Gastineau, C.S.C., Father, Rochester, New York, to Archbishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1854 April 5

He asks Blanc to forgive him, if not himself, at least the Congregation of Holy Cross to which he belongs, for such a sudden absence from his post. The reforms to be made, the shaky vocations, and especially the impossibility of making himself understood to all the students have driven him to this step. He does not think he fits there? especially since Father Francis Cointet, C.S.C. has replaced him advantageously. Assisted by Father Peter Salmon, C.S.C. and the Brothers of Holy Cross which Le Lac is to supply, the good will be done there. Gastineau has written to their Superior General. He will spend Holy Week in retreat with the Redemptorists at Rochester from where he will go to Notre Dame University to await Blanc's decision as well as that of the Superior General. Gastineau asks Blanc to make his excuses to the Administrators and to tell all the members of their Congregation at the Asylum that he is sorry to cause them trouble. :: VI-1-g A.L.S. French 3pp. 4to.