Hugh

ON SAINT HUGH, MONK OF AUTUN AND PRIOR OF ANZY-LE-DUC, OF THE ORDER OF SAINT BENEDICT IN GAUL.

ABOUT THE YEAR 930.

Hugh, Benedictine monk of Saint Martin at Autun and Prior of Anzy-le-Duc in Gaul (St.)

By G. H.

[1] In various monasteries of the Order of Saint Benedict Saint Hugh lived his life; and first by pious parents at the age of seven he was placed in the monastery of Saint Savinus in the diocese of Poitiers, He lived as a monk in the monasteries of Saint Savinus nine leagues distant from the city itself towards the east on the river Gartempe: where he grew up in holiness, and emerged into a man, ordained Deacon and then Priest. Thence with seventeen others he was translated to the monastery of Saint Martin, once built in the suburb of Autun. Afterwards, having become companion of Blessed Berno, Saint Martin's he went to the monastery of Baume in the diocese of Besançon, Baume and helped him so that due discipline might be restored: and then the two of them began the monastery of Cluny: where, when Blessed Berno had been ordained Abbot, he himself was sent to Anzy, commonly Anzy-le-Duc, on the little river Arroux, which a little later flows down into the Loire: where, appointed Prior, he lived until the end of his life, and, as Bartholomew Chassaneus testifies in the Catalogus gloriae mundi, part 12, Consideration 60, he adorns the same place in modern times with his most holy clod. For that there is still there a conventual Priory, depending on the Abbey of Saint Martin of Autun, the general Register of benefices of the diocese of Autun printed in the year 1648 indicates.

[2] The Life is published from manuscripts The Life of Saint Hugh, dug out from the ancient manuscript Legendary of the Abbey of Saint Martin of Autun, was sent to us in the year 1638 by André du Chesne, most known to the world for his learning, since a portion of it had been previously published in the Cluniac Library page 6, where in the title is written "Saint Hugh, Abbot of Saint Martin of Autun," although there he had only been a monk: and the title of the Life has only this. Which we received again from Autun, with this subscription at the end: "This Life of Saint Hugh was transcribed from the ancient Legendary of the Abbey of Saint Martin of Autun, of the Order of Saint Benedict, of the Congregation of Saint Maur: in witness of which thing Dom Major Prior and Subprior have signed below, and had it sealed by the undersigned Secretary with the seal of the Convent, on the ninth day of September, in the year from the Nativity of the Lord 1663. Fr. Aleboucher de Flogni, Major Prior; Fr. Jean-Baptiste Saulnier, Subprior; Fr. Baptiste Coeur-de-Roy, Scribe, at the command of the Lord Major Prior." These things from there, which we here recall with grateful mind for the benefit bestowed.

[3] Saint Hugh died on this April 20, worn out with old age: but in what year of Christ is nowhere indicated. Time of his death Blessed Berno his companion, when he had presided sixteen years over the monastery of Cluny, died in the year 926, and Saint Hugh seems to have reached to that year, or even to have lived some years longer. His body, of translation on December 13 in the year 1001, was elevated with solemn veneration, and placed in a chapel, and in the following years was often translated to the councils or assemblies of Bishops; and of the writing of the Life then in the said 11th century the Acts which we give were written down.

LIFE

From the manuscript codex of the Autun monastery of Saint Martin.

Hugh, Benedictine monk of Saint Martin at Autun and Prior of Anzy-le-Duc in Gaul (St.)

BHL Number: 4003, 4004, 4005

FROM A MANUSCRIPT.

CHAPTER I.

The Order of Saint Benedict translated into Gaul. Saint Hugh's monastic life, his Priesthood.

[1] With regard to the Trinity creating man after its own image The most benign Author of the universe, remaining Three in simple Deity, formed man by the instinct of his own goodness, lest the world, bereft of so great a cultivator, should exist without understanding of him. For as the fulfillment of man is the inspiration of the threefold Divinity, so the completion of worldly dignity is the setting up of the human form… From the opulent essence of the Highest Divinity, which eternally consists in itself in a threefold effigy, he has imparted to the mind of man the form of his own image, or idea: who indeed from the very beginning of his creation, above other worldly things, by the configuration of the Author, is preeminent without distinction in threefold moderation; namely to know, to will, and to remember. and mercifully reforming through grace For with as many gifts the Creator is glorified in the same man, that is, by faith, gift, and work: by the work of creation, the gift of amelioration, the faith of knowledge of good of his proper Author: of whose ineffable grace those who perish are empty, and by the mercy of his same benignity those who are saved flourish. And since he shall not forget to have mercy, nor shall hide his mercy even to the end of the world (as the very Truth promised his own, namely to remain with them, and to work always with the eternal Father and the holy Spirit), therefore, informed and strengthened by the traditions and examples of the early and venerable Catholic Fathers, the author proposes to write the Life of Saint Hugh we desire, with whatever speech, to make public to those living piously in Christ the life and way of life of Dom and most religious man and outstanding in holiness, Hugh, and of some of his brothers and companions.

[2] led according to the rule of Saint Benedict It is known therefore by truthful relation and supported by no mean authority, that the most holy Father Benedict, most known throughout the world, was the pedagogue of those Brothers, monks, whose line of upbringing nourished the holy and venerable Hugh, monk, and his companions, and directed them to the height of perfection, in the most regular and most holy discipline: since indeed we have set these things forth, that we might instill in the ears of the religious from how great a perfection his same beginning originally began.

[3] Moreover, at the same time in which that most excellent Father, the already mentioned, presided over the monastery of Monte Cassino, certain distinguished men from the parts of the Gauls, moved by the divine spirit, out of love of holy religion,

which they had learned by the spreading fame of all to be in him, ^b directed a legation to the same Father, that he would send some of his monks, imbued with regular discipline, to the Gauls, in order that they might in some measure reform the monastic institution, from whom Saint Maurus was sent to the Gauls which in those parts had almost perished and been annulled. Which most holy Father kindly assenting to their petitions, forthwith chose from his own twelve Brothers, whom he also placed under his most beloved foster-son; namely the most holy monk Maurus. They also immediately, with the benediction and grace of so great a Father, taking the road, though with some difficulty and burden of labor, came to the Gauls. Then indeed it is known to have happened to them far otherwise than they could hope. At length indeed, a monastery having been established in the territory of Angers, in the place which is surnamed Glanfeuil, there, in a short time, a most great congregation of many Brothers flowing to him was formed; to whom also, he erected the monastery of Glanfeuil as the most blessed Benedict had instituted, their Father was the most holy Maurus: for there the institution of holy religion flourished as long as he lived, and ^c long after his death.

