Brummer, Father John F., Rome, Italy, to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell, of Cincinnati, Ohio, 1874 June 18

Purcell's letter of May 27 was received with much pleasure, but the news contained in it of Brummer's uncle's death stunned him. He had heard nothing about it from home. One of the priests who came in the pilgrimage was asked to notify him of the death, but failed to do so. He hopes his Mother will not take the loss too severely. The Pilgrims arrived a week ago last Monday. The next day they were received by the Pope, visited the basilica of St. Peters, and the next day the remaining 6 churches. That evening they had a reception at the American College, at which Cardinal Franchi was present, with Msgrs. Merode, Howard, Stonor, and others. Thursday, Father Silas M. Chatard gave them a dinner. That evening the Society of Catholic Interests gave them a reception at Cardinal Borromeo's. That day they had attended the Pope's private Mass and received Communion from His hands. Last Sunday they attended Mass in the lately discovered church of Sts. Norei et Achilleis, after which they went to a breakfast given by Merode. After that the Archcologist De Rossi took them through a part of the catacombs. They had a magnificent reception and were treated kindly everywhere. They were all enthusiastic over their coming. Bishop Joseph Dwenger of Fort Wayne spoke to them and gave them the letter Purcell sent. Dwenger is not staying at the College, but at the house of the Fathers of the Precious Blood. He thanks Purcell for his congratulations on his ordination. It was an honor to have been ordained on the anniversary of Purcell, whose footsteps he shall always endeavor to follow. He hopes Purcell will not object to his traveling a short while in Europe before coming home the end of August. Mr. Moeller sends his love. :: II-5-f A.L.S. 4pp. 12mo.