The Life Of St. Alphonsus Liguori
Subtitle: Bishop, Confessor, And Doctor Of The Church, Founder Of The Congregation Of The Most Holy Redeemer
Publisher: P. O'Shea
Published: 1886
Language: eng
Number of pages: 689
Table of contents: title: CONTENTS; title: Introduction 31; title: CHAPTER I.; title: Characteristics of St Alphonsus.  —  Antiquity and nobility of his family. — Piety of his parents.  —  Birth of Alphonsus.  — His brothers and sisters. —  Childhood of the saint  —  Remarkable prediction of St Francis Jerome, S. J. —  Singular coincidence 1; title: CHAPTER II.; title: Early education of Alphonsus. —  His first steps in piety. — Father Tannola's reminiscences of Madame Liguori.  — Alphonsus as a boy. —  With the Oratorians. —  He attains to sublime prayer.  —  Remarkable incident 5; title: CHAPTER III.; title: Studies of Alphonsus. —  His musical and poetical talents. — Painting and architecture. —  Evidences of his general knowledge of liberal arts and sciences. —  His success in jurisprudence. —  He receives the degree of doctor. —  His exploits at the chase, and fowling. —  Lost time. —  Increasing solicitude of his mother. —  His love and gratitude towards her 11; title: CHAPTER IV.; title: Success of Alphonsus at the bar. —  The rules which guided him. — His pious practices. —  His retreats. —  His love of purity. — His love for the congregation of St Philip.  —  The edification he gave to all who knew him. —  Conversion of a Moorish slave. —  Motive of his conversion. —  His happy death 21; title: CHAPTER V.; title: Matrimonial projects. —  Teresina Liguori. —  Birth of her brother and consequent alteration in her prospects. —  Negotiations abandoned and renewed.  —  Indignation of the young princess.  —  She enters a convent  —  Alphonsus becomes her biographer.  —  Indiscretion of our saint on one occasion.  — Anger of his father.  —  Humility of the son.  —  Cooling of his fervor. —  Testimony of Charles Cota —  Retreat —  Terrible incident  —  Effect on Alphonsus.  —  His devotion to the Blessed Sacrament  —  His zeal for decorating altars.  —  His gratitude to his friend, the Duke of Casabona, and to the Fathers of the Mission. Interesting letter; title: CHAPTER VI.; title: Retreat of Alphonsus and his father.  —  Effect on the latter.  — Another matrimonial project  —  The interrupted duet  —  Alphonsus gains his mother to his side.  —  The lost cause.  — Emotions of Alphonsus.  —  Measures of his parents.  —  His resolutions.  —  His opinion of the legal profession.  —  Why he renounced it 31; title: CHAPTER VII.; title: Alphonsus begins to lead a life of seclusion.  —  The anguish of his father.  —  Alphonsus  refuses to transact the legal business of his family. —  The birthday of the Empress Isabella.  — Supernatural favor.  —  Final renunciation of the world.  — Favorite church of our saint  —  His devotion to Our Lady of Mercy.  —  During his last visit to Naples he makes a novena in her church.  —  He acknowledges his indebtedness to the Mother of Mercy 37; title: CHAPTER VIII.; title: Evening of the memorable day.  —  Remark of Father Pagano.  — Fervor of his penitent.  —  He remains three days without food.  —  Interior lights.  —  Holy impatience of the youth.  —  His father endeavors to persuade him to resume his profession.  — Firmness of the saint.  —  Scenes between father and son which disturb domestic tranquillity 41; title: CHAPTER IX.; title: The parents.  —  Former friends.  —  M&io changes his opinions.  — Domini Bruno.  —  Newer and truer friends.  —  Cheering prophecy.  —  Zeal of our saint for little children.  —  Contrast between Don Alphonsus the successful lawyer, and Alphonsus the catechiser of little ones 47; title: CHAPTER X.; title: Alphonsus applies himself to ecclesiastical studies.  —  He seeks the society of the most eminent churchmen.  —  His hymns become popular.  —  He becomes more austere.  —  He receives the tonsure and is ordained subdeacon.  —  New occupations.  —  He joins the congregation of the mission. —  The rules he observed as a candidate for the priesthood.  —  His first sermon.  —  Illness. —  Miraculous recovery.  —  Rules for a priest 50; title: CHAPTER XI.; title: Popularity of Alphonsus as a preacher.  —  Remark of Capasso the satirist.  —  The count hears his son preach.  —  He is deeply affected.  —  Pious practices of our saint.  —  Mode of life.  —  He unconsciously forms the plan of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer.  —  He begins to hear confessions.  — His extraordinary gentleness.  —  Striking conversions.  —  Our saint as a confessor 58; title: CHAPTER XII.; title: Conferences.  —  Our saint's audiences.  —  Other priests take part in the good work.  —  What is new, not necessarily wrong.  —  The cutlets.  —  A captain of the Royal Guard mystified.  —  The governor orders the arrest of preachers and auditors.  —  The order executed.  — Alphonsus appeals to the Cardinal.  —  False reports.  —  Good effected.  —  Fervent disciples 68; title: CHAPTER XIII.; title: Barbarese continues the work of the conferences.  —  Reminiscences of Brother Angiolo.  —  The seed bears fruit.  —  Sentiments of our saint.  —  Exercises of his penitents.  —  He establishes a school for women.  —  Labors in the hospital.  —  Exercises for the patients.  —  Perseverance of Barbarese.  —  Meeting between him and Alphonsus.  —  Death of this good man.  — Death of Nardone, 73; title: CHAPTER XIV.; title: The Chinese College.  —  Alphonsus in his new abode —  Privations and Penances.  —  Spiritual dryness and obscurity.  —  Zeal for souls.  —  Father Ripa's testimony.  —  Extraordinary gifts of - Alphonsus as a confessor.  —  His penitent Mary.  —  Incessant labors of Alphonsus. —  The epidemic of 1731.  —  Illness of our saint  —  The earthquake of La Pouille 90; title: CHAPTER XV.; title: Our Lady of Foggia.  —  The apparition.  —  Alphonsus preaches a novena.  —  Success.  —  Our Lady appears to him. —  Picture of the Vision.  —  Alphonsus visits Mount Gargano.  —  He is reprimanded by Canon Torni.  —  His sweetness and gentleness. 96; title: CHAPTER XVI.; title: Alphonsus retires to Amalfi.  —  Proposal of the Vicar of Seals. —  Alphonsus and his companions evangelise shepherds and goatherds.  —  Sermon 89; title: CHAPTER XVII.; title: Conflicting sentiments.  —  Opinions of Pagano.  —  Cutica and Manulio agree with him. —  Opposition.  —  Gizzio and Torni. — Others deride our Saint.  —  The nun of Scala, Sister Celestina. —  A miracle.  —  Father Fioriilo.  —  His letter to Alphonsus. — Embarrassment of our saint  —  He shows the letter.  —  Letter of Mgr. Falcoia 94; title: CHAPTER XVIII.; title: Fathers Pagano and Fioriilo decline the direction of Alphonsus.  —  Alphonsus places himself under the guidance of Mgr. Falcola.  —  Canon Torni endeavors to shake the resolution of Alphonsus.  —  Retreat for the clergy.  —  Missions.  —  Letter.  — First disciples of Alphonsus 1Q4; title: CHAPTER XIX.; title: The germs of the new Congregation.  —  The missionaries in Scala.  —  Touching incidents.  —  Penitential life of the missionaries.  —  Alphonsus signalizes himself even among saintly men.  —  Pious customs he introduces.  —  Consoling letter of Canon Torni.  —  New persecutions. —  The Archbishop defends the saint The flame of resentment is arrested but not extinguished.  —  Gratitude of Alphonsus towards his defenders 106; title: CHAPTER XX.; title: Te severest trial yet.  —  Odd proposals.  —  Firmness of the saint. —  Withdrawal of Mandarini.  —  Letter. —  Modest proposal of Mandaiini.  —  Secession.  —  Guef of St. Alphonsus.  —  Freezing Reception accorded by Bishop Falcoia.  —  Temptations.  —  Terrific struggle.  —  The pulpits resound with anathemas.  —  Deviled by all.  —  In Naples.  —  At Scala again 116; title: CHAPTER XXI.; title: The grotto near Scala.  —  Prospects brighten.  —  Don Xavier Rossi.  —  A foundation after the saint's own heart  —  An incident —  Father Mazzini.  —  Loss of a novice.  —  The wonders of the Thebald renewed.  —  Tosquez becomes a financier.  —  Mandarini endeavors to make reparation 124; title: CHAPTER XXII.; title: Alphonsus preaches the Lent in the cathedral of Seals.  —  Singular incident  —  Reception of the Fathers at Ciorani.  —  Abundant fruits of th%t mission.  —  Retreat for the nobles.  —  Viliam joins the Congregation.  —  Trials 131; title: CHAPTER XXIII.; title: Imprudent suggestion of Don Andrew Samelli.  —  Evil consequences.  —  The Archbishop defends Alphonsus.  —  Terrific incident  — Extraordinary success of the mission at Naples.  — Interesting conversion.  —  Mission at Santa Lucia.  —  Violent persecutions.  —  Punishment of the persecutors 137; title: CHAPTER XXIV.; title: Another mission.  —  Apparition of our Lady to Alphonsus. — Castellamare.  —  The new house at Ciorani.  —  Scala relinquished.  —  Regret of the inhabitants.  —  The rain at Aquarola. - Priests.  —  44 The Apostle."  —  Wonderful cure.  —  The standard-bearer of the Redemptorist Order.  —  Alphonsus writes his epitaph 111; title: CHAPTER XXV.; title: Mission m Naples.  —  Disagreeable incident  —  Firmness of the cardinal.  —  Alphonsus's Christmas hospitality.  —  Father Ca- faro becomes a Redemptorist  —  Proposals of the cardinal.  — Rejected by the saint  —  He is mistaken for the cook.  —  His unselfishness.  —  Renewal of missions.  —  He originates the Novenas previous to our Lady's feasts. 120; title: CHAPTER XXVI.; title: The saint resolves to form his disciples into a regular community.  —  Reasons.  —  Withdrawal of Father Majorino.  —  His letter.  —  Poverty.  —  Ecclesiastical Dignities.  —  Obedience.  —  Vow of Stability.  —  Dispensation.  —  The saint leaves Naples.  — Father Samelli replaces him.  —  Interview with the Cardinal. —  He returns to Ciorani 156; title: CHAPTER XXVII.; title: The House at Pagani.  —  Humiliations.  —  Ambition of Count Joseph for his son.  —  Edifying letter.  —  A new foundation.  — Miracle.  —  Wonderful fruits of the mission.  —  The Blessed Virgin sends a sinner to Father Liguori 161; title: CHAPTER XXVIII.; title: Obedience of Father Rossi.  —  A welcome postulant.  —  The saint is summoned to Naples.  —  His father comes to Ciorani to enter as a lay-brother.  —  The saint dissuades him.  —  Persecution in Nocera.  —  Alphonsus appeals to Mgr. Falcoia.  —  St Michael.  —  Death of Bishop Falcoia 167; title: CHAPTER XXIX.; title: The enemies of the Congregation.  —  Its friends.  —  The wicked triumph, but not forever.  —  Cantaldi's sister.  —  Pope Benedict XIV charges Cardinal Spinelli to inquire into the affairs of the Congregation.  —  Advice of Mgr. Dominic.  —  His death.  —  His successor 174; title: CHAPTER XXX.; title: Illiceto.  —  Alphonsus miraculously raised several feet from the ground.  —  Early days at Illiceto.  —  Happy death of Brother Vitus Curzius.- Grief of Alphonsus.  —  New trials.  —  Father Sportelli a match for his enemies.  —  Right victorious.  — Might defeated  180; title: CHAPTER XXXI.; title: Missionary project of Benedict XIV.  —  Terrible example.  —  Our saint's countenance is radiant with heavenly light  —  Precious death of Count Joseph Liguori.  —  Illness of the saint  —  A liberal benefaction.  —  Gratitude of the founder.  —  He is again invited to Foggia.  —  A new foundation.  —  An inhospitable noble.  —  The saint sees from one foundation what is done in Spother.  —  Signor Corona.  —  Prophecy fulfilled 156; title: CHAPTER XXXII.; title: The foreign comedians.  —  Vision.  —  Our Lady sends a penitent to the missionaries.  —  Removal of the Novitiate.  —  Our stint begins to publish.  —  His devotion to St. Teresa.  —  His work on the episcopacy.  —  An opponent.  —  He refuses the mitre.  — He pleads his cause before the King of Naples.  —  He refuses to receive Mandarini.  —  Insults.  —  Instructions on various subjects.  —  Sermons 193; title: CHAPTER XXXIII.; title: The saint repairs to Naples.  —  Tanned opposes him.  —  Illness. —  A strange calumny.  —  Renewed efforts to procure the confirmation of his institute.  —  Mission.  —  fortunate circumstance for Alphonsus.  —  Incessant labors.  —  He gives a retreat in the cathedral.  —  Critirisro.  —  Changes suggested.  —  Father Villani in Rome.  —  Ruse.  —  Graciousness of the Pope to Father Villani 203; title: CHAPTER XXXIV.; title: An abbot resigns his mitre to follow Father Liguori.  —  First general chapter. Liberality of the gentlemen of Pagani.  — The jubilee at Sarao.  —  Missionary.  —  Precious death of Fatnei Sportelli.  —  A beautiful flower on a barren rock.  — "The Glories of Mary."  —  Other publications.  —  Sad events. — Letuii 211; title: CHAPTER XXXV.; title: Alphonsus resumes the mission.  —  A new sorrow.  —  Circular letter.  —  The saint's reception at Naples.  —  Illness.  —  Another annoyance.  —  Reaction.  —  Extraordinary conversions.  —  The saint pleads his cause before the king.  —  Insults.  —  His sojourn in the capital.  —  Prophecy.  —  His moral theology.  — High opinion Pope Benedict XIV held of Alphonsus.  —  Offer of the king.  —  Mirade.  —  Death of Father Cafaro 222; title: CHAPTER XXXVI.; title: Circular letter.  —  A foundation in the States of the Church.  — Retreat at Ciorani. —  Discussion.  —  Death of the Countess Liguori.  —  Mission at Benevento.  —  Retreat to the Neapolitan students.  —  To the servants.  —  Other effects of the saint's Ml.  —  New publication 232; title: CHAPTER XXXVII.; title: The queen-mother consults our saint  —  Stratagem.  —  Work on the confessional  —  Criticisms.  —  The areas at Amalfi.  —  Earthquake.  —  Nola.  —  The Seminary.  —  Bi- location.  —  The saint loses his dear son Rossi.  —  Miracle.  —  Missions to Calabria. 239; title: CHAPTER XXXVIII.; title: Reformation of the Royal Hospital of Gaeta.  —  New publication.  —  The Sicilian mission.  —  The true spouse of Christ  —; title: The fisherman.  —  The Fathers wrecked.  —  The young Calabrian.  —  His tragic end a fulfilment of Father Liguori's prophecy 244; title: CHAPTER XXXJX.; title: Alphonsus as a superior.  —  Humility.  —  Health.  —  Preaching.  — Father de Meo's Sybils and Argonauts.  — Confessors.  — Example of a rigorist.  —  Father Rizzi obliged to apologize for an indiscretion.  —  Poverty and obedience.  —  Instruction on various matter.  —  Rules for a superior 252; title: CHAPTER XL.; title: The Congregation thirty years after its foundation.  —  Saintly members.  —  The vacant see at St. Agatha.  —  Father Liguori selected to fill it.  —  He declines the honor.  —  His intense love for his Congregation.  —  A command from Rome.  —  "The voice of the Pope is the voice of God."  —  Terrible agitation of the saint.  —  His heroic obedience.  —  He prophesies that he will return to die among his brethren.  —  Touching meeting of the saint and F. Fatigati.  —  The episcopal ring and cross.  —  The saint at Rome 262; title: CHAPTER XLI.; title: Bishop Liguori leaves Rome.  —  In Naples again.  —  The priest of Arienzo.  —  The equipage of the saint.  —  His shoe-buckles. —  At Nocera.  —  His intense grief.  —  His entrance into his diocese.  —  Green pears.  —  The new bishop will not give sumptuous repasts.  —  His rule of life.  —  His circumspectness regarding women of ill repute.  —  Meals 276; title: CHAPTER XLII.; title: The Lives of the Saints. Pious exercises. The prelate's household. The diocese in a lamentable condition. Extra-ordinary zeal of the saint His last tooth extracted. He officiates pontifically.  —  Sad events.  —  Mildness of the saint  — His firmness. Funeral of an excommunicated man 283; title: CHAPTER XLIII.; title: Episcopal visitation.  —  The seminary.  —  Judicious regulations made by the saint.  —  His rigid discipline.  —  Examples.  —  His severe but just censures of Genovesi.  —  He prohibits the use of his work in the Seminary 290; title: CHAPTER XLIV.; title: Spiritual exercises of the Seminarists.  —  Mortifications.  —  Vigilance of the saint.  —  The Seminary becomes a model.  —  Liberality to poor students.  —  Solicitude of the saint with reference to penance and the Holy Eucharist  —  The elaborately-curled wig straightened out by the saint  — Minute regulations.  — Neatness of the churches.  —  Dangerous illness of the bishop. Cases of conscience.  —  Confraternities.  —  Mental prayer.  — New books 295; title: CHAPTER XLV.; title: The saint's mode of progress through his diocese.  —  Apt rejoinder.  —  He refuses a carriage.  —  Compares himself to a vender of fowls.  —  Kindness to a servant.  —  Accident  —  Miraculous cure.  —  Magnificent hospitality of the Prince of Ricda.  — "The saint that smooths our way to heaven."  —  The little monk.  —  The saint's kindness to children and young people. —  His vigilance.  —  His charity to the poor 303; title: CHAPTER XLVI.; title: Count Hercules Liguori marries a second time, desiring to have heirs.  —  Letters.  —  The saint's present to the bride.  —  The bridegroom's indignation.  —  Preaching.  —  Sermons.  —  Ecstasy. —  Periodical missions.  —  Rigor more hurtful than indulgence. —  Style.  —  Extraordinary meekness of the saint  —  "Poor Jesus Christ"  —  The famine.  —  Heroic charity 319; title: CHAPTER XLVII.; title: Alphonsus presides at a General Chapter of his Congregation. —  His old opponent Patuzzi again attacks him.  —  Alphonses dedicates his defence to the reigning Pontiff.  —  Want of courtesy in Patuzzi.  —  Apology.  —  Proposed synod.  —  Decrees issued.  —  New arrangement of parishes 324; title: CHAPTER XLVIII.; title: Dangerous illness of the saint.  —  Non recuso laborem.  —  Miracle.  —  The saint refuses to play on the harpsichord.  —  At Nocera.  —  Impatient to return to St Agatha.  —  Letter.  —  Bad books.  —  The saint's measures against their circulation.  — His prophecy regarding the Free Masons.  —  Papal Infallibility.  —  The Assembly.  —  Society of Jesus.  —  Circular letter.  — He endeavors to resign 332; title: CHAPTER XLIX.; title: Nuns of the Most Holy Redeemer.  —  Remarks of Archdeacon Rainone.  —  The Church of St. Nobody.  —  Sister Mary Raphael of Charity.  —  Additions.  —  Grand reception.  —  Our saint's attention to the wants of the Sisters.  —  Success of the new foundation.  —  Alphonsus conducts the retreat of the novices. —  Liberality of the saint.  —  His kindness to the Sisters.  —  His way with them 342; title: CHAPTER L.; title: Zeal for material temples.  —  New persecutions.  —  "The truth of Faith."  —  The saint goes to Naples.  —  His urbanity.  —  His episcopal hat.  —  Accident.  —  An easy victory.  —  Apostolic labors.  —  The Abbot at Regina Coeli.  —  Christening of the saint's nephew.  —  His labors among the lower classes.  —  In convents.  —  His sister Lady Marianna Liguori.  —  His marvellous eloquence 357; title: CHAPTER LI.; title: The saint leaves Naples.  —  His emotion.  —  Letter.  —  Unreasonable complaints.  —  Calumnies.  —  Letter to Father Villani.  — Fault finding.  —  The meekest of bishops accused of rigor.  — Incident.  —  Murmurs against his works.  —  His reply.  —  Illness.  —  He makes his will.  —  Sufferings.  —  His tedious convalescence.  —  The Most Zealous Doctor.  —  New literary labors. —  Treatise for men.  —  He again appeals to the Pope to ease him of the burden of the episcopate 371; title: CHAPTER LII.; title: The new Pope, Cardinal Ganganelli.  —  The Congregation persecuted in Sicily.  —  Interesting letter of the saint  —  His Moral Theology again attacked.  —  Increased alarm of the saint regarding his house in Sicily.  —  Incident.  —  Letters.  —  The saint refuses to moderate his zeal.  —  Remarkable cure.  —  Accidents. —  "An old carriage, an old coachman, old horses, and an old Bishop."  —  Recreations.  —  He resumes the daily celebration of mass.  —  Regularity and austerity of his life 383; title: CHAPTER LIII.; title: Ever increasing zeal of the saint  —  The Seminary.  —  The Visitation of 1769.  —  The saint does more than a hundred ordinary bishops.  —  He defends his Grand Vicar.  —  He is accused to the King.  —  Letter.  —  The saint defends his conduct.  —  Reply of the King.  —  The saint's conduct towards his calumniator. —  Absurdity of the charges preferred against the bishop; title: CHAPTER LIV.; title: The Count and Countess Liguori visit Alphonsus.  —  Prophecy —  The saint and his god-children.  —  Death of one of his nephews.  —  The bishop comforts the afflicted father.  —  Advice regarding the surviving children.  —  Their mother Lady Marianna loses her senses.  —  Circular letter.  —  Tannucci.  —  New troubles in Sicily.  —  Apology of Alphonsus.  —  Maffei's expedient for regaining popularity.  —  The Fathers leave Sicily.  — Request of the people 397; title: CHAPTER LV.; title: Clement XIV refuses to accept the saint's resignation.  — Prophecy.  —  Circular letter.  —  New literary labors.  —  Foundations.  —  Gratitude of the saints.  —  Letters.-* —  Work on the Psalms.  —  Criticisms.  —  Persecutions.  —  Revolution.  —  His grief at the suppression of the Jesuits.  —  He regards it as temporary.  —  His sympathy for the Pope.  —  He assists at his death-bed.  —  Bilocation proved.  —  The saint requested to write the qualifications necessary in the future Pope.  —  He complies 406; title: CHAPTER LVI.; title: Calumnies against Alphonsus.  —  His Moral Theology censured and defended.  —  Violent persecutions.  —  He refuses to go to Naples.  —  He prescribes means of obtaining the Divine mercy.  —  He refuses to seek the mediation of a lady.  —  Some gleams of sunshine.  —  Good Bishop Lanza.  —  The saint's administration.  —  Examples.  —  Testimony of Tannoia.  —  Extraordinary sweetness of the saint.  —  His zeal to prevent the slightest faults in priests.  —  His surveillance extends beyond his own diocese.  —  The regulars.  —  Vigilance over the laity.  — Anecdote 491; title: CHAPTER LVII.; title: The saint's zeal to convert women of irregular lives.  —  He establishes prisons for the incorrigible.  —  He exiles some.  —  An objection answered.  —  Examples.  —  He reproves his secretary's remissness.  —  He replenishes the wardrobe of one of his protegees.  —  One of the "ninety-nine just" reproaches him.  —  Marriages.  —  His care to reserve the innocence of his lambs.  —  The gold necklace.  —  The Most Zealous Doctor.  —; title: The office of a bishop.  —  The saint and the amateur actors.  — He will not allow women to be instructed in the priest's house.  —  Letter to the king against duelling.  —  Burthen of the episcopate.  —  Brother Welcome.  —  The saint's strictness regarding the Paschal 433; title: CHAPTER LVIII.; title: Supernatural lights of the saint.  —  Example.  —  Testimony of one of his officials.  —  Incident.  —  Persecutions.  —  The saint's goodness towards his enemies.  —  His patience.  —  His exquisite tenderness of heart.  —  The doctor.  —  Trouble in the episcopal kitchen.  —  The saint a hero to his valet.  —  His extraordinary meekness and humility.  —  Instances.  —  The saint a thorough gentleman.  —  His deference and politeness towards his priests. —  He refuses his likeness to his publisher.  —  Alexis obtains it.  —  The device of the Congregation.  —  Episcopal immunities not claimed by the saint's household.  —  His deference to members of his own Congregation.  —  Father Majone refuses to live at St Agatha 444; title: CHAPTER LIX.; title: Wonderful charity towards the poor.  —  The saint's present to his sister-in-law.  —  He does not wish her to remain too long at his palace.  —  His preference for the poor.  —  The Cair at Maddalon.  —  Alphonsus's care of the bashful poor. —  Instances.  —  The poor noble.  —  How a bishop should act with regard to giving charity.  —  How the saint acted when poverty was an occasion of sin.  —  His privileged poor.  —  His charity to pilgrims and strangers.  —  To members of his household.  —  Testimony of an eye-witness.  —  Prisoners.  —  St Misery.  —  Mario. —  All misfortune appeals to the saint  —  Letters.  —  Indignation of the saint at the imprisonment of one of his servants.  — The smuggler.  —  The Albanian soldiers 455; title: CHAPTER LX.; title: The saint's hospitality.  —  The archpriest and his companions.  — The bishop's coachman.  —  The saint's disinterestedness.  — Instances.  —  His advice to Bishop Rossi.  —  His care of the episcopal property.  —  His dislike of lawsuits.  —  Letter.  —  His elegant courtesy towards the Duke of Maddalon.  —  His efforts to improve his lands, &c.  —  His interest in the culture of olives, mulberry trees, &c.  —  The raising of silk-worms.  —  He beautifies the episcopal gardens 465; title: CHAPTER LXI.; title: How the saint practised holy poverty.  —  He wears out the old clothes of Bishop Danza.  —  He replenishes his wardrobe from an old clothes shop.  —  Putting in new sleeves.  —  "Old things suit an old bishop."  —  Letter of Don Spota.  —  Why the saint practised economy.  —  Details.  —  Opinion of the Bishop of Caserto.  —  The saint's episcopal ring.  —  He will use only the produce of his own diocese.  —  His mortification.  —  Incident  — He takes vinegar for wine.  —  Fruit sent to him does not stop at its destination.  —  Why he did not keep caged birds.  —  The harpsichord.  —  Rubini's testimony 470; title: CHAPTER LXII.; title: Doubts and fears of the saint as to his resignation of the bishopric.  —  Regret of the people.  —  A general mission.  —  Wonderful vigilance of the saint.  —  His resignation accepted.  —  Letter.  — Grief of the clergy.  —  Sentiments of the retiring bishop.  —  Of the citizens of Naples.  —  The weight of Mount Taburao removed from the saint's shoulders.  —  The vacant see.  —  Monsignote Rossi.  —  The pension .  —  Characteristic disinterestedness 498; title: CHAPTER LXIII.; title: The saint's last visitation.  —  Touching scene. —  The art of arts. — Anecdote.  —  He visits his religions communities.  —  His present.  —  Mother Raphael.  —  An alms. —  The church.  —  Miracle.  —  The saint's departure from St. Agatha.  —  His constant residence during his administration.  —  A melancholy ovation. — Reception in Nola.  —  Miracle.  —  Enthusiastic reception in Nocera.  —  Eased of one burden to assume another.  —  Touching letter.  —  New persecutions.  —  Discipline relaxed.  —  The saint endeavors to restore perfect observance.  —  His labors among the people.  —  The Carminello.  —  His apartments 487; title: CHAPTER LXIV.; title: New work.  —  Opinion of Bishop Cervone.  —  Other works.  — Letters from Pius VI.  —  Persecutions.  —  Prophecy.  —  Gratuitous counsels.  —  Tanucci retires from office.  —  De Leon's animosity.  —  His ironical prediction fulfilled.  —  "Time is a courteous gentleman."  —  Honor done to the missionaries.  — Letters.  —  Circular.  —  Untimely death of two of the saint's persecutors.  —  The Baron of Ciorani ceases to afflict God's servants.  —  Alphonsus victorious over all his enemies 498; title: CHAPTER LXV.; title: The saint's zeal for the houses outside the kingdom.  —  He insists upon each religious having a cell to himself.  —  Letter.  — Favors granted by Pius VI.  —  The saint's solicitude for the health of his sons.  —  His great love for them.  —  His endeavors to promote perfect charity.  —  He wished superiors to show great gentleness towards them.  —  His work on "Fidelity of Subjects to their King."  —  Extract —  His zeal for the great.  — He destroys letters received from sovereigns.  —  He stirs up the zeal of his literary friends.  —  Correspondence with Abbe Nonnote.  —  Voltaire.  —  Conversion of Metastasio 509; title: CHAPTER LXVI.; title: The greatest evils done the Congregation. —  Efforts of the founder.  —  " Edify or go."  —  Family matters.  —  Little Joseph. —  Interesting letter.  —  Death of Count Hercules Liguori.  — Resignation of the saint.  —  Cure of Don Gavotti.  —  The Lady Teresa Liguori.  —  Letter.  —  The Lady Antonia Liguori.  —  His anxiety about his niece's vocation.  —  His usual advice to noble spinsters.  —  Teresa becomes a nun.  —  Her visit to her uncle. Her profession.  —  The young Count Joseph 521; title: CHAPTER LXVII.; title: The severest trials of Alphonsus.  —  The protection afforded the Church by the mighty ones of earth.  —  Treachery.  —  The saint refuses to be convinced.  —  Letters.  —  Father Villani conceals from Alphonsus the treachery of Majone.  —  How the saint suffered from his friends.  —  Terrible scene.  —  Profound dejection of the holy Founder.  —  Letter.  —  Important document  — Letter to Majone.  —  Astonishing meekness of the saint  —  Obstinacy of Majone.  —  Unavailing efforts of the saint to restore concord.  —  Indignation of his subjects.  —  Alphonsus had foreseen all 535; title: CHAPTER LXVIII.; title: Alphonsus takes a bold step.  —  He proves that his intellect is as sound as ever.  —  Testa begins to relent.  —  A turbulent member.  —  A new conspiracy.  —  Stormy scene.  —  The founder invited to resign.  —  His re-election.  —  He is calumniated at Rome.  —  Consequences.  —  Action of the Pope.  — Ingratitude of some of the saint's children.  —  F. de Paul coolly accepts the office of general.  —  Hypocrisy of Leggio.  —  Resignation of the saint  —  His fearful temptations.  —  His charming frankness. 547; title: CHAPTER LXIX.; title: Alphonsus unconsciously justifies himself.  —  The last touches given to his sanctity.  —  The saint displays his most noble qualities.  —  His submission to the new rector-major.  —  His meekness towards Majone.  —  "Servant of the Church till death."  —  The Pope's words absolute.  —  He reads the Life of St. Joseph Calasansa.  —  He will not allow his sons to appeal to the king.  —  The respect and obedience he compels them to evince towards the Pope 569; title: CHAPTER LXX.; title: Incessant efforts of the saint to bring about a reunion. —  He appeals to the king, who grants his request.- -The protection accorded by kings.  —  Letter to Leggio.  — New trials.  —  Arrogance of Leggio.  —  Scruple.  —  Division.  —  The Pope calls Alphonsus a saint  —  He does him full justice only after death 570; title: CHAPTER LXXI.; title: Prosperity of the Congregation.  —  Touching letter.  —  Alphonsus utters no reproach.  —  Paroxysms of grief.  —  Heroic confidence in God.  —  He is universally regarded as a saint  — Petition.  —  Audacity of Leggio.  —  The missionaries acquitted by the royal council after nineteen years' litigation.  —  Gratitude of the saint.  —  The most diabolical of all works.  —  The Sicilian subjects choose a general for themselves.  —  The Neapolitan Fathers elect a coadjutor for Alphonsus, with right of succession.  —  Change of sentiments.  —  The last drop. —  Perfect submission.  —  The German house.  —  Last days and deeds of Leggio; title: CHAPTER LXXII.; title: The saint's marvellous gift of eloquence.  —  His continued interest in the missions.  —  In the Church in general.  —  His gratitude for being a child of the Church.  —  Gratitude for the hospitality shown the Jesuits by Catherine of Russia and Frederick of Prussia.  —  His conviction that the suppression would not continue long.  —  He defends them.  —  His hatred of the Jansenists.  —  Amauld.  —  The Blessed Eucharist.  —  "Mercy to sinners."  —  How to deal with sinners who come to confession badly disposed.  —  His perpetual sermon, avoid sin.  — His last visit to the nuns of Nocera.  —  Obedience.  —  His occupations.  —  His politeness.  —  Accident  —  He sells his horses.  —  Temptations 588; title: CHAPTER LXXIII.; title: Diabolical phantoms.  —  The Neapolitan missionary.  —  The phantom-priest  —  Another temptation.  —  Heavenly favors. — Supernatural instinct  —  The feast of the Blood of Jesus.  —  The mental power of the saint not impaired.  —  The act of love.  — Saintly coachmen.  —  God glorifies the sanctity of His servant  —  The burning mountain.  —  The little children.  —  The saint's testimony to Father de Meo's sanctity.  —  Gift of prophecy.  —  Humility of the saint  —  His heroic obedience.  —  His gentlemanly demeanor among his brethren.  —  "Always crooked."  —  Advice to a young cleric.  —  Pious practices.  —  Vacant sees 601; title: CHAPTER LXXIV.; title: God alone.  —  Incorrect conclusion.  —  Vigor of the saint's intellect  —  His fear of God's judgments.  —  His exalted idea of the sacerdotal dignity.  —  His consummate tact —  Celebration of his ninetieth birthday.  —  Young men of ninety.  —  Foreshadowing.  —  Interesting details.  —  The saint is visited by his absent children.  —  "By thy words thou shalt be justified."  —  Visit of Count Joseph Liguori.  — "Save your soul."  —  Parting benedictions.  —  Brother Gerard. —  Delicate attentions of the Neapolitan bishops.  —  Universal grief for the hopeless condition of the saint  — Miracles 613; title: CHAPTER LXXV.; title: Details.  —  "Give me the Madonna."  —  The saint can no longer articulate.  —  He is visited by our Lady herself. —  Answer to his prayers.  —  The crucifix.  —  His prayer to die among his beloved brethren.  —  It is beautifully answered. —  He dies in an ecstasy of love.  —  His soul among the seraphim.  —  His personal appearance.  —  Character.  —  Obsequies. —  Veneration of all classes, especially the clergy.  —  Funeral honors, devised by the Bishop of Nocera, dispensed with. —  Masses celebrated without intermission.  —  The funeral.  — Miracles 623; title: CHAPTER LXXVI.; title: Honors shown to the saint's memory.  —  Testimony of the Archbishop of Palermo.  —  Of Cardinal Benediti.  —  Of the Archbishop of Amalfi.  —  Letter of Monsignore Lopes. —  Magnificent obsequies.  —  Letter from the Bishop of Nusco. —  The Superior-General of the pious workmen.  —  Mother Raphael.  —  The modem Francis de Sales.  —  Cardinal Spinelli.  —  The Archbishop of Salerno.  —  Other distinguished testimony.  —  Alphonsus a model for all orders of the clergy. -rHis extraordinary sweetness towards sinners.  —  His life-long propensity to magnify the mercy and goodness of God 636; title: CHAPTER LXXVII.; title: Alphonses as a child.  —  His three great sins.  —  Early sympathy with the humbler classes.  —  As a priest.  —  "Keep your rules." —  As superior.  —  Remarkable instances of his kindness and compassion.  —  A model for bishops.  —  His excessive clemency. —  His love for his subjects.  —  His unbounded confidence in them.  —  Instance.  —  Alphonsus as a theologian.  —  His attachment to Ins clergy.  —  Their love for him.  —  Instances.  — Accused of laxity.  —  Characteristic defence 64a; title: CHAPTER LXXVIII.; title: Miracles attest the sanctity of Alphonsus.  —  Magdalen de Nundo.  —  Francis de Octajana.  —  Antoinette Tarsia.  —  The nun of Salerno.  —  The saint's countrywoman, Doha Giordani.  —  Miracle wrought on the Lady Louisa Palatella.  —  Two processes. The saint declared Venerable.  —  Proceedings suspended.  — Alphonsus is beatified.  —  Canonization.  —  Indulgences granted. —  The city of Naples chooses him for patron.  —  Respect paid to him by the Royal family and people of Naples.  —  High esteem of several popes for Alphonsus, especially Pius IX. —  Raised to the Doctorate.  —  Conditions.  —  The excellence of all the Doctors reunited in our saint  —  Extraordinary pomp and splendor of the saint's beatification and canonization. — Decree - 658; title: CHAPTER LXXIX.; title: The undying characteristic of St. Alphonsus.  —  The work most cherished by Alphonsus.  —  Sketch of the early days of the order in Northern Europe.  —  A prophecy and its fulfilment —  Vocation of F. Hoffbauer.  —  Hiibl.  —  Various persecutions. — Splendid testimony.  —  Prisons and death.  —  Death of the second General.  —  His successors.  —  Jealousies of the Neapolitan government  —  Present state of the Congregation.  — Father Passerat  —  His holy death.  —  Prayers and prophecies 696