Augagneur, Father Sebastian, Nacogdoches, Texas, to Archbishop John Mary Odin, C.M., New Orleans, Louisiana, 1861 June 5

While at Dallas a Galveston Journal apprized him that Odin had been transferred to New Orleans. Upon his return to Nacogdoches, Father John Claude Neraz read him part of Odin's letter. Having been ordained by him, they especially regret his loss. His Texas missionaries considered him more as a Father than a superior, and their love for him had become proverbial not only in the neighboring dioceses but also in all of Europe. At first, he considered begging Odin to allow him to follow him, but a little reflection convinced him that Texas has suffered a great enough shock already. Odin's benevolent offer to continue to assist them in their poor mission greatly encourages them. Neraz is too tired to write and therefore this letter expresses the sentiments of both of them. He has been back from Dallas only three days after a trip of six weeks. He found a few more Catholics and he gave 20 or 25 communions, including several first communions administered with the greatest solemnity. Many Protestants were also present. While he was at Dallas some Catholics made a subscription of $200 to buy some land, now that prices are cheap, in order to build a church. He wonders how the title should read and if they must wait for the appointment of a new bishop. The Dallas Catholics desire a priest of their own, and he believes that they are ready to have one. There are many well-disposed Protestants who would take instructions if they had the opportunity. At Nacogdoches, they have been very successful this year - nearly 50 Easter Communions. At the moment there is much sickness in the mission. :: VI-2-d A.L.S. French 8pp. 12mo.