Letter 17. To the Abbesse du Puits d’Orbe

ON LITTLE TROUBLES.

Nov. 16, 1605.

Be careful to preserve your heart in peace and tranquillity; let the waves and storms beat about your bark, without fear, for God is there, and consequently salvation. Dear Sister, I know that little vexations are more trying, through their multiplicity and their importunity, than greater things; — home troubles harder to bear than such as come from without; but I also know that the victory over such is often more acceptable to God than many other victories which have a greater show of merit in the world^s eye.,.. Be as cheerful as you can in well doing; there is a double grace in good actions when they are done cheerfully and brightly.