CHAPTER LXX.

That no one presume to strike another.

Let every occasion of presumption be avoided in the Monastery. We ordain and decree, that no one, unless the Abbot hath given his authority, shall be allowed to excommunicate or to strike any of his Brethren. Such as trespass in this respect shall be reprehended in the presence of all, that the rest may be inspired with fear. But let all have strict discipline and care over children, until their fifteenth year; yet this also must be done with moderation and discretion. For he who shall, without the Abbot’s leave, presume to chastise such as are above that age, or to be unduly severe even towards the children, shall be liable to regular discipline, because it is written: “What thou wouldst not have done to thyself, do not thou unto another.”²⁰³²⁰³Tob. iv. 16.