IT happeneth very often that by the appointment of the Provost grave scandals arise in Monasteries; since there are some who, puffed up by the evil spirit of pride, and deeming themselves to. be second Abbots, take upon themselves to tyrannise over others, and so foster scandals and cause dissensions in the community : especially in those places where the Provost is appointed by the same Bishop, or the same Abbots as appoint the Abbot himself. How foolish this custom is may easily be seen; for from his first entering upon office an incentive to pride is given to him, the thought suggesting itself that he is freed from the authority of his Abbot, since he hath been appointed by the very same persons. Hence are stirred up envy, quarrels, backbiting, dissensions, jealousy, and disorders. And while the Abbot and Provost are at variance with one another, it must needs be that souls are endangered by reason of their disagreement; and those who are their subjects, while favouring one side or the other, run to destruction. The evil of this peril falleth on the heads of those who by their action have been the cause of such disorders.
We foresee, therefore, that it is expedient for the preservation of peace and charity, that the ordering of the Monastery depend upon the will of the Abbot. If possible, let all the affairs of the Monastery be attended to (as we have already arranged) by Deans, as the Abbot shall appoint; so that, the same office being shared by many, no one may become proud. But if the needs of the place require it, and the community ask for it reasonably and with humility, and the Abbot judge it expedient, let him himself appoint a Provost, whomsoever he shall choose with the counsel of brethren who fear God. Let the Provost reverently do whatever is enjoined him by his Abbot, and nothing against his will or command ; for the more he is raised above the rest, so much the more carefully ought he to observe the precepts of the Rule. And if the Provost be found culpable or deceived by the haughtiness of pride, or be proved a contemner of the holy Rule, let him be admonished by words until the fourth time, and then let the correction of regular discipline be applied to him. But if even then he do not amend, let him be deposed from the office of Provost, and another, who is worthier, be substituted in his place. If afterwards he be not quiet and obedient in the community, let him be expelled from the Monastery. Nevertheless, let the Abbot bear in mind that he must give an account to God of all his judgments, lest perchance the flame of envy or jealousy be kindled in his soul.