Letter XV. To a Young Lady

The Saint invites her to follow God's inspiration, and to consecrate herself to him.

Mademoiselle, — You made me promise, and I faithfully keep my word. I beg God to give you his holy strength, generously to break all the ties which hinder your heart from following his heavenly attractions. My God! the truth must be told; it is sad to see a dear little bee, caught in the vile web of spiders. But, if a favourable wind break this frail net and cruel threads, why should not this dear little bee loosen itself and get out, and hasten to make its sweet honey?

You see, dearest daughter, my thoughts: make yours known to this Saviour who calls you. I cannot help loving your soul, which I know to be good, and cannot but wish it that most desirable gift — the love of generous perfection. I remember the tears you shed when, saying to you Adieu (A-Dieu, literally, to God), I wished you to be A-Dieu. And you, to be more A-Dieu, said Adieu to all that is not for God {pour Dieu). Meanwhile I assure you, my dearest daughter, that I am greatly your servant in God.