Letter 1420. To Mother Péronne Marie de Chaitel

My dearest Mother,—I cannot half tell you what consolation I have received from the good Mother [de Blonay]. Believe me, this Cadette has marvellously advanced in virtue, and is more than ever enlightened in the ways of God. It has been a great comfort to me to tell her about the interior sufferings by which God is so justly punishing me. Yet there is one thing that grieves me: this good Mother seems shy of knowing the state of poverty of my soul, and she is too compassionate in seeing the anguish of my heart, which she had never suspected was so destitute and poor. Unless I am deceived, her humility will not allow her to speak to me in accordance with her opinion and my needs; but she has promised to pray earnestly for me, and that I hope will help me.