Chapter CXLVII. How he would have the brethren to learn; and how he appeared to a companion who was applying himself to preaching

195. So Francis was grieved if learning were sought to the neglecting of virtue, especially when "each one did not abide in the vocation wherein he was called at the beginning". "My brethren," he said, "who are being led by curiosity after learning, will find their hands empty in the day of retribution. I would rather have them strengthened in the virtues, so that when times of tribulation come they may have the Lord with them in their distress. For tribulation is indeed coming (said he), wherein books shall be thrown into cupboards¹ and hiding-places as useless." He did not say this because the study of Scripture displeased him, but in order to withdraw the brethren in general from being over-anxious to learn, and because he would have them all accomplished in charity rather than smatterers in research. Besides, he foreboded that times were not far off wherein he knew that learning would be an occasion of falling, while the having applied oneself to spiritual things would be a support to the spirit.

A lay brother who wanted to have a psalter and asked S. Francis' leave was offered ashes instead of a psalter.

After his death S. Francis appeared in a vision to one of his companions who was at one time busying himself about preaching, and forbade him to do so, bidding him walk in the way of Simplicity. God is his witness that after this vision he felt such sweetness that for several days the dew of the father's words seemed actually to be dropping into his ears.