“I tell you these things dear Mamma, not that they may go further or that by mentioning them to other priests we may give the cause to think ill of some here, but simply to ease your mind as my own loved mother. It is in the sacred cause of duty that I am now suffering, and as I certainly have done nothing to deserve to be so favoured, I must at least try not to abuse God’s love by speaking ill of or making known the faults of his servants. Remember that even good and holy servants of God have been used by the same good God as instruments in proving and trying the strength and fidelity of many workers in his Church. We look upon our Bishop and a few of the priests as merely such instruments, and I am sure that some at least of them must feel great pain at what they are doing. It is far harder to have to think ill of others that to be the one thought ill of.”

“My movements are well watched, but as I have frequently to change my style of dress, the most absurd stories as to where I am living have gone about. Indeed the Sisters were on one occasion told by several that Sister Mary was dead and actually buried the previous Sunday. If it were known that I went near the convent, the Bishop would be terribly incensed and very likely order the Sacraments to be refused to all within it… I am quite certain that he will yet find that some things have been misrepresented to him.”

I am exceedingly grateful O Lord,
for you have heard my cries and complaints,
And you responded with mercy and strength.
Now my life is overflowing with thanksgiving,
and my mouth is filled with your praises…
You have not shielded me from the pains of trouble
or the ravages of conflict,
But you have kept me even amid sorrow and suffering.
You take my side against the enemies of my soul,
And you will not allow them to destroy me.
This I know that you will fulfill your purpose for my life.
Your love and mercy are everlasting;
You will never let me go.