Lefranc, Father J.M., Havana, Cuba, to Archbishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1858 March 23

Lefranc is much better. His doctor has invited him for dinner twice in 10 days. Lefranc said Mass at the Jesuits' on the 19th for his doctor's intention and last Sunday at the convent of the Sisters of Ste. Clare for Blanc and his friends at New Orleans. Since Lefranc's last letter an ulcer had formed and he could not get up or sit down without help. The doctor burned if off with lunar caustic. About a month ago, a Father Jean Jacques Malavergne arrived, saying he was from New Orleans to establish a school for the French children. Lefranc did not see him; the French consul told Lefranc about it. For two months Bishop Michael O'Connor of Pittsburg was here; he brought some Religious of the Sacred Heart who are going to open a boarding school in Havana. Blanc will have heard of the danger O'Connor had in returning to America and how he escaped from shipwreck by a sort of miracle. L'Abbe Costs, Lefranc's "prison" companion, sends his respects. Lefranc hopes to see Blanc soon after Easter. :: VI-1-n A.L.S. French 2pp. 4to.