[4] In following time also, after the courses of some years, by the hidden judgment of God, or for the vengeance of a sinful people, ^d the nation of the Normans came forth from parts overseas; and this destroyed by the Normans which, with bestial ferocity most cruel, depopulating a very great part of the Gauls, wrought the widest slaughters. Then also the said monastery, with many other holy places, despoiling it of all the honesty of its own furnishings, they reduced to eremitic solitude. Seeing this, the monks of the same monastery the monks fleeing to Saint Savinus's propagated the order took the refuge of flight, with all they could carry with them, until they arrived in the territory of Poitiers, namely at the monastery of the holy Martyr Savinus ^e; in which place, their strength recovered, God helping them, the regular norm began to be propagated far and wide by the same Brothers in diverse monasteries with good fruit many times over ^f; and many also at the same time, whom secular life and ambition had once ensnared and detained, to bring under the yoke of the holy rule: who, as if from most fierce beasts, were suddenly changed into the most gentle little sheep of Christ, about happily to receive his kingdom with the saints and faithful. kings and bishops helping them The very kings of the Franks and the most devoted Bishops of the whole realm, from the first ^g Childebert King, who received Blessed Maurus most devotedly above all, always cherished them with the highest veneration.

[5] Saint Hugh at age seven placed in the monastery Moreover, since to the same place from diverse parts of the world the divine call gathered men of every condition, out of love of the heavenly kingdom, it happened then that a most distinguished man, namely Dom Hugh, his parents, while he was a boy of nearly seven years, devoutly and honorably applied to the service of God almighty there. For his father was a man of distinguished station, and notable for military industry, and a large possessor of wealth and estates; his mother, however, excellent among matrons, preeminent in like dignity; both, however, citizens and by nation of Poitiers. he advances in learning and virtue The boy, of best disposition, was most apt for the learning of letters, most luminous also in humility and all probity. For the marks of sanctity shone in him with the growth of his body, and he was dear to the elders as well as to his contemporaries, and lovable to all. Retaining by heart the deeds and institutions of the holy Fathers, he applied himself to reading and prayer, assiduous rather than frequent; for he yearned to live not so much for himself as rather for God, publicly and privately, for the love and likewise the fear of Christ, honestly and sweetly obedient to all: for the buskin of secular pomp he so fled, as if a livid serpent with its bite had sought him. No less also did he avoid the javelin of most wicked detraction, he flees pride from which he so turned away his hearing, as if he had felt a deadly poison stalking against him. he hates detraction From noxious and idle words he so guarded his mouth, that his speech, moderated by the balance of discretion and seasoned with spiritual grace, was to all dear and benevolent. In abstinence, then, such was for him the measure of sobriety, devoted to abstinence that he was laudably preferred to three-day fasts: likewise the love of common life and participation in lawful things was such ^h, that in no way did he love in permitted things the portion of his income more than the whole. He also exercised without ceasing, as a tireless worker, cleanness of mind and chastity of body, and to almsgiving and at the same time the bestowal of alms, without interruption: and on whatever matter, asked by anyone, he gave such counsel that it was rightly believed to be the medicine of souls.

[6] he is decreed to be promoted to sacred Orders In the course of time, his excellent merits requiring it, he is decreed to be promoted to the ministry of sacred Orders, both by the Father of the same monastery and by the other Brothers; he, however, humbly resisting, declared himself unworthy, fearing that which has befallen very many, who, while in themselves they desire secular gain, fall into the damnation of their own soul; and since blessed is the man who is always fearful, although the same lesson says that the just man, trusting in God, shall be without terror. Both things indeed can come to be in one and the same man: that is, the fear of human frailty, and the confidence of pure and sincere faith. Prov. 28:14 and 1 At length the most devoted man, mindful of that true example which says, "I came not to do my own will, but the will of him who sent me," obediently obeyed in all the precepts of his elders; and so, according to ecclesiastical custom, he proceeded gradually in holy orders up to the office of ⁱ Acolyte. John 6:38 And though still placed in minor grades, yet he was admirable to the most reverend Priests themselves. Not long after, having become ^k vesticeps (clothed in the toga), he was promoted to the Levitical grade, in which, having functioned most strenuously for some years, he is ordained Deacon, then Priest he attained the Priestly dignity; and at last he was so adorned with every decoration of virtues, that none in that province at that time was found second to him.

NOTES.

CHAPTER II.

Habitation at Autun in the monastery of Saint Martin. The monastery of Baume reformed. Cluny built. The sanctity and miracles of his companion Odo.

[7] In the time of Charles the Bald There ruled therefore in those days the kingdom of the Franks King Charles, called by surname and figure the Bald, with Queen Chrodechildis his consort: both alike endowed with the gift of fear and love of God almighty, wherefore the utmost peace and tranquillity governed the parts of their whole kingdom. The infestations of the Pagans also, which once had ravaged the country, were stilled on every side. The King therefore alike and the Queen zealously insisted on restoring the churches and monasteries which the hostility and rage of the barbarians had desolated: for they spent almost the whole revenue of their realm on expenses of this kind. There was in the palace of the same King at that time a certain Count, named Badillo, Badillo the Count who, coming from the parts of Aquitaine, a man, though placed in the secular life, yet of corrected and religious morals and conversation, in all things most like to sacred men: for he had been most opulent in wealth, and very rich in gold and silver. He, seeing the King and the Queen serving with all their effort in restoring the Churches of God, led himself by divine zeal, began to be in this part their devoted and pious emulator. He, among the other slaughters by the Pagans, noticing at the city of Autun the monastery of the excellent Confessor of Christ Martin, The monastery of Saint Martin at Autun destroyed by the Pagans once most excellently and honorably built by Queen Brunhilde, but at that time most miserably destroyed, and stripped of all furnishings and dishonored: this Count, approaching without delay to the King, humbly asked that the aforesaid monastery might be given him to restore. He also said, promising, that he had in vow, after the restoration of the monastery, to dedicate himself there to the Lord, leaving the cares of the world and the solicitudes of honors: which indeed afterwards, Christ consenting, the event of the matter proved. This, therefore, the King alike and the Queen hearing, most willingly gave their assent, and granted as he had asked; moreover they promised to bestow on him their help in all things which they saw would be of service to him. Immediately therefore the most devoted man he restores it collected together, with the greatest haste, the apt implements of this work: and insistently applying himself to the labor, until he brought it to completion, as he could he restored the whole work of the basilica.

