University of Notre Dame
Archives   


Calendar

1874 Dec.
Xavier Alumni Sodality: New York, New York
 to (James Alphonsus McMaster): (New York, New York)

A printed Monthly Bulletin of the announcements and notices of the Xavier Alumni Sodality, with particular mention of the retreat to be held from Dec. 2nd. to 4th.

I-2-a - (printed circular) - 3pp. - 12mo. - {1}


1874 Dec. 1
Conmy, Edward: Toledo, Ohio
 to James F. Edwards: (Notre Dame, Indiana)

He writes asking for employment at the University. He studied for five years at Maynooth College, Ireland, but left being doubtful about his vocation. He would be willing to teach if he could attend lectures that would prepare him for the medical profession.

XI-1-a - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 8vo. - {1}


1874 Dec. 1
Fink, O.S.B., Louis M. Bishop of Leavenworth: Covington, K(entuck)y
 to Archbishop J(ohn) B(aptist) Purcell: Cincinnati, Ohio

Owing to a cold he addresses Purcell by letter. When he asked Purcell the other day for permission to preach in some of his churches, he took Purcell's nod of the head to mean assent. He is sorry if he misunderstood his intention. He had no intention to collect; all he asked was to preach for which he would have been glad to receive a little donation to help him along. As he is not familiar with collecting, he does not desire to do it in any other way than as mentioned. He hopes he did not misunderstand Purcell and awaits his reply.

II-5-f - A.L.S. - 2ppp. - 12mo. - {1}


1874 Dec. 1
O'Hara, Michael: Mount Pleasant, Pa.
 to James A(lphonsus) McMaster: New York, New York

He asks McMaster to send him some of Blessed Water from the well at Lourdes. If there is any charge he will gladly pay it.

I-2-a - A.L.S. - 1p. - 12mo. - {1}


1874 Dec. 2
Del Monieri, Count: Bayonne, (France)
 to (James Alphonsus) McMaster: (New York, New York)

Del Monieri writes McMaster two months after release from prison. M. Mac Gehon has also been imprisoned by the Republicans in France. Del Monieri has been interned in Maulin and now must find a doctor in Paris. The Carlists could have taken Truc in a few minutes but would have lost in a day if the Republicans had been able to meet them. His Majesty is a young man now and seems only to accept advice from fools. His brother, Don Alphons, is ambitious to rule the army and befriend the soldiers so he can take the throne from his brother. Del Monieri sends his respect to the women of St. Michael's Society and to Major Reily. He asks McMaster to have a Mass said for him. He will let him know of his new mission very soon.

I-2-a - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 8vo. - {2}


1874 Dec. 2
Wile, David J.: LaPorte, Indiana
 to James F. Edwards: Notre Dame, Indiana

He acknowledges Edwards' letter in reference to the proposed memorial to their deceased friend, Father (Augustus) Lemonnier (C.S.C.). He authorizes Edwards to draw $25.

XI-1-a - A.L.S. - 1p. - 8vo. - {2}


1874 Dec. 3
Franchi, Alex(ander), Cardinal Prefect: Rome, (Italy)
 to (Archbishop John Baptist Purcell): of (Cincinnati, Ohio)

Because of dissatisfactions, especially in the Indiana house, among the (Sisters) of Holy Cross-Marianites, the Apostolic See saw fit to separate the American province from the other province and to submit it to the care of Archbishop John Baptist Purcell as Apostolic Visitor with faculties of superior general. Since that time the Apostolic Visiter has reported that the Sisters of that house have returned to peace and are working successfully and faithfully in the service of Christ and the local ordinary has asked that the visitation cease. These matters having been submitted to the Holy Father Pius IX in an audience of Nov. 8, 1874, the Holy Father at the request of Bishop (Joseph Dwenger) of Fort Wayne closes the visitation and causes to cease the extraordinary faculties of Purcell. Signed by John Simeoni as secretary.

II-5-f - L.S. - (Latin). - 2pp. - 8vo. - {3}


1874 Dec. 3
Patrizi, Cardinal (Constantine): Rome, (Italy)

(A circular concerning) the beatification and canonization of Januarius Maria Sarnelli, C.SS.R. (In the James Alphonsus McMaster papers).

I-2-j - Printed - (Latin) - 1p. - 4to. - {2}


1874 Dec. 4
Dahlgren, Madeleine Vinton: (Washington, D. C.)
 to (Orestes A.) Brownson: (Elizabeth, New Jersey)

Mrs. Dahlgren wrote a criticism of the book Maria Monks Daughter at the request of (Ellen) Sherman. The contents are scandalous. Mothers are afraid to let their daughters see the book. Mrs. Dahlgren tried to read the book through before writing the criticism but found it impossible. All are looking forward to Brownson's promised visit. The god-children of Brownson want to see him.

