The pace set in the missions and the zeal and generosity of the missionaries took its toll on their health. As the years progressed, Eugene insisted on being more realistic in their use of energy. In 1850, for example, he gave advice that is as true today as it was then:
Concerning their mission at Manchester, I have learnt something which Father Aubert somewhat concealed from me which is that they heard confessions until two and three in the morning. This I cannot approve and I would have been impelled to scold them for it. Such excesses we committed in our own youth but I insist that they not be imitated for I wish to preserve our family so that she may continue to do good for a longer time.
E. de Mazenod to Jean-Marie Baudrand, 11 January 1850, O.W. I n. 126