Letter 41. To Maldonado Bocalan, Convent of the Incarnation, February i, 1573

Thanks for a present of sixty -two fowls.

JESUS !

MAY the grace of the Holy Spirit ever be with you, and may He reward you for the charity and care shown in sending us Señor Don Francisco's alms! May our Lord preserve you to us for many years and increase the improvement in your health !

Not knowing your address, I could not ask you to forward the fowls of which we stood in great need as this house is very poor and there are many invalids. I have been of the number but have recovered now.

Your second present is a great comfort to me; may God be praised for it all ! The messenger acquitted himself of his commission well.

I hereby declare that I received to-day, the eve of our Lady of the Purification, in the year 1573, sixty-two fowls, in witness of which I sign my name.

May our Lord ever have you in His keeping and grant you everv blessing, as He has power to do! Amen.

Your servant,

Teresa de Jesus, Prioress. I have written to Señor Don Francisco, telling him of your kindness, and that the fowls arrived in first rate condition.