selves is that which our Fathers of Paraguay had in view when they commenced their missionary labors; and that the means to attain this end should be the same, chiefly because these means have been approved by the most respectable authorities, crowned with perfect success, and admired even by the enemies of our religion.
The principle being admitted, it only remains to form a correct idea of the method employed by our Fathers in Paraguay to improve the minds and hearts of their neophytes, and to bring them to that degree of perfection of which they conceived them susceptible. After having seriously reflected on what 1Auratori relates of the establishments in Paraguay, we have concluded that the following points should be laid down, as rules to direct the conduct of our converts.
I. With regard to God.- Simple, firm, and lively faith with respect to all the truths of religion, and chiefly such as are to be believed as theologians express it, necessitate medii et necessitate firceceflti. Profound respect for the only true religion; perfect submission to the Church of God, in all that regards faith and morality, discipline, etc. Tender and solid piety toward the Blessed Virgin and the saints.
Desire of the conversion of others. Courage and fortitude of the martyrs.
2. With regard to our neighbor.- Respect for those in authority, for parents, the aged, etc. Justice, charity, and generosity toward all.
3. With regard to one's self.- Humility, modesty, meekness, discretion, temperance, irreproachable behavior, industry or love of labor, etc.
We shall strenuously recommend the desire of the conversion of others, because Providence seems to have great designs with respect to our small tribe. In one of our instructions given in a little chapel, constructed of boughs, not less than twenty-four nations were represented, including ourselves. Next, the courage and fortitude of the martyrs, because in the neighborhood of the Blackfeet there