July 2 (c. 1638)

Monsieur,

They have come to tell me that the plague¹ has broken out in the house where our sisters of the H6tel-Dieu are living. I beg you to tell me if I should withdraw them or, if I leave them, whether I should tell the Ladies not to go there and whether we ourselves, that is, the sisters of this house² should go. Do you think there is any danger in taking them jellies for the Hotel-Dieu?

You have forgotten me and the need which I told you I had to discuss with you. I do not know what the Lord is telling me in that, but I hope that your Charity will let me know because I am, Monsieur, your very humble daughter and most grateful servant.

P.S. I am not speaking to you about what I had done so badly for the sisters. I shall wait to hear what it pleases your Charity to tell me to do.

1. The plague epidemic in Paris.
2. The Motherhouse at La Chapelle.