Gillespie, C.S.C., Sr. M. Angela and others, St. Mary's, Notre Dame, Indiana, to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell of, Cincinnati, Ohio, 1863 January 24

They have received an intimation from the Superior General Father Basil Moreau, C.S.C. that if the Sisters obtain permission from the Holy See to alter the present condition of things, that he will withdraw from Father Edward Sorin, C.S.C. not only all authority over the Sisters but also over the priests and brothers. This would please Sorin but his priests and brothers would consider his removal unfortunate. It seems also that Father Charles Moreau, C.S.C., the late Visitor, has obtained Apostolic letters to return and arrange matters accordingly. The Sisters had relied upon obtaining a Visitor outside the society, perhaps even an American prelate. Purcell himself thought they would not give the letter to an interested person. To remain as they now are would be a check on the development of the society. They ask Purcell to write again to the Holy See in their behalf. :: II-5-b A.L.S. 5pp. 12mo.