LETTER IX.
To the Provincial Ministers of the Order of the Friars Minor.
To the beloved Brethren in Christ, the Provincial Ministers of the Order of Friars Minor.
In your government I beseech you to be careful of two things : first, that you be not respecters of persons ; and secondly, that you be not free in commanding in virtue of holy Obedience, for this is unsheathing the sword, which should not be done except after mature deliberation and on great occasions. Be moderate in your commands, merciful to sinners, easy O in pardoning, sparing in food, poor in dress, mild in words, and faithful to God and your office. Preach by your works, if you wish your subjects to listen to your words and obey your precepts, and what you command by your mouth, fulfil in your actions. Farewell in the Lord.