These holy companions arose early, on the day following their arrival, for the purpose of
reconnoitring
the vicinity of Ghele, and with a view of selecting some site for their future dwelling.
O'Hanlon - Lives of the Irish Saints - v5
The very instinct of natural law should have corrected such an opinion, and parental feelings should have revolted from the unhallowed suggestion.
For the honour of human nature, it is to be hoped, th.
at even amongst the pagan inhabitants of our country, incestuous marriages were rare.
* However, we have some authenticated accounts of habits and customs,s after- wards very generally eradicated, through the bright and purifying influences of Christianity's general diffusion.
^ The unholy relation of Lot towards his daughters,7 and of Amnion towards his sister, Thamar,^ prove how degrading monstrosities of passion may stain the souls of men, who yield to the base allurements of vice and irreligion.
We can, therefore, scarcely wonder at however severely we may reprobate—the conduct of this Gentile potentate, who lent a willing ear to the poisoned words of his evil counsellors.
The
pagan, anyhow civilized, could have resolved xvi. , sect, xiii. , n. 134. p. 477. We are re on marrying his own dauglitcr ; but inces- ferred for evidence of the foregoing state- tuous mairinges of this, and even of a nients to Vallancey's "Vindication," etc. , worse kind, were not unusual among some p. 351.
nations, otherwise far removed from the sav- = jjee O'Flaherty's "Ogygia," pars, iii. , age state, such as the Persians in the cap. xlvii. , p. 282 ; and cap. xlix. , p. 287,
proudest time of their empire. It is certain, that the pagan Irish had several customs and practices, both religious and political, sinii- larto those of the Persians and some other Orientals. The mode of contracting mar- riages is said to have been nearly the same in Ireland as in Persia. "—Dr. Lanigan's " Ec- clesiastical History of Ireland," vol. ii. , chap.
° The student of our history is referred to other accounts, bearing allusion to morals and practices of a more advanced period, yet not tending to Christian edification. See Dr. Todd's " Liber Hymnorum," Fasciculus i. , pp. 81 to 93.
' Genesis, xix.
' II. Kings, xiii.
—-
May 15. ] LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS.
297
Devil also knew, that his empire over the pure mind of Dympna must end, if he could not effect her return to idolatry, and persuade her father to violate the living temple of God in her soul. His temptations readily prevailed, against that restless spirit of the flesh, which remained unfortified by the graces ofthesacraments; but,whentrieduponaweakervessel,stillprotectedbya power from on high, his arts were rendered nugatory, and his solicitations were effectually counteracted.
The approach of temptation is usually insidious, and it requires more than human strength and wisdom to divine its motive and object. Scarcely had the father of Dympna conceived this depraved passion, than natural affection for his daughter seemed to increase in intensity, and every fond caress was cautiously veiled from the suspicions of the lovely and innocent child. At length, with persuasive and flattering words, the father began to manifest the purpose he had in view, by promising a variety of elegant apparel, ornaments and wealth, or whatever might appear most desirable to a girl of her years, as a reward for compliance with his marriage proposals. Long since dedicated to the embraces of her Heavenly Spouse, Dympna trembled with horror, at. the snares laid for her purity, when she learned the full nature of their fearful import. However,shenoblyanswered,thatnoearthlyinducementorpower could oblige her, to dishonour the memory of a deceased parent, or mmister for the gratification of a living one, by any tiiought or act contrary to the natural or divine law. She declared her loathing and horror of this base and abominable proposition. But, the king was persistent in his wicked desires, v;hich grew stronger in proportion to the opposition given by his pure-minded daughter. He urged every argument, yet still to no purpose ; and, at length, inflamed with resentment, he told Dympna she must yield to his wishes, whether he succeeded in obtainmg her consent, or forced her to compliance.
Sadness settled on the soul of this holy maiden, when such a doleful in- tention was expressed. All her arguments and entreaties proved unavailing, against the attempted caresses of her father, who could not but respect that innate feeling of modesty, which parents should especially labour to inculcate in the minds of youthful children. When the heroic Judith found Iierself re- duced to similar straits, not being able to escape from the solicitation of Holofernes, she was mysteriously inspired to demand an interval of three days and three nights, that she might be at liberty to determine her future course of action. The better to cover her designs, she consented to array herself, in the most attractive robes. 9 Perhaps, Dympna had received this account from her Christian instructors, and had resolved on following such an example, under present difficulties. She asked her father for a respite of forty days, to consider his proposals ; and, in the meantime, she seemed anxious to procure those dresses and ornaments of female attire, which should tend most to enhance the attractions of her native beauty. On hearino- this her father immediately concluded, that his purpose must be accomplished • so truly do exaggerated accessories of dress betoken the weakness and frivo- lity of worldlings, with a spirit of vanity and levity, most dangerous to that purity and innocence of soul, which ought always to characterize a Christian lady. The king foolishly imagined those royal robes demanded were intended to render his daughter still more an object of delight, and that they should
at least dispose Dympna for ultimately consenting. Wherefore, his tln-eatened wrath was appeased, and he granted her request, with eagerness and loviu'^'- expressions. Like another Herod, and for a similar purpose, '° the kin^- de- clared, he would bestow half of his kingdom, had it been demanded ; but
9 Judith, X. , xii. '° Matthew, xiv. , 7.
298 LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. [May 15.
he ordered everything that could serve the purposes of female decoration and minister to vanity for her special use. In this matter, his liberality was allied with that ungenerous selfishness, which contracts as it darkens the mind, driven to sinful objects and the sad consequences of depraved inclinations.
Thrice happy the soul, which aspires to God, as the ultimate aim of a holy ambition ! How noble the destiny of that young virgin, who treasured these sweet and consoling words of the Heavenly Bridegroom in her memory, that He came into tliis world to draw all hearts to Himself! How illuminated and fortified by divine grace, the tender soul of this bright pearl of chastity, when, like the apostles, she could safely exclaim, notwithstanding her natural affection for a persecuting father : " We must obey God rather than men ! "" Often did Dympna, in the hours of solitude, raise her pure heart to Heaven, for help and consolation ; often did she meditate on her vows of virginity, and on the dangerous storm that seemed impending, without any apparent prospect of release from its destructive blight. Oh ! with what feelings of anguish and sorrow did she not dread the course, which those currents might take, and which were criminally agitating the mind of a beloved parent ! She feared her own weak defences and unprotected position, and she knew not how soon the lamb might be torn, within the fold of a treacherous protector. And to reflect, that this foul wrong could proceed from a quarter, whence it might be least expected—her sense of modesty outraged—her stainless youth defiled—her nearest and dearest relative to become her destroyer and betrayer ! These were harrowing reflections ; but, they induced Dympna to consider, if she might find safety, by escaping from the dominions of her father. For weak indeed the holy virgin deemed herself, contending against such fearful odds. How could she preserve those flowers of chastity, which, with willing and full hands, she had so delicately gathered? This was the thought, which most occupied her mind ; and, the Almighty was pleased to devise those means, that served to assure her, and to solve every difticulty.
At this time, the old and venerable priest, Gerebern, lived in Ireland. He was full of that fire of divine charity, which Christ came to scatter in the world ; and, while his edifying conduct and Christian virtues obliged him to remain concealed, still some of the pagans sought his ministry, and were secretly baptized by him. This most amiable servant of God practised the virtues of chastity, of temperance, of Christian vigilance, and of prayer, in a high decree of perfection. Sound in doctrine, wise in counsel, and candid in discourse, like another Samuel, he always experienced a renewed spirit, in the Lord's service. " He always felt compassion, for the poor and afifiicted. Those who were burdened in conscience, and who approached him to reveal their hidden sins, received advice to suit their peculiar state, and they returned full of consolation, as if they had heard the words of an angel. Having a know- ledge of the wonderful graces that adorned this holy man, St. Dympna, ear- nestly desired his conversation, and sent a message to that effect. A great trouble, which filled her with ah\rm, required the sage counsel of this holy priest. In spiritual matters, self-will and pride of opinion lead to many evils
j
and, this holy virgin, distrusting her youth and inexperience, revealed the dreaded secret to her sage ilirector, from whom she expected some advice, regarding her future course of procedure. Gerebern was then told, how the king, her father, urged an infamous suit and with seductive persuasions, thus inducing her to renounce a vow of chastity, that he might plunge her into the abyss of liorrible depravity.
That holy priest, from his youth, had been a lover of chastity, and he re- " Acts, iv. , 19. " I. Kings, ii. , iii.
May 15. ] LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. 299
mained pure and undefiled amidst all the corruption of this world. Com- passionating the miseries, to which this innocent girl was reduced, Gerebern offered her the best consolation in his power, and he recommended Dympna, to trust in God for a happy issue of the event. He advised her, to maintain her resolution of serving God in a single state of life, and to suffer every mis- fortune, even death itself, rather than abandon that virtue of virginity, or yield to the blandishments or threats of her father. The holy priest was satis- fied, that she had been sufficiently instructed, in the mysteries of divine faith ; he also knew her settled purpose as to a future state of life, and that she had been found worthy to receive baptism in secret, at his hands. He was also aware, that, through his influence, the docile maiden had despised all plea- sures and allurements of this world from her very infancy. In word and in habit, she avoided whatever should serve to recommend her beauty of form andofcarriagetotheeyesofmen. DwellingonthewordsoftheApostle: " Let him who standeth take heed lest he fall," '3 the pious priest was fearful and anxious, lest his precious child might imitate the example of her friends and kindred, in a court that offered so many incentives to sin. And, as those who trust to their own strength and exertions are often deceived, he dreaded the possibility of this dear ward falling into those snares, laid for so many of her sex, by the seductions of luxury, or through natural terrors, that might urge her to criminal compliance.
