the sepulchre. Before this altar I of excellent water, which the pil- ; devotion. The Latin Catholics tar the very Tomb of the Virgin, 9 keep the lamps burning before it ans themselves would have in the Mother of Jesus, a place of prayer, niche in the south wall, and they pray. Theodosius is considered the first hurch, which was destroyed by Choa- , by the Crusaders. During the first of Jerusalem, heaped in this part of jhosophat, had covered the Tomb of jin. Appendix. 831 There it was. according'to a tradition preserved by the Greeks, that Mary appeared to the disciples after thev had performed the last duties to her sacred body Th;y had just finished the usual light repast and were returning thanks in these words : "Glory be to Thee. O God 1 glory be to Thee ; glory be to the Father, and to the Son. and to the Holy Ghost 1 Oh ' how great is the name of the Trinity 1 Lord Jesus Christ, help us 1" The Virgin appeared before them, surrounded with splendor, and in the transports of their joy. they cried : " Panagia ! Panagia 1 adjuva nos !"* The Virgin replied : "I shall be with you always." "^ ^ . • ' . f. When the pilgrims reascend the grand stmrs, after havin-r reached the twenty-second step, they stop to venerlte the chapel of St. Joseph's burial-place. ..That great Saint," says Father Nau. "the cousm- german. and virginal spouse of the Queen of Virgms, L Mother of God. and nephew of St. Anne, who was the, sister of his father, Jacob, and who was, fur- thermore. the adopted father of the Son of God>e Saviour of the world, and the fosterer of God Him- self, had como to Jerusalem, to fulfil the obligafona o «'0 Holiest! Holiest! help us!" 832 Appendix. of the law, and had the consolation of dying there in the practice of that obedience which he rendered to his Creator." He died in the arras of Jesus and Mary, both of whom assisted at his obsequies. According to tra> dition, Jesns Himself laid him with His own hands in this sepulchre, which was to be so near that of Hia Mother. ;■; --> ■ -•;•' > • :',;■ :• , r; The date of St. Joseph's death is uncertain. Some authors tiiink tliat he died soon after having found Jesus in the Temple among the doctors ; but this opinion is not confirmed by any text. According to another opinion, Joseph died about the beginning of Our Saviour's public ministry. The body of St. Jo- seph did not long remain in the sepulchre ; he was amongst the Saints who went forth alive from their graves after the Resurrection of the Son of God, and who appeared to a great number of persons in Jerusalem. Father Nau makes, in this connection, a touching reflection : " Can it be thought that he who supported the Son of God by the swieat of his brow for thirty years, was left dead iu his sepulchre ? And if God had left him there, would he have left big «acred remains uuhonored? . . . This Saint is in LPPENDIX. le consolation of dying there in bedience which he rendered td ns of Jesus and Mary, both of obsequies. According to tra- aid him with His own hands in ras to be so near that of Hia sph's death is uncertain. Some i died soon after having found among the doctors ; but this ed by any text. According to •h died about the beginning of ministry. The body of St. Jo- nain in the sepulchre ; he was ho went forth alive from their urrection of the Son of God, a great number of persons in au makes, in this connection, a Can it be thought that he who God by the ewieat of his brow ift dead in his sepulchre ? And there, would he have left his Qored? . . . This Saint is in Appendix. leaven, body and soul He ascended thither at the head of all the Saints who were raised up to heaven with Jesus Christ on the day of His ascension ; and, as he docs not lose there the name and quality of father, he possesses a glory and a power proportionate to that great and ineffable name." The chapel of St. Joseph is on the right hand side of the grand stairs, as one goes up the steps from the sanctuary. On the other side, in a chapel two or three steps higher, is found the Tombs of St. Joachim and St. Anne. Here, too, Mass is celebrated in the chapel right over the holy sepulchres. The tomb of St. Joachim is facing the east, and that of St. Anne t'i • north. Thus, in the same sanctuary. Christian piety vene- rates all the members of this Holy Family, amongst whom the Son of God vouchsafed to be born. 831 Appenddc. ■■■'#■ -■ .'l DESCRirriny of ttie site ciiosEff for st. jo- >■: V SEl'irS STATUE IN TUB IIOL V ZAND. The group of hills ainongat which Nazareth stands, rises in the plain of Esdralon, having in front Ptole- mais. overlooking Carmel on the left, and Cape Blauc on the right. Tl»e Cison flows at their feet. This pluie has been made memorable by a hundred battles- On the otiier side of the group are fouud Cuba, Tibe- rias, and Thabor. Chef-Amar is not far from Nazareth. Now. it was on one of these eminences that the Holy House of Joseph and Mary rested during its transportation to Loretto. A more beautiful site could not possibly be imagined whereon to raise the Statue of the Holy Patriarch in whose person the Old and New Law were bound together. It will be when he shall rule in his native land, that those oonntrico, desolated by Islamism, shall again find favor with God, and, for the Holy Land, the new era of mercj shall have replaced that of justice. Alppendix. Appendix. m ;,>iir..'