Letter 123. To a Widowed Lady

My very Dear Mother,

What shall I say to you? It can be but a word, for lack of time. Cultivate a perpetual peace of heart, both internal and external, and strive to be very calm amid the multitude of cares which press upon you. Beware of excitement, which is the bane of true devotion, and continue to keep your soul fixed on high, looking at this world with nought save contempt, — at time only in order to aspire to Eternity. Submit

your will continually to that of God; as ready to adore Him amid tribulation as amid consolation. May God ever be in our hearts, my very dear mother. In Him I am most unreservedly and in true filial affection your most humble son, &a

I:77*.3 CXXVIII.