What a reason the Company has for observing its Rules faithfully: to do what the Son of God came into the world to do! That there should be a Company, and that it should be the Company of the Mission, composed of poor men, and that it should be entirely dedicated to that purpose, going here and there through hamlets and villages, leaving the towns behind-something that's never been done-and going to announce the Gospel only to persons who are poor; yet, those are our Rules!

. . . [R]estlessness usually stems from pride and from being discontented with one's lot in life.

Without [firmness] I see the majority of Communities that are lax reach that state because of the excessive leniency of Superiors. So, be firm, Monsieur.

[I]t is His good pleasure that we remain always in the holy joy of His love.

You should not open your mouth except to express gratitude for benefits you have received, and never to mention your discontent.

I have never made any distinction between those who have taken vows and those who have not; some should not be overburdened in order to spare others.

You must moderate yourself according to your strength. When you have done all that you can to see that no Christian is perverted, you must find your consolation in Our Lord, who could prevent this misfortune and who is not doing so.