(1816?)
( )
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
An estimate for building a church. The itemized estimate totals $2,620.
V-4-c A.D. (French) 1p. 4to.
1
(1816?)
Crane, Thomas
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
Received in part payment the sum of forty dollars.
V-4-c A.D.S. 1p. 16mo.
0
(1816?)
Lapirot, Catherine
Boissenge, Mazoires, France
to Jean Guerin
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
It is eight years since Guerin wrote to his relatives asking for news of the family. His father died three years ago. Guerin's brother Antoine took the letter to answer but as Lapirot knows he has not done so, she is determined to do so herself. Since Guerin left, his brother John married but both he and his wife are dead leaving a son named Eugene who right now is in the army at Sebastopol. This boy has just written to Lapirot for help but she cannot do so because she is poor. Antoine married a Bartoire but his wife died two years ago in Paris and Lapirot does not know what has become of Antoine. Lapirot's daughter Frances also married in Paris but died leaving a boy whom Lapirot cares for. After Guerin's father died, Antoine and the husband of Guerin's sister who lives in Anzat came to gather up what little furniture remained, after which they abandoned the property which has not been used. Lapirot notified the other children of the inheritance but no one appeared. As the wife of Guerin's father by a second marriage Lapirot harvested what she could but most of it is uncultivated. Guerin may do as he deems proper in getting in touch with his brothers. Lapirot likes to believe that by dint of economy and labor Guerin is beyond need but his co-heirs cannot say the same. If Guerin will tell them about himself in a second letter it will give Lapirot great pleasure for her interest in him as her nephew makes her think of him often.
(P.S.) The pastor is asked to see that Guerin gets this letter.
V-4-c A.L.S. (French) 2pp. 8vo.
1
(1816) Monday
(Seton, Mrs. Elizabeth)
(Emmitsburg, Maryland)
to Jos(ephine) Seton at Mr. L(uke) Tiernan's
Baltimore, (Maryland)
She sends Josephine Bec's (Rebecca's) own words to Josephine. Rebecca wrote the first day she could hold her pen. Mrs. Seton says it is evident from them why she could take no other retreat but by Rebecca's bedside. Most of Rebecca's time is passed in her arms or on her knee. They weep together. The inflammation has subsided and Rebecca is better, so Josephine should not be alarmed. Here a little from Willy, the letter has no news. Willy says he is preparing and longing to spend Easter with them. She wonders why he does not get their letters. She asks God to bless Josephine and Richard and sends her love to Jene and all who have been kind to Josephine. She asks that Brother and Pere pray for them, and that she be remembered to Madame Chatort(?) and Mr. Tiernan. Bec cannot lie down so she is supporting herself while Mrs. Seton writes. P.S. presently Benediction. Josephine is always in her heart.
II-1-a A.L.S. 1pp. 12mo.
1
(1816?)
(Seton, Elizabeth Ann Bayley
Emmitsburg, Maryland)
to (Rev. Simon Bruté ?
Baltimore, Maryland)
Mother Seton quotes the first stanza of "Jerusalem my happy home." She believes it is from some old Methodist hymn. Then she, enchanted with the lamentations in the sanctuary in holy week, turned a music of her own from them and added on Anina's (Anna Maria Seton) bed these words. (Three more stanza's follow). Everybody cries at the words and music. (William ?) Hickey says it is so delightfully wild. Dick (Richard Bayley Seton?) cried hearing it, not knowing his mother was in it. Poor Berte cried, strangers cry, what a pity (William) cannot hear it and cry too. But they sang it at his first return offertory at the Mountain. And (Father Jean Jacques) Olier! (Here follows a quotation from Olier?): If in one's whole life, one gains only one soul, it will have been well employed. Poor (Sister Martina?) Quin(n).
II-1-a A.L. 2pp. 16mo.
6
1816 Feb. 28
Grassi, S.J., Father J(ohn)
G(eorge) T(own), (District of Columbia)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, Maryland
Grassi hopes that Father Enoch Fenwick told Bruté of his inability to write a few lines because of his occupations. Father (John) Henry from St. Inigoes is expected to share some of the burdens of the college. Father (Michael) Carroll has gone to Newtown to replace Father Carbry who will go to St. Inigoes. Father Griffen died without the assistance of a priest. Grassi is pleased that Bishop (William) DuBourg takes for granted that Father (Ambrose) Maréchal is appointed to Philadelphia and he congratulates Pennsylvania. He then hopes that Father Dubarth will be able to come to make his noviceship and return to Conewago where old Father Britt can do so little. He hopes that Father (F.) Vespre has told Bruté of the dismissal of Father Carroll from the noviceship. Father O'Conor shows symptoms of consumption. He says it is in the family, the same is true of Father Gobert who will go to Martinique to see what that climate can do. Father (Charles) Bowling died of the same last October. Grassi is now an American citizen and trustee of the Select Body of the Clergy in place of the deceased Archbishop. He will visit their ancient missions and farms. He has not read Father Clorivière's commentary on the Epistle of St. Peter. Grassi recounts one of his experiences with Father Pignatelli on the existence of other beings on the heavenly bodies. He has read Joyce's dialogues on Experimental philosophy, which Bruté can get at the book seller's. It is a book rather for young ladies. He has received no letters from Europe which makes him think that he will receive aid from the Father General. Without aid he does not see how they can have one college.
P.S. He has a letter from Father (Peter) Malou. He requested a power of attorney from B. Sweeney in favor of his mother because a brother has left some property in New Orleans. He suggests that Grassi send the papers also to Bruté because they wish the same power of attorney from Miss Quinn, a nun in Emmitsburg. They should be on the same paper and sent to Father Malou in New York.
II-3-n A.L.S. 3pp. 8vo.
3
1816 Mar.
(Richard, Father Gabriel)
Address read-To the Faithful of Detroit, at the sermon time.
(Richard) has had a letter from the bishop (Benedict Joseph Flaget) for some days from which he proceeds to read portions. The visit of the bishop is one of his most important functions and one of the greatest spiritual good of the faithful. To obtain that effect it is necessary that the people prepare themselves in advance. Otherwise, while the chief pastor fulfills his duties the parishioners gain little from it. Further it might be a cause of further evil by the failure of the people to use their means to enter on the road to heaven. 1. Since he is the only priest in the Territory of Michigan, he cannot go to invite the bishop to visit them because of the great distance and because he feels it necessary to provide them with the sacraments and prepare for First Communion and Confirmation. Hence two or three others must be chosen to go from Detroit and Riviere au Raisin to call on the bishop at his residence. In what state will he find the parish in case he does come to conduct a mission which would produce great fruit if there were a church spacious enough to hold the multitude of people. What a shame that while they have been able to build themselves houses of some merit they have not been able to build or have not wished to build a church in 11 years: And what is worse is the disorder of morals, the large number of children ignorant of the first truths of the Christian religion, older youths dissolute and inconstant, hardened old men, drunken men, profligate women, a multitude of scandalous sinners! For a long time he has lived only by his own industry or by the casuals procured from deaths. The first resource takes up time that might well be spent in spiritual exercises and the second is extraordinarily humiliating to a sensible soul.
