Chapter XIII. Of a certain tempted brother

42. While the Saint was staying at the same place a certain spiritual brother (of the Custody x of Marsica), who was vexed with grievous temptations, said in his heart: "Oh, if ever I could have with me some — even if only a few — of the parings of holy Francis' nails, I believe that all this storm of temptations would disperse, and peace return, by the Lord's favour". So, having obtained permission, he repaired to the place and set forth his case to one of the holy father's companions. This brother answered: M I do not think I can possibly give thee any of his nails; for, though we cut them for him sometimes, he orders the parings to be thrown away and forbids us to keep them". Forthwith that brother was sent for, and ordered to go to the Saint, who was asking for him; and S. Francis said to him: "Find me scissors, my son, to cut my nails with at once! "The brother handed the scissors, which he had already taken up for that purpose, picked up the parings, and gave them to the brother who had asked for them; and that brother, having received them devoutly, kept them still more devoutly, and was immediately delivered from every assault.¹