Eyre Spunner - response from Glenstal

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2023-06-16/694 7.2.34 Dear Friend, Your perseverant desire to serve God under the Rule of S. Benedict, and the good testimonies of those who know you, incline to give you a favourable answer. However, there remain two points, which require prudent consideration: 1o The tendency you confessed so frankly and generally. You are quite aware that it affords special danger. We are not, as the monks of old, so enclosed, as to befree from all contact with the world, and a monk can be tempted out, and even in the monastery. You must then thrown yourself in the hands of God, and undertaken with courage a real struggle. 2o The standard life of the clergy - both secular enclosed in England is a very high, as you have already experienced in seminaries and colleges - and it must be said the same of most of them in Ireland. Monastic life in our country would be ruled or different lines; and, of course, Glenstal, in its beginning, will offer you simpler and stricter life, which perhaps will deceive and rebuke you. The best would be if you could drop here for a few days, and see - veri et vide. If it is impossible, we could have an appointment in Dublin, where I must spend a few days, at the end of the month. Be confident in prayer - and be certain that I am considering your case with the greatest sympathy