Letter X. To a Lady

The virtues which spring in the midst of afflictions are the most solid. My dearest Mother, — I share by compassion in the bitter griefs you suffer, and yet I fail not to find much consolation in that you suffer them with a spirit of resignation. My dear mother, the virtues which grow in prosperity are generally delicate and weakly: and those in afflictions are strong and stable, just as the best vines are said to grow among stones.

I pray God ever to be in the midst of your heart, that it may not be overturned by such shocks, and that sharing with you his cross, he may communicate his holy patience, and that Divine love which makes tribulations so precious.

I will never cease to invoke the help of this eternal Father for a daughter whom I honour and cherish as my mother.

I am, my dear mother, yours in our Lord, &c.