Mènard, Father Charles M., Thibodaux, Louisiana, to Archbishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1856 April 30

Mènard has just learned from the Carmelite Sister of the misunderstanding about the collection or subscription about which Mènard had time for only a few words in his letter. He regrets that Mother Ste. Théèse Chevrel, O.M.C had given the Sister a mission whose significance she did not know, Mènard is not surprised at Blanc's observations; Mènard would have been the first to make them if it had been represented for what it was — an asylum for orphans. The convent of Mount Carmel is prospering at Thibodaux. In spite of the competition of a boarding school established long ago and the outrageous efforts of the Protestants, they have, after 6 months of existence, 45 students. A certain amount of new students are promised for the next session October 1. The present buildings are large enough for the present personnel and students. Not to be able to enlarge them would mean to refuse pupils. Mènard suggested that a collection or subscription could have good results. To make the collection of greater interest he suggested the reception of orphans. The Sisters already have four who are of great help in return for their education. Mènard thought that the more pupils they had, the more orphans they could take. The mention of orphans is only a small part of the strategy for the goal in question. Mènard would be happy to have a few lines of approval from Blanc. They are looking forward to his visit. :: VI-1-j A.L.S. French 3pp. 12mo.