Letter XVII. To the Same. Consolation and Encouragement

iSth December 1615. [Tr.]

IT is assuredly true, my dear daughter, your consola tions console me greatly, but above all when they are founded on so firm a rock as is that of the presence of God. Walk ever thus near to God, for his shadow is more healthful than the sun.

There is no harm in trembling sometimes before him in whose presence the Angels themselves tremble; on condition, however, that holy love, which is over all his works, remain ever the higher part, the beginning and the end of your considerations.

See, then, how well things go, since these little sallies of your spirit do not flash out so suddenly, and your heart is a little gentler. Be ever, faithful to God and to your soul. Always be correcting yourself of something; do not do this good office by force, but try to take pleasure in it, as lovers of country occupations do in pruning the trees of their orchards.

Our Lord will, without doubt, supply all that is wanting from elsewhere, in order that you may make a more perfect retreat with him, provided it be he whom

LET xxii.] Earlier Letters to Visitation. 133 you love, whom you seek, whom you follow. And you do so, I know, my daughter; but do so then always, and recommend me to his mercy, since I am with all my heart your very affectionate servant, &c.