[8] Brunhilde the Queen had once endowed it Which, as he was able, having been reformed, and again consecrated by the hands of the Pontiffs, he began carefully to inquire after the possessions of the same place, which once most liberally by the liberality of Queen Brunhilde

or by the privileges of other Kings had been granted. For it is reported that originally the sum of the possessions of that monastery had been up to ^b one hundred thousand mansi. For the aforesaid Queen had been most abundant in constructing the basilicas of churches, in the memorials of very many Saints, and of Blessed Mary ever Virgin, and of Saint Peter, Prince of the Apostles, as many other things and also of the blessed Levite and Martyr ^c Vincent: although the rumor of the common people has obscured her in some points. Meanwhile she had in vow always to extol the most blessed Martin the Confessor above all; and in honor of God and in the name of the same Confessor, she ordered more churches and monasteries than the rest to be built, and more honorably endowed them with her own treasures and estates. She had finally set before her mind's eye devoted to Saint Martin, that Martin, who gave part of his garment to a poor man, had clothed Christ. Yet she had exalted this monastery above all, in which she had decreed to have the mausoleum of her burial: for among the other gifts which she had conferred on it, ^d with marble columns and beams of fir she fittingly instituted it, and adorned it wonderfully with mosaic work. The same Queen had devout and most holy Bishops, aided by Saints Syagrius her near kin by blood, to wit her own brother ^e Saint Syagrius, Bishop of Autun, distinguished among the Pontiffs; and also her nephew, the most blessed Desiderius, Bishop of Auxerre, Desiderius of Auxerre and Gregory the Great a most noble Pontiff among the Prelates; and finally the most holy Pope of the city of Rome, Gregory, had her in such love and attention that he sent her very many ^g Letters, and through her he admonished the Bishops and Primates of the realm about the state of the Catholic faith and ecclesiastical religion, greatly rejoicing in her devotion and liberality, which she most liberally expended in the honor of God almighty. To Lupo, also, the first Abbot of the same place, the Pontiff directed a proper ^h Letter, exhorting him how he should guard the religion of the flock committed to him; and, walking the way of justice, should strive to please both God and men. The royal precepts also and the privileges of the place the Pontiff strengthened by sealing them with the impression of his ring; and the place itself, as the Kings of the Franks had established, he decreed to be most free from all human subjection; then under anathema he execrated every invader of the things of the place and transgressor of the same decree. Which statute indeed was kept most fittingly by all, until the depopulation of the barbarian invasion: for then, together with the rest of the furnishings, the devouring fire consumed whatever could come down to the notice of later generations. For it is clear that, just as the light of the sun makes the day and drives away the darkness of gloom, so letters illuminate the antiquity of past ages, and drive away oblivion.

[9] But now let us return to the order of the narration. After the illustrious man Badillo had carried out the restoration of the place as he was able, he began anxiously to seek men imbued with holy religion, who in the same house of God might worthily perform the offices of service. While he was diligently doing this, eighteen monks are brought from the monastery of Saint Savinus he brought to mind the monastery of the blessed Martyr Savinus, in which he knew that once, more honorably and more strictly than elsewhere, the institutions of the monastic rule flourished. Going thither forthwith, he brought from there eighteen most religious monks, among whom also the most excellent in merits, the holy and venerable Hugh, on whom depended the care of all the other Brothers and the whole moderation. Two others also, among whom Saint Hugh monks of no unequal sanctity among the rest: namely Dom Odo, a sagacious and most gentle man, Odo, John and John, exceedingly humble. When they had come to the aforesaid monastery of Autun, the regular workshops having been set up, as though the laws of a most fertile soil, they began, God tilling them, to bring forth a hundredfold fruit: to wit, the bounty of the cloisters, the silence of taciturnity, the parsimony of fasts, and the largeness of alms, the reception of pilgrims with cheerfulness, perfect men and the hospitality of all; then indeed in all their acts and the gesture of their bodies, in the speech of the mouth and the moderation of their words, so that through all and in all these God might truly be glorified: so that whoever should behold any of them would in no way doubt that the divine spirit was in him.

[10] Then also the fame of the place itself began to be spread around, and to be sought by the faithful with thirsty heart. Meanwhile they unanimously chose for themselves as Father and Abbot one most tested in life and manners, Arnulph is made Abbot acceptable to God and men, namely Dom Arnulph (with the consent however and will of that protector, namely Dom Badillo), a man in all things (as afterwards appeared, and as was expedient) most useful; who, as long as he led life in the body, both in divine and human things so profited all in common, making use of Saint Hugh's counsel as the best father to his sweetest sons. This man, however, in all he did, used Dom Hugh as his director and counselor before all, who, by the grace of humility, obeyed the father in the place of a most humble ⁱ teacher. These things being so done, the man of God Badillo began afterwards to be more keenly solicitous for his own salvation, how he might set aside the ambitions and enticements of this world; by whose exhortation Badillo the Count became a monk and he arranged to be tonsured in the monastery and to become a monk. Hearing this, the Brothers, whom he himself had led thither from the province of Poitou, and especially Dom Hugh, by whose exhortation he had been converted, rejoiced greatly. When he had completed this, of how great humility and patience and obedience he was, cannot be told by anyone. The venerable Hugh, with special love kindly instructing him with regular admonitions, rendered him a most perfect soldier of Christ. Now the same Badillo had a nephew of the same name, of rather kindly disposition; whom also, drawing him away from secular affairs, he dedicated with himself in the same monastery to divine service. And no less indeed, this second Badillo, was in divine worship devoted and perfect. whom many followed Then finally, as the fame of the good works of the place itself was spreading far, many, leaving the vanities and pomps of this world, taking the way of the commands of perpetual life, were converted there: in whose spiritual gymnasium the most holy Hugh was given as the chief guide and instructor, and remained always assiduous. The very Kings of the Franks and Austrasians and the Nobles of all Gaul (as in the ancient time of the monastery's foundation, as is recorded by the testimony of the blessed Pope Gregory) held that monastery with such veneration and reverence, they held with all things which seemed to belong to it; that if any man whosoever should act against it contrary to law, he was reckoned guilty of majesty and sacrilege. The things which had been originally handed over to the place, collected from everywhere on both sides of the kingdom, as well beyond the Saône as before the Loire, and within the space of two leagues?, as much as it could be inquired, were most fully restored.

