Page:Lifeofsaintcatha.djvu/253

 certain, father; that he is truly the Vicar of Jesus Christ; I desire that you would expose yourself to sustain him as you ought for the Catholic Faith itself" I entertained no doubt on this subject; but, that saying from Catherine encouraged me so to combat the schism, that I consecrated myself from that moment, to the defence of the rights of the Sovereign Pontiff: and I continually recalled it to mind, in order to fortify myself amid my difficulties and trials. I acted therefore in accordance with her counsels, and bowed my head beneath the yoke of obedience.

Some days previous to my departure, being acquainted with what would happen, she wished to converse with me concerning the revelations and consolations that she had received from God, and she did not allow the persons present to join in the conversation. After having spoken to me during several hours: she said to me, " Now go, whither God calls you. I think that in this life we sh all never again discourse together as we have just now done. " Her prediction was accomplished. I departed and she remained. Before my return she went to her heavenly home, and I had no more the privilege of relishing and profiting by, her salutary instructions. It was for this reason, no doubt, that desiring to bid me a last farewell, she went to the place where I was to embark, and when we were setting out, she knelt and after praying, made over us with tearful eyes, the sacred sign of the Cross, as if she would say; " Go, my son, in safety, shielded by the protection of this blessed sign; but in this life thou shalt ne'er again behold thy Mother." Although the sea was infested by pirates, we arrived happily at Pisa, and then had an equally prosperous voyage to Genes; notwithstanding the numerous galleys of schismatics pursuing their route to Avignon. We afterwards