III-2-f Mss. (French) 2pp. 4to.
4
1816 Mar. 23
(Cheverus), John (de), Bishop of
Boston, (Massachusetts)
to Father John (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, (Maryland)
He should have written to Bruté and thought he had until he received Bruté's letter of March 12. He received the two boxes committed to Bruté for him, one of the books and one from his niece. He has one letter from France from Madame de la Vigerie who asks to be remembered to Bruté. To a French vessel from Boston and Captain Banquey Cheverus entrusted several letters. He sends to Bruté brochures on silk manufactures and those of their opponents. Last Sunday Horace Holley, a Boston minister announced that the doctrine of the Trinity would soon be abandoned. The layman Mr. John Lowell has also gone beyond measure even though he is a brighter minister and is a lawyer and a member of the university at Cambridge. Edward Kavanagh has not returned although his father has heard from him. His foot has not improved enough to give him the subdeaconship. Bishop (John Connolly) of New York has spoken of the articles published by Father (Charles) Blowden. He hopes they have renounced the project. The Bishop of Quebec receives a thousand pounds sterling a year. It seems Father (Francis) Nagot is with God and would not have to witness this. Cheverus asks Bruté to give Nagot his regards and also to Archbishop (Leonard Neale). He thinks often of Mother (Seton) and her martyr child and owes her a letter. He sends his regards to Father (Jean) Dubois and thanks him for the news from Bishop (William) DuBourg. Father John Thayer, who died in Limerick last year made Father (Francis) Matignon his universal legatee prescribing that he spend the whole fund to establish the Ursulines in Boston. As the fund is insufficient Matignon has decided not to do anything for some time. They are too poor to have a school. Matignon asks for Bruté's prayers. Mr. Brosius is always in the neighborhood but his health does not allow him to work in the ministry.
P.S. Having failed to make the first occasion he sends this letter by mail.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 4pp. 4to.
7
1816 Mar. 26
Grassi, S.J., Father J(ohn)
G(eorge) T(own, District of Columbia)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, (Maryland)
Grassi thanks Bruté for the news that the Jesuits have been expelled from St. Petersburg and Moscow. He did not know the Jesuits were settled in the capital of Russia. He is afraid that good Alexander Divof's conversion has received too much glory; the Society will not regret except that the mind of the emperor is set against them. The prelate that builds churches for the Lutherans will not regret at all. He is a kind of convert from Calvinism. The last year Grassi was in Russia his coadjutor Bishop Bonislawsky was obliged to leave St. Petersburg because of his opposition to divorces. Catholics alone suffer because they teach the truth. The Jesuits labored only with the hope that their efforts would lead to a reunion of the Latin and the Greek churches. The New York Times says the Jesuits were excluded merely because they abuse the toleration by prosyletism. He is sorry he cannot verify the first point in Grassi's letter because the history of the Society is at Whitemarsh. As far as he knows the inquisition was never in the charge of the Jesuits. In case of public charges against the Jesuits he would approve Bruté's proposal of not remaining silent. The Society is not well established in the country and he is not encouraged at the prospect of making good Christians of American youths. Mr. Henry Carrol has not visited the college since Grassi has been there. Mr. Ringold lives in the city. The Archbishop (Leonard Neale) will be in Baltimore towards the end of the month. He sends his regards to Father Vespre and others.
P.S. By forgetfulness the letter was not sent the day it was written. The Archbishop intends to be in Baltimore next Thursday. Bruté is to tell Vespre that the large box arrived in good order. March 30.
II-3-n A.L.S. 2pp. 4to.
2
1816 Apr. 10
(Cheverus), John, Bishop of
Boston, (Massachusetts)
to Father John (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, Maryland
He entrusts the brochures to Thomas Bohen a man who has made his Easter duty and sets out with his family for Baltimore. He has promised to deliver the package. the obligations of the day will not permit (Cheverus) to visit with Bruté but he remains his friend.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 2pp. 4to.
2
1816 Apr. 18
Grassi, S.J., Father J(ohn)
G(eorge) T(own, District of Columbia)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, (Maryland)
With gratitude he has received the document written by a true friend of the Jesuits, although had he seen it before it was printed he would have added one item: how the Russian emperor who makes it a crime for Jesuits to convert several Russians from their ancestors' religions could have permitted the same Jesuits to convert the inhabitants of the Caucasus who became converted to Mohammedans two centuries before the Russians received Christianity. These same Russians convert Lutherans and even Catholics from the religion of their ancestors to the Greek Church. They permit atheists to speak against religion but persecute these Jesuits. It is a fact that in the reign of Catherine II missions were sent to convert the Greek Catholics of White Russia to that of Photius. They used bribes and penalties to induce changes to the Russian religion. However the article by Bruté's friend is authentic and the name of the Pope who was the chief promoter of these missions was Jean and lived a long time at Vitepsk where the Jesuits have a college and this friend has conversed with several who were eyewitnesses of these missions. He thanks Bruté for his friendship for the Jesuits and if he uses the above information he should not say he got it from a Jesuit since they still have several colleges and missions, which he mentions, in Russia. He sends his regards to Father Vespre. Father Bourg had left the college for Virginia again.
II-3-n A.L.S. 2pp. 4to.
1
1816 May 7
Grassi, S.J., Father J(ohn)
G(eorge) T(own, District of Columbia)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, (Maryland)
(The letter is sent) by Mav. J. Almeda. He sends these lines not to talk about the spots on the sun but to recommend a good boy from the college for one year only who returns to his parents in Baltimore. His conduct is edifying, the more so as he left the vessel of his father, a privateer, to go to Georgetown. Because Grassi fears the danger to which the young man will be exposed he has recommended that he go to see Bruté. Father Ant(hon)y Kohlman, having been afflicted lately of weakness in his chest, he could not instruct the novices and has gone to the springs and perhaps as far as Conewago. He hopes that Father General will send them some help which is indispensable for the college and the missions.
II-3-n A.L.S. 2pp. 4to.