[11] Odo, Saint Hugh's companion, praying after Matins Meanwhile it happened that one of those Brothers of those mentioned above, namely Dom Odo, friend and concordant companion of Saint Hugh, had as his use, after the completion of the matutinal synaxis (as blessed Benedict permits), to linger in the oratory by way of silent prayer. While he was diligently doing this, and with showers of tears and sighs of a compunct heart was beseeching the Creator of all things for the loosing of both his own and others' sins' bonds, a miracle wonderful to tell and remarkable was shown. It happened, then, on one of the days, that coming, as was his custom, before the sign of the saving Cross and the image of the Savior himself, which is known to have been fittingly erected in the midst of the monastery, while with outstretched hands in the jubilation of his mind he was directing his eyes to heaven, he was seen by certain persons (who for the purpose of observing had followed him) elevated into the height of the air, he is raised into the air, before the Cross bowing to him to the space of about three ells' height, and to remain there alertly motionless for the space of one hour: and at the same hour the very icon of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, affixed to the cross, was seen by those observing to bow itself humbly towards the same man of God. Both the said Abbot himself and the others who had beheld these things were exceedingly afraid, and terrified by deep wonder, had nothing to say. For before they had hurled at him the darts of many reproaches and mockeries, saying in whispers that, for the glory of vain boasting, after the observances of the common performance of the Brothers, he remained alone in the oratory; but thereafter all the fallacious opinions and tongues of the envious were silenced, and all afterwards venerated the man worthy of sanctity with the highest honor and reverence, as was fitting. For also the Lord conferred healing on very many sick through him, and he works many miracles and he shone with many miracles of virtues until the end of his life, which, if they were noted, would take up the greatest part of a volume.

[12] Then through various distant lands and in neighboring monasteries, humbly asking, they begged that from the monks of the same monastery, which they knew to excel all others in the sanctity of religion, some should be given them for the governance of their own and the correction of their manners. ^k The monastery of Baume therefore among others was at that time destitute of all regular strictness; to whose governance being invited, by common counsel the said recruits of Christ chose one, Blessed Berno is set over the monastery of Baume as Abbot most keen from the tenor of his regular vigor and endowed with sanctity, by the name of Berno; who, as the outcome of events proved, was divinely chosen. He, made Abbot, in the government of the aforesaid monastery, always having the things of God before his eyes, applying himself more to the gains of souls than to transitory things, in a short time gathered together a manifold flock of Christ's sheepfold. To whom, in the usual manner as in the rest, Dom Hugh, being a most faithful helper in all things, strove to increase the talent entrusted to him by the Lord, as a most sagacious merchant. Then indeed, this monastery having been filled both at home and abroad with diverse abundances of goods, very many monasteries after its example were either newly founded or reformed to a better state through the same men.

[13] called by William the Duke At that time William, Duke of the Arverni and most liberal of the chief men of Aquitaine, of the Celtic province, ruled; whose household knights often frequented that Baume place; who were affectionately received by the aforesaid Abbot and by the Brothers of the same place. But they, returning to their lord, whatever good or honesty they had seen there, reported to him with diligence. And he, as he was a man conspicuous for all goodness, began to think in his mind, if somehow he could find a place congruous to the uses of such religion. He at once, sending to the man of God Berno, commanded him to come to him as soon as possible. He indeed at once running to meet him, came to him in a place indeed preelected by God the giver of all goods, and predestined to eternal salvation, by the name of Cluny. To which when he had come, with Saint Hugh having with him the most distinguished Hugh, by whose counsel he did all things, at once the said Prince, receiving them with the utmost love, disclosed to them the desire of his mind: namely concerning the construction

of a monastery, which he desired to complete, if Divinity should grant it him. When they had on every side led to Cluny carefully viewed the surrounding places, they found none as fit for this purpose as Cluny. But when the same Duke said that on account of the infestation of the dogs of hunting-industry which always dwelt there, it could not be done, the Abbot is said to have given, facetiously and jocosely, as he was a most prudent man, this answer to the same Duke: "Take away the dogs from there, and send in monks. For you yourself well know what reward of dogs awaits you from the Lord, or what recompense of monks." And he, with utmost exultation rejoicing, received the words of the man of God, and said: "By a sounder, Father, and prudent counsel you have used, and without the dye of pretense; now also let it be done with Christ cooperating, as your benignity exhorts." Then at once the work was begun, there he builds a monastery and in a short time completed, and consecrated in honor of the prince of the Apostles Peter. ^l Yet at first a very small little meeting of Brothers was established in the same place, since the same Prince had not ready to give the domain in his possession. But what huge and copious harvest grew up from that very small seed, is known to God alone and not to any of mortal men; yet its excellent fame the whole world has illustriously known:

Belgian and Celt, Aquitanian, Western and Southerner.

But now let us return to the order of the account. Meanwhile, ^m Gigny, and ⁿ Vézelay, and very many others being brought under their authority and strenuously amended, they were alertly advancing in divine worship.

NOTES.

CHAPTER III.

Anzy-le-Duc. Saint Hugh the Prior. His life there, his death, his miracles.