The holy priest Gerebern silently and earnestly deliberated, as to how he might save his youthful neophyte from that gulf, which threatened to de- stroy both soul and body. He considered the weapon aimed from a distance, if it cannot be always avoided, at least, may be deprived of a more deadly effect, as distance might lend opportunity for prevision and defence. He therefore advised St. Dympna, to fly from her native country to a more dis- tant one \ and, as danger was now imminent, he urged her to make no delay. The example of Jacob avoiding the fury of his brother Esau,''^ of David escap- ing from the vengeance of Saul,'5 and of the just Joseph flying from Herod, when warned by an angel during sleep,'^ were worthy of the pure virgin's imitation. Humble in spirit herself, it was meet she should follow the exam- ple of the lowly Jesus, flying from His enemies, and thus baffling all designs of the most wicked one. No sooner had the holy virgin fully resolved on her future course of action, than the deep interest felt in its successful prosecution caused her to pass many sleepless nights, in conjectures about embracing the most favourable opportunity, which might be presented, to escape from her native country. Soon, indeed, she was enabled to put the advice of her sage director, Gerebern, into execution. The hour for flight having arrived, and every circumstance bearing on this matter having been most providentially arranged, it was resolved to steal away privately, with only a few in com- pany. This small band of exiles was composed of St. Dympna, her venera- ble companion Gerebern,'? her father's court jester, and the wife of this latter person. The writer of our saint's Acts tells us, that the two retainers accom- panying her served to disarm the suspicions of her guardian, because it might naturally be suspected, the maiden left her father's house for the sake of a little recreation. We can hardly doubt, that the jester and his wife were Christians ; and, most probably, the holy priest Gerebern had wisely arranged to have the benefit of their companionship, for the sake of avoiding all possi- ble semblance of scandal or evil suspicions, as to the object and motives of the principal parties engaged in this adventure.
'3 I. Cor. , X. , 12.
'* Genesis, xxviii.
's I. Kings, xix. , 18.
'* Matthew, ii. , 13, 14.
"'^ In the time of Canon Peter, St. Gere- bern was held in great veneration at Santen,
300
LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. [May 15.
Here it will be necessary, however, to interrupt the narrative of their escape, by stating, that at the present day, there is a popular tradition cur- rent,'^ 'how the holy St. Damphne and her companions, having fled from her father the king, took refuge in a ravine, then enclosed with thick woods. The spot is still pointed out, in the townland of Curraghwillan,'9 near the old "laveyardofLaveyparish,inthecountyofCavan. Throughthisravine,a stream gurgles onwards, in broken courses ; and, immediately over a small cascade, there is a steep rock, on the summit of which may be seen the foundationsofanoldoratory,whichwasquadrangular. Itmeasured34feet,
St. Daphne's Station, County of Cavan.
in length, by 16 feet, in width. The walls are about three feet in thickness, andtheywerebuiltwithaspeciesofgreenflagstones. Thisiscalled,atpre- sent, St. Damphne's old house or station. =° Like the children of Israel escaping from the restraint of the tyrant Pharaoh,^' this little band hastened, finally, towards the sea-shore, where a vessel had been provided. Here they
a town near the Rhine, and a community of secular canons was attaclied to that church. Henschcnius adds a note, in connection with tliis statement, that he was also venerated at Sonsbeck, near Clcves.
St. Dympna. " Exodus, xiv.
''This was stated, by an intelligent pea-
sant, who accompanied the writer to this in-
teresting spot ; and, although he had never
heard any but mere local traditionary ac-
counts, it seemed wonderful to remark the
coincidence of his narrative with that of is here represented. The drawing was Canon Tclcr, who does not appear to have transferred to the wood, by William F. received any immediate information from Wakeman, and it has been engraved by Irish sources, when composing his Life of Mrs. Millard.
'9 Thus it is locally spelled and pro- nounced, by the natives. On the " Ordnance Survey Townland ^^aps of the County of Cavan," sheet 26, it is written, Corrawiilan, a small townland, in the parish of Lavey, and barony of Upper Loughtee. On the Map is marked, likewise, the site of Dav- nei's chapel.
""
spot, and took a sketch of the scene, which
In June, 1876, the writer visited this
May 15. ] LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. 301
embarked, and, with pious gratitude, committed their future course to the direc- tion of Divine Providence. We may well admire the noble resolution exhited by this tender virgin, and the wonderful desire of avoiding all snares laid for her purity, when one so very young, and unaccustomed to hardships, danger, and privation, feared not trusting herself to the raging billows of that sea, although quite uncertain as to the future events it might please Heaven to decree. Casting aside the natural timidity of her age and sex, her hopes and heart aspired to her Maker, who directs the winds and waves to subside, that a great calm may ensue. ^"^ She also recollected, and felt confidence in the fact, tliat the Almighty had caused His chosen Israelites to pass from Egypt on dry land through the depths of the Red Sea, while the billows surged around them on either side. ^3 Such was her strong faith and love of God, that the fear of death or the dangers of banishment—perhaps amongst uncivilized people
—
difficultiesimpending. Throughdutyshewaspreparedtobidadieutoher relations, and to the house of her father, as also to the friends and familiars of her native country. She disregarded all the accessories of rank and station, with those earthly comforts they were sure to provide. Some of those on board turned their eyes with a natural feeling of regret towards the receding coast, when scudding over the rocks and shoals, or bounding through the waves. They,doubtless,thoughtoffriendsandhomewiththatstrongaffec- tion, which a future uncertainty of returning to behold them ever awakens within the breasts of unwilling exiles. But, conscious that her hand had been put on the plough, and that the furrows made through the main should not be retraced ^4—knowing also that the wife of Lot, when departing from Sodom, had been changed into a pillar of salt ^s—Dympna heroically turned her eyes towards the onward course, lest love of country and of friends should cause a
could not cause her to blanch with fear, in presence ofjthe
momentary pang, to weaken the force of her holy resolution.
Whilst their vessel bounded swiftly over the waves, or met opposing winds on the course, our voyagers trusted to the direction of Divine Providence. At length, after a generally favourable passage, they arrived on a coast, near the present city of Antwerp. ^^ Having disembarked, they procured lodging at a hospice, where they rested for some time, and made all requisite inquiries among the natives of that place, to discover the most suitable locality for their permanent residence. They were anxious to dwell in a retired spot, where they should be removed from intercourse with pagans, and where they could worship their Creator in sincerity and truth. The heart earnestly devoted to God's service always desires seclusion, from the bustle and tur- moil of temporal cares. The true servant of Christ centres all happiness in pleasing a Master, who will preserve him innocent and unattached, although
living in the midst of worldly temptations and corruption. Yet, it is always difficult, even for true worshippers of the Lord, to escape those stains of sin, when moving through the general herd of worldlings.
Our travellers had only rested on the track of their wearisome route. Again, they resumed this long journey, and passed along roads, leading through woods and solitudes, over the heathy Kempenland. ^7 Through one com- munity or another, and passing the habitations of many strange people, they arrived with little delay at a village, which was named Ghele,"^ by the old in-
" St. Matthew, viii. , 26. '3 Exodus, xiv. , 22.
'* See Luke, ix. , 62.
'5 Genesis, xix. , 26.
'* See a description and historical notice
of this city, in the " Popular Encyclopedia or Conversations Lexicon," vol. i. , pp. 201, 202.
'^ See Rev. S. Baring-Gould's " Lives of the Saints," vol. v. , May 15, p. 208.
;
302
LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. [May 15.
habitants of that place. '9 Here they received a hospitable reception,3° and, after a very fatiguing and continuous journey, tliey were allowed an interval to recruit their exhausted strength. 3' Thus, the Almighty, who formerly con- ducted by a straight course the aged servant Eliezar into the house of Abra- ham, as the steward and confidant of his master,32 had compassion also on the painful travelling of His servants, and brought them safely through bye- ways and rugged paths, to the end of their course.
These holy companions arose early, on the day following their arrival, for the purpose of reconnoitring the vicinity of Ghele, and with a view of selecting some site for their future dwelling. They at length found an oratory, dedi- cated to St. Martin,33 the bishop of happy memory, and whose festival occurs on the nth of November. 34 In the immediate neighbourhood of this hermi-
tage, they found a quiet and retired spot, most suitable for purposes of reli-. gious contemplation and refuge. Here, the sweet exercise of prayer engaged their time; and, as they had retired to tlie desert, there, according to His promise, the Almighty spoke to their hcarts. 35 In the oratory, Gerebern oftentimes celebrated the divine mysteries, and became a faithful mediator between God and His servants, by offering the agreeable and propitiatory sacrifice. Having cleared a small plot of ground, from its thorny shrubs and branching trees,3^ a suitable habitation 37 was erected near that little oratory.
