Letter 151. To Mother Mary of St. Joseph, Prioress of Seville, Toledo, December 27, 1576

Affairs relating to the convent at Seville,

Jesus be with you, my daughter.

AS it is about to strike two o'clock in the morning, I cannot write much. For the same reason I am sending no letter to the good Nicolao; wish him a happy new year from me. I saw his cousin's wife to-day. The man who wishes to found a convent keeps to his good resolution, but is waiting until the affair at court is settled, and as Father Mariano has not come, matters are at a stand-still. I am glad you have received such an excellent postulant: remember me very kindly to her and to all her sisters. I have enjoyed reading the letter from my brother' which you sent me, but am sorry that you say nothing about your health. May God make it as good as I ask of Him ! He is showing us great mercy in keeping our Father well: may He be praised for ever! The muleteer brought me your letters for Malagon, but did he remit the money to you.? It would be exceedingly foolish of you not to accept what my brother gives you: I only wish it had been more. Send me the sweets of which you speak if they taste very nice, as I should hkc to have them for a certain necessity.

I am well, though I was out of sorts for a few days before Christmas and extremely tired with overwork. However, I did not break the fast of Advent. Remember me very kindly to whom you choose, particularly to Fray Antonio de Jesus. Ask him whether he has taken a vow not to answer my letter. Give my kind regards to Fray Gregorio.

I am extremely glad that you are able to pay your debts this year: God will give you the rest. May His Majesty have you in His care. I am longing to see a letter from you.

To-day is devoted to Saint John the Evangelist as I am to your Reverence.

Teresa de Jesus.