and then dictating to secretaries a copy of the precious
book which had so nearly escaped him.[3]

[1] Healy, 46.

[2] Healy, 50.

[3] Sandys, i. 245


Section II

Monachism of this Eastern type came from Gaul to
Ireland.[1] St. Patrick received his sacred education at
Marmoutier; under Germanus at Auxerre; and possibly
at Lerins. His companions on his mission to Ireland, and
the missionaries who followed him, nearly all came from
the same centres. Naturally, therefore, the same practices
would be observed, not only in regard to religious discipline
and organisation, but in regard to instruction and study.
Even the mysterious Palladius, Patrick's forerunner, is said
to have left books in Ireland.[2] But the earliest important
references to that use of books which distinguishes the
educated missionary from the mere fanatical recluse are in
connexion with Patrick. Pope Sixtus is said to have
given him books in plenty to take with him to Ireland.
Later he is supposed to have visited Rome, whence he
brought books home to Armagh.[3] He gave copies of
parts of the Scriptures to Irish chieftains. To one Fiacc
he gave a case containing a bell, a crosier, tablets, and a