Letter (number unidentified). To An Unknown Lady, Palencia, the beginning of January, 1581

Alms given by Bishop Alvaro de Mendoza. A reliquary.

JESUS! May the grace of the Holy Spirit ever be with you. Amen.

| MUST tell you that yesterday the Bishop sent us twelve bushels of wheat. As the alms was given in your name, it is well for you to know of it in case you should meet his Lordship. Please let me know how this wet season agrees with your health and whether you have been to confession for the feast of this glorious Saint, for he is a very great Saint and one for whom you ought to feel a special devotion because of your love for the poor.

Dofia Maria? tells me that she will not acquit you of your debt for the reliquary until you give it tome. She speaks as though it belonged to her, but it seems to me that you too had a right to it. As it is God Himself Who wil] repay this kindness as well as the rest you show us, He will understand the question and decide justly. May His Majesty have you in His keeping and guidance for many a year. The Mother Prioress and nuns here beg you to remember them in your prayers.

The unworthy servant of your Honour, “Teresa de Jesus.