'^ Gheel is now a town of Belgium, in the
province of Antwerp, and situated on the
Great Nethes River. It lies about twenty-
five English miles, to the east of the city of
Antwerp. Its present population is over
eight thousand inhabitants, many of whom
are employed in the manufacture of lace. It
is said, that for centuries back, the inhabi-
tants have devoted themselves to the care of
insane persons, who are sent there from all
parts of Belgium. From seven hundred to
eight hundred of these afflicted creatures re-
ceive attendance in this town. See of Tongres, near Liege, or probably of
" Gazetteer of the World," vol. vi. , sub voce, Gheel.
=9 Excolebatur enim tunc temporis villa de Gheel raro inhabitatore, quia in ea quin- decim tantummodo hospita, qu? e etiam ne- morum densitate fere per sex miliaria fuerunt circumsepta. "—Vita S. Dymphnae. Apud Messingham's " Florilegium Insulce Sancto- rum," p. 344.
3° In Butken's " Trophees tant sacres que prophanes de Duche de Brabant," we find the following notices of this city: "Gele est une tres belle bourgade, situee a deux grosses lieues de Herentals, et at outre I'Eglise Paroissiale, la Collegiale -de Ste. Dimpne, Vierge, tres bien bastie, il apper- tenoit ci-devat a ceux de Bcrthout Sires de Duffle, et tomba par alliance en la niaison de Homes d'ou estant passe en cellede Rot- selaer, elle parvient finalement en celles de Merode et Witthem. " Tome ii. , liv. ii. , p. 27. A la Haye, A. n. 1724, fol.
3' John Baptist Grammny writes : " Post annum sexcentcssinnun advcnicnte Dympna regia virgine obsccenum I'atrcm fugientc et fugse presidium hie nacta, locus hie excole- batur, sed raro habitatore, quindecim dum-
Maestricht, in Brabant. He adds, conjec- turally, "quidni etiam tempore B. Pippini Ducis a S. Amando tunc Episcopo Aposto- lico, qui ante Turonibus apud S. Martinum, aliquamdiu substiterat? "
^ John Baptist Gramayus tells us, that this oratory of St. Martin was to be seen in a well-preserved state at Capremons, com- monly called Kiuremont, where an annual trade in woollen blankets was carried on in the weavers' shops. The veneration for St. Martin was very great throughout Belgium, even during those ages immediately succeed- ing the death of that saint.
35 Osee, ii. , 14.
3* " Excolebatur autem tunc temporis locus ille raro inhabitatore tantummodo quindecim hospitiis, vepriumque densitate refertus fere per sex millia dilatando arbo- rum nemorosa magnitudine prcestanserat. "
37 John Baptist Gramayus, in "Antiquita- tibus Antverpice, " tells us, that it resembled a cell, and here St. Gerebern for the space of three months led a most angelic life in vigils and prayer.
3^ Their cell was afterwards to be seen in the village, Latinized, Zamiualia, now Zam-
taxat sedibus rusticanis et quidem ob silva- rum densitates ad sex millia passuum dissi- tis et circumseptis villse autem (verba sunt historise) antiquum nomen Gelx erat imposi- tum, a Flavo colore ut apparet, cujus re- gionesundecim ut nunc res sunt, ordine per- curram et quod in singulis rarum aut memo- rabile aimotabo. "—" Antverpiae Antiquita- tes," lib. ii. , cap. x. , p. 141.
3^ Genesis, xv. , xxiv.
33 Henschenius thinks this veneration might have been promoted by the bishops
May 15. ] LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS.
Here the all-seeing eye was benignantly directed to the pious exercises and
3^
merits of our holy exiles.
Thus circumstanced, the holy Gerebern and St. Dympna spent many
happy hours, in considering the empty pomp of worldlings, and the wisdom of aspiring to Heavenly rewards. They often reflected, on the pains of Hell, and on the importance of securing their souls' salvation. So far as the con- veniences of their humble dwelling admitted, they fasted, prayed, and passed a great portion of their time, both during the day and night, in devout con- templation. To prepare their souls for these pious practices was a constant object of their solicitude. Strength of human affection was restrained by that chastened spirit, which arises from a true love of God, and from the eliciting of internal penitential desires. Pious exercises engaged their inmost thoughts, and regulated those ordinary relations of life, between the aged priest and his angelic ward. She listened to the words of instruction, that fell from Gere- bern's lips, as if they had been spoken, by the Holy Spirit of light and of truth. Filled with a love of holy chastity, her outward senses never embraced objects dangerously affecting the state of perfection to which she aspired. She felt most anxious, to fulfil all her duties, under the experienced counsel of her saintly director, and her more than father, in paternal interest and tenderness. Like Mary, who had chosen the better part, and who loved to place herself at the feet of Jesus,39 the docile virgin looked up to the venerable priest, for
support and comfort, in the laborious but consoling effort, to attain Heaven's choicest gifts. And when Jesus Himself commended his Virginal Mother to the chaste and beloved disciple St. John before expiring on the cross, this charge, so admirably fulfilled by His faithful and favoured evangelist,'^" was emulated by the holy Gerebern, who found in the forlorn and helpless Dympna all those motives for generous sympathy and warm admiration, which should engage the best efforts of humanity and of charity, in administering to her various necessities.
While the wicked king allowed all the worst forms of detestable passion to take possession of his heart, with the full resolution of proceeding to still greater lengths in the pursuits of his unhallowed desires, word was brought him, that his child had escaped from her father's house, and that she was alreadybeyondthereachofhispower. Thenewsofherflightsoonspread through the court. Grief oppressed the spirit of the king, when he learned how little prospect was held out, that presented a chance of recovering his lost treasure. Being ignorant regarding the course taken by the holy virgin of Christ, her father burst into tears and lamentations, like to those of David,
who wept for the loss of his son Absalom. 4' All the military retainers, ma- trons, and female servants of the castle, who had charge of Dympna from her very infancy, and who loved the noble child, on account of her good and ad- mirable dispositions, were overwhelmed with grief. Throughout the house- hold, lamentations for her loss were heard; it seemed, as if the sudden announcement of her escape added a greater poignancy to their bereave- ment and affliction. For, in her demeanour towards these domestics, an innate grace and benignity, partly the result of her accomplished training and exalted rank, but arising more from the good natural dispositions of her soul, drew all hearts to entertain most affectionate regards for the noble girl, and to cause that vehement grief now manifested. The chiefs and magistrates of
the king endeavoured to offer consolation, but he would not attend to their
male, which derived its signification from the sandy nature of the soil, " quasi Zant-mail," says the foregoing writer.
^9 John, xi. , 32.
*" John, xix. , 26, 27. ' II. Kings, xviii. , 33.
303
304
LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. [May 15.
words. All the demonstrations of his grief became more violent, and like Jacob mourning for his son Joseph,*^ this king bewailed the absence of Dympna,asifshehadbeendevouredbyawildbeast. Inaheart,notchas- tened by the stroke of adversity, and wholly a prey to unnatural passion, the fire of concupiscence smoulders with the strength and permanence of that fur- nace, which heaves the volcanic mountain, and bursts forth in a torrent of destructive velocity. And greater the force becomes, when deprived of that object, which might soon serve to satiate, but not control it. While weep- ing for his absent daughter, the king frequently recalled to his recollection the winning grace and elegance of her features and figure, the native simpli- city and modesty of her carriage, with that ease and dignity of manner, which so greatly distinguished Dympna, amongst other children of her age, sex, and position. But, alas ! parental affection was debased in the soul of this pagan king, and few right-judging persons could feel a sympathy for his loss of a child, who had already chosen the better and nobler part.
We may well imagine, however, that the dynast did not long indulge his grief, in this passive state of useless lamentation ; for, with his usual energy of action, orders were at once issued to his messengers, that they must repair through distant nations in quest of the princess, and return with an account, astowhethershemightbefoundlivingordead. Themessengerslostlittle time, in complying with their instructions, and no expense was spared for their outfit. They cheerfully undertook labours and hardships, necessary for this investigation, and manifested the greatest zeal in their master's service. But, the king himself felt a desire, to participate personally in that search ; and, he travelled to all the neighbouring towns and cities, even through de- serted and wild forests and mountains, in quest of the necessary information. At length—having probably obtained some accurate account—he resolved to tempt the dangers of ocean ; and, accordingly, he gave orders, to have some vessels loaded with men and provisions, to undertake his meditated voyage.
Having embarked, his mariners loosed their sails, bent on their oars, and soon cleared the port. After getting out into the sea, a swift passage brought them overthedepthsandshallows,whichledtothepresentcityofAntwerp. It Avasthenthesiteforafortoranencampment. Whenthevesselsweresafely moored, the king ai)d his retinue landed, and proceeded through the midst of a curious crowd, to seek a lodging on shore. The image of his self-exiled daufThter, during this adventure, seems to have been vividly present to his mind, and this stimulus tended to expedite all his movements. So much more actively do men engage in human pursuits and pur])oses, than in quest of those lasting labours, that gain for them an imperishable crown.