3
1816 May 6
Seton, R(ichard) B., Mount St. Mary's Seminary
(Emmitsburg, Maryland)
to William M. Seton, care of Messrs. (Filicchi) Fillichi
Leghorn, (Italy)
The opportunities keep R(ichard) busy writing to William. The first letters he wrote must have arrived "against this time." The merchants are idle, their ships are in port. He would almost rather see war. He hopes soon to go into business. He hopes Rebecca (Seton) will soon be well. Her sickness makes him love her the more. Her loss will be great but he hopes she will live and be well many a long day. Kitty (Catherine Seton) is very well; Mama (Mother Elizabeth Ann Bayley Seton) the same. The boys have the measles here again. R(ichard) and William had their trial of it together year before last. Father (John) DuBois begs to be remembered to William.
P.S. He excuses his brevity; Mr. Tiernan starts this evening. R(ichard) asks to be remembered to all.
II-1-a A.L.S. 3pp. 4to.
6
1816 May 17
Menochio, O.S.A., Bishop Joseph Bartholomew
Rome, (Italy)
to (Bishop Louis William Dubourg
New Orleans, Louisiana)
5 certificates attesting the authenticity of pieces of the Cross.
V-4-c Printed form S. (Latin) 6pp. folio
1
1816 May 17
Menochio, C.S.A., Bishop Joseph
Rome, (Italy)
to (Bishop Louis William Dubourg
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Menochio certifies the authenticity if relics of St. Peter and St. Paul.
V-4-c Printed Form S. (Latin) 1p. folio
1
1816 May 18
Menochio, O.S.A., Bishop Joseph Bartholomew
Rome, (Italy)
to (Bishop Louis William Dubourg
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Menochio authenticates relics of St. Andrew and St. Thomas, Apostles.
V-4-c Printed Form S. (Latin) 1p. folio
1
1816 May 18
Menochio, O.S.A., Bishop Joseph Bartholomew
Rome, (Italy)
to (Bishop Louis William Dubourg
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Menochio authenticates relics of St. Matthew and St. Barnabas, Apostles.
V-4-c Printed Form S. (Latin) 1p. folio
1
1814 May 18
Menochio, O.S.A., Bishop Joseph Bartholomew
Rome, (Italy)
to (Bishop Louis William Dubourg
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Menochio authenticates relics of St. James the Greater and St. James the Less, Apostles.
V-4-c Printed form S. (Latin) 1p. folio
1
1816 May 18
Menochio, O.S.A., Bishop Joseph Bartholomew
Rome, (Italy)
to (Bishop Louis William Dubourg
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Menochio authenticates relics of St. Simon, Apostle, and St. John, Apostle.
V-4-c Printed Form S. (Latin) 1p. folio
1
1816 May 18
Menochio, O.S.A., Bishop Joseph Bartholomew
Rome, (Italy)
to (Bishop Louis William Dubourg
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Menochio authenticates relics of St. Luke and St. Mark, evangelists.
V-4-c Printed Form S. (Latin) 1p. folio
1
1816 May 18
Menochio, O.S.A., Bishop Joseph
Rome, (Italy)
to (Bishop Louis William Dubourg
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Menochio authenticates relics of St. Matthew and St. Philip, Apostles.
V-4-c Printed Form S. (Latin) 1p. folio
1
1816 May 18
Menochio, O.S.A., Bishop Joseph Bartholomew
Rome, (Italy)
to (Bishop Louis William Dubourg
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Menochio authenticates relics of St. Bartholomew and St. Thaddeus, Apostles.
V-4-c Printed Form S. (Latin) 1p. folio
1
1816 May 28
David, Father J(ean), St. Thomas Seminary
(Bardstown, Kentucky)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, M(arylan)d
David thanks Bruté for his letter and thanks him for his efforts to maintain their seminary. He hopes that in Bruté's letter to France he will not cease to speak for them. As for himself he will continue in the work which he regards as a work of Providence. It is not himself that he seeks since he would be better off at Baltimore. But it is the fear of seeing the work of 4 years vanish and his work rendered useless, of seeing the 12 clerics of whom 7 are from Kentucky deprived of the hope of becoming priests and of seeing the religious life there destroyed that keeps him at his task. David has written to Father (Jean) Tessier his reasons and he repeats some of them here. David regards the seminary there as belonging to St. Sulpice and himself as superior of such a seminary. This is shown in he gift of the library without any expectation of a return. Father (Ambrose) Maréchal who has come since would upset all this and has asked Tessier to recall David to Baltimore. When Father (Jacques) Emery sent him to Bishop (Benedict Joseph) Flaget Emery wrote to Father Francois Nagot he was supposed to return if Flaget did not establish a seminary within two years. David insists that the Holy Father when David was named to Philadelphia left him with Flaget because Flaget said he was necessary. He does not think he would do grand things in Baltimore. He has had his difficulties even in Kentucky but God has given him the grace to surmount them. David has written to the Holy Father explaining things and he hopes he will achieve with the Bishop the acceptance of their seminary. He has also written to Tessier telling him of the good will of the Fathers of Paris, especially Father Garnier. Their seminary church is finished and now they build a cathedral. They do not have definite news from Louisiana. If they go there there will be no longer a seminary in Kentucky. They would spend their time forming the savages of Missouri, but they will do what they are commanded. He thanks Bruté for the account of the death of Father Nagot. He has read it to the group.
II_3-n A.L.S. (French) 4pp. 4to.
5
1816 Jun. 11
(Flaget), B(enedict) J(oseph), Bishop of
Bardstown, (Kentucky)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, Maryland
(Flaget) writes from the very land of the cathedral. That morning he laid out the dimensions with Father (Jean) David and the architect. His encouragement is so great that he would go against Providence to delay. Now they lay the stones for the foundation and they will come from a quarry on the same ground. IN five or six weeks the foundation will be laid and he will return to lay the cornerstone with all the solemnity he can muster with his grand master of ceremonies and as many priests as he can assemble. He asks Bruté to pray that he will himself be the cornerstone of the cathedral and its finest ornament, the first in this vast country, and a model for all that will be built. The building will be 100 feet long and 64 feet in width. The choir will be thirty feet long and 20 in width and end in a semicircle. Godfroy had begun a plan on the dimensions he had suggested but did not complete the plan. The bishop may have committed some faults in his plan but he has tried to follow the rules. Although his subscription went above his hopes he still has need of his friends at a distance and he hopes that Bruté will warn Fathers Radin, Fenwick, Moranvilliers, Maguire and others and good laymen to aid the subscription. When he thinks that he has only 8 Catholics in Bardstown and yet the town has subscribed five thousand dollars he must believe that God directs the work. He assures Bruté his everlasting gratitude for his aid.
