Odin, Bishop John Mary, Galveston, Texas, to Bishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1842 May 22

There is nothing new in Texas affairs since Odin's last letter except a rumor that 1200 Mexican's are approaching San Antonio. It is believed to be a false report. He has also just been told that Mr. McMullen, one of their best Catholics of that town has been massacred with his wife and six orphans. He hopes this is also false. They are continuing preparations for an expedition against Mexico but when it will take place they do not know. Misery is at its peak especially in the West. Odin has just bought a dwelling at Galveston, a house with four small rooms. On the back of the lot there is a large house which Odin is going to turn into a school. Next week his sacristan will have charge of the children; he has already taught there with much success. This property cost $1200 and with it he got chairs, tables, etc. He still sleeps at Michael B.? Menard's; his means do not allow him to hire a servant and maintain a house. He discovers new Catholics every day and hopes that little by little they will begin to fulfill their religious duties. Today their little church could not hold all those who wished to assist at Mass. He is having a small sacristy built. He thinks he will limit himself to visiting Houston and Galveston. The number of Catholics in these two towns is considerable. The church at Houston is enclosed and they say he can say Mass there in a few weeks. He sends greetings to Father Rousselon and others at the bishopric. :: V-4-m A.L.S. French 3pp. 4to.