On the other hand, dearest daughter, you must leave yourself wholly in the hands of God, so that your dear soul and the souls of those you guide, may be, as far as you can make them, independent of all that is not God; aiming straight and with such singleness of purpose that friendships, looks, words may never be wasted in frivolous amusement with creatures. By walking in the perfect way of exact observance of the rules of the Institute, all impediments are left behind on the road and not given a thought; for in all things the eye of God only, that is, His divine good pleasure, is considered. This is a road without bypaths, daughter, but it is solid, short, simple, and safe, and by it the soul quickly attains to a rare union with God which is her end. Let us then faithfully pursue this way. Truly it cuts short multiplicity and leads us to that unity which is the one thing necessary. I know that you are attracted to this happiness. Give yourself up to it, then, and you will repose quite at your ease in the bosom of divine Providence; for souls who cast aside every aim and end but that of pleasing God are bound to dwell in peace in this tabernacle. Abraham (I do love this patriarch) left his country and his family to obey God, but, my daughter dearest, the only Son of God accomplished the will of His heavenly Father by remaining in the country of his birth and working there.[A] Be satisfied, then, to imitate the Saviour, for no perfection can equal His. And do not look elsewhere, but apply yourself with diligence to do lovingly and cheerfully the works that Providence and obedience put into your hands. The chief exercises of the novitiate are mortification and prayer. I have said enough, and perhaps too much, to one whom God Himself enlightens and directs. I pray His Goodness to bring your spirit to the perfection of His most pure love. Your soul is endeared to me more than I can tell you. Rest assured of this and pray for her who is wholly yours in Our Lord. God be praised! FOOTNOTE: [A] Sister Anne Catherine de Sautereau was a native of Grenoble. LXII. _To Mother Anne Catherine de Beaumont, Superior of the First Monastery of Paris._ Vive [+] Jésus! ANNECY, _Jan. 6, 1626._