P.S. Mr. Millet is disgusted with (Flaget)'s seminary and wishes to return to Baltimore. He is very inconstant and (Flaget) doubts he will ever stay in one place. He would let him go if he had the money for his expenses. He does not have the missionary spirit and (Flaget) regrets giving him tonsure and minor orders, but he will repair that by giving him his exeat.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 4pp. 4to.
3
1816 Jun. 17
Grassi, S.J., Father J(ohn)
G(eorge) T(own, District of Columbia)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, (Maryland)
Grassi apologizes for not answering sooner. He sent Bruté's last letter to Father Ant(hony) Kohlman and W(hit)Marsh. The intelligence in it will be very agreeable also to his brother who lives with him, to supply for his bad health. When the weakness of his breast becomes painful he will go to Conewago. Grassi expects him there to see about several things in the ensuing scholastic year. If the Superior General does not send them some assistance Grassi does not know what he will do. He intends to reduce the number of students to leave more leisure for the scholastics to make a regular course of studies. They have now 26 scholastics whom he hopes will succeed but if they do not receive a Jesuitical education they will be discouraged. He has no news from Europe except the last letter of Father Ch(arles) Plowden, an extract of which he sent to Father Fenwick for Bruté. Grassi had no time to write because Father Henry was sick. Father Neale was absent. Grassi asks Bruté to thank Father Vespre for copying the extracts Bruté sent him. He wants a parcel of books from France. He asks where to seek them in France. He sends his regards to the other priests. Dr. O'Connor has announced that he has consumption. Father Byrne is not able to say Mass on Sunday.
P.S. He hopes Bruté has seen the new tariff for customs houses, according to which books for incorporated colleges are free of duty.
II-3-n A.L.S. 2pp. 4to.
2
1816 Jun. 25
(Cheverus), Jean, Bishop of
Boston, (Massachusetts)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, (Maryland)
(Cheverus) has received with gratitude the details of the mission to New Orleans and Bruté's note about it. The letter will be given to Bruté by Mr. Gavin who takes two sons of one of his friends. (Cheverus) says that if he left them there to learn English they would lose their faith. Bruté will be their guardian angel. He sends the respects of Father (Francis) Matignon. He unites with him to salute Bruté's faculty. (Cheverus) intends in two months and a half to make a mission in Newcastle and surroundings in Maine. He wishes he had someone to leave with Father Matignon besides his Irish minor. He wishes he could leave some one else during his absence.
P.S. He asks that the enclosure be passed on to Mother Corbettez after Bruté has read it.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 2pp. 4to.
2
(1816) Jul. 2
(Flaget), B(enedict) J(oseph), Bishop (of Bardstown)
Wilderness of Kentucky
to Father (Simon Bruté) Brutey
Baltimore, Maryland
(Flaget) informs Bruté that he is traveling among high mountains and deep valleys which are suffering from a drought but has received, for the past two days, so much rain that it is now possible to float frigates in rivers where one could hardly have found enough water to wash his hands. From the banks of such a river, which he is unable to cross, he writes: 1. to thank Bruté for all he has sent for in such a region everything is precious; 2. to tell him that Father (Jean) Tessier has upset him greatly with detailed accounts which he should never have sent -- and has somewhat forced him to give others which should have been omitted. (Flaget) will not stop liking him as before if he will treat him more like a friend than he has been doing for some time. (Flaget) is enclosing two letters for France which are very important to his diocese and asks that they be sent as soon as possible in reliable hands. The good Lord has blessed his work in such a way that he does not believe that it is His desire that he be changed. That is the way that he is going to expose it to the Holy Father who will then do as he wishes. While waiting for the decision of the Holy Father he will continue the plans for his cathedral, because if he does not take advantage of the present circumstances, his successor, if he is to have one, will have great difficulty in arousing the good-will that he now has. That is why he asks Bruté to make a collection among his students, his friends, and acquaintances for that purpose, and to tell Father (John Francis) Moranviller to do as much, and that God will recompense them for any humiliation which they might suffer. Above all he wants Bruté to assure (Maximilian) Godefroy and his wife of his sincere affection for them and to beg him, on bended knees if necessary, to send the plan of the Cathedral which he once began. If any expenses are involved, (Flaget) will cover them. The cornerstone of the cathedral is to be blessed soon but (Flaget) will be satisfied with laying the foundation this year. This will give Godefroy time to complete what he has already started. (Flaget) is fond of the plan because his desire is to build a church which can serve as a model.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 4pp. 4to.
3
1816 Jul. 19
(Richard, Father Gabriel)
Detroit
to (Bishop Benedict Joseph Flaget) of
(Bardstown, Kentucky)
It is now eight days since (Richard) announced his great hopes that the plans for the construction of the Church would be carried out. The beautiful and magnificent projects of which he spoke in his last letter have aroused a great opposition which though badly organized is yet very strong, arising from prejudices, diverse passions, rivalries, blind obstinacy and even revenge. The opposition is formed of persons of all parties, many separated for a long time but reunited by this opposition. To clarify the matter for (Flaget) he relates what has happened since April 26 last. The Supervisor of roads and streets announced that day that the Council of the city had ordered him to open the streets and that he was going to run a plow through the old cemetery to smooth out the unevenness, and invited Richard to take proper means the following Monday, April 29 to obtain compensation for the land of St. Anne, and to arrange for removal of the bodies. A general assembly of the parish was held after the high Mass. It was necessary first of all to revive the Corporation of the Church of St. Anne which had been allowed to perish by the failure to elect trustees to carry on the functions each year. The corporation should be composed of 4 trustees or marguilliers and the cure, who by custom is president. The governor's order was quite positive and the assembly met in the house in front of the chapel of Cote du Nord Est, three miles from the town. Richard had suggested that there be two trustees from Cote du Nord Est and two from the rest. Those from the Cote du Nord Est refused lest this be taken as an act of union and a surrendering of their claim to have a separate parish, and that cote du Nord Est be the Church of Saint Anne, although their building is too small and to far from the city. On this refusal the rest of the assembly chose four trustees with the consent of those present of both parties who were to see to the alienation of the land for the street and to see to the removal of the bodies. On Monday April 29 Richard went with the 4 trustees to the home of the Governor, where they found these men who constitute the Bureau of Commissioners with whom they had to make the arrangements. It was agreed and confirmed by the governor that in place of the land taken over by the street (165' by 88') 1. there would be added to the remaining 131' by 35' a plot 165' by 132' making the church property 131' by 200' with the exception of two lots 60' by 44' near the middle, one of which already had been bought with the money of the Church and the other belonging to an heir who has not yet come of age. 2. the new cemetery of which they have had simple possession since 1799 will be conformed and augmented by 4 lots equivalent to 200 feet, but changed to accord with the new plan of the city for 4 lots near the cemetery and these are to be given by the legislature of the territory. 