Having so far succeeded, in moving with his retinue towards the very spot, where his daughter disembarked, we need hardly wonder, if information could much longer be withheld, as to the course taken by the fugitive virgin. While fluctuating between the fear and hope of accomplishing an object for which he had proceeded so far, the king sent other messengers to the adjoining dis- tricts, for the purpose of discovering his daughter's place of retreat. He desired them, to institute all necessary inquiries, and, if possible, to bring him some information, which might tend to solace and to appease the conflicting tumult within his mind. It is the property of love, to anticipate possession of the object, which is so earnestly coveted ; nor can men's thoughts be diverted, from what they hope to enjoy. However opposed to the dictates of sound reason, judgment, or moderation, still hope sustains the lover,
*^ Genesis, xxxvii. , 33, 34. Zammel. For many ages, it belongcvl to *' This is now an important town, near the noble family of Merode, "a qua Philip-
305
through adverse trials and disappointments. Happy, indeed, should it prove to him, if the object of his pursuit were found unalloyed, by a reference to corruptible things.
Obeying the command of their ruler, the messengers set out through deserted and inhospitable regions, until some of them came to a small rural village, anciently called Westerloo,43 and situated on the Great Nethes river, which flows into the Schelde. Here, the king's servants were lodged and en- tertained at an inn,'*'* for the night ; and, when they were preparing for depar- ture, on the day following, a bill of those expenses they had incurred was demanded from their hospitaller. The travellers had been liberally supplied with money, by the king, to defray all the charges of their journey. When the host received this money, he at once remar^ved, that he had in his posses- sion coins, exactly resembling those presented, although he was entirely igno- rant of their value, mintage, and inscription. 't5 This information greatly ex- cited the curiosity of our travellers, who began to inquire from whom the money had been received. The innkeeper told them, that a foreign lady, who came from Ireland, had frequently sent him similar coins, to purchase food. Not knowing how greatly interested the strangers felt, nor what hopes had been excited in their minds, to accomplish fully the purpose of their search the host gave them to understand, that the lady in question lived in a lonely situation, at no great distance from his house. Again, the king's mes- sengers asked a description of her features, stature, and age, as also, whether she had any companions with her, and who the latter persons were. The travellers were informed, that the young lady was remarkable for her beauty of features and figure, and that her only companions were an aged and vene- rable priest, together with a mimic and his wife. He also added, that if the messengers had any curiosity to visit the place of this retreat, they could have ocular demonstration of the facts related. Scarcely had the hospitaller spoken these words, when he was asked for a guide to conduct the strangers through those rugged and lonely paths, leading to the virgin's hermitage. Local tradition points to the present village of Zammal, as her residence, and that of her companions. Having travelled on horseback to the place, the king's messengers, acting the part of spies, lay in wait for some time, and at length perceived Dynipna with her companions. Finding their information and hopes thus veritied and rewarded, with ecstacies of joy, they hastened back towards Antwerp, where they expected to tell their master all those interesting particulars, which eventuated in the fortuitous discovery of his daughter.
During the temporary absence of his messengers, the king's mind was greally agitated ; while the disquiet experienced by him was manifested ex- teriorly, in his downcast looks, by his restlessness, and in his lean and melan- choly features. It seldom happens, that passion or anxiety of any description can fail to leave its traces on the human constitution, and waste that physical strength, necessary for the healthful development of a well-regulated life. But, while thus agitated, word was brought the king, that those messengers despatched in quest of his daughter had returned, and that they awaited per-
pus anno 1626, a Philippo IV. Rege Catho- lico primus Westerloas renunciatus est Mar- chio Consule qusediximus 3 Maji, ad Vitam S. Aufridi Episcopi Vltrajectini, qui Eccle- siis Vltrajectinis Westerloam et vicina aliqua loca tradiderat, quse ibidem sita dicuntur in- fra Comitatum Rien, tunc latius distentum, et olim Episcopo Camaracensi cum urbe Antverpiensi subjectum. "—"Acta Sancto-
rum,"tomus iii. , xv. Maii. Acta S. Dympns, cap. ii. , n. (a), p. 484.
'' At Oolen, near Herenthals, according to Rev. S. Baring-Gould's " Lives of the Saints," vol. v. , May 15, p. 208.
''s The period, to which this tradition re- fers, must be remote ; and, if we are to credit the account, contained in our saint's Acts, the use of a metallic currency must have pre-
U
;
May 15. ] LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS.
3o6 LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. [May 15.
mission to enter and give him information, which must prove altogether satisfactory to him. Scarcely had the order to enter been given, when it was rumoured amongst his household attendants and retinue, that their young mistress had been discovered, and with the certainty that she must soon be restored to her father, friends and native country. Great joy pervaded the entire assemblage, when the messengers appeared before their ruler, making the usual obeisance. The king told them to speak, and he motioned for silence duringtheirnarrative. Themessengersenterminutelyintoalltheincidents of their journey, and especially dwell in detail on the adventure, which led them immediately to the haunts of Dympna. Most of the court attendants were present, but nothing could exceed the king's delight, when he was assured his daughter Avas yet living and in safety, for he had feared she was lost to him for ever, if not actually dead. His spirits began to revive, and all who surrounded him, as a matter of course, began to offer him their best con- gratulations.
Immediately on receiving this intelligence, the king gave orders to pre- pare what was necessary for his journey to the place, where the holy Dympna and her companions sought a fancied repose and solitude. Perseverance is usually crowned with success, in finding what has been long and earnestly sought ; nor is desire exhausted by continuance, says a holy writer. ''^ but it is rather increased, and if by delay it ceased to live, we can hardly conceive how it could deserve the name of desire. Little time elapsed until the wicked king reached the dwelling of his virtuous daughter. We can hardly conceive the astonishment and dread his sudden apparition excited in the mind of the pure Dympna. On seeing her, however, he joyously saluted the chaste spouse of Christ. But, her angelic look could not suppress the promptings of former passion within his breast. The demon of impurity raged furiously within his insensate soul, and inflamed his looks with indications of the fell resolve, it had shamefully instigated. How greatly contrasted with the modest and
noble expression of his daughter's countenance, whose trembling figure and shrinking glances were modestly averted from a gaze, that boded evil import and manifestations of perverse passion, which her very soul abhorred ! Meantime, the furious servant of Belial had resolved, that no opposition on the part of his daughter should change his purpose. If she refused his loathed proffers of marriage, he supposed that threats of punishment and death should overcome the firmest resolutions, one of her tender age and sex could form. And, it was ever thus, from the times of old, when ungovernable passion hur- ried men to deeds of injury and persecution, against the just and innocent. King David, on yielding to the concupiscence of his eyes, when conceiving a violent passion for Bethsabee, had doomed the innocent husband Urias to death, and had employed Joab, the captain of his army, to devise means for
its accomplishment. '*?
All the beauty and grace of her deceased mother seemed to reappear in
the child's face and figure, and to return with renewed force to the king's ima- gination, when he ventured to address his daugliter, in soothing and loving accents. Yet, virtue presents such an impregnable barrier to the assaults of evil desire, that even her father feared to look directly on his daughter's chaste countenance, whilst these words were uttered : " O my ilearly beloved daughter, Dympna, my delight, my passion, and my desire, what wish or ne- cessity forced you to despise the honours attending on your noble station, or to prefer, as a mendicant, unknown and foreign lands, to the country of your
vailed in Irelan<l, at a very early age. ^' II. Kings, xi.
<* St. Gregory. ^* III. Kings, xxi.
May 15. ] LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS.
307
nativity ? What wise or foolish persuasion seduced you to forget filial duty and a royal parent, and to adopt as your flither this old and decrepid priest, whose behests you obey in all matters ? Had you remained with me, you should have dwelt in a royal court, and enjoyed a kingdom after my death, instead of a miserable hut, buried in the midst of a thicket and presenting every external appearance of neglect and poverty. Wherefore, prepare to obey my orders immediately, and wisely seek that country, which you so foolishly abandoned. Ifyouwillinglyassenttoyourfixther'swishes,youshallholda first rank in his estimation, above all the noble matrons and maidens of his kingdom. Crowned with a royal diadem, I shall direct a fine temple to be constructed of marble, wliere you shall be venerated as a goddess, and I shall order a superb statue representing you to be e'"ected therein, which will be ornamented with gold and precious stones. If i. free person or slave of any sex or condition neglect to worship you, or offer the homage of due venera- tion, as my decree shall prescribe and direct, just punishment shall inevitably await such a dereliction of duty. "
While the holy virgin was preparing to reply, the blessed servant of God, Gerebern, anticipated her wishes, with the spirit and virtue of another Elias, who reprehended the sinful intercourse existing between Achab and Jezabel. '*^ While his voice and manner manifested an abhorrence for the infamous pro- posals of this potentate, the venerable priest, like a true admirer of modesty, applied the following words : " O most wicked king, designer of the highest infamy, enemy of all virtue, and impersonation of the worst species of crime, why do you vainly labour to turn tlie pure mind of this holy virgin from the ways of purity ? Unhappy and shameless man, why are you hostile to that virginity, so dear to God and to the angels, and which confers honour and distinction on persons of all ages? When growing in the minds of infants and children, it nourishes holy innocence ; it restrains evil desires, and pre- vents the lapse of youth and adults ; in mature and aged persons, it preserves honour and increases sanctity. I pray you for these reasons, to exhort and admonish this maiden, that she should ever love, acquire, and preserve, such a virtue, and constantly maintain it, to the latest hour of her life. Chastity is a useful treasure for all virtuous persons, and when lost, it can scarcely be restoredtoitprimitivebloom. Donotdisgraceyourroyalrank,byacrime, whichoughtrenderyouanabominationandareproachamongkings; donot presume to repeat words, which are a scandal and detestation, not only to the pure and chaste, but even to luxurious livers and impure persons. I rest satis- fied and convinced, that your daughter Dympna's pure and faithful mind has already despised whatever evil pleasures or promises the world might offer, through her love for God ; nor will she be terrified by threats, nor allured by blandishmentsorseduction. And,probably,youwouldberestrainedfromthis base passion, had you dreaded the sword of Phinees, who, led by a zeal for justice, punished wicked sinners against the Divine law, who were both run through with the sword.
pagan, anyhow civilized, could have resolved xvi. , sect, xiii. , n. 134. p. 477. We are re on marrying his own dauglitcr ; but inces- ferred for evidence of the foregoing state- tuous mairinges of this, and even of a nients to Vallancey's "Vindication," etc. , worse kind, were not unusual among some p. 351.
nations, otherwise far removed from the sav- = jjee O'Flaherty's "Ogygia," pars, iii. , age state, such as the Persians in the cap. xlvii. , p. 282 ; and cap. xlix. , p. 287,
proudest time of their empire. It is certain, that the pagan Irish had several customs and practices, both religious and political, sinii- larto those of the Persians and some other Orientals. The mode of contracting mar- riages is said to have been nearly the same in Ireland as in Persia. "—Dr. Lanigan's " Ec- clesiastical History of Ireland," vol. ii. , chap.
