Letter VI. To the Same

He sends a picture representing the little Jesus with our Lady and St. Anne.

29th May, 1605.

Behold, my child, this little picture which I send you: it represents your holy abbess while still in the monastery of married persons, and her good mother who is come from the convent of widows to visit her. Look at the daughter how she keeps her eyes cast down: it is because she cannot see those of the child; the mother on the contrary lifts them up, because they rest on those of the little darling. Virgins only lift their eyes, to see those of the spouse, and widows lower them when they cannot have this honour. Your abbess is gloriously adorned with a crown on her head, but looks down on some little flowers scattered on the step of her seat.

The good grandmother has near her on the earth a basket filled with fruits. I think that they are the actions of holiness, the little and humble virtues which she wishes to give to her pet as soon as she has him in her arms. Meanwhile, you see that the little Jesus bends and inclines himself towards his aged grandmother, widow as she is, and with poor head-dress and simply clad. He holds a world, which he turns gently away with one hand, because he knows well that it is not suitable for widows; but with the other he gives her his holy benediction.

Keep yourself near this widow, and like her have your little basket. Keep your arms and your eyes towards the child; his mother your abbess will give him to you in your turn: He will very willingly incline himself towards you, and will bless you munificently. Ah! how I desire him, my daughter! This wish is spread abroad in my soul, where it will remain eternally. Live joyfully in God, and salute very humbly in my name, Madame your abbess, and dear mistress. May sweet Jesus be enthroned in your heart and on mine together! May he reign and live there for ever! Amen.