When the English Seminar was established at Bruges, I have often repeated that it was a great mistake to get over from England boys who have already studied as far as philosophy in some English college, as it is litterally impossible that these youths could ever shape themselves according to the ecclesiastical education which is given in the Belgian Seminaries. Yet, on the other hand, it is desirable to have constantly a number of English seminarists, to afford an opportuniy to the Belgian seminarists of learning English etc. Hence, the necessity of an English petit seminaire[2] such as you are about to be engaged in.p2There is a youth here who would do remarkably well for this your petit-seminaire, pious, exemplary, endowed. I fancy, well a very fair share of talents. Unfortunately he cannot pay the full pension, which you will require. He has saved up a little money & could pay, say £ 12 a year, besides his clothes.

1o Do you think that he could be admitted for this at your English branch, of the College of St Louis?

2o Would Mr Algar be still willing to devote a little time out of charity for this youth. He is 20 years of age, & could not therefore go through all the classes. a little pushing on would probably fit him after two or three years to enter into philosophy.p3Will you have the kindness to get me the requisite information on those two points, as soon as you can. As I would like to send him off at once to you, if all were right.