[14] In the following time, while Dom ^a Arnulph the Abbot still lived in the body, a certain distinguished man dwelt in the diocese of Autun, Leobaudus by name, having a wife of honest race and manners, by the name of Altasia. Both feared God and were dear to men (for they had the most copious possessions from their ancestors, and a manifold revenue of wealth); who joined in divine love, approaching together the monastery of Blessed Martyr Confessor, gave to it in the place which is called ^b Anzy-le-Duc a hereditary possession, to be held in perpetuity; and also their own house, honorably built there, transferring it along with the rest from themselves, At Anzy-le-Duc they took care to have consecrated to almighty God as the Basilica of the Church. For the completion of this ministry, then, was chosen Dom Hugh, most officious in all good; going thither at the Abbot's command and the Brothers' entreaty, Saint Hugh appointed Prior about to scatter, as was his custom, the seed of divine merit: which also the surname of the place, well fitting the future reality, explains: for ^c "Enziacus" can be called as if "praiseworthy" or "laudative." For enzia in Argolic means "praises" in Latin: since both the situation of the ground itself and the fertility of the soil fittingly assert the name of the place. It was therefore worthy that in such a place a herald of the Divinity should stay, who should be rightly praiseworthy to God and to all men. he dwells in the place All hereditary right therefore, as we have said, was transferred to the Sanctuary by the most devoted man, with all things pertaining to the same place; which by increments of time began little by little to be enlarged through the most holy Hugh, and by whatever goods to be reformed for the better. The most devoted man himself, laying aside the cares and ambitions of other places, he constructs workshops and a xenodochium more especially bestowed on this place the labor and intention of his devotion. For he built there, according to his ability and the mediocrity of the place, regular workshops, truly apt in every way for the uses of the monks; and out of all the resources of the place a xenodochium (guest-house) was prepared for the poor of Christ. There was also, for the man of God, among the other benefits of the Bestower, one certain singular gift of specialty, attributed by custom to his proper name: for if anyone by chance named him in his life, it was the custom at once to add, "Dom Hugh, good and lover of the holy rule." The said place is distant from the river Loire by two miles, and from the city of Autun by forty miles.

[15] At length many of both orders and sex from various places flowed to the same place, he is visited by many asking humbly and devoutly the consoling words of the most holy man, imploring that they might be made sharers in his prayers and in the most copious and spiritual abundance of his other benefits. If in the surrounding provinces the ordinations of places or of Abbots or of Provosts were pressingly needed, they were accomplished by his counsel, nod, and will, when he had been consulted; and whoever approached him, as from a rock of salt, went away seasoned. Therefore if in the time of this theologian of Christ it happened that any tempest arose from a troubled disturbance of the air (which is manifestly known to happen very frequently in that province on account of the ferocity of the hearts of men and their brutal conversation), ^d recourse was had at once to the man most devoted to God, he drives off storms as to a refuge of true Divinity: who forthwith, taking up the Cross with the relics of the Saints, went forth to meet the threatening disaster. And as soon as the man of God had expressed the sign of the Cross, at once that wintry coagulation of the air, Christ the Lord having mercy, was dispersed in different parts and melted, so that not a trace of any gathered storm-cloud appeared; and very often the very tumults of hailstones are found to have been turned by him into a most pleasant shower. No less meanwhile was good, conceded by the Author of all good, both in the various infirmities of men, and in the many kinds of calamities of animals. Whatever misfortune therefore befell a man or any animal, if his right hand imposed the sign of the Cross on it, or water sanctified by him was brought, at once, the languor being cast out, all pain or infirmity departed. Many also brought seeds to the same man of God to be sown, for the sake of improving them; and he sent them back with blessing imparted: who afterwards receiving a copious abundance from the same seeds, gave thanks to God almighty and his servant. he returns the seeds more fertile He also so abhorred the charms of enchantments and the apotelesmata ^e of illusory words (which a multitude of foolish people used to commit both on the Kalends of January and on the nativity of Saint John the Baptist), he destroys sorceries that under anathema he forbade this to be done by any mortal. As a certain proverb says:

However much you have striven in many things, however justly tenacious you may be, Yet it is not virtue, unless you refuse what is worse.

But what more? He was laboriously stocked with all gifts of virtues, and from various parts recourse was had to him, as to a remedy of divine salvation, for every necessity. Greatly to you, O Lord Creator of ages, may every order of creatures give thanks of honor and praises of blessings, who so adorn your servants, to the honor of your name, with the splendor of miracles.

[16] But now we wish to turn our point to the passing of the same holy man. the aged man aspires to heaven For the gatherings of Brothers, both distant and near, in monasteries around and about, having been composed and decently ordered at the nod and counsel of the venerable Hugh, he, now worn with age, adorned with a swan-like head, and as though set in array for the journey of all flesh, secure awaited the departure of his mortality; intent also upon fasts and constant prayers, he frequently looked to heaven, whither, following the Lord Jesus, he believed himself about to go after a little. Yet he bestowed the words of salvation on whomever he could. He admonished all with paternal affection to do penance for past misdeeds, he admonishes his own to live in the present free from sins, to provide against future excesses of human frailty; but especially concerning the incorruption of the Catholic faith, he inculcates the faith which at times he feared to be wavering in the hearts of some, especially on account of the oracle of the Apostolic presage which says: "There shall be in the last days perilous times, and iniquity shall abound, and the charity of many shall grow cold": then to withdraw from vices, especially from cupidity and pride, flight from cupidity and pride from which almost all other crimes arise, just as on the contrary from true humility and perfect charity the copious multitude of virtues abounds. Matt. 24:12 Most often he inculcated to the memory of the Brothers the acts and precepts of the most holy Father Benedict, and also the example of his most obedient disciple Maurus, observance of the rule as the most faithful indicators of the heavenly way. For he asserted, on the showing of the common and true faith, that if in whatever place the tenor of the regular institution of the said Father should be observed, those who dwelt there should suffer the want of no indigence: adding the temporal blessing which even in very many places in which it is kept, is today known to be experienced; and no less meanwhile in those in which, growing cold, it has become tepid, want and unquiet have placed their couch. Many things indeed the illustrious man, both in the order

monastic as in certain orders of this world, foretold future things, which the event in the following time afterwards proved.

[17] In the space of three years before his death, then, he confined himself from every secular matter, enclosed in the aforesaid cell, in the last three years he shuts himself in his cell devoting himself to tears and prayers, more constant than frequent. There truly, poor in a narrow triumph he reigned, ^g awaiting in the jubilation of his mind the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, after the departure of this mortality to reign with him in the glory of blessed perpetuity. As the time of Lenten observance approached, with his limbs growing faint from cold, his mind was strengthened by the fire of the holy Spirit: for he so comforted the Brothers dwelling with him and dreading his funeral, that from sadness he gradually rendered them joyful. He promised, pledging himself to pray constantly for them, at the end he encourages his own that at some time, Christ granting, they might together enjoy the glory of paradise. When the sacred Lenten time had been completed, and the joys of the Lord's resurrection coming on, more attentively he awaited the day of his passing; and with hands frequently stretched to heaven, his lips slightly moving, his eyes suffused with tears, he appeared wholly to be in ecstasy. On the twelfth day before the Kalends of May, he dies April 20 his happy and blessed soul, leaving the clod of the body, migrated to Christ. His most holy body was buried by the most devoted Brothers of the same place, whom he himself had devoutly educated in the virtues of spiritual warfare, he is buried in the precinct of the cell within the precinct of the aforesaid cell, which he himself had caused to be consecrated to God for the attainment of the way of life. In which place, of what holiness and merits he had been in life, shone forth by God's bounty in signs and virtues manifold. For after his death a manifold multitude of infirm and devout people, he is famous for miracles flowing most devoutly to his tomb, whatever they would ask there for their benefit, without any difficulty joyfully carried away. For they sought, as it were by debt, from the sweetest Father, after the manner of sons, the help of salvation, whom at once he consoled by the merits of his intercession. With such and with like marks of virtues was the most holy Hugh endowed, Priest and monk; so that it is worthy to believe that he remains alive after the putting off of the flesh in God almighty. Now, then, in part his life and acts and passing are explained.

