LT 168 - To Céline

LT 168               

From Thérèse to Céline.

August 5-10, 1894

J.M.J.T.

Jesus

Dear Céline,

Your letter is delightful; it made us shed many sweet tears!...

Fear nothing, Jesus will not misguide you. If you only knew how your docility, your childlike candor delights Him!... As for me, my heart is torn apart… I suffered so much for you that I hope I am not an obstacle to your vocation. Has not our affection been purified like gold in the crucible?... We have sown the seeds, weep­ing, and now we shall soon return together, carrying the sheaves in our hands. 1 am not going to write Father today; I believe it is bet­ter to await his letter to see what he will say? ... If you prefer that I write to justify you, tell me when you come, and I shall not be embarrassed]... I am heavy at heart! ! !...

But I thank God for this trial which He Himself has willed, I am sure, for it is impossible that Jesus misguide a little child like you.

All three of us love you still better than before if this is possible. Your look spoke volumes to us. If you were to hear Sister Marie of the Sacred Heart, I assure you she would astound you!... She does not hesitate to say that her beloved Father is mistaken.... But he was only the docile instrument of Jesus, so little Thérèse is not vexed with him! ...

Thank Aunt for her letter. If she knows that I have written you, tell her that we are deeply touched.

Mother Marie de Gonzague has wept, too, when reading your let­ter. Poor Mother, she knows nothing at all .. .see how discreet we are!

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