Letter XVI. To a Young Lady

The Saint exhorts her to give herself entirely to God.

The Eve of our Lady's, &th Sej)te?)idery 1619. My Dearest Daughter, — I say to you with all my heart, Adieu; may you ever be "to God" in this mortal life, serving him faithfully in the pain of carrying the cross after him here, and in the heavenly life* blessing him eternally with all the heavenly court. It is the great good of our souls to be "to God," and the greatest good to be only "to God."

He who is only " to God" is never sorrowful, except for having offended God; and his sorrow for that dwells in a deep, but tranquil and peaceful humility and submission. Then he raises himself up in the Divine goodness, by a sweet and perfect confidence, without annoyance or bitterness.

He who is " to God" only, seeks him only; and because God is not less in adversity than prosperity, such a one remains at peace in adversity.

He who is " to God" only, often thinks of him amidst all the occupations of this life.

He who is " to God" only, wishes every one to know whom he serves, and tries to take the means proper for remaining united to him.

Be then all " to God," my dearest daughter, and be only his, only wishing to please him, and his creatures in him, according to him, and for him. What greater blessing can I wish you? Thus, then, by this desire, which I will unceasingly make for your soul, my dearest daughter, I say to you " A-Dieu;" and praying you often to recommend me to his mercy, I remain your, &c.