° The student of our history is referred to other accounts, bearing allusion to morals and practices of a more advanced period, yet not tending to Christian edification. See Dr. Todd's " Liber Hymnorum," Fasciculus i. , pp. 81 to 93.
' Genesis, xix.
' II. Kings, xiii.
—-
May 15. ] LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS.
297
Devil also knew, that his empire over the pure mind of Dympna must end, if he could not effect her return to idolatry, and persuade her father to violate the living temple of God in her soul. His temptations readily prevailed, against that restless spirit of the flesh, which remained unfortified by the graces ofthesacraments; but,whentrieduponaweakervessel,stillprotectedbya power from on high, his arts were rendered nugatory, and his solicitations were effectually counteracted.
The approach of temptation is usually insidious, and it requires more than human strength and wisdom to divine its motive and object. Scarcely had the father of Dympna conceived this depraved passion, than natural affection for his daughter seemed to increase in intensity, and every fond caress was cautiously veiled from the suspicions of the lovely and innocent child. At length, with persuasive and flattering words, the father began to manifest the purpose he had in view, by promising a variety of elegant apparel, ornaments and wealth, or whatever might appear most desirable to a girl of her years, as a reward for compliance with his marriage proposals. Long since dedicated to the embraces of her Heavenly Spouse, Dympna trembled with horror, at. the snares laid for her purity, when she learned the full nature of their fearful import. However,shenoblyanswered,thatnoearthlyinducementorpower could oblige her, to dishonour the memory of a deceased parent, or mmister for the gratification of a living one, by any tiiought or act contrary to the natural or divine law. She declared her loathing and horror of this base and abominable proposition. But, the king was persistent in his wicked desires, v;hich grew stronger in proportion to the opposition given by his pure-minded daughter. He urged every argument, yet still to no purpose ; and, at length, inflamed with resentment, he told Dympna she must yield to his wishes, whether he succeeded in obtainmg her consent, or forced her to compliance.
Sadness settled on the soul of this holy maiden, when such a doleful in- tention was expressed. All her arguments and entreaties proved unavailing, against the attempted caresses of her father, who could not but respect that innate feeling of modesty, which parents should especially labour to inculcate in the minds of youthful children. When the heroic Judith found Iierself re- duced to similar straits, not being able to escape from the solicitation of Holofernes, she was mysteriously inspired to demand an interval of three days and three nights, that she might be at liberty to determine her future course of action. The better to cover her designs, she consented to array herself, in the most attractive robes. 9 Perhaps, Dympna had received this account from her Christian instructors, and had resolved on following such an example, under present difficulties. She asked her father for a respite of forty days, to consider his proposals ; and, in the meantime, she seemed anxious to procure those dresses and ornaments of female attire, which should tend most to enhance the attractions of her native beauty. On hearino- this her father immediately concluded, that his purpose must be accomplished • so truly do exaggerated accessories of dress betoken the weakness and frivo- lity of worldlings, with a spirit of vanity and levity, most dangerous to that purity and innocence of soul, which ought always to characterize a Christian lady. The king foolishly imagined those royal robes demanded were intended to render his daughter still more an object of delight, and that they should
at least dispose Dympna for ultimately consenting. Wherefore, his tln-eatened wrath was appeased, and he granted her request, with eagerness and loviu'^'- expressions. Like another Herod, and for a similar purpose, '° the kin^- de- clared, he would bestow half of his kingdom, had it been demanded ; but
9 Judith, X. , xii. '° Matthew, xiv. , 7.
298 LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. [May 15.
he ordered everything that could serve the purposes of female decoration and minister to vanity for her special use. In this matter, his liberality was allied with that ungenerous selfishness, which contracts as it darkens the mind, driven to sinful objects and the sad consequences of depraved inclinations.
Thrice happy the soul, which aspires to God, as the ultimate aim of a holy ambition ! How noble the destiny of that young virgin, who treasured these sweet and consoling words of the Heavenly Bridegroom in her memory, that He came into tliis world to draw all hearts to Himself! How illuminated and fortified by divine grace, the tender soul of this bright pearl of chastity, when, like the apostles, she could safely exclaim, notwithstanding her natural affection for a persecuting father : " We must obey God rather than men ! "" Often did Dympna, in the hours of solitude, raise her pure heart to Heaven, for help and consolation ; often did she meditate on her vows of virginity, and on the dangerous storm that seemed impending, without any apparent prospect of release from its destructive blight. Oh ! with what feelings of anguish and sorrow did she not dread the course, which those currents might take, and which were criminally agitating the mind of a beloved parent ! She feared her own weak defences and unprotected position, and she knew not how soon the lamb might be torn, within the fold of a treacherous protector. And to reflect, that this foul wrong could proceed from a quarter, whence it might be least expected—her sense of modesty outraged—her stainless youth defiled—her nearest and dearest relative to become her destroyer and betrayer ! These were harrowing reflections ; but, they induced Dympna to consider, if she might find safety, by escaping from the dominions of her father. For weak indeed the holy virgin deemed herself, contending against such fearful odds. How could she preserve those flowers of chastity, which, with willing and full hands, she had so delicately gathered? This was the thought, which most occupied her mind ; and, the Almighty was pleased to devise those means, that served to assure her, and to solve every difticulty.
At this time, the old and venerable priest, Gerebern, lived in Ireland. He was full of that fire of divine charity, which Christ came to scatter in the world ; and, while his edifying conduct and Christian virtues obliged him to remain concealed, still some of the pagans sought his ministry, and were secretly baptized by him. This most amiable servant of God practised the virtues of chastity, of temperance, of Christian vigilance, and of prayer, in a high decree of perfection. Sound in doctrine, wise in counsel, and candid in discourse, like another Samuel, he always experienced a renewed spirit, in the Lord's service. " He always felt compassion, for the poor and afifiicted. Those who were burdened in conscience, and who approached him to reveal their hidden sins, received advice to suit their peculiar state, and they returned full of consolation, as if they had heard the words of an angel. Having a know- ledge of the wonderful graces that adorned this holy man, St. Dympna, ear- nestly desired his conversation, and sent a message to that effect. A great trouble, which filled her with ah\rm, required the sage counsel of this holy priest. In spiritual matters, self-will and pride of opinion lead to many evils
j
and, this holy virgin, distrusting her youth and inexperience, revealed the dreaded secret to her sage ilirector, from whom she expected some advice, regarding her future course of procedure. Gerebern was then told, how the king, her father, urged an infamous suit and with seductive persuasions, thus inducing her to renounce a vow of chastity, that he might plunge her into the abyss of liorrible depravity.
That holy priest, from his youth, had been a lover of chastity, and he re- " Acts, iv. , 19. " I. Kings, ii. , iii.
May 15. ] LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. 299
mained pure and undefiled amidst all the corruption of this world. Com- passionating the miseries, to which this innocent girl was reduced, Gerebern offered her the best consolation in his power, and he recommended Dympna, to trust in God for a happy issue of the event. He advised her, to maintain her resolution of serving God in a single state of life, and to suffer every mis- fortune, even death itself, rather than abandon that virtue of virginity, or yield to the blandishments or threats of her father. The holy priest was satis- fied, that she had been sufficiently instructed, in the mysteries of divine faith ; he also knew her settled purpose as to a future state of life, and that she had been found worthy to receive baptism in secret, at his hands. He was also aware, that, through his influence, the docile maiden had despised all plea- sures and allurements of this world from her very infancy. In word and in habit, she avoided whatever should serve to recommend her beauty of form andofcarriagetotheeyesofmen. DwellingonthewordsoftheApostle: " Let him who standeth take heed lest he fall," '3 the pious priest was fearful and anxious, lest his precious child might imitate the example of her friends and kindred, in a court that offered so many incentives to sin. And, as those who trust to their own strength and exertions are often deceived, he dreaded the possibility of this dear ward falling into those snares, laid for so many of her sex, by the seductions of luxury, or through natural terrors, that might urge her to criminal compliance.
