Letters487 Letter CDLXXXVII. To G. . . . of Stopho [Staufen].

Bernard, called Abbot of Clairvaux, to his dear son in Christ, G. of Stopho, health and the assurance of his prayers.

Our very dear son, and your brother, Henry, has turned aside to us, and by my advice, has not laid aside the purpose which he had determined upon, of (taking) the sign of salvation. But far better than this: for as he was made poor for the sake of Christ who was poor, he has taken up his abode in the house of the poor of Christ, and under the habit of a religious. This ought not to seem to you either grievous or calamitous, because he [Dom Gerbert. Iter Alemanicum, 1765, 8°. p. 216. (Migne Tome clxxxii. Col. 654)].

as Mary did, has chosen the better part, which shall not be taken away from him; and has put on the garb of one making pilgrimage to Jerusalem; not that which slew the prophets, but that which is their common portion. Be consoled therefore with these words, and remember the last words which passed between you upon this subject. And thus I give thanks with him for all things, as also by us and by himself are given; and may you attain mercy from God. Farewell, always beloved.