bashfulness for the love of Jesus Christ poor and crucified, he went
through the centre of Assisi as one inspired, publishing the glories
of God, and soliciting stones for the repair of the church; addressing
his fellow-citizens with simplicity, thus: "Whosoever will give me a
stone, shall have a reward; whoever will give two shall have a double
reward; and he who gives three shall be rewarded threefold."

Many treated him with contempt, and turned him into ridicule. Others
could not understand how a young man of a good and opulent family,
with excellent prospects, hitherto considered as the model of the young
men of the place, could demean himself to such a degree as to beg in
his native town. Some thought that such a change could only come from
God, and were greatly moved by it. But the new-made pauper, having no
respect for the opinions of men, and receiving cheerfully the insults
put upon him, after the example of Jesus Christ, thought of nothing
but the church of St. Damian, for which he quested so successfully,
that many persons, moved by his exhortations, furnished sufficient for
its repair. He himself worked at it daily, and carried the materials
on his shoulders as a common laborer, without any regard for his body,
which was emaciated by the rigors of penance and fasting.

The priest of St. Damian took compassion on the pious workman, and
took care to provide him with a substantial meal when he came in from
work. Francis having received this charitable succor for some days
running, reflected on his situation, and said to himself as he
afterwards told his disciples: "Will you find everywhere a priest who
has so much consideration for you? This is not the sort of life you
have chosen: go, then, henceforward from door to door, as a poor man,
and solicit food for the love of God, with an empty plate, on which
you will put whatever may be given you. For it is thus you must live