Chapter X
Of The Miracles That Our Lord Produced By Means Of Catharine On Things Inanimate.
Supreme Justice wills that all things obey those who are perfectly obedient to God. Catherine obeyed her Creator faithfully, and all creatures in return fulfilled her commands. At the period in which our Saint lived in Sienna, and previous to my acquaintance with her, there was a young widow, Alessia by name, who indulged such an affection to Catherine that life was unpleasant when deprived of her society. She was anxious to be clothed with the holy livery which Catherine wore, and deserted her own house to occupy one near Catherine's, and thus be able to commune with her more frequently: hence our Blessed Catherine neglected somewhat the paternal roof, often tarrying with Alessia several days, and sometimes weeks and entire months. One year grain was scarce; many inhabitants had purchased wheat that was spoiled by humidity and it being impossible to find any other for any price, Alessia was forced to do the same. At the approach of harvest, before their provision of flour was exhausted,new and excellent grain was brought to the market: and hence Alessia intended throwing away the remains of the bad flour, and make bread of the new wheat just purchased, and mentioned her intention to Catherine. The latter said, " Why throw away what God has given for man's sustenance ? if you do not like to eat of that bread distribute it to the poor who
