d'Asti, O.S.F., Father Augustine, Houston, Texas, to Archbishop John Mary Odin, C.M., New Orleans, Louisiana, 1861 October 8

The Franciscans are doing pretty well with their mission. They opened a new school for girls and put it under the charge of Miss Mary B. Browne, once a Sister in San Antonio, and of Mrs. _____ Cunningham; notwithstanding the hard times the school is doing well. In the first month they had 60 scholars and new applications are made almost daily. Mr. Cunningham having enlisted in the Confederate Army, they gave the old school house to the said teachers after fixing it at the expense of about $250 partly advanced by Miss Browne. On St. Francis' day they moved into the new house. They feel the pressure of the hard times. However, Mr. _____ Kennedy to whom they are principally indebted seems satisfied for what they have done. Father Felix de Connobio, O.F.M. was appointed provisory chaplain of a part of the army of Texas but need not leave Houston. :: VI-2-e A.L.S. 2pp. 12mo.