Mathieu, Cesare Cardinal Archbishop of Besancon, Besancon, France, to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell, Cincinnati, Ohio, 1872 January 26

Mathieu has received with respect and emotion Purcell's letter in which he painted with vivid colors the desolation of two French congregations in his diocese. He wishes with all his heart that he could relieve them, but he has no ecclesiastics that he could send. The type of man needed is as difficult to find with them as with Purcell. He will do what he can and will share with Purcell what he finds; and he will give freedom to any of his clergy who wish to devote themselves to this work. :: II-5-e L.S. French 1p. 8vo.