صفحة 644 من 1118

Easy of access, he made it a principle to receive the poor who

applied to him, with kindness and affection. And on this point he

was obliged to dispute with the nobility, who wished to keep him

to their standard of action. One day, whilst visiting among the

mountaineers, and instructing some poor children, Frederick

bestowed caresses on them. A nobleman who was present, warned him

to be careful, as the children were dirty and disgusting. The

good bishop, not without indignation, replied, "These souls are

committed to my care; these children may never see me again; and

are you not willing that I should embrace them?"