I-4-f - A.LS. - 3pp. - 12mo. - {2}


1874 Dec. 4
Sherman, Mrs. Ellen Ewing: St. Louis, M(issour)i
 to (Archbishop John Baptist Purcell): (of Cincinnati, Ohio)

She encloses Mrs. (Madeline) Dahlgren's article on "Maria Monk's Daughter" and its author (Mrs. St. John Eckel). She hopes Purcell will give it a place in the Telegraph. Mrs. Dahlgren is not very well, and she is concerned over her health. She also encloses a clipping from an Italian paper on the wedding which Mme. de Chambrun sent her. It was written by her to her father and by him to the Pope who ordered it printed. Purcell can see how greatly he has caused her to be honored abroad. She cannot write a long letter, because she is so far behind in her work because of ill health. She also encloses a remark by Rev. Brooks, Presbyterian on the great religious questions of the day. Her son, Thomas Ewing Sherman, met Father (George) Deshon and two other Paulists who were giving a retreat at New Haven. She asks Purcell's prayers for her husband, the General. All of the family unite in sending their regards, particularly Mr. and Mrs. Fitch, who are housekeeping quietly and pleasantly. (No enclosures).

II-5-f - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 12mo. - {5}


1874 Dec. 6
Bion, Father: Grandes-Armoises, Ardennes, France
 to Archbishop (Napoleon Joseph Perché: New Orleans, Louisiana)

A family of Bion's parish has asked him to seek from Perché some information about their oldest son, who abandoned his wife and two children and left for New Orleans with a concubine. If she is no longer with him, they would be happy to send him money in order to return. His name is Gustave Didier and he lived first on Rue St. Anne and later with Mr. Baicher or Bascher.

VI-2-o - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {2}


1874 Dec. 6
Eckel, Mrs. L. St. John: (New York City, New York)
 to (Orestes A. Brownson): (Elizabeth, New Jersey)

The proof sheets were received by Mrs. Eckel. Brownson's advice to her not to prosecute was too late because the papers were already signed. If Mrs. Eckel did not carry through she would have been obliged to pay $2,000. The Cincinnati Catholic Telegraph will also be sued. She feels that God is on her side. She wants Brownson's prayers.

I-4-f - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 12mo. - {1}


1874 Dec. 7
Sauvadet, A. (Father): Cleveland, Ohio
 to (James Alphonsus) McMaster: New York, New York

He is sorry that McMaster had so much trouble with his subscription to the LAUnivers of Paris. He thinks that the last three months subscription are a donation of Louis Veuillot. He wants eight copies of the Journal besides his own sent to him every week and it is important that they come on time. He had twelve subscribers choose among the Catholic Review of New York, the Catholic Universe of Cleveland, and the Journal, and eight of them chose the Journal, three took the Catholic Universe and one took the Catholic Review.

I-2-a - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 12mo. - {1}


1874 Dec. 8
Meany, Mary L.: Philadelphia, Pa.
 to J(ames) A(lphonsus) McMaster: New York, New York

Since he is called the Mentor of the Catholic Press in America, she addresses him in that capacity and offers her suggestions as to how the Catholic Press could be made more effective and influential. She thinks that women should be given a place in the editorial field because they could handle the small details leaving the men free to work on the important tasks. She commends this idea to his judgment, and if he finds it acceptable she would be glad to be a contributor.

I-2-a - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 8vo. - {1}


1874 Dec. 8
Sherman, Ellen, Ewing: St. Louis, Missouri
 to Orestes A. Brownson: Elizabeth, New Jersey

Mrs. Sherman would like to have Brownson as a champion most fearless of truth and stern virtue. Mr. T.T. Gaut who heads the St. Louis bar expressed surprise to learn that Mrs. Sherman has not brought her son to met Brownson. The son is too taken up with his studies. Sherman would like to know if Brownson has seen the review of Mrs. Eckel's book written by Mrs. (Madeleine Vinton) Dahlgren. It takes one woman to be a good judge of another woman. Mrs. Sherman does not think much of Mrs.(St. John) Eckel as a woman or as a writer of decent literature. The whole book disgusted Mrs. Sherman and she feels as a Christian Mother. She must denounce this sacriligous, bold woman. She must condemn those who praise Mrs. Eckel. Before other women can respect Mrs. Eckel, Mrs. Eckel must give evidence of virtue. Now Mrs. Eckel is vile and the Christian mothers will have none of her. She apologizes for her frank expression. A year ago Sherman sent Brownson a copy of her memorial of her father. Sherman was sorry Brownson could not come to her daughter's wedding. By some mistake Mrs. Sherman did not receive the last Review. She does not remember whether she renewed her subscription.

