55
has
not
yet
attained
the
strength
which
can
defy
Mara.
Let him
estimate his strength,
and
take
a vow which
is
within
it,
but only just within it.
Thus Milo
began
by carrying
a
new-born
calf; and
day
by day
as
it grew
into
a
bull,
his
strength
was
found
sufficient.
Again
let it be said that Liber III is a most admirable method
for the beginner,'
and
it will
be best, even if he is very confident
in
his strength,
to take
the vow
for
very short
periods,
beginning
with
an
hour
and increasing
daily
by half-hours
until the day is filled.
Then let
him
rest
awhile,
and
attempt
a two-day
practice;
and
so on
until
he is
perfect.
He should
also
begin with
the very easiest
practices.
But
the thing
which
he
is sworn
to avoid
should
not
be
a
thing
which
normally
he
would
do
infrequently
; because
the
strain
on
the memory
which
sub-
serves
his
vigilance
would
be
very
great,
and
the
practice
become
difficult.
It is just
as well
at
first that the pain
of his arm should
be
^This book must be carefully
read.
Its
essence is that the pupil
swears to refrain
from a certain thought,
word,
or deed;
and on each breach
of the oath, cuts his arm
sharply with a razor.
This is better than flagellation
because it can be done in public,
without
attracting
notice.
It
however
forms
one
of
the
most
hilariously
exciting
parlour
games for the family
circle
ever invented.
Friends
and
relations
are always
ready to do their utmost to trap you into doing the forbidden
thing.