you can see steam and sulphurous flames escaping from the bosom of the earth. I learned from a traveler who has been all over this region for a number of years, that subterranean noises are often heard, resembling those of volcanic districts.
Very kind Mother: (3)
I received your letter of March 13th, with all your good news of Termonde, even that Charles Geyzel is made Vicar. Doubtless he will be a good vicar. All your com munications give me great pleasure and consolation. I do not forget my native place. Continue, therefore, to send me very frequently the most minute details. All that a Termontois can learn of that point of the globe, even when he finds himself in an American desert, 2,000 miles away, amid Indians and wild beasts, is always charming to him. Indeed, the reception of your letter was a holiday for me.
What shall I say to you, Mother, on all that you write me of the present state of your house, and of the good Marolles whom the Lord destines to take care of so many poor and miserable, under the direction of your worthy director? Ah! I assure you, I bless God for it, in the sincerity of my heart. If he deigns to hear me, he will keep you all, your orphan boys and girls, your old men and
your children, beneath his powerful and holy grace. It is my ardent and daily prayer before the altar.
I thank you all, teachers and pupils, that you do not forget me, above all, in your prayers. I hope you will continue to implore the Blessed Virgin to protect our poor
(3) Written to the Superior of the Orphanage of Termonde. Sent by her in December, 1856, to the editor of the Precis Historiques, Brussels, at the latter's request and with Father De Smet's permission, and published as letter XXVIII of the Cinquante Nouvelles Letters, XXV of the Western Missions and Missionaries. Dated Potawatomi Nation, St. Joseph (Mission), July, 1838. The date should be 1839.