Letter XVIII. To Monsignor Michele Mercati, San Miniato

d'altodesco

He congratidates him on the improvement

in his health.

Very illustrious and reverend, and my most HONOURED Lord, — Your letter gave me more than one cause to rejoice. I was so glad to hear that you not only arrived there safely, but that the journey instead of fatiguing you, has brought on an improvement in your health, thus fulfilling one of my most ardent desires at the present moment. The other cause for rejoicing is, that there is not only a beginning of improvement, according to what you say, but that your health is daily progressing, for which I thank our Lord, hoping you may regain your former health, thanks to the delightful air, and the clever and excellent persons, who will be a source of interior satisfaction that will help to consolidate the whole. Moreover, the rock from which you enjoy the view of gardens, forests, apple-orchards, and other beauties is to me also a source of happiness, as I rejoice and share your contentment in the present moment whatever it may be. I am glad to hear that your sisters, who are spouses of Christ, remember me ; and this for the sake of their good father s memory, who, while in life, was pleased to have a good opinion of me, and make it known to all, which came from his inborn kindness, being accustomed to think well and speak better of those he dealt with. I always admired this kindness of heart, and I am convinced he is now reaping the fruits of it in heaven; and his daughters having inherited this kindness of heart they will easily follow his steps. I salute them with holy affection and all my heart, rejoicing at the thought that the grace of our Lord will perfect their natural gifts, so that they may rise higher and higher in spirit and virtue, which I desire above all things. With regard to the personage they would like to see raised to the highest rank, their desire coming from good and simple intentions can be taken well ; but it appears to me safer to pray in general for that which it may please Divine Providence to grant us. Remaining always yours, and praying for holy consolation, I am, most illustrious and reverend lord, your most affectionate servant in Christ,

Phiup Neri.

Rome, May 1591.