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You should then give your vote only to men whom you judge capable of procuring this good, and sincerely disposed to do so.
3. Hence follows for you another obligation, that of endeavouring to know those who solicit your vote. You would be most imprudent, did you give your vote to the first comer who presents himself with fine words and grand promises, without TAKING PAINS to ascertain his ability, and especially his principles. Examine carefully how far you may rely on each candidate for the protection of your religious, as well as of your temporal interests. We say your religious interests, for, O. D. B. B., if you have your salvation at heart, you ought, in so solemn a circumstance, to take into account these religious interests.
When the candidates or their friends come, and make known their principles,'and combat those of their adversaries, listen to them with the attention which the importance of the matter deserves, and with the politeness which Christian charity commands. Listen to them, without prejudice and with an unbiased mind ; be disposed to renounce your error, as soon as you shall have discovered it. Be calm and peaceful, that you may judge knowingly. Your honor and that of your parish are at stake ; your conscience is also interested therein. When you doubt, consult some one worthy of confidence.
4. While observing these rules dictated by prudence and obedience, forget not, O. D. B. B., to beg of God to enlighten all who take part in the election, the candidates, the electors, the officers commissioned to enforce the observance of the laws. For yourselves, ask the grace to know what you should do, and to avoid carefully all the
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dangers'attending these times of excitement and trouble. Engage your families to pray that, with God's blessing, this election may procure the greater spiritual and temporal guod of our beloved country.
It would be also highly commendable, if the electors, without distinction of party politics, agreed to have a solemn mass celebrated according to the above intention. Although divided in worldly politics, in what solely concerns temporal interests, hearts truly Catholic, perfectly united by the same faith in what concerns religion, should not cease to be united in the bonds of sincere charity ; they should be able to meet with joy, with confidence, with faith and charity, at the foot of the altar, whereon Our Lord immolates himself for the salvation ofall.