His father never sent him any money, but occasionally wrote to him. In his last letter he says, wistfully: "We are both getting on in years; your mother is, moreover, broken by ill health.... There is no time to lose if you wish to see us once more. Besides, your presence here is necessary, in spite of your deed relinquishing all claim to my fortune; for unless the precise legal formalities are observed, the inheritance may be lost to Mimi likewise, and go to the next of kin." But it was impossible for Gallitzin to leave. Not only was he absolutely essential to the life and social well-being of his model little colony, but it would have meant much spiritual loss as well; and the brave priest decided to remain at his post. Not without sacrifice, however,--heroic sacrifice. In 1803 he wrote to his mother that he had been hoping to find a substitute so as to be able to go to Europe; he had always feared this might be impossible, but of late years his work had increased to such a degree that he began to doubt whether he should ever see Münster and his dear mother again. "I dare not," he writes, "trust myself to think about it; for when I do my heart trembles, and I feel as if I positively _must_ see you once more.... But God knows what is best under the circumstances and most conducive to His honor.... The number of priests here seems to decrease, while the number of Catholics goes on increasing. I know you are perfectly resigned to the will of God under all circumstances--indeed far more so than I am,--and that your one real desire is to meet me safe in the bosom of our Heavenly Father when the gates of death are passed." In March, 1803, Gallitzin's father died, leaving no will. The Princess hoped against hope to secure something for Demetrius, and once more asked him to return, if it were at all possible. He thereupon visited Bishop Carroll, and laid the whole state of the case simply before him, ready to abide by his decision. His Lordship came to the conclusion he ought not to leave; and Gallitzin returned to his beloved flock once more, never to leave them again even for so short an absence. That his noble mother understood and approved of his decision was shown in a very acceptable form. First arrived a substantial cheque, then a large box containing books, rosaries and pictures; another with a quantity of linen for himself and his poor parishioners, all worked by herself and her friends. Long years after, an aged woman showed Gallitzin's biographer, with great pride, a dainty christening robe, and told him it had been made by the pious mother of their own blessed Father. "I was baptized in it, and every one of my children; and I now keep it as a sacred relic for my grandchildren."