I-4-f - A.L.S. - 8pp. - 10mo. - {2}


1874 Dec. 9
Baca, Bonifacio: Lincoln, New Mexico
 to James F. Edwards: Notre Dame, Indiana

He was sorry to hear of the deaths of Father (Augustus) Lemonnier (C.S.C.) and Neal Gillespie, (C.S.C.). He cannot frequent the Sacraments because there is no priest in the county. They cannot leave the town without being armed for fear of thieves.

XI-1-a - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 8vo. - {3}


1874 Dec. 9
Dahlgren, Madeleine Vinton: Washington, D. C.
 to (Orestes A.) Brownson: (Elizabeth, New Jersey)

Brownson should not consider Mrs. Dahlgren's letters as a persecution. Thanks are extended for Brownson's letter of Dec. 7. Difference of opinion should not impair their friendship. Dahlgren is expecting her mother for a visit. The book of Mrs. (L. St. John) Eckel may claim to be truthful but it is probably very severe in many essential points. In the records of the State Department can be found the true record of the manner of death of (William Lewis) Dayton which is entirely different from that which is contained in the book. For the good of the diplomatic corps, it was deemed wise to drop a cloak of secrecy around her actions. Mrs. Dahlgren implies serious charges against the character of Mrs. Eckel. It takes persons like Brownson to reflect their lustre on her. The views of Dahlgren and Brownson on the admiration of Our Lord's mercy to Magdalen are the same. Dahlgren can see no saintly sin of contrition in Mrs. Eckel. She parades vices and the world is better to be in ignorance of the vices. Dahlgren wishes Brownson were there so that the differences could be ironed out, and possibly Brownson could get access to the State Dept. Even though Brownson's eyes are poor he could write another chapter of Miltonic labor and genius. Everyone would deplore the Review's discontinuance.

I-4-f - A.L.S. - 8pp. - 10mo. - {3}


1874 Dec. 12
Hennessy, Father P(atrick): Jersey City, (New Jersey)
 to (Orestes A. Brownson): (Elizabeth, New Jersey)

Since Dr. O'Leary has left the Tablet, Father Hennessy believes (William) Denman is going to write to Brownson for a couple of columns a week offering liberal payment. Father Hennessy hopes Brownson can accept, however Brownson should be allowed to sign his name to what he writes. Questions need be discussed oftener than every three months and if Brownson can contribute weekly then he will do a great service to the Church. It will be a job to write for both the Tablet and the Review but Father Hennessy thinks Brownson is worth $40.00 a week. Father Hennessy suggests Brownson getting a secretary and then his work will be lightened. Denman will write soon.

I-4-f - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 12mo. - {2}


1874 Dec. 12
Riopelle, D.: Detroit, Michigan
 to James F. Edwards: (Notre Dame, Indiana)

He received the notice of the contemplated chapel of Our Lady of Lourdes in memory of Father (Augustus) Lemonnier (C.S.C.). He gladly donates $10.

XI-1-a - A.L.S. - 1p. - 8vo. - {2}


1874 Dec. 13
Brownson, Anna: North Cambridge, (Massachusetts)
 to (Orestes A. Brownson): (Elizabeth, New Jersey)

Anna thanks Brownson for his kind letter. Sister Simplicia (?) is much pleased with Brownson's plan to lecture for her benefit. The Bishop (Stephen V. Ryan of Buffalo) will deliver a lecture in the Boston Theatre in a week hence. Sister Simplicia wants Brownson to make his lecture later on. After Brownson makes his plans, Sister Simplicia will make her arrangements accordingly. Communications are to be made through Anna. Sister Simplicia thanks Brownson for his kind offer to lecture but was disappointed about the time of the lecture. Anna thanks Brownson for the Christmas present. She also hopes that there are indications that the Review will be a success.

I-4-f - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 10mo. - {2}


1874 Dec. 14
Lambert, Father L(ouis) A.: Waterloo, (New York?)
 to (James Alphonsus) McMaster: New York, New York

He saw in the morning paper that Mrs. St. John Eckel had sued McMaster for his criticism of her book. Father William Wayrich thought McMaster's criticism was too severe and that the book on the whole was good but he suggested that the book would create the ambition in young girls and teach them to become adventuresses. He consideres Father Wayrich's opinion valuable but whether McMaster is right or wrong will involve him in expense so he sends fifty dollars to defray part of the cost of the suit as he would rather sell all his possessions rather than see that woman touch a hair of McMaster's head. The public school question is the order of the day in Buffalo. Bishop Stephen Ryan is battling it and he has written an article which he encloses, which answered a sermon given by a minister Calkius.

I-2-a - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 12mo. - {2}


1874 Dec. 14
McCabe, James: Hazelwood, Minn.
 to James A(lphonsus) McMaster: New York, New York

He encloses $14 for subscriptions to the Journal and will wait for a statement of their account. He urges McMaster not to hint at retirement for as their families grow around them they need more and more the unerring guide they find in him.

