The Lantern

Clementine Homilies · Homily 58

CCEL

Chapter VII.-A Distinction with a Difference.

"Then Appion said: `Do you not think it is the same thing, whether you obtain her by magic, or by deceiving her with words? 'Then said I: `Not altogether the same; for these differ widely from one another. For he who constrains an unwilling woman by the force of magic, subjects himself to the most terrible punishment, as having plotted against a chaste woman; but he who persuades her with words, and puts the choice in her own power and will, does not force her. And I am of opinion, that he who has persuaded a woman will not stiffer so great punishment as he who has forced her. Therefore, if you can persuade her, I shall be thankful to yon when I have obtained her; but otherwise, I had rather die than force her against her will.'