Until such time as the extension of the work shall enable us to collect the necessary funds for the foundation and maintenance of these establishments, we would humbly request the bishops to admit into their large and small seminaries the young Poles who show signs of an ecclesiastical vocation. If, after preparatory studies, they could not all return to their mother country, their aid would be valuable for the conversion of different nations of the East.
As it is probable that this association of prayers and of alms will not be of long duration, the annual subscription is fixed at a minimum of 5 fr. Many of the faithful no doubt will not be satisfied with so small a contribution. Others, on the contrary, may group together to form it.
We would also request their Lordships the Bishops to be kind enough to appoint in each of their dioceses a member of their clergy who would have the charge of centralising the work and making it known, and who would enjoy the spiritual favours of the Sovereign Pontiff, who has ever been the protector and father of Poland. To every Catholic, to whatever country he may belong, this work is a question of honour, a protestation of the civilised world against barbarity.
Out of France we firmly hope our work will meet with deep sympathy, similar associations will be formed, and regular communications established between them.
May the blessed Virgin, Patroness of Poland, bless and second our efforts.
All communications and donations intended for the "Work of Catholicism in Poland" to be addressed to the Rev. Father Perraud, Priest of the Oratory, Director General of the Work, 44 Rue du Regard, Paris.
French and foreign newspapers favourable to Poland are requested to publish this act of foundation of the "Work of Catholicism in Poland".
Letter to the Archbishop of Dublin from the Director-General of the Association.
"Paris, 20th December, 1864,
"My Lord Archbishop,