h some times that a person unknown shineth by his bright
fame, whose presence offendeth and maketh dark the eyes of the
beholders. We often hope to please others by our being and living with
them, but often we displease them through the bad manners they find in
us.

OF SHUNNING MANY WORDS

Avoid noise and the press of men as much as thou mayest: for talking of
worldly deeds, though they be brought forth with true and simple
intention, hindereth much: for we be soon defiled and led into vanity.

I have wished myself ofttimes to have held my peace and not to have been
among men. Why speak we and talk we together so gladly, since seldom we
come home without hurting of conscience?

We talk so oft together because by such speaking we seek comfort each
from the other and to relieve the heart that is made weary with many
thoughts; and we speak much of such things as we love or desire or such
things as we dislike. But, alas, it is ofttimes vainly and fruitlessly,
for such outward comfort is a great hindering to inward and heavenly
consolation. Therefore we ought to watch and pray that our time pass not
idly by.

OF FLEEING FROM VAIN HOPE AND ELATION

He is vain that putteth his hope in men or in other created things.

Be not ashamed to serve other men for the love of Jesus Christ and to be
considered poor in this world. Stand not upon thyself but set thy trust
in God. Do what in thee is and God shall be nigh to thy good will.

Trust not in thine own knowledge nor in the skill of any man living; but
rather in the grace of God that helpeth meek folk and maketh low them
that are proud.

Rejoice thee not in riches if thou have any, nor in friends if they be
mighty; but in God that giveth all things and above all things desireth
to give Himself.

Rejoice not for thy greatness nor for the beauty of that body which is
corrupted and disfigured with a little sickness.

Please not thyself for thy ability or for thy wit lest thou displease
God of whom cometh all the good that thou hast naturally.

Account not thyself better than others, lest peradventure thou be held
worse in the sight of God that knoweth what is in man.

Be not proud of good works; for God's judgments are otherwise than
thine. Ofttimes what pleaseth man displeaseth God.

If thou hast any good things in thee believe better things of others
that thou mayest keep thy humility.

It hurteth thee not to be set under all men: it might hinder thee if
thou