Letter (number unidentified). A CIRCULAR SENT TO THE PRIORESSES, Probably written in 1577

A CIRCULAR SENT TO THE PRIORESSES

On the profession of novices.

. . . We decree that the black veil is not to be given to novices who cannot read or vvrite, or who are not sixteen years old.

After a year and three days, the novice asks all the assembled nuns three times, in the refed:ory or in the chapter room, to be admitted for her profession. Her examination is to take place within a fortnight after giving notice to the examiners. After that period, if the examiners have not come, the examination shall not take place nor shall any one demand it, nor inquire as to the novice's will.

It is not lawful for the bishop or his vicar to enter the enclosure for the examination: but he must come to the choir grille according to the decree of the above-mentioned Council of Trent.

We absolutely forbid that the bishop or his vicar should ask any questions not included in that decree, or which do not relate to the examination. Therefore we desire that the young girls or novices should not be required to answer any questions except as to whether they arc entering the convent of their own free will or no.