Odin, Bishop John Mary, Galveston, Texas, to Archbishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1855 December 7

Odin returned to Galveston yesterday. Blanc's letter of October 14 came back by the same boat. He hopes to come to New Orleans for the council. He has thought of questions it would be useful to submit to the council but has found none not already settled is preceding councils. The division of the diocese of Galveston would be desirable because of the immensity of the state but he doubts that it would be practicable. There is no other important town in the state except San Antonio . If this was made a see, the Bishop of Galveston would hardly have any Catholics in his diocese. He will ask the Fathers of the Council to aid him on this point. Odin's health is perfectly restored. For two months he has travelled constantly, visiting the whole valley of the San Antonio river, that of Médina and several other points such as San Patricio, Corpus Christi, Victoria, and Halletsville. The Catholics are increasing especially the Germans but they are so scattered it is difficult to minister to them effectively. The missionaries have long trips to make under a burning sun. The schools seem to prosper in spite of opposition. Odin is very sad to learn of Blanc's losses, also that the Bishop of Natchez is dead. In 5 different stations, Odin had to visit each family to obtain subscriptions for building chapels. He will write more in a few days. :: VI-1-i A.L.S. French 3pp. 12mo.