Chapter LXXVII Of a holy layman that was martyred holding the Rule in his hands W
Complete three-work composite: CCEL Fioretti; Salter 1904 Life and Miracles; Evans 1899 / Goretti 2025 Mirror
Chapter LXXVII Of a holy layman that was martyred holding the Rule in his hands W
herefore, of this holy document and institute of the most blessed
father was a certain lay-brother not forgetful, whom we do without
doubt believe to have been received into the choir of the martyrs. For, whilst by reason of his zeal for martyrdom he was among the infidels, and was in the end led forth by the Saracens to martyrdom, holding the Rule with great fervor in both hands, and humbly bending his knees, he said unto his companion: “Of all things that I have done contrary to this Rule, my dearest brother, before the eyes of the divine majesty and before thee do I confess me guilty.” To this brief confession succeeded the sword, whereby ending his life he won the crown of martyrdom. This brother it was that had entered the Order while as yet but a lad, and scarce could endure the fasting of the Rule, yet, nevertheless, stripling as he was, he wore a coat of mail next his skin. Happy the boy that did thus happily begin and no less happily end!