3. A cemetery of 2 acres by one will be given likewise in perpetuity to the Society of the Church of St. Anne at a distance of about 10 arpents from the cemetery. 4. A right angled triangle of 400 feet at the base by 200 feet will be offered along side the cemetery of condition that the corporation decide to build a church there within three months, before July 29. The whole consists of about 5 arpents and a half. There exists an advantage for the corporation if they accept the resolution. The governor and the Bureau of Commissioners have since added 4 other lots facing the great door of the church provided that it is built on the triangle proposed. The corporation resolved to accept the Governor's offer with the advice of Bishop (Flaget) as the theologian. The corporation has given notice that it will sell on July 11, at auction, the lots which they have been given near the site of the church comprising the remnant of 131' by 35'. These lots, seven in number, will in prudent estimate produce three or four thousand dollars. One person has offered $1,000 for one, 60' by 43'. They wish to profit by an occasion which might not last long. Two of the lots have corners in the old cemetery from which the bodies must be moved before someone takes possession since next autumn all the other bones must be moved. It is 17 years since they were buried and Flaget has told him that he would permit the removal after 14 years, when the cemetery was to be returned to profane uses. Having the consent of the government and the bishop they did not expect any violent storm. But they had scarcely gone to the land when a lawyer and 30 or 40 French Canadians, chiefly from the Cote du Nord Est, presented a petition signed by 175 names against the sale of the lots. They claimed that the land had been given by the French Government to the Society of the Church of St. Anne and that all the members must be called on to give their consent, lacking which, the sale, would be null. They referred to the remainder of 131' by 35' and a small lot 60' by 40' on which the beadle lived. They contested the election of the 4 trustees on the ground that they were chosen by only a small number. Richard points out that according to the law under which the corporation was formed, the trustees are granted the power to alienate or acquire without any special authorization up to 2,000 acres of land. Thus the parish cannot be bound by any other rules except these and those of the ritual of Quebec and certain other adopted in a general assembly in 1805. In one of these the consent of the bishop is required, but since the bishop of Quebec has disapproved and insisted that he should have the consent of Flaget, he has decided to ask Flaget's approval and to await it. He has also asked the opinion of two judges, one a capable lawyer who agrees that the corporation acted legally. However the Governor and the Commission have extended the time for accepting the agreement. Interest in the deceased is only pretended since the old cemetery has been exposed without protection for 11 years. It would be more respectful to transfer the bones. The real reason is their fear that the new church will be rebuilt in the city which is the case with (blank), who will not omit to write to (Flaget) that he has promised to build a church and that he began one 6 years ago, contrary to all the rules of the church. The work was begun on land not yet purchased and when (Richard) would not come and bless it, the blessing took place in wine and whiskey. The same man who signed the protest on the grounds that the bodies cannot be disinterred without the assent of the Vicar General himself removed more than 20 graves last Oct. 11 from an adjoining lot. This lot was sold already 5 times without removing the bodies. Today they want to refuse permission to sell a small strip of land despite the agreement about removing the bodies to a permanent cemetery with the consent of the Vicar General. The members of the corporation of the Cote Nord Est will unite if this man be allowed to continue his church. They do this merely to hinder what has been authorized legitimately. (Richard) thinks that he will announce on the feast of St. Anne the decision of (Flaget's) letter of February 1815 and fix the location of the church in the triangle near the cemetery which he has delayed doing because of reasons of prudence. He will probably also refuse to conduct services any longer on the Cote du Nord Est, although they have the permission of (Flaget) on condition that they contribute to the rebuilding of St. Anne's. He asks (Flaget) to confirm this decision in a letter both as regards the location of the church and the sale of the lots. The sale of the lots is approved by the rules of the Archbishop of Quebec provided that the bodies are removed and the buyers do not take possession until they have been removed. If there are any further developments he will inform (Flaget) by the following courier and he will also send him a little plan of Detroit and of the lots which cause the division. (Last page hardly legible).
III-2-f (Copy) A.L. (French) 5pp. 4to.
2
1816 July 23
E(gan) Sister Mary
(Emmitsburg, Maryland)
to Catherine, Seton
Baltimore, Maryland
She received "Kitty"'s letter with delight. She observed that Kitty spends her time well, but wishes with Maria Gillespie that she would write more often. She will narrate the experiences of a typical day, yesterday. She and the girls undertook a walking trip to the top of the mountain but stopped on the way to pick blackberries. The girls screamed that there was a snake round S. Fennell's leg. S. Jane jumped over the fence and found that Fennell was caught in briars and being stung by wasps or bees. Fennell was left at Mrs. Brawnes's and all the rest proceeded on the way. They began climbing rocks from the foot of the mountain, when there was another snake alarm, this time true. M. Stiegers who is very nervous was in terror. They all continued on until they began to think they had better turn back if they didn't want to lose supper. They gathered a few whortleberries and started home. They took the wrong road and had to cut across fields to get to the right one. The field grass was very deep and some of them were making the sign of the cross every step they took (sic). Getting to the right road they had to go back a half mile for Fennell before going home to supper. They ask Catherine to write soon. M. Gillespie is also waiting for an answer.
P.S. She excuses herself for having written a foolish letter. But Maria Gillespie said Catherine liked that kind. She asks Catherine to remember her to A. Tiernon and Sally, M. White, I. Jenkins and Mr. Hickley. None of the girls have gone to communion yet.
II-1-A A.L.S. 4pp. 12mo.
2
(1816 Jul. 31)
Grassi, S.J., Father J(ohn)
(Georgetown, District of Columbia)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Balt(imore, Maryland)
Grassi does not have anything to say but must answer Bruté's last letters. Priests lately from Italy brought him a letter from Father Mai who saw Bishop (William) Duborg at Milan where Grassi's fellow novice is working. Father Ladavière has left Baltimore and is now in Paris. What Father Briessler writes on the novitiate of Destelberghe gives hopes that they will receive aid from that quarter. Father Grivel has left Russia for France. Grassi thinks he is the man forced to leave St. Petersburg for having converted Princess Galiczin. Since Grassi is doubtful that Father Vespre is in the seminary he sends a letter for him which Bruté may read and take care of the good Dutchman of whom it speaks. He begs Bruté to continue to write.
II-3-n A.L.S. 2pp. 4to.
