Barnabo, Alexander Cardinal Prefect, Rome,Italy, to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell, Cincinnati, Ohio, 1872 January 8

Barnabo acknowledges Purcell's letter of Dec. 10 and the draft for 10,984 francs which he hastened to carry to the Holy Father, together with the expressions of love and devotion contained in the letter. The Pope has commanded him to express his gratitude and to bestow upon Purcell and to all making this offering the Apostolic Benediction. In regard to the see of Fort Wayne, the statement of the condition of the diocese, especially as regards the finances seems very bad. He will do what he can to hasten the appointment of a bishop. As to the controversy between the pastor of Newark and the Sisters of Charity, and concerning FatherJohn Schiff, Barnabo has nothing further to add. Barnabo thanks Purcell for the information concerning the condition of the diocese and he would urge Purcell to have regular spiritual exercises at stated times as suggested in the decrees of the Second Plenary Council of Baltimore, Tit. X, Cap.II. Signed by John Simeoni as secretary. Number 1. :: II-5-e L.S. Latin 1p. 8vo.