I have always rejoiced at this, my
children, for in it I have seen hope for you, when I could see none for
others; but now also I rejoice greatly to see that you unite the courage
of men to the docility of babes. Hitherto your lot has been that of
peace, and if you have not enjoyed riches, you have at any rate been
contented: another destiny is before you now--peace and content have
left the country, and have been followed by robbery, confusion, and war.
My children, you must, for a while, give over your accustomed peaceful
duties; your hands--your hearts--all your energy, and all your courage,
are required by God for his own purposes--yes, required by that Creator
who gave you strength and energy--who gave you the power and the will
to do great deeds for His holy name.
"His enemies are in the land: impious wretches--who do not hesitate to
wage war against His throne--are endeavouring to destroy all that is
good, and all that is holy in France. Do you not know, my children, that
they have murdered your King?--and that they have imprisoned your Queen,
and her son, who is now your King? Would you be content to remain quiet
in your homes, while your King is lying in a prison, in hourly danger
of death? They have excluded you from your churches, they have caused
God's holy houses to be closed; they have sent among you teachers who
can only lead you astray--whose teaching can only bring you to the gates
of hell.
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