2
1816 Aug. 1
(Flaget), Benedict J(oseph), Bishop of
St. Michael, B(ards) Town, (Kentucky)
to Father (P.) Babade
Baltimore, Maryland
(Flaget) thanks Babade for the few lines he has inserted in the letter of Madame Petit and for his interest in his diocese. Babade understands better than Father (Jean) Tessier how necessary it is that Father (Jean) David remain. How else could the seminary go without the seminary what would become of the diocese? Babade would have enjoyed the blessing of the cornerstone of his cathedral on the feast of Mt. Carmel. He was preceded by the cross and eighteen clerics in surplices to the place where he had planted a cross. Then David explained the ceremonies in a moving way and (Flaget) performed the ceremonies and then thanked those who had subscribed and encouraged others to do so. He then gave a solemn benediction with cross and miter to the audience, more Protestant than Catholic. He quotes some of the things said. A Protestant made a note in the newspaper about it. He has had to pay $700 for the lot on which the cathedral will stand. He will be able to sustain these later but he needs the money now. He asks Babade to share this letter with Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté.
P.S. Since the plan for the cathedral is necessary he has written to (Maximilian) Godefroy about it but he wishes Babade to speak to him also. The facade increases the subscriptions. He dares not write any more to Havana since they seem to have forgotten him. Babade can do in that what he thinks suitable.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 4pp. 8vo.
5
(1816 Aug. 13)
David, Father J(ean)
(Bardstown, Kentucky)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, (Maryland)
David regrets his delay in answering Bruté's latest letter. The details of the mission of Orleans was so interesting and gave proof that hope for the renewal of religion is not impossible. On July 16 the Feast of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Bishop (Benedict Joseph) Flaget solemnly blessed the foundation stone of the cathedral. He was assisted by Father Fuit the Dominican, Father (Guy Ignatius) Chabrat and David, four deacons Desrigauds and three Dominicans, one subdeacon, two in minor orders and seven clerics, 17 in all. The seminarians had come four miles on foot. A great crowd of people attended, including several ministers, among whom was the Presbyterian minister of Bardstown. David describes the procession to the site and his sermon and the speech of Flaget. He made a good impression as the enclosed clipping evidences (no enclosure). There is much activity at the foundation now since they want to lay the bricks in the springtime. The worker charges $8 a thousand and promises to finish October 15, 1817. As Bruté can see they are in need. they lack a plan. (Maximilian Godefroy) Godfroid has been cold to Flaget's urging. They have formed a ground plan which he gives in detail. He urges Bruté to have (Godefroy) send the frontispiece. The seminary is sufficient for the office but there are many things to be done there. Flaget will bless it on the feast of the Assumption. They are about to begin their seminary and he is sure that his translation to Louisiana will not take place. Flaget's word should have influence in Rome as Bishop (William) Dubourg will have to establish his see with his zealous missionaries as he sees fit. The seminary will be of brick. He is advancing the vacation of the seminary 15 days so that the seminarians can work on the building. They expect to be in the seminary by winter. The stipends for Masses from New Orleans will aid here. He forgot to say that the Bishop gave his blessing from the throne and greatly impressed the people. Millet has changed his mind and will stay. He does poorly in theology and reads like Ganilh in the refectory.
P.S. The Sisters thank him for his precious gifts, and promise prayers for him. They have as many scholars as they can handle. The number is 14. He asks that Father (Jean) Tessier send them by the first opportunity some medicines he lists.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 4pp. 4to.
4
(1816 Aug. 14)
(Flaget), B(enedict) J(oseph) Bishop of
(Bardstown, Kentucky)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, Maryland
(Flaget) encloses this letter in a letter very important for Bishop (William) DuBourg which he asks Bruté to expedite but carefully since he does not send a duplicate. If his seminary of Saint Thomas would be taken over by the Sulpicians he would lack nothing for his happiness there. Tomorrow on the feast of the Assumption he will bless the chapel dedicated to St. Thomas with deacon and subdeacon. Father (Guy Ignatius) Chabrat will be assistant priest and Father (Jean) David will direct the choir. It is marvelous to see the Protestants of Bardstown give all kinds of ornaments for the cathedral of which the foundations are already in the ground. Bruté must not forget the plans of (Maximilian) Godefroy and send them in the care of Madame St. Martin. He writes no more because of a lack of time.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 2pp. 8vo.
3
1816 Sep. 10
(Flaget, B(enedict Joseph), Bishop of Bardstown
Loretto, (Kentucky)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, Maryland
(Flaget) has received Bruté's latest letter and tribute for which he is very grateful. He wants to know the source of the oval reliquary, the portrait of Our Lord and Our Lady embossed in silver and a little ivory statue of the Blessed Virgin so that he can send a testimony of his gratitude. He is grateful to God for the bit of the cross he gives him every day to keep his apostolic way. The little success he had in Baltimore for his cathedral is disappointing. He asks that Bruté recommend his work to Mr. Sinnot and his brother-in-law Walsh. The Bishop of Quebec writes that he is himself building a church. Father (Gabriel) Richard at Detroit also is building one. The gentlemen of Upper Louisiana who had made some fine promises are collecting funds for their bishop. So his resources outside are reduced to zero. Millet though more content is not as satisfied as (Flaget) wishes. He asks that Bruté pass on the enclosed letter.
P.S. If George Elder is at the seminary Bruté is to tell him that his family is well. He is to embrace him and give him all the attention in Bruté's power.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 2pp. 4to.
2
1816 Sep. 13
David, Father J(ean)
St. Thomas Seminary Kentucky
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, (Maryland)
Favor of Mr. Grandchamps
He has received Bruté's letter of no date but stamped 31 August. He is grateful for all the good news. He is impressed by the good men, the great baggage and great cost but if these are destined for the establishment they will be justified. He would never have consented to what they have had he known the cost. The postage was $200 as demanded by Father (Jean) Tessier. They are happy to have visitors (Vincentians) but have little room now that they have seven workers from outside. They will be welcomed at St. Louis. They will take 4 there to learn English. They expect to have room in the seminary to lodge them at the end of November. That will be 30 feet square of brick of which he gives a detailed description. After they finish the cathedral they will build another seminary for the theologians and philosophers and St. Thomas will then become a minor seminary. He will also make some addition for the Sisters of Nazareth who now have 31 students. There are 14 Sisters of whom 10 have made their vows. He will soon receive 2 more. Father (Ambrose) Maréchal is wrong if he thinks that David and Bishop (Benedict Joseph) Flaget have contributed to his nomination. David does not think that Flaget has said a word to Father (William) DuBourg. David is sure that Maréchal will resist the coadjutorship as much as he did the appointment to Philadelphia. As to himself Flaget has offered strong reasons which he sent to the pope through Father (Charles) Nerinckx. He is too elevated already and does not want to be considered for any prelature. Mr. Grandchamps leaves them for Baltimore fully equipped for the trip. He has promised to pay when he gets to Baltimore and David asks that Tessier see to that. He is not very strong and David does not know whether he will try to enter another seminary. They have given up on the plans from (Maximilian) Godefroi. The ground plan is finished. They need a frontispiece. (John) Rogers has a plan but David would prefer the hand of a master. The interior is 64 feet. They want a bell tower, the base of which would be 16 feet square. Their ground plans resemble those of Bruté except for the two chapels in the recesses.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 4pp. 4to.
