De Smet, S.J., Father Peter J., St. Louis, Missouri, to Archbishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1851 April 24

De Smet received Blanc's letter of the 12th; he returns thanks for allowing him to draw for the $1000 left by Father Peter Francis Beaupres, at his death, to the Indian missions . De Smet will re commend the donor to the prayers of all the converted Indians and all Indian missionaries. He has negotiated the draft with L.A. Benoist and Company of this city. Bishop John Baptist Miége, with Fathers J. Baltus and Paul Ponziglione and one or two brothers, will leave St. Louis toward the middle of next month. De Smet will have the happiness of introducing them among the Upper Indians of the Great Indian Territory. In the fall De Smet will proceed on a visit to their Oregon missions. He asks to be remembered to Father Rousselon. P.S. De Smet has written to Louisville and the bust of Bishop Benedict Joseph Flaget will shortly be sent to Blanc. Father John Anthony Elet, S.J. is very sick at present and recommends himself to Blanc's prayers. :: VI-1-a A.L.S. 1p. 4to.