If the letter to the archbishop of Aix (L. 241) left room for hope, this one on the contrary offers none at all, and the question of sending brothers to Cosne was never raised again.

Father,

It would be impossible at present for us to supply you with brothers, and to give you a precise time on which you might be able to rely. It is very painful for us to find ourselves obliged to put off the too numerous requests from zealous pastors who honor us with their trust.

Accept the assurance of the respectful devotedness with which I have the honor to be, etc….

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 la minute, AFM, RCLA 1, p. 122, nº 142