^ M. L. ;; ^:y\.u. UE SITE CHOSEN FOR ST. JO- VE IN TUE UOL Y LAND. ainongat which Nazareth stands, Esdralon, liaving in front Ptole- rmcl on the left, and Cape Blauc Cison flows at their feet. This memorable by a hundred battles- the group are fouud Cuba, Tibt- lef-Amar is not far from Nazareth. )nc of these eminences that the eph and Mary rested during its joretto. A more beautiful site le imagined wliereon to raise the Patriarch in whose person the Old bound together. It will be when native land, that those oonntrico, ism, shall again find favor with loly Laud, the new era of mercy that of justice. ST JOSEPH SOLEMNLY TAKEN FOR THE FIRST PATRON OF CANADA. In taking possession of Canada, the Associates,* rejoicing in the thought" that they could consecrate themselves entirely to God, and knowing that the Rccollet Fathers had placed themselves under the, patronage of St. Joseph, sent an image in relievo of this holy patron, which was placed over the altar of Our Lady of llecovcry, {Notre-Dame de liecou- vrance.) But, as the adoption of St. Joseph for the first patron of Canada had not been made with all the requisite conditions, while the Calvinists were m power it was resolved to renew it with all the solemni- ties required by ecclesiastical law. It was, therefore, decreed that the magistrates and people, in concert with the clergy, should ratify it in the most solemn manner; and, that nothing which might be desired should be wanting, the Sovereign Pontiff. Urban VIII sanctioned this choice by granting a plenary indulgence on the Feast of this Holy Patron. On '"The AssoclateB numl>cred one hundred ; their Ass.K:ia- tion^^^ndcr the name of the Company of New F-oe, had _ in view the formation of a French colony in Canada. 836 Appe^tdix. the eve of that festival, in the year 1637, the bonner was raised and cannon fired, announcing tlic next day's solemnity ; and, when night came, such brilliant fireworks were sent off as had never been seen in that country. M. Jean Bourdon, geometrician, planned and executed the architectural part, and the fire- works were the composition of Sicur de Beaulieu. To express allegorically the object of the feast, two small buildings were erected, each on a piece of wood sufficiently elevated. One represented New France, under the form of a square crenellated castle, flanked at its angles by four turrets, each surmounted by a flag, all well proportioned and variegated with divers colors. On the roof of this castle rose a sort of crown ; over that again a revolving wheel, and over all a cross, terminated, at each of its three extremities, by as many large Jleurs de lis, which appeared orna- mented with brilliants. This castle, carried on a platform, was defended at each of its four angles by 80 many revolving wheels, and, its whole circumference by sixteen jets of fire, without speaking of four great trunks from which were to go forth and rise into the air more than two hundred snake (or serpentine) Appendix. il, in the year 1637, the banner ion fired, announcing tlic next wlien night came, such brilliant f as had never been seen in that Bourdon, geometrician, planned chitectural part, and the fire- ipositiou of Sicur de Beaulieu. illy the object of the feast, two erected, each on a piece of wood One represented New France, square crenellated castle, flanked r turrets, each surmounted by a oned and variegated with divers ills castle rose a sort of crown ; revolving wheel, and over all a each of its three extremities, by irs de lis, which appeared orna- nta. This castle, carried on a led at each of its four angles by heels, and, its whole circumference •e, without speaking of four great fere to go forth and rise into the hundred snake (or serpentine) Appendix. 