Coste, Father J., New Orleans, Louisiana, to Archbishop John Mary Odin, C.M., New Orleans, Louisiana, 1866 January 4

He submits his plan for schools for poor children. The aim would be to instruct the poorest to bring about the end of the schism afflicting Catholics. The means would be the building of a church and several schools. The boys' school would be run by religious; the girls' by the Sisters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul. A certain number of devoted people would obtain land in the district chosen by the Archbishop. Odin may want to join with General Baird, head of the Freedmen's Bureau here, which has the same purpose but has the Protestant element. The children would give 25 cents a month; an association would be formed to pay for those who could not. Many white Catholics wish to join. To avoid delays of building, a sufficient nuber of houses could be rented. :: VI-2-k A.L.S. French 3pp. 4to.