Chapter XII. Of the simplicity of his garb weariness and a burden to me." Hearing this, and blushing somewhat, the other stood more quietly and taking the saying in good part, went away edified, being instructed in simplicity of attire by the example of Florentius.
(4) At another time he called to him the tailor who was to make him a new cloak, and said: "Sir, do you know how to make a mean garment?" and he answered: "I know not that 107
I can do so, but tell me, Sir, what sort of garment thou dost desire?" Then said the humble Master Florentius to the tailor: "Make of that cloth four parts, and sew them together without folds that I may put on or take off the garment easily; so made it will be good enough for me." To this the tailor wondering much replied: "O my beloved Master, how can this be?
How can I wilfully destroy a good piece of cloth? I will make it well as is more suitable."
Then said the meek and lowly priest: "Why should one take care for the adorning of the outward man? For the love of God make it in the simplest way thou canst; for so is it more pleasing to me; since it is fitting that I should have simple garments for the edification of others."
O noble Priest of Christ! who wert ever inclined to lowliness, who the better to please God didst put away all delicate living from thee!