O'Connell, sister Mary Xavier, Cork, Ireland, to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell, Cincinnati, Ohio, 1863 January 8

She begs Purcell's pardon but feels that the purpose of her writing will make her more easily pardoned. They wish to erect a new chapel because the present one is too small and is mouldering. They intended to build one before they commenced "The New Alms House" but they had to think of the poor aged women and get them comfortable first. They are trusting to His Mighty Arm but also hoping for the assistance of friends, including those across the Atlantic. Since Purcell is already a subscriber to their Alms House it would be trespassing on kindness to ask for a large donation, but the "Parent House of the Presentation Order" a benefit by the smallest offering, and they will ever remember him in their daily prayers. ` P.S. Mr. Kearney is well and happy in his new abode. :: II-5-b A.L.S. 3pp. 12mo.