Since my return from Europe, my health has not been very good, owing particularly to the excessive summer heat from which we have now just escaped. Should I feel strong enough before the end of this month I intend to make an endeavor to reach Fort Rice before the great cold sets in. With this object in view may I ask you the great favor to obtain from the general a letter or note to be used if necessary as a passport in the upper Missouri country. On former occasions the kind recommendations of the general have been of a great avail to me among the military gentlemen in the forts who were always very obliging in favoring and aiding my intercourse with the Catholic soldiers.
I have consulted General Parker, Commissioner of Indian Affairs, on my intended trip among the Sioux of the upper Missouri country. My views have been most favorably received by him and have met with his best approbation and good will.
Please present my best respects to our worthy and great general and recommend me to the pious remembrances of your dear children.
I have the honor to be, Madam, etc.
My2s health leaves much to be desired. The heat of July and August has been very oppressive and I continue to be under the influence of a general languor and feebleness. I have a more and more sincere and serious conviction that my end is near. Do not forget me in your good prayers.
I have just made a little test of my strength and have succeeded so well that I have hopes, Deo dante, of being able to accomplish my visit and mission to the Indians of the Upper Missouri. Upwards of 1o,ooo savages whom I visited
28 To Nephew Paul and Niece Augusta, Oct. 7, x869, in French.