Mount Melleray Dec. 22, 1864	Names
Dear Mother,	Catharine Nolan Coogan
I received your letter of the 19th which gave me great pleasure to hear you are all well and in good health such as I enjoy at present, thanks be to God.
I was greatly delighted at the kind generosity of your neighbors in sending us their kind donations, which will with the cooperation of their good faith draw down blessings from Heaven on them. I was happy at hearing from Mr. and Mrs. Walsh and return them thanks for their kindness. Tell them they will be prayed for every day whilst they live and after their death may God protect and save them.	Ballyloughan residents Mr. & Mrs. Walsh
My dear mother, I heard from Mathew some short time ago. He seems to be well. He asked my advice with regard to Denis going to him, but I did not advise him to bring him for some time longer. Let you all pray for him and for them both for the best  that God's will may be done. I wrote to him since and told him just as I have said. I send you this Agnus Dei in order that you may send it to him on the first occasion which I hope will protect him from harm. On Christmas day you will offer your Communions for a particular intention and I hope you will spend that Glorious Festival in a manner pleasing to God. Prayers will be offered for all.	Matt Coogan in NYC Denis Coogan
I am very well and happy thanks be to God. I now conclude by remaining your loving son, and wishing you all a happy Christmas.
Brother Declan Coogan God bless you all.	Michael Coogan
1/2 Note received No. 25421 Ireland All the Carlow brothers is well.