Letter 1. To Mother Catherine of Jesus

Barefooted Carmel Ite and Companion of St. Teresa of Jesus

JESUS

Be in your soul, my daughter Catherine. Although I know not where you are, I write you these few lines, trusting that our Mother will forward them to you if you are not with her. And even if you are not with her, comfort yourself with me, who am further away and alone here. For since I was swallowed by that whale, and cast forth upon this distant shore, I have not been counted worthy to see her or the saints who are down there. God has done it for our good ; for loneliness is a file, and to suffer darkness is the way to great light. God grant that we may not walk in darkness. Oh !.

how many things would I fain say to you ! But I am writing yery much in the dark, fearing that you may not receive this letter ; and therefore I break off with out finishing it. Recommend me to God. I will say no more from here, for I am weary.

Your servant in Christ,

FR. JOHN OF THE CROSS.

From BAEZA : the 6th of July, 1581.