Odin, Bishop John Mary, Galveston, Texas, to Bishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1842 September 14

Odin received Blanc's letter of August 25. Blanc's troubles afflict Odin greatly. Who would ever have believed that the trustees would push their insolence so far? No doubt the excellent choice Blanc has made to fill the important post of his cathedral is displeasing to the devil. Odin had a bilious fever for ten days but feels his strength returning every day. The jubilee has produced some fruit at Galveston; however there are many Catholics especially among the French, Italian, and Spanish who are still indifferent. In two or three weeks Odin will give a little retreat at Houston and along the Brazos. After the sickness season, Odin thinks he will ask Father John Timon to send him one or two priests. It is impossible for him to take care of the spiritual needs of this part of the country. There are a number of Catholics along the Trinity and Neches whom he has not yet visited. Last Friday a thief took 18 or 20 piastres and some linens from his dresser; he is without a dime. The continual rains for two months make them fear the yellow fever. :: V-4-m A.L.S. French 3pp. 4to.