Brunner, C.PP.S. Father Francis de Sales, Feldkirk, Vorarlberg, Austria, to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell, of Cincinnati, Ohio, 1859 November 21

Father Brunner excuses himself for his neglect in not writing to Purcell, insisting that he has prayed for him constantly. He has asked to be relieved of his superiorship of the Precious Blood Fathers, but was refused They have given him permission to send in his place to America for a visitation Father Maximilian Homburger who has been his companion in his travels. He has drawn up in Rome statutes for their priests in America and has proposed a congress where these can be examined and accepted. Father Homburger will place a copy of these statutes before the Archbishop and he is asked to examine them and make suggestions especially as regards the houses of the community in the archdiocese. Henceforth all members of the society will have to observe these rules and those who do not so wish to do so must leave the community, and submit to their Bishops where they can better work in the Lord's vineyard. Father Anthony Meyer and Father Xavier Obermuller of their own will wish to leave the community and this does not displease Brunner. So also Father Augustus Berger . However they cannot make any claim for material goods on the congregation. If there are other fathers whom Purcell thinks should be sent away, he is to tell this to Father Homburger. As to the rest Father Homburger will tell Purcell orally. His health is a little better. The Foundation of the Sisters of the Precious Blood progresses and he hopes to establish other houses in Austria. He wishes Purcell a happy new year for the coming year and for years to come. Note on back by Purcell 7 weeks before his death.. :: II-4-o A.L.S. Latin 3pp. 8vo.