10
1816 Sep. 16
Grassi, S.J., Father J(ohn)
G(eorge T(own, District of Columbia)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, (Maryland)
He writes to inform Bruté that Mr. DeClery of Pittsburgh has asked them to send the bed and bedding of his son John who was in their house last year and this year will be with Bruté. If Bruté will send a servant to the post office he will find the articles belong to the boy. The young man conducted himself well at Georgetown. Father (James) Lucas is there and intends to leave for richmond Sunday evening. Grassi has much to say but does not know how to begin. One of the professors being absent to make a retreat, Grassi has to take his classes.
P.S. Among Declery's books was a copy of the "Introduction to Devout Life" in German with the name of Georgetown written in. If it belongs to DeClery Grassi will send it.
II-3-n A.L.S. 2pp. 4to.
3
1816 (Sep.) 19
Grassi, S.J., Father J(ohn)
G(eorge)T(own, District of Columbia)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, (Maryland)
One of the professors being on retreat and F(rancis) Neale being absent Grassi has been very busy, having scarcely time to read Bruté's letter of last week. As the boys have gone on a steamboat down the Potomac he has some free time. He thinks what Bruté has written on the Jesuits for the Analytic Magazine will not produce the effect he intends. The manuscript refers to a charge made under St. Francis Xavier's generalship and in Bavaria. grassi relates the story and indicates that the manuscript making the charge should be ridiculed. Grassi relates how another Jesuit handled a plan to publish tales about the Jesuits. He thinks that treating these attacks as jokes, of which he gives and example, is a better argument than trying to expose the services of the Jesuits to humanity. Grassi quotes also some pertinent passages from the Edinburgh Review. He regrets that he has lost several other quotations of this kind. He is sorry that he cannot quote the passage from Robertson on the Jesuits. He mentions other books on the subject. He relates an episode of Euler, the President of the St. Petersburg academy, about the Jesuits.
P.S. Grassi does not know how Father (Stephen) Dubuisson is going on with his Bedford waters. He expected him home every day. He hopes that DeClery has arrived and that he found his bedding at the stage office. He asks if Bruté received his letter with money for Father (Felix d' Andreis. Archbishop (Leonard Neale) enjoys good health but his health is in decline. Father Fenwick has Mr. Dallas's work in favor of the Jesuits and the letters of Father Plowden.
II-3-n A.L.S. 4pp. 4to.
5
1816 Sep. 27
Fesch, Cardinal Joseph, Archbishop of
Lyons, (France)
Printed regulations about reserved cases filled in by Father (Anthony) Blanc with handwritten note by Father Courbon, vicar-general and the signature of Allibert. A note at the side of page 1, (in Indiana state ?).
Printed D. (Latin)
Folded with the above:
--------
1816 Sep. 22
Fesch, Cardinal Joseph
Lyons, (France)
Fesch transfers jurisdiction over Blanc to the Bishop of New Orleans. Signed by Courbon, by order of Allibert.
D. (Latin)
V-4-c Printed D., D. (Latin) 5pp. 4to.
1
1816 Sep. 29
Grassi, S.J., Father J(ohn)
G(eorge) T(own, District of Columbia)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, (Maryland)
Grassi was absent three days and is late. Crescemberi was not a Jesuit. F. Antonio of Lodi was in Lisbon and sailed on his mission in 1806 or 7. Grassi knew him as a Capuchin. Father (James) Lucas is acquainted with Mr. Freeman of Georgetown. The wife of Freeman, a Methodist, complained that he did not return a visit to the college. He will return the visit and try to find out from Freeman, a Catholic, if the Unitarian preacher is his brother. According to a letter one of the Jesuits mentioned in Bruté's letter is Father Grivel of French Comte who has studied at St. Sulpice in Paris. Bruté's remarks about the aversion of some classes to the Jesuits reminds Grassi that this is a repetition of the life of the Redeemer. They have not recovered their balloon yet. He sent a list of distinguished Jesuits to Bruté but could not add more names to the list. He lists a great number of prominent Jesuits and their chief work. He wonders what Bruté will do with the list. He is anxious to see the pamphlet on the Bavarian librarian. Grassi is confident that Father (Charles) Plowden will not be silent if this pamphlet produces impressions unfavorable to the Society. He will stamp on the forehead of Delacy. Grassi had heard that some of Bruté's seminarians were to come to Georgetown to be ordained. Is it 10?
II-3-n A.L.S. 4pp. 4to.
2
1816 Oct. 9
(Cheverus), Jean, Bishop of
Boston, (Massachusetts)
to Father S(imon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, Maryland
(Cheverus) acknowledges Bruté's letter of September 30. Today is the feast of St. Denis and they hope and pray for France and the missions. He hopes that Abbé Caron instead of sadness will soon reap a harvest. The arrival of the missionaries (Vincentians) for Louisiana is important. There is hope there and in Kentucky. As to his own diocese he has bad news. Father (James) Romagne threatens to leave next summer. Reverend (Francis K.) Brosius has to return his family to Europe, because of his health. Mr. Dennis Ryan has received only minor orders but his foot is healing and there is hope that he will be ordained. (Cheverus) agrees with Bruté on the article of St. Gregory VII and hopes that Bruté will not fear to offend him by his opinions. He wishes that Pasquiet would return. On August 4 at Newcastle he baptized, confirmed, and communicated a lawyer of 46 years, Samuel Bishop. Many Protestant friends, among them lawyers like Bishop, were present. (Cheverus) sends his respects to Mother (Elizabeth) Seton. He sends greetings to Richard and Josephine. The widow of John C. Seton, the father of Rebecca, and his two children prepare to enter the church. Father John Tessier writes to Matignon offering him lodging in Baltimore but he is asking the Archbishop to excuse him from the ceremonies because he lacks funds. If he had funds he would try to get one or two priests to help them. He trusts in Providence but feels he should not contract debts. He has to advance $100 to one coming from Mayenne who is recommended by Abbé Songe at Mayenne. If Bruté or Tessier can advance the $100 he will have Father Durant call for it. Matignon will answer Tessier. Brosius will write to Babade.
