Letter (number unidentified). To Doña Guiomar Pardo, Daughter of Luisa de la Cerda, Avila, October 22, 1577

Condolence in her trials,

JESUS! May the Holy Spirit be with you.

GOD did not wish me to enjoy your letter, for your reason for writing destroyed my pleasure. May He be blessed for all things !

It is evident that you all love Him since He sends you so many trials which, as you bear them patiently, enable Him to grant you greater graces. It would be a great grace if you realized the worthlessness of this life, fleeting as it is, and loved and sought for that which never ends. May our Lord bestow good health on Doña Luisa and Don Juan, as we daily ask Him here. When they get better, please let me know, in order to relieve the anxiety your letter caused me on their account. I beg my Señ- oras Doña Isabel and Doña Catalina to pray for me.

I ask you to keep up your s[)irits to cheer Doña Luisa. It would be tempting God to remain where you are any longer. May His Majesty have you in His keeping and give all the blessings I ask and wish to you, and Doña Catalina.

This is Oólober 22; the day on which I received your letter.

The unworthy servant of God, Teresa de Jesus.