Note 1637 — THE PASTOR OF HERMAS.

Questions. “I charge you,” said he, “to guard your chastity, and let no thought enter your heart of another man’s marriage (i.e. wife), or of fornication, for this produces a great transgression. But be always mindful of the Lord at all hours, and you will never sin. For if this very wicked thought enter your heart, you commit a great sin, and they who practise such deeds follow the way of death. Take heed, therefore, and refrain from this thought. For where chastity remains in the heart of a righteous man, never ought there to arise any evil thought.” I said to him, “Sir, permit me to say a few words to you.” “Say on,” said he.—Vat.