Letter 350. To Father Gracian, Alcala, Palencia, February, 1581

That the friars require sufficient nourishment. Cleanliness. The Saint objets to being styled ‘Reverend,’ Her wish that Father Gracian should be Provincial.

... Remember me very kindly to Fray Antonio and say that the letter I wrote him was not one that he should have left unanswered. As it seems that I might as well talk to a deaf-mute, I do not care to write to him. However, he was very glad to send some of his gains to Father Mariano, enabling him to give those fathers nourishing food. I warn your Paternity that unless this is better looked after in all their houses, you will see what the results will be. You should not let the matter pass without cautioning the priors, for God will never fail to supply their wants. If little is dispensed, scanty alms will be given to them.

For the love of God, will your Paternity ensure cleanliness in the beds and table-linen, though it may be more expensive, for the lack of it is terrible —in fact, I wish there were a Constitution ordering it, though I do not think that even that would suffice, considering their customs.

Oh, how painful it is to have letters addressed to me as ‘Reverend!’ I wish your Paternity would

TO PEDRO DE CASADEMONTE 144 forbid all your subjeéts to use the title, as it is not required to direct the missive. It seems to me unsuitable that we should render to one another honours that can be omitted...

-God forbid, my Father, that these houses should beso unfortunate as to be deprived of your authority ! The religious require government in very insignificant details by some one who understands all that is for and against the question. They are handmaids of God: His Majesty will have them in His keeping.