L E T T E R S

533O why, O why did I keep silent so long when there were such importantmatters to communicate to you, M. Caesar? Unfortunately, I myself do notunderstand this incapacity of mine. May our dear Caesar have mercy! Let him notoppose the one means of curing it, as I see it, by my retreat from Paris and fromthe world to begin a penitential life. Only in this way will I ever become moreworthy to fulfill the hopes which your kind goodness and friendship for me haveplaced in me.M. Caesar, do not spare fervent sighs for me and prayers for perseverancein this plan, for the conception of which unworthy one pours out tears of gratitudeon the Fatherly bosom of the Lord of Mercy.One more essential matter. My departure from Paris will not, in the least,break up the unity that is necessary among all of us. From Rome, and from thebrothers in the depots, I continue to receive assurances of trust and obedience, soemphatic as to leave no doubt that all unanimously would accept whateverarrangement among us I would communicate to them at that time. I have theconviction and the hope that the realization of my project will not disturb, but willrather confirm and strengthen the bonds if our community in Christ the Lord.Next, I have not yet mentioned to M. Caesar that it is already EasterMonday, and I am still in Nevers! This letter will explain why I have stayed withMikulski. I waited and waited for permission because it was promised mostsolemnly.M. Ladislaus 622 even reported that it had already been issued and that itwould come any day. Meanwhile, just ten days ago the Minister’s reply came:request rejected! I wanted to leave immediately, but lacked the means 623 . And so,once again I waited for funds. Against my desire, but because it was absolutelynecessary, counting on the promises of M. Ladislaus, taking Mikulski with mewithout permission. Dear God! Again there will be trouble... I leave tomorrow.622 That is, Ladislaus Plater, Caesar’s brother.623 That is, he had no money.