CHAPTER III: How his conversion was revealed to a hermit in Cologne
Of his rapid progress at the University of Paris
(1)
WHEN he was growing toward manhood, Gerard was sent by his parents to the University of Paris, and being furnished with abundant means, beyond those of many of his companions, he busied himself with those pursuits for the sake of which he had come. At that time he was not seeking the glory of Christ as the end of his studies, but pursuing the shadow of a great reputation he was chiefly anxious for the praise of men.
(2) In a short time, however, having passed through the usual course for students, he eagerly sought for higher place; and in virtue of his good understanding, a Master of Arts degree was conferred upon him in the eighteenth year of his age. Having gained this degree, and being fired by a natural genius and puffed up with worldly knowledge, he was rewarded with preferment in the Church, and received amongst other benefices a Canonry in the Church of Aix. But hitherto he walked in the broad ways of the world, not being yet inspired, until by the mercy of God he was changed into another man. __________________________________________________________________
How his conversion was revealed to a hermit in Cologne
(1)
BUT inasmuch as the Almighty and merciful God, who alone worketh great marvels, had decreed to loose this learned and most famous Master from the bonds of this present world, He brought the process of that conversion to full effect; and this conversion, unexpected and unknown to the generality of men, was beforehand revealed and foretold to a certain hermit in Cologne.
(2) For when on a time Gerard was in that city and wandering idly was watching some worldly games, the aforesaid hermit, expressly mentioning the name and describing the dress of Gerard, foretold that his conversion should shortly be brought to pass, and should be of profit to many.
Wherefore a certain man, who knew of this prophecy, came to Gerard where he was standing, and said, Why standest thou thus intent upon empty things? Thou oughtest to become another man."
This saying about himself Gerard thought but childishness, nor did he at the time dwell much upon it; but God who hath foreknowledge of the future and doth not deceive, after a short time brought the word to pass as He had fore-ordained, and re-called to Himself Gerard whom He loved, from the paths of iniquity to the state of godly living, working by means of a Religious of the Carthusian order. __________________________________________________________________