Letter (number unidentified). To Antonio Gaytan, Segovia, June, 1524

Counsels him about prayer and advises him to consult Father Baltasar Alvarez.

MAY Jesus be with you and repay you for your gift of a book, which is just what I want !

I should require more time than I have to answer your question about prayer. On the whole you behave as people usually do who have attained to contemplation : I have told you so several times as you may perhaps remember. In fadt, the state of the soul varies like the weather; it could not be otherwise: do not distress yourself about it for it is no fault of yours.

As to the rest, I am no judge, being a special pleader. I naturally prefer solitude, though I do not deserve to enjoy it. As it is also the spirit of our Order, I might counsel you according to my own liking and not to your advantage. Lay the subjed: clearly before the Father Redtor who will know what is best for you, and be guided by the inclinations of your soul. God be with you! I have written so many letters that I do not know how I managed to say as much as this, and the messenger is waiting.

Nothing can be settled about my journey' nor do I know how it can take place this year. However, God can do all things.

Pray much for me as I do for you, and write to me often.

Your unworthy servant,

Teresa de Jesus.