Revue celtique - National Library of Scotland

on S. Martin of Tours. 391
those orders. Hilary ordered him to become an exorcist. Martin refused
not this grade lest it should seem that he thought it insignificant.
15. Not long after that, Martin was enjoined in a vision to go and
teach his parents who were (still) in heathenism. Hewas allowed to départ
provided that he would return. So he went on his way till he met two
robbers. One of the robbers was going to strike him with an axe, but
the other robber forbade him. However, Martin's hands were tied behind
his back, and one of the robbers was set to strip him. The robber took
him to a secret place, and asked him « What manner of man art thou ? »
Said Martin « I am a Christian. » The robber asked « Art thou afraid .? »
Said Martin « Never before was my fear less, for I know that God
helps every one who is in anguish and tribulation ; and it is greatly more
that I grieve for thee thyself, for thou hast no share (?) 9 in God's mercy. )>
Then Martin preached the word of God to him, and he beheved, and
afterwards that robber was a pious man.
16. Thereafter Martin went on his way and the Devil appeared to
him in human form and said to him :
« Whithersoever thou shalt go,
Martin, or whatsoever thing thou shalt do, the Devil will be adverse
to thee. » This is the answer that Martin gave him :