The holy priest Gerebern silently and earnestly deliberated, as to how he might save his youthful neophyte from that gulf, which threatened to de- stroy both soul and body. He considered the weapon aimed from a distance, if it cannot be always avoided, at least, may be deprived of a more deadly effect, as distance might lend opportunity for prevision and defence. He therefore advised St. Dympna, to fly from her native country to a more dis- tant one \ and, as danger was now imminent, he urged her to make no delay. The example of Jacob avoiding the fury of his brother Esau,''^ of David escap- ing from the vengeance of Saul,'5 and of the just Joseph flying from Herod, when warned by an angel during sleep,'^ were worthy of the pure virgin's imitation. Humble in spirit herself, it was meet she should follow the exam- ple of the lowly Jesus, flying from His enemies, and thus baffling all designs of the most wicked one. No sooner had the holy virgin fully resolved on her future course of action, than the deep interest felt in its successful prosecution caused her to pass many sleepless nights, in conjectures about embracing the most favourable opportunity, which might be presented, to escape from her native country. Soon, indeed, she was enabled to put the advice of her sage director, Gerebern, into execution. The hour for flight having arrived, and every circumstance bearing on this matter having been most providentially arranged, it was resolved to steal away privately, with only a few in com- pany. This small band of exiles was composed of St. Dympna, her venera- ble companion Gerebern,'? her father's court jester, and the wife of this latter person. The writer of our saint's Acts tells us, that the two retainers accom- panying her served to disarm the suspicions of her guardian, because it might naturally be suspected, the maiden left her father's house for the sake of a little recreation. We can hardly doubt, that the jester and his wife were Christians ; and, most probably, the holy priest Gerebern had wisely arranged to have the benefit of their companionship, for the sake of avoiding all possi- ble semblance of scandal or evil suspicions, as to the object and motives of the principal parties engaged in this adventure.
'3 I. Cor. , X. , 12.
'* Genesis, xxviii.
's I. Kings, xix. , 18.
'* Matthew, ii. , 13, 14.
"'^ In the time of Canon Peter, St. Gere- bern was held in great veneration at Santen,
300
LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. [May 15.
Here it will be necessary, however, to interrupt the narrative of their escape, by stating, that at the present day, there is a popular tradition cur- rent,'^ 'how the holy St. Damphne and her companions, having fled from her father the king, took refuge in a ravine, then enclosed with thick woods. The spot is still pointed out, in the townland of Curraghwillan,'9 near the old "laveyardofLaveyparish,inthecountyofCavan. Throughthisravine,a stream gurgles onwards, in broken courses ; and, immediately over a small cascade, there is a steep rock, on the summit of which may be seen the foundationsofanoldoratory,whichwasquadrangular. Itmeasured34feet,
St. Daphne's Station, County of Cavan.
in length, by 16 feet, in width. The walls are about three feet in thickness, andtheywerebuiltwithaspeciesofgreenflagstones. Thisiscalled,atpre- sent, St. Damphne's old house or station. =° Like the children of Israel escaping from the restraint of the tyrant Pharaoh,^' this little band hastened, finally, towards the sea-shore, where a vessel had been provided. Here they
a town near the Rhine, and a community of secular canons was attaclied to that church. Henschcnius adds a note, in connection with tliis statement, that he was also venerated at Sonsbeck, near Clcves.
St. Dympna. " Exodus, xiv.
''This was stated, by an intelligent pea-
sant, who accompanied the writer to this in-
teresting spot ; and, although he had never
heard any but mere local traditionary ac-
counts, it seemed wonderful to remark the
coincidence of his narrative with that of is here represented. The drawing was Canon Tclcr, who does not appear to have transferred to the wood, by William F. received any immediate information from Wakeman, and it has been engraved by Irish sources, when composing his Life of Mrs. Millard.
'9 Thus it is locally spelled and pro- nounced, by the natives. On the " Ordnance Survey Townland ^^aps of the County of Cavan," sheet 26, it is written, Corrawiilan, a small townland, in the parish of Lavey, and barony of Upper Loughtee. On the Map is marked, likewise, the site of Dav- nei's chapel.
""
spot, and took a sketch of the scene, which
In June, 1876, the writer visited this
May 15. ] LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. 301
embarked, and, with pious gratitude, committed their future course to the direc- tion of Divine Providence. We may well admire the noble resolution exhited by this tender virgin, and the wonderful desire of avoiding all snares laid for her purity, when one so very young, and unaccustomed to hardships, danger, and privation, feared not trusting herself to the raging billows of that sea, although quite uncertain as to the future events it might please Heaven to decree. Casting aside the natural timidity of her age and sex, her hopes and heart aspired to her Maker, who directs the winds and waves to subside, that a great calm may ensue. ^"^ She also recollected, and felt confidence in the fact, tliat the Almighty had caused His chosen Israelites to pass from Egypt on dry land through the depths of the Red Sea, while the billows surged around them on either side. ^3 Such was her strong faith and love of God, that the fear of death or the dangers of banishment—perhaps amongst uncivilized people
—
difficultiesimpending. Throughdutyshewaspreparedtobidadieutoher relations, and to the house of her father, as also to the friends and familiars of her native country. She disregarded all the accessories of rank and station, with those earthly comforts they were sure to provide. Some of those on board turned their eyes with a natural feeling of regret towards the receding coast, when scudding over the rocks and shoals, or bounding through the waves. They,doubtless,thoughtoffriendsandhomewiththatstrongaffec- tion, which a future uncertainty of returning to behold them ever awakens within the breasts of unwilling exiles. But, conscious that her hand had been put on the plough, and that the furrows made through the main should not be retraced ^4—knowing also that the wife of Lot, when departing from Sodom, had been changed into a pillar of salt ^s—Dympna heroically turned her eyes towards the onward course, lest love of country and of friends should cause a
could not cause her to blanch with fear, in presence ofjthe
momentary pang, to weaken the force of her holy resolution.
Whilst their vessel bounded swiftly over the waves, or met opposing winds on the course, our voyagers trusted to the direction of Divine Providence. At length, after a generally favourable passage, they arrived on a coast, near the present city of Antwerp. ^^ Having disembarked, they procured lodging at a hospice, where they rested for some time, and made all requisite inquiries among the natives of that place, to discover the most suitable locality for their permanent residence. They were anxious to dwell in a retired spot, where they should be removed from intercourse with pagans, and where they could worship their Creator in sincerity and truth. The heart earnestly devoted to God's service always desires seclusion, from the bustle and tur- moil of temporal cares. The true servant of Christ centres all happiness in pleasing a Master, who will preserve him innocent and unattached, although
living in the midst of worldly temptations and corruption. Yet, it is always difficult, even for true worshippers of the Lord, to escape those stains of sin, when moving through the general herd of worldlings.
Our travellers had only rested on the track of their wearisome route. Again, they resumed this long journey, and passed along roads, leading through woods and solitudes, over the heathy Kempenland. ^7 Through one com- munity or another, and passing the habitations of many strange people, they arrived with little delay at a village, which was named Ghele,"^ by the old in-
" St. Matthew, viii. , 26. '3 Exodus, xiv. , 22.
'* See Luke, ix. , 62.
'5 Genesis, xix. , 26.
'* See a description and historical notice
of this city, in the " Popular Encyclopedia or Conversations Lexicon," vol. i. , pp. 201, 202.
'^ See Rev. S. Baring-Gould's " Lives of the Saints," vol. v. , May 15, p. 208.
;
302
LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. [May 15.
habitants of that place. '9 Here they received a hospitable reception,3° and, after a very fatiguing and continuous journey, tliey were allowed an interval to recruit their exhausted strength. 3' Thus, the Almighty, who formerly con- ducted by a straight course the aged servant Eliezar into the house of Abra- ham, as the steward and confidant of his master,32 had compassion also on the painful travelling of His servants, and brought them safely through bye- ways and rugged paths, to the end of their course.
These holy companions arose early, on the day following their arrival, for the purpose of reconnoitring the vicinity of Ghele, and with a view of selecting some site for their future dwelling. They at length found an oratory, dedi- cated to St. Martin,33 the bishop of happy memory, and whose festival occurs on the nth of November. 34 In the immediate neighbourhood of this hermi-
tage, they found a quiet and retired spot, most suitable for purposes of reli-. gious contemplation and refuge. Here, the sweet exercise of prayer engaged their time; and, as they had retired to tlie desert, there, according to His promise, the Almighty spoke to their hcarts. 35 In the oratory, Gerebern oftentimes celebrated the divine mysteries, and became a faithful mediator between God and His servants, by offering the agreeable and propitiatory sacrifice. Having cleared a small plot of ground, from its thorny shrubs and branching trees,3^ a suitable habitation 37 was erected near that little oratory.
'^ Gheel is now a town of Belgium, in the
province of Antwerp, and situated on the
Great Nethes River. It lies about twenty-
five English miles, to the east of the city of
Antwerp. Its present population is over
eight thousand inhabitants, many of whom
are employed in the manufacture of lace. It
is said, that for centuries back, the inhabi-
tants have devoted themselves to the care of
insane persons, who are sent there from all
parts of Belgium. From seven hundred to
eight hundred of these afflicted creatures re-
ceive attendance in this town. See of Tongres, near Liege, or probably of
" Gazetteer of the World," vol. vi. , sub voce, Gheel.
