Lévèque, R.S.C. Madame Louisa, Grand Coteau, Louisiana, to Father Stephen Rousselon, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1854 December 4

They would have written the news of the death of Madame Maria Cutts, R.S.C.J. but were convinced that the letter addressed to the Archbishop would be given to Rousselon. They are sure that he has offered prayers for Cutts who was so devoted to him. Two novices, one destined to become a teacher, the other to be a domestic, are to be admitted to first vows. Rousselon is to appoint a priest to examine them. They have just learned that Bishop Auguste Marie Martin left Havre October 15 and that he is bringing for his diocese, four Religious of the Sacred Hearth. It would be prudent to leave them at St. Michael for some time as the yellow fever is still at Natchitoches. They lost one of their best teachers there and they know that the Buard family has had several victims. Rousselon is to warm Martin of their fears; perhaps they will be nil by the time he arrives. They have just asked Mr. Elder to give Rousselon $50 for the Propagation of the Faith. All their pupils have not yet returned; they have only 73. :: VI-1-h A.L.S. French 3pp. 4to.