Letter (number unidentified). To Doña Maria de Mendoza, Avila, November, 1574

Refers to the reception of a postulant at Valladolid. ¡spiritual advice.

JESUS! May the Holy Spirit be with your Ladyship!

AS I wrote to you yesterday, this is only to say that I heard to-day from the Duchess de Osuna and Doctor Ayala, who press me to admit one of the young girls at once. A Jesuit Father who has seen her sends me a very favourable account of her. The other candidate must have been frightened at our austerity, as nothing more is heard of her. This shows the advantage of explaining our way of life to those who think of entering. I have written to say that the former may be admitted immediately, and that I am telling you arrangements should be made for giving her the habit at once; also that they must let you know when she reaches Valladolid.

I will write to our Father Visitor, saying that you wish the postulant to be received and begging him to enclose permission with his reply. I think he will do so; if not, will you write to him promptly in such a way that he may not suppose there is any misunderstanding about the matter, for, as far as I can judge, he is willing to do everything he can to give you pleasure. God grant us the pleasure which will last for ever, and may He ever have you in His care and keeping for me!

The bishop sent me word to-day that he is better and is coming here, so do not feel anxious about him. When shall I see that you have greater liberty of spirit? May our Lord bestow it on you! The fad: is, we must help ourselves. Please God, by the time we meet you may have more self-control, for you have energy enough to gain it. I think it would be as good for you if I were with you as it is for me to be with the Father Visitor, who, as my superior, tells me home truths just as I, being very audacious and accustomed to find you longsuifering, should do to you.

I ask a share in the prayers of my señora the Duchess. The sisters here pray fervently for you.

Your Ladyship's unworthy servant and subjecil, Teresa de Jesus, Carmelite.

You never say how you agree with Father Juan Guttierez: some day I shall tell you myself. Remember me kindly to him. I do not know whether his niece has been professed. In future, the Father Visitor will give the licence for professions; please tell the Mother Prioress, as I forgot.