I-2-a - A.L.S. - 1p. - 8vo. - {1}


1874 Dec. 16
Butler, E. H.: Buffalo, (New York)
 to (James Alphonsus) McMaster: (New York, New York)

Butler says that for certain reasons the Sunday Morning News (of which he is editor) did not publish the article, because of requests of friends of Mr. McManus. He tells McMaster his paper is first class and is welcomed by his own paper.

I-2-a - A.L.S. - 1p. - 12mo. - {1}


1874 Dec. 17
Baasen, M. A., J.: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
 to James F. Edwards: (Notre Dame, Indiana)

He encloses a money order for the Memorial Chapel (for Father Augustus Lemonnier, C.S.C.).

XI-1-a - A.L.S. - 1p. - 8vo. - {2}


1874 Dec. 17
Marty, O.S.B. Abbott Martin: St. Meinard, Ind.
 to (James Alphonsus McMaster): New York, New York

It was during the Novena to the Immaculate Conception that Mr. Earle sent his generous donations in the name of his family to St. Meinrad's. He encloses the groundplans and a receipt for the money Mr. Earle sent, asking McMaster to find the dates of the deaths of the deceased members so that anniversary masses may be said. Mr. Earle's donation was the first one of consequence in over a year. The Freeman's has been his guide since his arrival in this country in 1860. They have lived in the new building since Sept. and the students occupy the houses in which the priests formerly lived. He thanks McMaster for the services he has done for them. A memo of the donations, those receipts, and the ground plan are included.

I-2-a - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 12mo. - {2}


1874 Dec. 17
Patrizi, Cardinal (Constantine): Rome,(Italy)

(A clipping concerning) the beatification and canonization of Louis-Marie Baudouin, founder of Ursulines (of Jesus). (In James Alphonsus McMaster papers).

I-2-j - Printed - (Latin) - 2pp. - 16mo. - {3}


1874 Dec. 19
Pilliod, Victor: Richmond, Ind(iana)
 to (James Alphonsus) McMaster: New York, New York

He is in good health and hopes that McMaster is the same. He tried his best to get new subscribers but has not succeeded. Catholics will take political papers especially those against Don Carlos but refuse to read a Catholic paper. He will send his subscription after the New Year and may have a few others.

I-2-a - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 8vo. - {1}


1874 Dec. 20
Bellamy, S(arah) M.: Wilton, (Saratoga County, New York)
 to (Orestes A. Brownson): (Elizabeth, New Jersey)

In answer to Brownson's question about her family, Mrs. Bellamy has one brother living in Ohio, one in Michigan, one in Galway; her youngest brother is at home some of the time and some of the time with her brother in Galway; her father lives with them. She has two boys and one girl. Aunt Thorina (Brownson Dean) is quite smart for her (age) and wants to send Brownson a bed quilt. He should write and tell her whether to send it.

I-4-f - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 16mo. - {2}


1874 Dec. 20
Power, Richard: Corpus Christi, Texas
 to (James Alphonsus) McMaster: New York, New York

He wishes a brief notice in the Journal of Sister Mary Frances Clare's History of the City and County of Cork, now in the course of publication. During a visit to Ireland last July and August, on his way to Killarney, he called to see the Nun of Kenmare who is known for the good work she is doing among the poor. He encloses a few circulars concerning the History of Cork which he hopes will enable him to procure subscribers to Sister Mary Frances Clare's work. He has 12 subscribers to date.

I-2-a - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 12mo. - {1}


1874 Dec. 21
Franchi, Alex(ander), Cardinal Prefect: Rome, (Italy)
 to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell: of Cincinnati, (Ohio)

The young man John Leahy whom Purcell sent to Rome has been received at Propaganda College although he did not have with him the proper letters from Purcell. The Cardinal calls Purcell's attention to the matters referred to in the Cardinal's letter of August 31, 1873 concerning the documents which such students were to bring with them, and asks that Purcell send those letters if he has not already done so. The Cardinal also notes that Purcell has not sent any statement regarding the existence of Indians in the territory covered by the diocese of Cincinnati in 1828, since it was decided that the money coming from the second (John Baptist) Jouffroy foundation be applied to these Indians within the diocese or otherwise to those in the United States beginning with the year 1874. Purcell was to report to the Sacred Congregation Whether there are any more Indians in the territory.

P.S.—In the meantime the rector of the Urban College has announced to Franchi that John Leahy suffers so much from stomach trouble that it is best for him to return to America as Purcell can see from the enclosure. Purcell is not to wonder then at his return. (The Enclosure in Italian) Signed by Doctor Vincenzio Diorio and dated Dec. 23, 1874 states that Leahy suffers so much from stomach disorders that it was thought best that he return to his natal climate. no. 9 John Simeoni signs as secretary.