887 rockets. Near this castle, symbolical of New France, the other little edifice was carried on a piece of wood. This last was oblong ; on its principal front appeared in a transparency the glorious name of St. .loseph, in lArgc Roman letters ; and from this name were to urise rockets, now iierpendicular, now in arches, in the midst of ft shower of stars, or of fire. All being thus arranged, the Sieur de Montmagny, with his lieutenant, M. Dclisle, and the gentlemen of their suite, came out of the fort, and placed them- selves near the church where these buildings had been erected. All the inhabitants of New France who were near Quebec had gone thither to share in this public rejoicing -f and, in the presence of all these people, the governor himself lit the fireworks, the sudden splendor of which amazed the savages, and particularly the Hurons. The next day, the Feast of St. Joseph, the church was more crowded than usual, as much so as it would be on Easter Sunday, each one blessing God for hav- ing given as patron to New France the very guardian of His Divine Son, in the person of the glorious St Joseph. 29 888 Appendix. DECREE OF HIS HOLINESS, PTUS IX., DECLAR- ING ST. JOSEPU PATRON OF THE UNIVERSAL • CUURCU. (Translation.) dbcbeb: to thbcitt and ih« wobld, (unnis bt okdis.) Even as God established Joseph, son of the patri- arch Jacob, as governor of all Egypt, to preserve to the people the wheat necessary for their subsistence, so, at the time appointed by the Eternal to send on earth His only Son, to redeem the world, Hfl chose another Joseph, of whom the first was a type. He made him roaster of his goods and of His house- hold. He ap nted him guardian of His chief trear Bures. And )seph espoused the Immaculate Virgin Mary, of whi,^, by the power of the Holy Ghost, was born Our Lord Jesus Christ, who deigned to be reputed by men the son of Joseph, and to be subject to him. And He whom so many kings and prophets had desired to see, Joseph not only saw, but con- versed with, held Him in his arms with paternal affec- tion, covered Him with kisses, and watched with the greatest solicitude over the maintenance of Him h LPFENDIX. Appendix. 889 N. yLLVESS, PIUS IX., DECLABr PATRON OF THE UNIVERSAL rranslation.) LND IH« WOBLD, (unniS BT OKBW.) dished Joseph, son of the patri- lor of all Egypt, to preserve to necessary for* their subsistence, ointed by the Eternal to send Son, to redeem the world, Ha I, of whom the first was a type, of his goods and of His house- lim guardian of His chief treap espoused the Immaculate Virgin the power of the Holy Ghost, Fesus Christ, who deigned to be ion of Joseph, and to be subject lom so many kings and prophets Joseph not only saw, but con- m in his arms with paternal affec- ith kisses, and watched with the over the maintenance of Him whom the faithful people were to receive as the Bread como down from heaven, and the food of eter- nal life. On accoant of that Rnblime dignity which God con- ferred upon His faithful servant, the Church had ever paid the blessed Joseph the highest honor after the Most Holy Virgin, his spouse, praised and glorified him, and had recourse to him in her greatest afflic- tions. And as, in these sad times, the Church, as- sailed on every side, is oppressed with such calamities that the impious already persuade themselves that the time is come at last when the gates of hell shall pre- vail against her, the venerable bishops of the whole Catholic world have humbly besought the Sovereign PontifT, in their name and that of the faithful con- fided to their care, to vouchsafe to declare St. Joseph Patron of the Catholic Church. These prayere having been renewed more earnestly and more urgently during the holy (Ecumenical Coun- cil of the Vatican, our Holy Father, Pius IX., pro- foundly touched by the recent deplorable events, de- siring to place himself and all the faithful in a special manner under the most powerful patronage of the holy patriarch Joseph, has deigned to accede to the 840 Appbndix. wishes of the venerable bishop«. Wherefore it is that he ha« solemnly declared St. Joseph Patron or THK Catholic Chubch, ami has decreed that the feast of the Saint, the 19th of Ma^eh, be henceforth ob- served as a Double of the first class, without «n Octave, however, on account of being in Lent. He has. moreover, ordained that the Declaration made by the present decree of the Holy Congregation of Ui,.s, be published on the day consecrated to the Im- „.aculate Virgin, Mother of God, and spouse of the ,„08t chaste Joseph. Whatever ordinance to the con- trary notwithstanding. Dkcgmber 8, 1810. constantinb, r7 ^ Bishop of Ostia and Velletrl j Cardinal Patrizi, Prefect of the Sacr. Cong, of Rites. D. Baktolini, Secretary. lOS 5^,-*. ^1 ,;^,f "i^f-^iiiam^'j-'T^-'v*^-"" PKNDIX. D bishops. Wherefore it i» ticlared St. Joseph Patron or iml has decreed that the feast of Manjh, be henceforth ob- f the first clasfl, without nn iconnt of being in Lent. He id that the Declaration made of the Holy Congregation of the day consecrated to the Im- uer of God, ond spouse of the SV'hatever ordinance to the con- CONSTANTINB, Bishop of Ostia and Velletrl ; Cardinal Patrizi, t of the Sacr. Cong, of Bites. D. Bartolini, Becretar;. mmmeawmm^imismm^s^^^i^S^'^iWM- ~"