At a distance, as when present, Reverend Father, I shall never cease to offer devout and heartfelt petitions for the success of an enterprise, to which it has pleased divine Providence to associate me from its commencement. It will always be allowable for me to do by prayers, what I cannot effect by my works.
" I am, etc.,
" N. POINT, S. J."
The project of going to these poor Indians has never been abandoned. Every returning spring they send pressing invitations to the Black-robes to come and establish themselves among them, in order to be taught the way of the Lord. During the current year, we have received invitations from the Blackfeet, the Crows, the Assiniboins, the. Sioux, Poncas, and Omahas, with many other tribes; the number of these Indians surpasses 7o,ooo. A great number of infants and adults have received baptism. The vast wilderness that they occupy boasts not a single priest at this moment! For fifteen years they have been begging for pastors!
Allow me, Reverend Father, to request the aid of your prayer and holy sacrifices, and deign to commend the poor Indians to the kind remembrance of the pious souls of your acquaintance, that the Lord may condescend to hear these unhappy men, and send good pastors into this widespread vineyard, so long neglected, but which promises such a glorious harvest.
In union with your devout petitions and holy sacrifices, I have the honor to be, with the most profound respect and highest esteem,
Your very devoted servant, etc.