loved Sister in Christ,
Abelard, her Brother in Him:_

If, since we resigned the world I have not written to you, it was
because of the high opinion I have ever entertained of your wisdom and
prudence. How could I think that she stood in need of help on whom
Heaven had showered its best gifts? You were able, I knew, by example as
by word, to instruct the ignorant, to comfort the timid, to kindle
the lukewarm.

When prioress of Argenteuil, you practiced all these duties; and if you
give the same attention to your daughters that you then gave to your
sisters, it is enough. All my exhortations would be needless. But if, in
your humility, you think otherwise, and if my words can avail you
anything, tell me on what subjects you would have me write, and as God
shall direct me I will instruct you. I thank God that the constant
dangers to which I am exposed rouse your sympathies. Thus I may hope,
under the divine protection of your prayers, to see Satan bruised
under my feet.

Therefore I hasten to send you the form of prayer you beseech of
me--you, my sister, once dear to me in the world, but now far dearer in
Christ. Offer to God a constant sacrifice of prayer. Urge him to pardon
our great and manifold sins, and to avert the dangers which threaten me.
We know how powerful before God and his saints are the prayers of the
faithful, but chiefly of faithful women for their friends, and of wives
for their husbands. The Apostle admonishes us to pray without
ceasing.... But I will not insist on the supplications of your
sisterhood, day and night devoted to the service of their Maker; to you
only do I turn. I well know how powerful your intercession may be. I
pray you, exert it in this my need. In your prayers, then, ever remember
him who, in a special sense, is yours. Urge your entreaties, for it is
just that you should be heard. An equitable judge cannot refuse it.

In former days, you remember, best beloved, how fervently you
recommended me to the care of Providence. Often in the day you uttered a
special petition. Removed now from the Paraclete, and surrounded by
perils, how much greater my need! Convince me of the sincerity of your
regard, I entreat, I implore you.

[The Prayer:] "O God, who by Thy servant didst here assemble Thy
handmaids in Thy Holy Name, grant, we beseech Thee, that he be protected
from all adversity, and be restored safe to us, Thy handmaids."

If Heaven permit my enemies to destroy me, or if