EPITAPH. ^h

Here the bones of the Blessed testify to life after death; Here the ashes betray life after death. Epitaph While bodies in better manner are repaired by the hope of dying, Bodies, while being better, than they formerly had been. Having performed the love of God, giving pious gifts to the one who asks, He gives good things to the believer, having performed the love of God. With these riches the most noble Hugh adorns the tomb: All that they ask of him with these riches he adorns. Glory, which cherishes him, gives him praise as a gift, Whom the exulting glory of the Almighty cherishes; Speak good words to God, you who behold the tomb of Hugh, As becomes every man, speak good words to God.

[19] It happened, then, after the death of the most holy Dom Hugh, the signs of miracles becoming clear, that a multitude of the whole people of both sexes and orders flowed to his sepulchre for the healings of various infirmities. Then a certain man was brought in a cart, drawn by two oxen, as far as the little river ⁱ Arroux: at that time the same bed had so overflowed and swelled, that it was not passable for any pedestrian without a boat. Now the aforesaid man had the muscles of his knees contracted to the buttocks down to his heels, nor had he for three lustra (15 years) been able to fix his steps upon the ground as he walked. When, as we have said, because of the flooding of the water, he could not cross the bed, he sent one of his attendants a cripple is healed who should take a candle of the measure of his body to the sepulchre of Saint Hugh: and he himself often invoking the name of Saint Hugh, earnestly beseeched the Lord to restore his health. The next day, when morning came, he felt the power of Christ working in him, through the merit of Saint Hugh: for, his knees loosened and his legs extended, he received his body from the middle whole, and knocking at the little door ^k of the andron (enclosed seat) which was on the cart, he asked to have it opened; and with what voice he could, invoking the help of God, he repeated the name of Saint Hugh. Going out, then, he stood with erect body, showing the progress of his health, and joy to his own. He at once sending gave to the Saint one of the oxen by which he had been brought thither, as recompense or thanksgiving for the health received: which, having been led to the monastery, the Brothers of the same place, moved by piety, commanded that it be restored to its lord. Immediately also by divine nod, the animal understanding what they wished or what was most expedient, taking the road without any leader, returned, coming to its own lord. He, recognizing the benignity of the Brothers and the mercy of God almighty, joining it with its companion, and giving thanks to the Divinity, cheerful and glad returned to his own.

[20] At the same time also a certain man, Theobertus by name, for blasphemy against the Saint, he is injured an inhabitant of the same place, having a hatchet in his hand, was cutting wood, placing his foot on the stone of Saint Hugh's sepulchre. When he was admonished by bystanders to remove himself thence and proceed elsewhere, and to show reverence to the holy man, he, angrily answering, said: "For I have never known that this Saint whom you speak of ever wrought the virtue of any matter; therefore, what I have begun to do I will instantly complete. Yet if any power of avenging is found in him, it will be easy to demonstrate." Saying these things, with his right hand immediately raised, with all his force he struck the hatchet into his left shin, wounding himself so that he was almost maimed at once. The bystanders, stupefied and terrified with wonder, as was fitting, gave suitable witness to the holy man. He who had received the wound by whose benefit he is cured lay idle for the space of six months; and at last afterwards, by the intercession of the holy man his health recovered, he gave thanks to the Lord, and honored the holy man as was fitting. It was also shown forth in many ways in the holy man, by the miracles of diverse virtues, that there had been the most evident grace of Christ almighty.

[21] the keeper of the church A certain monk of the same monastery, for the sake of obedience, had been given custody of the church itself: who, as if providing for the future but in part improvident, appeared negligent in regard to the Saint, and tenacious or greedy: his name was Hademarus. When therefore from diverse parts to the same place a multitude of men and women flowed, bringing most copious lights of candles, and the other offerings fitting to the uses of human necessities, there crept upon this monk, as we have said, an excessive zeal for tenacity. For at once, as soon as the candle brought to the holy man was placed, out of greed extinguishing the candles offered at once seizing it, he swiftly extinguished it. And this he strove to do day and night, as a most faithful guardian of the things, without any interruption. It happened on one of the nights that candles were being offered by the faithful as usual; but he, greedily receiving them and having shaken out the flame from all, the place and the monk himself remained in darkness: who, at once struck with blindness, and as he was blind in mind, so in body also, began to palpitate with his hands, wandering in his step, not knowing in what part he should seek the entrance of the church. At length, so blindly groping, finding the door he went out thence, calling some of the servants; he becomes blind relighting the candle, again he ordered himself to be led to the sepulchre of the Saint: coming where, he began most devoutly to pray with tears for the mercy of the Lord and the intercession of Saint Hugh; and to rebuke himself that he was guilty and a sinner, and had acted negligently in the office of due service; promising moreover that, if he lived long, he would in every way amend. While he was doing this, suddenly he saw, as through the thinnest little crack, above the sepulchre of the Saint a most brightly shining star: by whose rays his gaze was dulled. He, intent, was beseeching the Lord that, through the intercession of the present Confessor, he would have mercy on him. But the merciful Lord, deferring what he desired, brought on him fullness, that he might give him full remission. and after a year is healed For remaining for a whole year with weak eyesight, he was unable to see perfectly what he wished. Thenceforth knowing how fearsome and of what merit the most holy man was, and amended by the reproof, and gladdened by the restoration of the sight of his eyes, he strove to tell the rest what he himself had proved by experience. as also another, called Hugh In a similar way also it happened to a certain one of the same name as this Confessor, when he incautiously took away the due lights which were owed, that, for the vengeance of the same, he should lose his own. But divine mercy, after the sanctity of the man of God had been proved, and the negligent one corrected, restored to the devout what he had taken away by noxious means.

