[1] The allusion is to the scruples from which Marie suffered. Having read this letter—which is a strong plea for Frequent Communion—Pope Pius X declared it "most opportune." Thérèse was but fifteen when she wrote it. [Ed.]
[2] 2 Cor. 11:5.
[3] St. Augustine.
_____________________________
LETTER TO HER COUSIN, JEANNE GUÉRIN (MADAME LA NÉELE)
August, 1895.
It is a very great sacrifice that God has asked of you, my dear Jeanne, in calling your little Marie to the Carmel; but remember that He has promised a hundredfold to anyone who for His Love hath left father or mother or sister.[1] Now, for love of Jesus, you have not hesitated to part with a sister dearer to you than words can say, and therefore He is bound to keep His promise. I know that these words are generally applied to those who enter the religious life, but my heart tells me they were spoken, too, for those whose generosity is such that they will sacrifice to God even the loved ones they hold dearer than life itself. _____________________________
[1] Mark 10:30.
_____________________________