his office for which he has all the requisite qualities, and in a religious view he exercises great influence on the minds oŁ the Indians.
The Yakima Indians in Washington Territory have had an established Catholic mission for a number of years, and many of the Indians are members of the Church and desire the re-establishment of their old mission, and to receive the consolation of their religion and the instructions of the former teachers, the priests. I am informed that the actual agent, Wilbur, forbids the Catholic missionary " to set his foot on the Yakima reservation."
The Spokan Indians have been visited by our missionaries for a great number of years and are nearly all practical members of religion. It is most desirable for the welfare of these Indians that an agent in full harmony and sympathy with their missionaries might be appointed.
With sentiments of the highest esteem and respect, etc.
St. Louis University, Feb. 11, 1871.
Reverend Dear Father D'Aste:
I received your kind favor of the loth ultimo. I remember the circumstances you allude to in your letter, " of making a show in an Indian dress in one of my visits to Paris " - a providential mark, as you express it, " of your future destiny; the evangelizing the poor Indians." I am much obliged to your Reverence for the news you give me concerning the Flatheads and the good and, dear Fathers at the mission. I am very sensible to the kind remembrance you sent me in their name and daily pray that the Lord may prosper your holy undertaking for the welfare of the In
dians. Please remember me to all and beg their prayers in my favor.
I have been called to Washington by the Secretary of the Interior where a great council has been held on Indian af-