When I did leave you at Roulers last thursday[1] I said that I had the firm hope to see you again in another land and to work to his conversion; and now, sir, all those hopes are vanished and it is almost impossible for me to arrive there. It is not that my desire[2] is less than when I talked with you no, Sir, but my parents make such difficulties that it would be impossible to conquer them if I did not leave off talking about going to the other land I mentioned. The firstp2day they did not speak much and seemed very severe, but yesterday my mother spoke to me and seemed very resigned but said that never my father should give me leave. Some minutes after my father entered and asked me drily if I still continued in that idea. When I answered him yes, he said half vexed that he would put an obstacle to it and that I should not go back to the college but stay home and work if I do not promise him that I shall remain in Flanders till his death. At first I did not answer but considering that, as I hope, my vocation is before all to be a priest, I answered that I shall go to Roulers for p3the examination and that if he does not give me permission I shall become a priest here. Now, Sir, you see which is my position, I want counsel and I do not know what I have to do. Therefore I come to you knowing to find a good counseller and a friend Do not think Sir, that I am changed, because my desire is greater than ever and I hope that it once be realized. To morrow I will be at Roulers and I think that I shall not be home the whole week, perhaps I will see you at Bruges at the end of the week.