[22] There are as witnesses both those whom we have described above, and very many others, because in these days such a multitude of the sick and weak for the recovery of health had flocked there, that an incredible number of stools and ^l oscilla (crutches), after health received, remained there from those returning. Then finally among the other multitude, a certain woman moving from the territory of Bourges, to go thither, came as far as the river Loire: she was however a lunatic, and, to speak more truly, demoniac. a demoniac is freed Whom, since none of those crossing dared to take with her into the boat, all fearing lest they should be put in danger on her account, she herself entering the boat, without helmsman or oarsman, pushed the skiff into the waves. Going out, she in a straight course pushed to the other bank: straightway, however, returning backwards, she came to the original place; again from there going forth, she as she desired passed over, and taking the road she came to the sepulchre of the holy man. Where when she had fallen, the malignant spirit began within to lacerate her, and to stir her with raging mind. Crying out in alternate voices, she was saying: "For Martinulus I will not go out, nor for little Hugh will I retreat"; this frequently she repeated, so that it was no doubt to anyone but that she was agitated by the unclean spirit. The next morning, fatigued for a long time, she vomited out in the manner of beetles three reptiles; of which nevertheless the form was sufficiently fitting to the wicked spirit which possessed her: for divine grace shows in such effigies of what vileness is the species or form of demons. After this the woman, sound mind recovered, glorifying God, gave thanks to the excellent Confessor; and to the wonder of all, whole, she was restored to her own. Innumerable also are the signs and prodigies of virtues of any kind of mortals, which the Lord deigned to work through his most holy servant Hugh, both in men and in women; very many miracles are wrought with healings of diverse infirmities granted, to the glory and honor of his name, many beholding. Now however how it happened that his bones, from where they were first placed, were translated, in the following work by the Lord's bounty we are about to relate.

NOTES.

CHAPTER IV.

The body elevated, carried to various gatherings or Councils of Bishops. Miracles wrought.

[23] We are taught by the pages of the holy volumes, and instructed by the miracles of very many Saints, that we should recollect their translations with sincere affection. For while through the bones of the Saints miracles are wrought, there stands an effective witness that their souls live with Christ in eternal glory. It is therefore worth the trouble to relate more evidently the translation of the holy and most blessed Confessor Hugh, While he continued to shine with miracles which at present the devout people celebrate and venerate. He was shown forth, therefore, by many signs of miracles. For he was asked by many, though buried in the ground, in all necessities, as though he were living in the flesh. And truly he lives for God, whose ashes and bones afford many benefits to those piously asking, and refresh souls and bodies alike.

[24] About the year one thousand of the incarnate Word, under the man of God ^a Heldegrinus the Abbot, there was in the same monastery, namely Anzy, in which the most holy Hugh rested, a certain Brother, about the year 1000 a monk in life and conversation, ^b Emirardus by name, a man of holy life, who also had once gone to Jerusalem for the love of the sepulchre of the Lord Savior, dwelling there for the space of nearly seven years; appearing often to Emirrardus he converses with him and thence returning, chose for himself the aforesaid monastery, to dwell there to the end. For he was graced with the priestly office, and distinguished by devotion to divine service; prone by the obedience of humility to the command of his superiors; most friendly by pure love to his equals and inferiors. To this man the venerable Hugh most frequently showing himself in vision, used familiar converse with him, as he was accustomed with tears ^c to relate. As the day of the Lord's solemnity approached, alone and more frequently the venerable Hugh began to appear to the aforesaid Brother in vision. He himself, more attentively, as befitted the time, afflicting himself with fasts and prayers, besought the Lord that what was most expedient should come about. So three or four weeks having passed, they came to the most sacred night of the Nativity of the life-giving Word; and the solemnities of that night having been solemnly completed by the Brothers as is the custom, and the Masses most devoutly celebrated, the aforesaid Brother reported that he had seen Dom Hugh present, chanting in the praises of God with them.

[25] What more? then lamps spontaneously kindled When all the obsequies of the offices had been duly performed, they came to the hour of dinner; who, by custom, regularly assembling into one, took the food of the body with the food of the soul of sacred reading. After the refreshment, giving thanks concordantly to God, they returned to the Church. When they entered, they found all the lamps of the same church cheerfully kindled, since no mortal had remained in it, about whom there could be any doubt that he had kindled them: for all the doors of the church had been carefully shut with bolts and key during the whole hour of dinner by the key-bearers. Seeing which, the Brothers who had assembled, filled with great joy, praising the Lord, had nothing more to say. Then afterwards the said Brother, namely Emirardus, approaching the sepulchre of his fellow-priest and familiar friend, namely Dom Hugh; and the sepulchral stone is moved away he found the stone which had been set above, removed on all sides, and leaping up to about a foot and a half in height. Then calling the others, he showed them the event of the thing, intimating what they thought of it. They, terrified with stupor, were anxious in mind over the twin and most evident signs of miracles shown to them in so distinguished a solemnity. These things were divulged all around the whole province, and it became a matter of the highest wonder to all.

[26] When ^d Walterius or Galterius, Bishop of Autun, had learned this, by the Bishop of Autun he called to himself Heldegrinus the Abbot with some Brothers, diligently inquiring how the matter stood, whose fame he had heard. They recounted to him in order how, by the most evident miracles, the merciful Lord had deigned many times to glorify his servant, namely Saint Hugh, the Abbot of Saint Martin and others The venerable Bishop then, and the most reverend Abbot, with the other Brothers of both orders, unanimously decreed that the bones of the holy man, whom so many signs proclaimed, should thence be raised up; and, as was fitting, that they should be honorably buried where they could be in the open. Hearing which, everyone in the whole province, both nearby and far off, judged it worthy to be done. Thence after almost a year had elapsed, on the Ides of the month of December, with the greatest apparatus and the gathering of all the people, the bones of the most holy man were uncovered, the bones are elevated December 13 and thence elevated, and washed with wine and balsam; and also in a little place, where they are now adored, they were carefully placed. And a most sweet odor flowed from them, and placed in a chapel as long as they were handled, which the whole assembly of the people sensed by smell. those with fever are healed Then also a multitude of the feverish and other infirm, who had gathered, having received their former health, praising God and glorifying Saint Hugh, returned home. and other sick From the wine with which his sacred bones had been washed, many of the infirm having taken in drink, at once recovered. Then from far-off provinces, afflicted with various diseases and infirmities, together with those nearby to the place, coming there, and spending the night for two or three days, thence with the greatest exultation, what they had faithfully desired, without difficulty they obtained.

