57. Thus, after our small

measure, we have spoken enough both of sanctity, whereby ye are

properly called “sanctimoniales,” and of humility, whereby

whatever great name ye bear is kept. But more worthily let those

Three Children, unto whom He, Whom they loved with full glow of

heart, afforded refreshing in the fire, admonish you

concerning this our little work, much more shortly indeed in number

of words, but much more greatly in weight of authority, in the Hymn

wherein God is honored by them. For joining humility unto holiness

in such as praise God, they have most plainly taught, that each, by

how much he make any more holy profession, by so much do beware

that he be not deceived by pride. Wherefore do ye also praise Him, Who grants unto you, that in the midst of the flames of this world, although ye be not joined in marriage, yet ye be not burned: and praying also for us, “Bless ye the Lord, ye holy and humble men of heart; utter an hymn, and exalt Him above all forever.”

Footnotes

Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers: Series I/Volume III/Moral Treatises of St. Augustin/Of Holy Virginity/Section 57