Louis Fouet, Bro. Moïse, entered the Institute in 1834 at the age of 33; it appears that he was never able to adapt to community life (cf. LL. 48 and 53). After two years he left to try something else, and finally approached Fr. Mazelier, who asked Fr. Champagnat for information about his postulant. The Founder, far from criticizing him, showed himself to be very understanding. Perhaps, living alone, this man could lead a very good religious life. However, we do not find him on any list from St-Paul, either before or after the fusion, so he either was not accepted by Fr. Mazelier, or left shortly after his admission. The first hypothesis seems more likely.

Jesus, Mary, Joseph

Father Superior,

Louis Fouet, a carpenter from Sougraigne, a town in the department of the Aude, stayed in our house for two years. He has faith, piety, and zeal, and he can direct a school. I believe he is solid as far as concerns morals and good conduct.

You send your brothers out singly. He will be able to find peace that way, but I doubt he can get along with anyone else. I do not think you are taking any risks by accepting him, nor that you should feel obliged to reject him.

I have still not been able to conclude my business in Paris, even though I stayed there six months. We are very hard put to save our brothers who are affected by the recruiting laws. We will really need you to come to our help again this year. We will not lose any time in sending you a few, once we hear from you. I do not think you are running any risk; I asked about that in Paris.

Brother Apollinaire is not at all entirely recovered, and Brother Justin has died; Brother Marie-Joseph is still slightly insane. As for Brother Cyprien , he has finally been authorized and officially installed in Semur, in the department of Saône and Loire.

I have to go to Grasse ; I would very much appreciate a chance to see you. If in the meantime you still have to travel to Lyons, do not fail to come spend a few days in our solitude.

Please believe, Fr. Superior, that I am always your most grateful and most devoted and respectful servant,

Champagnat
sup.

N.D. de lHermitage, 16th July 1838

Edition: Translation from: Lettres de Marcellin J. B. Champagnat (1789-1840) Fondateur de l?Institut des Frères Maristes, présentés par Frère Paul Sester,1985.

fonte: Daprès lexpédition, AFM, 112.10