II-5-f - D.S. - (Latin Enclosure Italian) - 3pp. - 8vo. - {3}


1874 Dec. 21
Phelan, M(argaret M.):
St. Mary's Academy, Notre Dame, Indiana
 to James F. Edwards: Notre Dame, Indiana

She sends $30 for the memorial (for Father Augustus Lemonnier C.S.C.). The sum bears no proportion to the love and veneration she bears to the departed.

XI-1-a - A.L.S. - 1p. - 16to. - {2}


1874 Dec. 21
Schwindehammer(?), Superior General: Paris, (France)
 to Archbishop (John Baptist Purcell): of Cincinnati, (Ohio)

After the expulsion of the Fathers of the Holy Ghost and of the Immaculate Heart of Mary from Germany, (Purcell) had the goodness to receive some of their Fathers into his diocese. They are very grateful and hope that will to work for the salvation of souls under his protection in return. Besides expressing his appreciation and homage he wishes to raise the question of the continuation of the work of Father (J.B.) Bigot and Father (John B.) Kayser in the archdiocese of Cincinnati. There seems to be an inexact report concerning these affairs. (Purcell) in his letter to Father (Francis) Schwab had attributed to Father (Joseph) Strub the resolution of recalling all their fathers from the archdiocese. This is not true for his letters have been of another kind. Strub has expressed the desire that the Fathers live together in two or threes so that they could live the common life, for the isolated life is contrary to the rules and exposes the members to dangers. The house at Sharpsburg, (Pennsylvania) is being formed to train up new members and assure their continuance and not with a view to their withdrawal from Cincinnati. Schwindenhammer does object to the defection of Fathers Bigot and Kayser from the society while working in the parishes which they have received as members of the society. He presents three bonds which held them to the society: ordination, the vows and even the vow of stability, to say nothing of the obligations of gratitude for their education. To break such strong bonds there should be strong reasons. Bigot complained of his isolation and that was precisely what Schwindenhammer wishes to take away. Kayser has merely written of his discontent but that is hardly a reason for the change. He thinks that there are serious reasons commanding their perseverance in the society. Further Kayser has already caused some worry to his superiors. Schwindenhammer argues likewise that the effect of these defections will work harm on the community of Fathers of the Holy Ghost in general and prevent them from doing their work. There is further the thought of its effect on religious discipline in general. The best way of attaining his purposes is to have these Fathers return for a while to the mother house of the community. For the rest, far from desiring to withdraw from the archdiocese, he asks that the works of the community be so arranged that they can follow the community life prescribed by their rules. For the present he demands their return and wishes to remind the Fathers that the rule, even in appeal, is to obey and then have recourse.

II-5-f - A.L.S. - (French) - 6pp. - 8vo. - {7}


1874 Dec. 21
Wilstach, Hon. J. A.: Lafayette, Indiana
 to His Holiness Pope Pius IX: Vatican Palace, (Rome, Italy)

Wilstach besides speaking for his family, offers congratulatory message from St. Mary's Church of the Immaculate Conception of Lafayette, Indiana. There was no time to give the address on the First American Pilgrimage to Lourdes and Rome, and since the parish mentioned above sent a larger delegation than any other parish in the United States, they felt as though they should address His Holiness. This address was taken to Rome in June, 1874, but was not presented until Dec. 21, 1874. The Bishop, Vicar-General, pastor, and several members of the parish formed the delegation. Wilstach acknowledges the authority of the Pope as Supreme Pastor and congratulates him on the years of faithful service of his pontificate, and his stand, as the Pope, against the temporal government of Italy. The parish thanks the Pope for the great defense he has made of the rights of the church and tells him that they have named their cathedral and also their church after the Immaculate Conception, the declaration of the dogma of which was the signal glory of the Pope's entire reign. They call the attention of the Pope to the fact that three parishoners have already received the Apostolic Benediction in the past. In 1867, the 18th Contennial anniversary of the martyrdom of St. Peter, Mr. and Mrs. Wilstach were the recipients, and in 1870 Mrs. Lingle received the blessing. The parish feels toward the Pope just as if he were as close to them as is the Bishop of Fort Wayne, or if Indiana were a province or of Italy or of France. Despite the unsettled condition of the world, Christ was most silent when His sufferings were the worst. Christ converted Constantine and stopped Julian from rebuilding the temple but He suffers in silence when His Vicar is imprisoned in his own capital in the Vatican. Wilstach says that Christ rules history and will work it out for Himself in the future to the benefit of all. He closes his address by asking the Benediction of the Pope on the Bishop, Vicar-General, pastor, and those parishoners who participated in the pilgrimage.

- (copy of A.L.S.) - 5pp. - 8vo. -


1875 Jan. 20
Pius IX, Pope: St. Peter's Rome, Italy
 to Hon. J. A. Wilstach: Lafayette, Indiana

The Pope thanks the parish for its filial piety and good wishes and the pious sentiments and sympathies expressed for the warfare upon the church and the person of the Pope by temporal authorities of Italy and all others. It is best to pray to Him who can calm the minds and order the seas to be still, and to try in every way to enable truth and justice to conquer. He gives the Apostolic Benediction to the entire parish. In the (James Alphonsus McMaster) Collection.