[27] But after this, in the following time, there were ^e gatherings of Bishops in many places, for the study of reforming peace, but sometimes also for reintegrating the state of the Catholic faith: in which gatherings of councils it was beseeched by the faithful the bones are brought to the Gatherings of Bishops that the body of the holy man might be brought thither. Being brought thither by the Brothers, it was always clear of what merit the holy man was in sacred virtues. You might hear from the roads and houses and fields, while going and returning he passed through places, men and women crying out with pious voice, saying with exultation: "Most holy Father Hugh, have mercy and beseech the Lord for the salvation of all the people, that by your merits and prayers he may snatch us from pestilence and famine, and that after death we may more clearly receive with you the joys of eternal life." with all invoking him But when they came to the gathering of the Council of Bishops and people, it was seen that all received, praised, and entreated the blessed man with the sweetest voices as a kindly Angel, all as an Apostle of God, all in common as a friend of Christ. Let us therefore also, although inferior to them in merits, imitate as we can their faith; and following their footsteps, Christ helping us, let us worthily recollect the memory of the holy man, praising in him together with harmonious voices the God and Lord of all; and let us with most humble prayers beseech him who deigned to bestow on us, of our nation and order, such a Patron. For he, after many other benefits to the Churches of God, has consecrated this place by his habitation, and blessed it by his example: by whose suffrages may we be fortified amid the strivings of the world, that we may at some time attain the joys of eternal life; our Lord Jesus Christ granting, who with the eternal Father lives and is glorified God through all ages of ages. Amen. ^f

[28] In the diocese of Lyon, at a castle called ^g Ansa, it was customary for a Council of Bishops to be held. The body brought to the Council in the diocese of Lyon At a certain time therefore, when the same Council was being prepared to be held, many relics of Saints in various ^h apophoreta (reliquary coffers), as was the custom to do, were brought there by the faithful, so that by the grace, merits, and prayers of the Saints there might arise profit for all the people. It happened also that the body of the most blessed man Hugh was brought thither with the rest; where, when it had been placed becomingly enough, the greatest part of the whole people who had assembled flowed most devoutly to him. it shines with various miracles Then whoever were afflicted with any weaknesses either came themselves, or were brought by the hands of others. It cannot be told what voices, what groans with tears the whole people gave, acclaiming Saint Hugh. Then by divine clemency having mercy, many from fevers

were freed, others cleansed from vexations, and many more restored to health in their weak limbs: whose individual persons cannot be numbered one by one. And to others withdrawing more came in place of the earlier ones, for whom ⁱ a place to reach the Saint was scarcely found; yet all were helped divinely.

[29] asking to die in the presence of the body There was in that multitude of the people a certain man, exceedingly great and full of pious devotion: who, seeing the power of the Lord in the sick of diverse infirmities, compunct in heart, came before the presence of the body of Saint Hugh; and standing there with hands outstretched to heaven, weeping with his eyes, uttered these words: "O Saint Hugh, Confessor of Christ, worker of pious virtues, I beseech thee by the grace of the almighty Creator, which thou hast merited, that thou mayest obtain for me from Him, that if I am by his decree to have the end of the present life within the space of this year, he may not permit me to depart hence, but that it may happen to me in the presence of thy body, as I desire." The same man, standing and repeating such words, remained immobile; after the space of two or three hours, his knees lightly bent, falling to the ground, he breathed out his spirit: he expires there which seeing, the whole multitude of the people present, men and women, all terrified with stupor, glorified God in praise of his holy servant Hugh. But what ought to be understood by this deed, except that which is proverbially said: he could not die ill, who lived well? For it is not to be thought that this man so obtained the exit of his life at his wish, unless he had first so lived that this was granted him by the Lord: and as far as can be conjectured, it was more desirable for this miserable life to be ended so, than to rise to it from the common death. For our holy fathers, interpreters of sacred Scripture, assert that the Lord Savior wrought a greater miracle in the remission of the interior sins of Mary Magdalene, than in the resuscitation of the body of her brother Lazarus. Meanwhile it was decreed by the wise men, and especially by the venerable Odilo, ^k Abbot of Cluny, who was there present, and by Saint Odilo and others he is buried there that in the same place the body of this man (for his name was Andrew) should be committed to burial, where by the intercession of Saint Hugh and the command of God he had received the end of his life: judging it worthy that he await that blessed resurrection there, where he had lost the present life. When he had been buried according to the judgment of all, the faithful men set up a little cell over him, so that there might be a memorial of this miracle most evident for a long space of time to the coming age. Thence each returning home magnified God, and preached Saint Hugh his servant everywhere.

[30] After the completion of the said Council, when the bones of the blessed man had been carried back, his fame growing more widely, many infirm ones were anguished with regret, chiding their delay in coming thither too late. Then a certain blind man, deprived of all sight, coming from afar, began to call upon Saint Hugh, Christ's Confessor and friend of God, with most frequent cries. While he was doing this, he asked in what place the most holy Hugh at present rested. Coming there, with knees bent, striking his breast with his fists, and at the same time fixing his sightless eyes on the ground, he rebuked himself with these words: the blind man is illuminated, visiting the place where the body had been before "Woe is me wretched and negligent of my own salvation, who have not succeeded in finding in this place the friend of God almighty: for I believe from the innermost affection of my heart that through his intervention the merciful Lord would have restored the light of my eyes." Saying this, he looked up to heaven, and by the mercy of the Lord his eyes were opened, and light received, he began to see most clearly. And rising thence with continuous outcries he magnified God, wonderful in his Saints, and proclaimed Saint Hugh his wondrous intercessor. These and infinite other miracles, which for brevity's sake are omitted, our most pious and most benign Lord Jesus Christ has wrought, and even to this day daily works, for the praise and glory of his most holy name: who with the eternal Father and the holy Spirit lives and reigns God, forever and ever. Amen.

NOTES.