Note 331 — SELECTIONS FROM VARIOUS LETTERS.[331]

These selections from letters necessarily omitted in our plan, comprise nearly, if not quite all, that is of literary or moral value in the whole series. We are thus able to give a more distinct impression of Madame de Sévigné’s character as a mother and a Christian. Besides the many amusing anecdotes here collected, her sentiments on important duties of life are of much value; and her religious feelings are deserving distinct recognition. It will be seen that she studied her Bible, and strove to follow its divine teachings; like Fénelon, though nominally a Romanist, or rather Jansenist, she had in her heart and mind protested against the corruptions of that Church. Her clear insight, just principles, and heart-piety are remarkably displayed in these extracts.