Storia do Mogor 338.6.2

338.6.2

But Divine Providence is always nearest the afflicted when they have the most need. In the midst of all this affliction, and at the moment of this lamentable blow which had fallen upon the poor priest, it permitted the entry at his door of a charitable Theatine. He was a Portuguese by race, and called D. Simão da Costa. At sight of him, as we may suppose, some vigour returned, but Father Paulo was unable entirely to conceal his dejection. He was also stimulated by finding that the good priest did not fail to take notice of the circumstances in his hospice, for they were quite worthy of the deepest reflection in such a crisis as he was involved in. 'Priest of Divine Providence, Simão da Costa!' he exclaimed, as one in delirium. Owing to the bitter anxiety that consumed him, he repeated many times consecutively, 'Simão da Costa! Simão da Costa!' He assumed, no doubt, that he was another man of Cyrene come to relieve him of the cross of tribulations that he had to bear.