I-2-a - (copy of L. S.) - 2pp. - 8vo. - {3}


1874 Dec. 22
Crane, John: New York, New York
 to (James Alphonsus) McMaster: New York, New York

He was present last night at the lecture of Rev. (Edward) McGlynn given in Cooper Institute to the members of the Catholic Union. He is not sure but he thinks the Rev. Dr. said that the Pope was infallible only when teaching the Universal Church in matters of faith and morals and that when his teaching is directed to individual bishops or associations he is not necessarily infallible and that the laity is not bound to accept his teaching as of faith. He is not a learned man, but a Catholic and a reader of the Journal and to him this seems a strange doctrine. He does not write this letter for publication nor for the basis of any article, unless what he has stated is confirmed by a more worthy authority than himself.

I-2-a - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 12mo. - {2}


1874 Dec. 23
McCloskey, John, Archbishop of New York: New York (City, New York)
 to Archbishop (John Baptist) Purcell: of Cincinnati, (Ohio)

He wishes Purcell a Happy Christmas and apologizes for not answering Purcell's letter sooner. He knows nothing of the letter of the Cardinal addressed to (Bishop Joseph) Dwenger (of Fort Wayne). The Cardinal asked him what might be done by the Archbishops and Bishops to prevent the sale of Vatican property by the Italian government. He replied that he knew of no way to prevent it that would bring a good result, but promised to speak to Archbishop (James R. Bayley) of Baltimore and suggest that he should seek a personal interview with Secretary (Hamilton) Fish. He has done this but has no idea what our government will do in the matter. If it were a matter of the American College they would have some ground to stand upon. The Cardinal and Msgr. Simeoni spoke of the letter addressed to them from Purcell on the school question, which will be discussed in the college of Cardinals in November. The same with regard to the Metropolitan Sees. They expressed no opinion, so they must wait patiently.

