BOOK SECOND.
B 3

LET THIS BE THE MOST SECRET INTENTION OF MY MIND. Se. Roth.

which I wish the absent person to know through the

aforementioned Spirits.

I am situated at Rome, and I understand from the most secret council of the Supreme Pontiff The Pope that he wishes to transfer the Roman Empire itself to the Franks The French. I desire to advise the princes of Germany: I cannot do so by messengers, whom I do not trust; I cannot do so by letters, because in all the cities of Italy there are deputies stationed at the gates who search those passing through most exactly. I write, therefore, one devout prayer, which I send as an open document by a messenger, along with other familiar closed letters to the same princes. I compel the Spirits of the third mansion and I command them to follow the letters to be sent. And when they have been called by the recipient, let them not fail to reveal to him my secret intention, which I did not dare to commit to letters. They come, they go, they obey.

We all die, since we all have contracted the hereditary guilt of original sin: and no one lives who will not die in a very short time: we contracted original offense in Adam and Eve. Moreover, all men die the death of the body on account of the wretched rashness of Mother Eve. Indeed, Jesus, the Victor over death, has put to flight the death of the soul by liberating us. O Jesus Christ crucified, look upon our humility because we are miserable, unhappy, and vexed by many tribulations. Therefore, most merciful King of the heavens, we ask: grant us contrition and pardon of all sins on account of your extraordinary humility by which you redeemed us from the sorrowful darkness of hell and noxious passions. O our beatitude, most merciful Jesus, O sweetest lover of innocence, what shall I return to you? You, holy and innocent, suffer for us. Where shall we flee when you come to the examination of reason? You will come with power to render a reward to each one according to his conscience. And all things will be naked to you: nor will anything be hidden from you of which you do not have knowledge. Therefore, living brothers, do penance, and anticipate the strict examination of Almighty God with works of mercy.

Wipe away crimes with tears and, by relieving the labors of the poor, make God favorable to you. Since he is kind to those who call upon him. Therefore, while there is time, seek his mercy. Always give thanks to him who redeemed you, Jesus Christ crucified for the salvation of men who fear the Lord.