Mudd, S.C., Sister Mary Austin, Donaldsonville, Louisiana, to Bishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1850 May 13

Sister Angelica, S.C. is not well. Austin has sent her down to be seen by Dr. Wederstrandt Wedderstrandt; it seems like a disposition to dropsy. She will return on Saturday. She is a very useful, edifying Sister. Austin begs through Blanc of Father Mariano Maller, C.M. : as a regular noviciate of the Sisters of Charity, cannot a regular officiating priest be granted to it? She craves the privilege of Mass every morning. She is sure the Congregation would not support a priest for their convenience but could they not contribute to it themselves She asks also for regular conferences. They esteem their Confessor, wise and discreet; they would not have him changed. Mr. Bonnecase of Baton Rouge sent a formula of the order for drawing the money appropriated by the Legislature for the Sisters at Donaldsonville. The 500 for the hospital he does not mention he offered to draw the $1000 for them. Austin endorsed the order. They have 7 little orphans; 80 pupils at the day school; all straight as yet with the directors. :: V-5-m A.L.S. 3pp. 4to.