II-5-f - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 12mo. - {3}


1874 Dec. 23
Correspondence de Berlin:

Contains five articles. The first is a speech delivered in the Reichstag on December 18 by a Herr Bennigsev, evidently of the government, replying to an attack by a Herr Windtharst, an ultrawontauist (this newspaper's term for a member of the Catholic Center Party) on the appropriation of secret funds amounting to 48,000 marks to the Foreign Office. Herr Bennigsev says that Herr Windtharst should know that no government can do without a fund at the discretion of its Foreign Office. Windtharst has also mixed into the discussion irrelevant matters. His proposal to vote down the fund has but given the chamber an opportunity to give a vote of confidence to the present German policy and its director (Bismarck), by voting this fund. There is applause from right and left. Herr Windtharst thinks it reproachable in the chancellor (Bismarck) that he has preferred criminal charges against the press of Herr Windtharst's party for its attacks on him. Windtharst betrays personal animosity against the Chancellor, who takes the matter to court not merely to defend his person, but because his office of director of German policy demands that he defend the creation of the German Empire, which is more under attack than his own person. Applause from right (government) and left (Progressives); denials from center (Catholic center party). In these newspapers, now repudiated by Herr windtharst's party, matters are represented as if it were the Chancellor of the Empire who by his revolutionary and bellicose policy would never give rest to Germany and peace to Europe. The events of the past week in which the secrets of the Government policy were revealed do not confirm these newspaper's charges. It is a policy of peace and non-intervention. If Herr Windtharst and his colleagues do not see this it is because their basic presumptions are not those of the majority of Germans and of the Reichstag. They have from the beginning tried to upset the creation of the Confederation of the North, of the German Empire. But their opposition, and the public disclosures of the past week, serve but to strengthen the chancellor's policy. The secret funds for the Foreign Office were voted, 199 to 71. The negative was composed of the center, the Poles, Herr Sonnemann and the ten socialists. The solid vote of the progressive party (the left) with the exception of but one (Sonnemann) must be regarded as express approval of the Chancellor and his policy. Second Article, a reprint from the North German Gazette General. After Kullman's attempt on Bismarck's life, there was another. Two letters of the conspirator follow. They are addressed to a French Archbishop by one Duchesne Poncelet, living in Belguim, who promises, if the Archbishop will give him 60,000 francs, to assassinate Bismarck in revenge for the Franco-Prussian war and the Kulturkampf. The French archbishop turned these letters over to his government which forewarned the prince of Bismarck. The Belgian police identified the man. Duchesne was about to enter Germany when he was warned by a German comrade on when the police of Aix had unwisely coscended. Adherents of the ultrawontauist party had contracted an alliance with assassins to slay the head of the German empire. Ecclesiastics and lay lenders whose talk, writings, and actions are illegal, are to be considered culpable when their parishioners are roused by their instigations to plot crimes. The ultrawontain press and higher clergy have abused the curate of Kissinger for instituting services for the well-being of the prince of Bismarck, an act of Christian devotion and partiotism.—-The third article is a letter received by Gerhard von Worzburg, the lawyer who defended Kulmann, from one Gottfried Zolcher of Rhenish Prussia requesting him to pass on to Kullmann an enclosed letter without opening it. This enclosed letter encourages Kullmann and promises that the writer will take up his task of assassinating Bismarck and succeed. — The fourth article is the account of a policeman guarding Kullmann touching remarks the latter made to him. Kullmann assured the policeman that others would follow in his footsteps and within six months would succeed in despatching Bismarck. Questioned before the chief of police, Kullmann said he had spoken of a possibility that others might follow, but the policeman reaffirmed that Kullmann had spoken of it as a prediction.—- The fifth article is a reprint from the impartial German Gazette on the Arnim case. The case draws to a close. Arnim will very likely be convicted. He had political instructions of the highest importance published without regard for the interests of the state. Even if acquitted, which is unlikely, Arnim will have no more political significance or public credit. Arnim and Bismarck can no longer be mentioned together as political rivals. As Arnim's integrity sinks, Bismarck's public credit rises. Bismarck in secret instructions proves to be the same homest man he is in public statements. With hypocritical indignation some accuse Bismarck of egotism, indifference, cynicism. Arnim, under the illusion that Gambetta would succeed Thiers and the Commune would succeed Gambetta, thought it necessary for Germany to work in the interest of the monarchy in France. To counter the charge of egotism the Gazette quotes from one of Bismarck's letters to Arnim advising him to absent himself from all political intrique in France. Arnim disobeyed and Bismarck wrote again giving his reasons: a French monarchy is dangerous for Germany since it can wake alliances. French's hostility requires Germans to desire its weakness, not in wealth or health, but in soldiers and allies. This desire is also to the best interest of France, a desire to save her from another war. To Arnim's fear that the Republic or the Commune might be imitated in Germany to the overthrow of the monarchy, Bismarck replies that though he recognized that the Commune is not in the interest of humanity, allowing it to have its interlude in France can but convice Europe, by contrast, of the advantages of monarchy. A French monarchy, however, would not hesitate to use the propaganda of republicanism as an intrument to subvert the monarchy of other States, Germany in particular. The future of a nation so explosive as France is in itself unpredictable, even without tempering with it. The Gazette concludes that this is not cynicism, but wisdom. The French, too, should rejoice that Germany is the first conqueror in history not to meddle in the future of the vanquished. (In the James Alphonsus McMaster papers.)

I-2-a - printed newspaper - (French) - - 1 large sheet of five columns - {1}


1874 Dec. 24
Pius IX, Pope: Rome, (Italy)

Encyclical letter on the Holy Year of 1875. (In James Alphonsus McMaster papers).

I-2-j - Printed - (Latin) - 12pp. - 8vo. - {1}


1874 Dec. 24
Pius IX, Pope: Rome, (Italy)

(Pages 15 and 16 of) the encyclical of Leo XII on the extension of the Jubilee to the whole Church, reissued by order of Pius IX on the occasion of the Jubilee Year of 1875. (In James Alphonsus McMaster papers).

I-2-j - Printed - (Latin) Incomplete - 3pp. - 8vo. - {1}


1874 Dec. 26
Skidmore, F. (Dr.): Babylon, Long Island, New York
 to (James Alphonsus McMaster): New York, New York

He has been practicing medicine for forty three years and during that time he has never found any remedy more effective in the prevention and cure of scarlatina and smallpox than Major John Thomas Lane's Mic Mac. He recommends it very highly and considers its discovery most Providential.