=9 Excolebatur enim tunc temporis villa de Gheel raro inhabitatore, quia in ea quin- decim tantummodo hospita, qu? e etiam ne- morum densitate fere per sex miliaria fuerunt circumsepta. "—Vita S. Dymphnae. Apud Messingham's " Florilegium Insulce Sancto- rum," p. 344.
3° In Butken's " Trophees tant sacres que prophanes de Duche de Brabant," we find the following notices of this city: "Gele est une tres belle bourgade, situee a deux grosses lieues de Herentals, et at outre I'Eglise Paroissiale, la Collegiale -de Ste. Dimpne, Vierge, tres bien bastie, il apper- tenoit ci-devat a ceux de Bcrthout Sires de Duffle, et tomba par alliance en la niaison de Homes d'ou estant passe en cellede Rot- selaer, elle parvient finalement en celles de Merode et Witthem. " Tome ii. , liv. ii. , p. 27. A la Haye, A. n. 1724, fol.
3' John Baptist Grammny writes : " Post annum sexcentcssinnun advcnicnte Dympna regia virgine obsccenum I'atrcm fugientc et fugse presidium hie nacta, locus hie excole- batur, sed raro habitatore, quindecim dum-
Maestricht, in Brabant. He adds, conjec- turally, "quidni etiam tempore B. Pippini Ducis a S. Amando tunc Episcopo Aposto- lico, qui ante Turonibus apud S. Martinum, aliquamdiu substiterat? "
^ John Baptist Gramayus tells us, that this oratory of St. Martin was to be seen in a well-preserved state at Capremons, com- monly called Kiuremont, where an annual trade in woollen blankets was carried on in the weavers' shops. The veneration for St. Martin was very great throughout Belgium, even during those ages immediately succeed- ing the death of that saint.
35 Osee, ii. , 14.
3* " Excolebatur autem tunc temporis locus ille raro inhabitatore tantummodo quindecim hospitiis, vepriumque densitate refertus fere per sex millia dilatando arbo- rum nemorosa magnitudine prcestanserat. "
37 John Baptist Gramayus, in "Antiquita- tibus Antverpice, " tells us, that it resembled a cell, and here St. Gerebern for the space of three months led a most angelic life in vigils and prayer.
3^ Their cell was afterwards to be seen in the village, Latinized, Zamiualia, now Zam-
taxat sedibus rusticanis et quidem ob silva- rum densitates ad sex millia passuum dissi- tis et circumseptis villse autem (verba sunt historise) antiquum nomen Gelx erat imposi- tum, a Flavo colore ut apparet, cujus re- gionesundecim ut nunc res sunt, ordine per- curram et quod in singulis rarum aut memo- rabile aimotabo. "—" Antverpiae Antiquita- tes," lib. ii. , cap. x. , p. 141.
3^ Genesis, xv. , xxiv.
33 Henschenius thinks this veneration might have been promoted by the bishops
May 15. ] LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS.
Here the all-seeing eye was benignantly directed to the pious exercises and
3^
merits of our holy exiles.
Thus circumstanced, the holy Gerebern and St. Dympna spent many
happy hours, in considering the empty pomp of worldlings, and the wisdom of aspiring to Heavenly rewards. They often reflected, on the pains of Hell, and on the importance of securing their souls' salvation. So far as the con- veniences of their humble dwelling admitted, they fasted, prayed, and passed a great portion of their time, both during the day and night, in devout con- templation. To prepare their souls for these pious practices was a constant object of their solicitude. Strength of human affection was restrained by that chastened spirit, which arises from a true love of God, and from the eliciting of internal penitential desires. Pious exercises engaged their inmost thoughts, and regulated those ordinary relations of life, between the aged priest and his angelic ward. She listened to the words of instruction, that fell from Gere- bern's lips, as if they had been spoken, by the Holy Spirit of light and of truth. Filled with a love of holy chastity, her outward senses never embraced objects dangerously affecting the state of perfection to which she aspired. She felt most anxious, to fulfil all her duties, under the experienced counsel of her saintly director, and her more than father, in paternal interest and tenderness. Like Mary, who had chosen the better part, and who loved to place herself at the feet of Jesus,39 the docile virgin looked up to the venerable priest, for
support and comfort, in the laborious but consoling effort, to attain Heaven's choicest gifts. And when Jesus Himself commended his Virginal Mother to the chaste and beloved disciple St. John before expiring on the cross, this charge, so admirably fulfilled by His faithful and favoured evangelist,'^" was emulated by the holy Gerebern, who found in the forlorn and helpless Dympna all those motives for generous sympathy and warm admiration, which should engage the best efforts of humanity and of charity, in administering to her various necessities.
While the wicked king allowed all the worst forms of detestable passion to take possession of his heart, with the full resolution of proceeding to still greater lengths in the pursuits of his unhallowed desires, word was brought him, that his child had escaped from her father's house, and that she was alreadybeyondthereachofhispower. Thenewsofherflightsoonspread through the court. Grief oppressed the spirit of the king, when he learned how little prospect was held out, that presented a chance of recovering his lost treasure. Being ignorant regarding the course taken by the holy virgin of Christ, her father burst into tears and lamentations, like to those of David,
who wept for the loss of his son Absalom. 4' All the military retainers, ma- trons, and female servants of the castle, who had charge of Dympna from her very infancy, and who loved the noble child, on account of her good and ad- mirable dispositions, were overwhelmed with grief. Throughout the house- hold, lamentations for her loss were heard; it seemed, as if the sudden announcement of her escape added a greater poignancy to their bereave- ment and affliction. For, in her demeanour towards these domestics, an innate grace and benignity, partly the result of her accomplished training and exalted rank, but arising more from the good natural dispositions of her soul, drew all hearts to entertain most affectionate regards for the noble girl, and to cause that vehement grief now manifested. The chiefs and magistrates of
the king endeavoured to offer consolation, but he would not attend to their
male, which derived its signification from the sandy nature of the soil, " quasi Zant-mail," says the foregoing writer.
^9 John, xi. , 32.
*" John, xix. , 26, 27. ' II. Kings, xviii. , 33.
303
304
LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. [May 15.
words. All the demonstrations of his grief became more violent, and like Jacob mourning for his son Joseph,*^ this king bewailed the absence of Dympna,asifshehadbeendevouredbyawildbeast. Inaheart,notchas- tened by the stroke of adversity, and wholly a prey to unnatural passion, the fire of concupiscence smoulders with the strength and permanence of that fur- nace, which heaves the volcanic mountain, and bursts forth in a torrent of destructive velocity. And greater the force becomes, when deprived of that object, which might soon serve to satiate, but not control it. While weep- ing for his absent daughter, the king frequently recalled to his recollection the winning grace and elegance of her features and figure, the native simpli- city and modesty of her carriage, with that ease and dignity of manner, which so greatly distinguished Dympna, amongst other children of her age, sex, and position. But, alas ! parental affection was debased in the soul of this pagan king, and few right-judging persons could feel a sympathy for his loss of a child, who had already chosen the better and nobler part.
We may well imagine, however, that the dynast did not long indulge his grief, in this passive state of useless lamentation ; for, with his usual energy of action, orders were at once issued to his messengers, that they must repair through distant nations in quest of the princess, and return with an account, astowhethershemightbefoundlivingordead. Themessengerslostlittle time, in complying with their instructions, and no expense was spared for their outfit. They cheerfully undertook labours and hardships, necessary for this investigation, and manifested the greatest zeal in their master's service. But, the king himself felt a desire, to participate personally in that search ; and, he travelled to all the neighbouring towns and cities, even through de- serted and wild forests and mountains, in quest of the necessary information. At length—having probably obtained some accurate account—he resolved to tempt the dangers of ocean ; and, accordingly, he gave orders, to have some vessels loaded with men and provisions, to undertake his meditated voyage.
Having embarked, his mariners loosed their sails, bent on their oars, and soon cleared the port. After getting out into the sea, a swift passage brought them overthedepthsandshallows,whichledtothepresentcityofAntwerp. It Avasthenthesiteforafortoranencampment. Whenthevesselsweresafely moored, the king ai)d his retinue landed, and proceeded through the midst of a curious crowd, to seek a lodging on shore. The image of his self-exiled daufThter, during this adventure, seems to have been vividly present to his mind, and this stimulus tended to expedite all his movements. So much more actively do men engage in human pursuits and pur])oses, than in quest of those lasting labours, that gain for them an imperishable crown.
Having so far succeeded, in moving with his retinue towards the very spot, where his daughter disembarked, we need hardly wonder, if information could much longer be withheld, as to the course taken by the fugitive virgin. While fluctuating between the fear and hope of accomplishing an object for which he had proceeded so far, the king sent other messengers to the adjoining dis- tricts, for the purpose of discovering his daughter's place of retreat. He desired them, to institute all necessary inquiries, and, if possible, to bring him some information, which might tend to solace and to appease the conflicting tumult within his mind. It is the property of love, to anticipate possession of the object, which is so earnestly coveted ; nor can men's thoughts be diverted, from what they hope to enjoy. However opposed to the dictates of sound reason, judgment, or moderation, still hope sustains the lover,
*^ Genesis, xxxvii. , 33, 34. Zammel. For many ages, it belongcvl to *' This is now an important town, near the noble family of Merode, "a qua Philip-
305
through adverse trials and disappointments. Happy, indeed, should it prove to him, if the object of his pursuit were found unalloyed, by a reference to corruptible things.
