And finally, it provides advisers of approved wisdom during the period of the spiritual life when counsel is most needed, as well as most gratefully accepted.

But if it fails in each of these particulars, as no doubt it sometimes does, the novitiate may be said never to fail in detecting an inaptitude for the common life, if such exists; that is to say, a serious lack of the qualities which fit one to get along in peace with the brethren.
Into the novitiates of the religious orders, and into the seminaries which hold their place for the secular priesthood, the noblest men of our race have entered joyfully; some to be wedded to the Divine Spouse in the quiet seclusion of holy contemplation, and others, of the more militant orders, to be trained to follow worthily the standards of the apostolic warfare against vice and error.
The novice-master was puzzled by his three Americans, though Brother McMaster was easily comprehended--an over-frank temperament, impulsive, and demonstrative.

Not only were his banners always hanging on the outward wall, but his plan of campaign also.

The other two were a study, and Brother Hecker was a curiosity.

Yet both were cheerful, obedient, earnest, courageous.