Emily Dickinson Lexicon

DIL'I-GENCE, n. [L. diligentia, from diligo, to love earnestly; di and lego, to choose.]

1. Steady application in business of any kind; constant effort to accomplish what is undertaken; exertion of body or mind without unnecessary delay or sloth; due attention; industry; assiduity. Diligence s the philosopher's stone that turns every thing to gold. Brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure. – 2 Pet. i.
2. Care; heed; heedfulness. Keep thy heart with all diligence. – Prov. iv.
3. The name of a stage-coach, used in France.