I-2-a - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 12mo. - {1}


1874 Dec. 28
Severance, George: Tunbridge, V(ermon)t
 to O(restes) A. Brownson: Elizabeth, New Jersey

Brownson's reply was received. Brownson's essays on the refutation of atheism are not going to be published in one volume. Severance only read the first article. No man in America is more capable of doing the work that Brownson is doing that Brownson himself. Severence was unable to buy a subscription for 1873. He has been a subscriber for most of the timesince 1848. Brownson has a better insight of the American mind than the Catholic dignitaries. At present Severence is reading Charles Elwood. Brownson was the first to point out the defect in Paley's argument from design. Severence became acquainted with Brownson through the Boston Quarterly. The title and date and contents of two articles written by Brownson prove Severence's contention. Severence tells about the origin of his belief and the reason why he believes that way. In tracing out the history of individuals, Severence has contrasted Brownson's experience with that of Abbi de la Mennais who was a great defender of his church. Severence admits that every Protestant and Catholic country throughout the world has been riddled by scepticism. He believes Christianity under the two different religions has lost its hold on the enlightened world, that there is almost a total eclipse of faith. Severence would like to know a remedy for it. There is a growing belief that the answers to the next life are opened and that there is a full communication between the denizens of the earth and those of the spiritual realm. If such a theory is based on facts, the Church in all its divisions has taught much as baseless as vision. Unbelieving churchmen should not destroy those fundamental beliefs which enlighten the world, because God has chosen these things for a reason. Maybe there is a remedy at hand for the prevailing scepticism. Severence passed the house in Royalton where Brownson spent his early days. Some of the people remembered Brownson. Severence heard that Brownson's wife died. He hopes Brownson's last days will be happy ones. Severence, although not accepting Brownson's conclusions in regard to the Catholic Church, accepts the interest derived from a perusal of his writings.

I-4-f - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 4to. - {1}


1874 Dec. 29
Flanagan, Henry: Jefferson City, (Missouri)
 to James A(lphonsus) McMaster: New York, New York

He encloses an article from the Johnson, Mo. Weekly, which states the reasons why Protestants reject the books of the Scriptures, termed by them the "Apocrypha". He is aware that Protestants assert that the Apocrypha were rejected by the Jews. He has never before heard it alleged that St. Jerome or St. Epiphanius rejected them. Origen may have said and done many things which the Church did not approve but even so this is not sufficient evidence to say they were not canonical. It is hard to believe that Gregory the first denied that the Book of the Macabees was not inspired and canonical, yet that some advocat does so is enough for the generality of the readers. He supposes some Democrat clipped the article out of some Methodist Exchange and published it without reflection. Judging by the number (singular) in which he places the work "Apocrypha", he thinks that the author could no more read Origen or Jerome than fly and it is doubtful if he ever saw a page of Hebrew. If McMaster can spare the time to write a short editorial, he will be obliged.

I-2-a - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 12mo. - {1}


1874 Dec. 30
Tenney, S(arah M.) B(rownson): Elizabeth, N(ew) J(ersey)
 to Henry (F. Brownson): (Detroit, Michigan)

(Orestes A. Brownson) showed Sarah the photographs of Henry's children and said she would keep it down in her apartments. Judge (William J. Tenney) thinks they are very pretty children. The youngest (Orestes Brownson) is a perfect little darling, a jolly little angel, but Sarah pities him for the name he has to bear through life. If she thinks of him as Orestes she cannot look at him. Jessie (Tenney) says that about the eyes he looks like Dr. B(rownson) and like his grandfather fills up the entire armchair. They say Sallie (Brownson) looks like Sarah, and all have eyes like Mammy (Sarah H. Brownson). The judge always gets the (gout) pills for (Brownson) and knows all about them. The price is a dollar and a half a box. Sarah was sorry afterwards she wrote Henry so much about (Brownson) but she felt so indignant at his injustice and misrepresentations, that she could not forbear. She never saw anything like the judge's patience with him. The judge comes home at six tired, cold and hungry. Before he can get a mouthful (Brownson) begins to question him, and he has to shout his answers again and again. all through dinner, so that when they are together at last, the Judge does not seem to have much voice left for Sarah. Still he is always pleasant, and ready to talk, though of the silent kind. The Review is out. The Judge wrote on Napoleon, Mr. Mc Carthy on Mary Queen of Scots and Dr. Smith on Gregory VII. The rest are (Brownson's). He has the April number nearly written. Sarah understands how hard it is for Henry to write. The Judge had to write his bit by bit from eight o'clock to ten, and that is pretty hard after writing all day. Of course, like Fifine, Sarah had no idea of letting the Judge go off to write. But this is something (Brownson) cannot understand. He would be very glad for an article from Henry. Sarah hopes this will be the last of Mr. Carthy and Dr. Smith as contributors. Sarah has never seen (Brownson) in better health. He eats like a trooper three times a day, scarcely ever misses a full meal and always complains that he is losing his appetite. He has everybody running today, as he has a "touch of the gout" but by the way he is talking and laughing with the Irishwoman who cleans his rooms. She cannot think it very bad. She is very sorry for Henry if he has the faintest touch of it. P.S. (Probably included here). The Judge found out that a box of Blaine's pills were $1.25 and contained about 25 or 30 in each box. He can secure them at a wholesale price if Henry wants them. (Brownson) has not got quite well yet. The Christmas turkeys laid him low. Sarah has a cold but otherwise was never so well in her life as she has been since she got over the intermittent (fever) last summer. Jessie sends her love to the children. She does not look much like the little girl Henry took to Church but is growing up a very pretty, stylish young lady, perfectly obedient and devoted to the performance of Sarah's slightest wish. No woman ever had more to be grateful for than Sarah does now.

III-3-a - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 12mo. - {5}