Chapter XLIX. That it is Dangerous to Order Too Lightly by Obedience, or not to Obey an Order

And so the blessed Father thought that an order should be given by virtue of obedience seldom, nor should that weapon be used first which should be the last; for said he, "The hand should not be laid readily on the sword." But he was wont to say that he who did not immediately obey the precept of obedience, neither feared God nor revered man (so long, namely, as there was no necessary cause for delay). Nor is there any thing more true, for what else is the power of command in a rash governor than a sword in the hand of a wrathful man? But who more hopeless than the Religious who neglects and con temns obedience?