Obeying the command of their ruler, the messengers set out through deserted and inhospitable regions, until some of them came to a small rural village, anciently called Westerloo,43 and situated on the Great Nethes river, which flows into the Schelde. Here, the king's servants were lodged and en- tertained at an inn,'*'* for the night ; and, when they were preparing for depar- ture, on the day following, a bill of those expenses they had incurred was demanded from their hospitaller. The travellers had been liberally supplied with money, by the king, to defray all the charges of their journey. When the host received this money, he at once remar^ved, that he had in his posses- sion coins, exactly resembling those presented, although he was entirely igno- rant of their value, mintage, and inscription. 't5 This information greatly ex- cited the curiosity of our travellers, who began to inquire from whom the money had been received. The innkeeper told them, that a foreign lady, who came from Ireland, had frequently sent him similar coins, to purchase food. Not knowing how greatly interested the strangers felt, nor what hopes had been excited in their minds, to accomplish fully the purpose of their search the host gave them to understand, that the lady in question lived in a lonely situation, at no great distance from his house. Again, the king's mes- sengers asked a description of her features, stature, and age, as also, whether she had any companions with her, and who the latter persons were. The travellers were informed, that the young lady was remarkable for her beauty of features and figure, and that her only companions were an aged and vene- rable priest, together with a mimic and his wife. He also added, that if the messengers had any curiosity to visit the place of this retreat, they could have ocular demonstration of the facts related. Scarcely had the hospitaller spoken these words, when he was asked for a guide to conduct the strangers through those rugged and lonely paths, leading to the virgin's hermitage. Local tradition points to the present village of Zammal, as her residence, and that of her companions. Having travelled on horseback to the place, the king's messengers, acting the part of spies, lay in wait for some time, and at length perceived Dynipna with her companions. Finding their information and hopes thus veritied and rewarded, with ecstacies of joy, they hastened back towards Antwerp, where they expected to tell their master all those interesting particulars, which eventuated in the fortuitous discovery of his daughter.
During the temporary absence of his messengers, the king's mind was greally agitated ; while the disquiet experienced by him was manifested ex- teriorly, in his downcast looks, by his restlessness, and in his lean and melan- choly features. It seldom happens, that passion or anxiety of any description can fail to leave its traces on the human constitution, and waste that physical strength, necessary for the healthful development of a well-regulated life. But, while thus agitated, word was brought the king, that those messengers despatched in quest of his daughter had returned, and that they awaited per-
pus anno 1626, a Philippo IV. Rege Catho- lico primus Westerloas renunciatus est Mar- chio Consule qusediximus 3 Maji, ad Vitam S. Aufridi Episcopi Vltrajectini, qui Eccle- siis Vltrajectinis Westerloam et vicina aliqua loca tradiderat, quse ibidem sita dicuntur in- fra Comitatum Rien, tunc latius distentum, et olim Episcopo Camaracensi cum urbe Antverpiensi subjectum. "—"Acta Sancto-
rum,"tomus iii. , xv. Maii. Acta S. Dympns, cap. ii. , n. (a), p. 484.
'' At Oolen, near Herenthals, according to Rev. S. Baring-Gould's " Lives of the Saints," vol. v. , May 15, p. 208.
''s The period, to which this tradition re- fers, must be remote ; and, if we are to credit the account, contained in our saint's Acts, the use of a metallic currency must have pre-
U
;
May 15. ] LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS.
3o6 LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. [May 15.
mission to enter and give him information, which must prove altogether satisfactory to him. Scarcely had the order to enter been given, when it was rumoured amongst his household attendants and retinue, that their young mistress had been discovered, and with the certainty that she must soon be restored to her father, friends and native country. Great joy pervaded the entire assemblage, when the messengers appeared before their ruler, making the usual obeisance. The king told them to speak, and he motioned for silence duringtheirnarrative. Themessengersenterminutelyintoalltheincidents of their journey, and especially dwell in detail on the adventure, which led them immediately to the haunts of Dympna. Most of the court attendants were present, but nothing could exceed the king's delight, when he was assured his daughter Avas yet living and in safety, for he had feared she was lost to him for ever, if not actually dead. His spirits began to revive, and all who surrounded him, as a matter of course, began to offer him their best con- gratulations.
Immediately on receiving this intelligence, the king gave orders to pre- pare what was necessary for his journey to the place, where the holy Dympna and her companions sought a fancied repose and solitude. Perseverance is usually crowned with success, in finding what has been long and earnestly sought ; nor is desire exhausted by continuance, says a holy writer. ''^ but it is rather increased, and if by delay it ceased to live, we can hardly conceive how it could deserve the name of desire. Little time elapsed until the wicked king reached the dwelling of his virtuous daughter. We can hardly conceive the astonishment and dread his sudden apparition excited in the mind of the pure Dympna. On seeing her, however, he joyously saluted the chaste spouse of Christ. But, her angelic look could not suppress the promptings of former passion within his breast. The demon of impurity raged furiously within his insensate soul, and inflamed his looks with indications of the fell resolve, it had shamefully instigated. How greatly contrasted with the modest and
noble expression of his daughter's countenance, whose trembling figure and shrinking glances were modestly averted from a gaze, that boded evil import and manifestations of perverse passion, which her very soul abhorred ! Meantime, the furious servant of Belial had resolved, that no opposition on the part of his daughter should change his purpose. If she refused his loathed proffers of marriage, he supposed that threats of punishment and death should overcome the firmest resolutions, one of her tender age and sex could form. And, it was ever thus, from the times of old, when ungovernable passion hur- ried men to deeds of injury and persecution, against the just and innocent. King David, on yielding to the concupiscence of his eyes, when conceiving a violent passion for Bethsabee, had doomed the innocent husband Urias to death, and had employed Joab, the captain of his army, to devise means for
its accomplishment. '*?
All the beauty and grace of her deceased mother seemed to reappear in
the child's face and figure, and to return with renewed force to the king's ima- gination, when he ventured to address his daugliter, in soothing and loving accents. Yet, virtue presents such an impregnable barrier to the assaults of evil desire, that even her father feared to look directly on his daughter's chaste countenance, whilst these words were uttered : " O my ilearly beloved daughter, Dympna, my delight, my passion, and my desire, what wish or ne- cessity forced you to despise the honours attending on your noble station, or to prefer, as a mendicant, unknown and foreign lands, to the country of your
vailed in Irelan<l, at a very early age. ^' II. Kings, xi.
<* St. Gregory. ^* III. Kings, xxi.
May 15. ] LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS.
307
nativity ? What wise or foolish persuasion seduced you to forget filial duty and a royal parent, and to adopt as your flither this old and decrepid priest, whose behests you obey in all matters ? Had you remained with me, you should have dwelt in a royal court, and enjoyed a kingdom after my death, instead of a miserable hut, buried in the midst of a thicket and presenting every external appearance of neglect and poverty. Wherefore, prepare to obey my orders immediately, and wisely seek that country, which you so foolishly abandoned. Ifyouwillinglyassenttoyourfixther'swishes,youshallholda first rank in his estimation, above all the noble matrons and maidens of his kingdom. Crowned with a royal diadem, I shall direct a fine temple to be constructed of marble, wliere you shall be venerated as a goddess, and I shall order a superb statue representing you to be e'"ected therein, which will be ornamented with gold and precious stones. If i. free person or slave of any sex or condition neglect to worship you, or offer the homage of due venera- tion, as my decree shall prescribe and direct, just punishment shall inevitably await such a dereliction of duty. "
While the holy virgin was preparing to reply, the blessed servant of God, Gerebern, anticipated her wishes, with the spirit and virtue of another Elias, who reprehended the sinful intercourse existing between Achab and Jezabel. '*^ While his voice and manner manifested an abhorrence for the infamous pro- posals of this potentate, the venerable priest, like a true admirer of modesty, applied the following words : " O most wicked king, designer of the highest infamy, enemy of all virtue, and impersonation of the worst species of crime, why do you vainly labour to turn tlie pure mind of this holy virgin from the ways of purity ? Unhappy and shameless man, why are you hostile to that virginity, so dear to God and to the angels, and which confers honour and distinction on persons of all ages? When growing in the minds of infants and children, it nourishes holy innocence ; it restrains evil desires, and pre- vents the lapse of youth and adults ; in mature and aged persons, it preserves honour and increases sanctity. I pray you for these reasons, to exhort and admonish this maiden, that she should ever love, acquire, and preserve, such a virtue, and constantly maintain it, to the latest hour of her life. Chastity is a useful treasure for all virtuous persons, and when lost, it can scarcely be restoredtoitprimitivebloom. Donotdisgraceyourroyalrank,byacrime, whichoughtrenderyouanabominationandareproachamongkings; donot presume to repeat words, which are a scandal and detestation, not only to the pure and chaste, but even to luxurious livers and impure persons. I rest satis- fied and convinced, that your daughter Dympna's pure and faithful mind has already despised whatever evil pleasures or promises the world might offer, through her love for God ; nor will she be terrified by threats, nor allured by blandishmentsorseduction. And,probably,youwouldberestrainedfromthis base passion, had you dreaded the sword of Phinees, who, led by a zeal for justice, punished wicked sinners against the Divine law, who were both run through with the sword.