P.S. He has received Bruté's letter of the 5th. He encloses the money order in Bruté's name. He sends his compliments to Maréchal. Matignon agrees with Bruté on St. Gregory.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 4pp. 4to.
8
1816 Oct. 12
(Flaget), Benedict J(oseph), Bishop of (Bardstown)
Louisville, (Kentucky)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, Maryland
If Father (Jean) Tessier worries him in the next six months as he has during the past year (Flaget) will lose his life or his head. Bruté knows how he has made him suffer over Father (Jean) David. After that he had some money in his hands that belonged to (Flaget) and with which he made (Flaget) pay for some things which friendship should have allowed. Now he comes to engage Father (Guy Ignatius) Chabrat, demanding him without regard to (Flaget)'s claims. Chabrat adopted (Flaget)'s diocese at subdiaconate and promised him obedience when he was made a priest. He feels he has rights to Chabrat and wants to keep them. He admits that bishops in France allow priests to become Sulpicians and go to other dioceses but that is not true in this country. Chabrat is his eldest son. He can follow his vocation as Sulpician there as well as in Baltimore. If he gives him up no one will come to take his place. He will not cede to Tessier. That is why he ordained Chabrat.
P.S. He sends his letter to Tessier because he thinks these are the deliberations of Tessier, (H.) Harent, and (Ambrose) Maréchal. If that is so he asks that the enclosed be communicated to his other confreres and ask for a general assembly because it means depriving of the means of doing his task. He would like to know the conduct of their friend Father (Jean) Dubois if Tessier talked of taking Hickey away without replacing him. Tessier would have two theologians near him to help him but this bishop has none. He asks that Father (Pierre) Babade be his advocate in the case.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 2pp. 4to.
8
1816 Oct. 15
D(avid), Father J(ean), St. Thomas Seminary
Bardstown, Kentucky
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, (Maryland)
He has received for the Bishop (Benedict Joseph Flaget) the letter concerning the missionaries who are descending the Ohio and are probably at Louisville. The Bishop left thursday with Father (Guy Ignatius) Chabrat to receive them and bring the 4 students (Vincentians) and even Father Felix D'Andreis to their poor cabin. They will have a long wait. When they left Pittsburgh September 24 there was rain but there has been no rain at Louisville or on the banks. D(avid) will be pleased to see these men but he fears that there will be trouble between the Kentuckians and the foreigners since the last two Frenchmen did not find favor. Grandchamp told Mr. (Stephen Theodore) Badin that they had expected to find a seminary but instead had found only a hole. Now they try to take away from them their dear Father Chabrat. He cannot believe that Bruté is among those who suggest such a thing. Chabrat has his days of melancholy but soon recovers. Father (Jean) Tessier seems to be trying to abandon the Bishop. Tessier even tries to take away the bishop's resources, charging him for matters that were gifts from St. Sulpice. D(avid) has been so disturbed that he has written to Father Duclaux. Chabrat has charge of four congregations which would be abandoned if Chabrat were withdrawn. He has become a scourge to heretics, especially the Baptists. D(avid) relates some of Chabrat's experiences with these Baptists. After conferring with the Bishop and D(avid) Chabrat arrived at certain conclusions: 1. That he was ordained under the title of the missions and destined at Clermont for Bardstown; 2. Flaget paid his expenses from Bourdeaux to Kentucky; 3. Chabrat's vocation has always been to the missions and was so recognized by Father Emery; and 4. Flaget ordained him deacon and priest and Chabrat promised him obedience. St. Thomas is recognized as a seminary and should not be deprived of its faculty. Father (Charles) Nerinckx brings some priests from Belgium so he will replace Father Chabrat who will become the director of the seminary of St. Thomas. When the cathedral is built they will have a grand seminary of St. Joseph and will be under Father Chabrat and some one else will take over the direction of St. Thomas such as Father Desrigaud. D(avid) gives his opinions and hopes that God will bless both places. The walls of the seminary rise and will be finished in three weeks.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 4pp.
8
1816 Oct. 17
Brute, Simon, President of St. Mary's College
Baltimore, (Maryland)
to William Seton
(Leghorn, Italy)
He asks Seton to present the following request to M. Fillichi. Two editions of newly discovered classics have been put out at Milan by O. Angelo Mayo. They are works of Oranto and Symmachus and letters of Salust Ennius, Plautus, Cato, Pliny, Antonius Pius, Marcus Aurelius, Verus, Arrian. It is his ambition that their college should have these treasures first and perhaps by subscription be able to give the first American Edition. This would be an honor for the Catholics. He asks to be sent a copy of them. After Brute's signature there follows a note:
Luke Tiernan
(Baltimore)
to William Seton
(Leghorn, Italy)
If there is a way the books can be sent to him he would pay their value if a bill (?) could be sold on me for the amount. If given to the captain of the ship Scioto they would be taken care of.
II-1-a A.L.S. 2pp. royal 8vo.
3
1816 Oct. 29
Grassi, S.J., Father J(ohn)
G(eorge) T(own, District of Columbia)
to (Father Simon Gabriel Bruté
Baltimore, Maryland)
Grassi acknowledges (Bruté)'s letter of the 23rd. He says that (Bruté) always knows more about ecclesiastical things than he even though he does not live far from the Archbishop (Leonard Neale) who told him that the Bishop of Boston (John) Cheverus was coming to impose the pallium, but did not mention the difficulty of which (Bruté) spoke. He is sure that the income from their corporation is far less than (Bruté) imagines and that the necessities of the novices absorb all that can be spared. Because the Archbishop said that Cheverus is coming it would be useless to write him. Grassi has the highest respect for Cheverus and wants him coadjutor and the Archbishop of Baltimore. It seems that (Bruté) regrets the non-residence of the actual archbishop. Grassi thinks quite contrary but will defer telling his reasons. He asks when they will see (Bruté). He fears he answered too roughly (Bruté)'s question on how their balloon was made. He told him to come and see it because he wanted to see (Bruté). They have not received their balloon as yet. Grassi intends to visit Charles and St. Mary's counties. Father Ant(hony) Kohlman is better.
II-3-n A.L.S. 1p. 4to
4
1816 Nov. 11
Laroque, Father Antoine
Toulouse, (France)
On this date, at the request made to the Vicars-General of Toulouse by Bishop Louis William DuBourg of Louisiana for a portion of the relics of St. Exupery, seventh bishop of Toulouse, LaRoque, one of the vicars-general, went to the church of St. Sernin and opened the reliquary and extracted a piece of a vertebra and part of a large bone, in the presence of the above-mentioned bishop, of Father Mathieu, pastor of St. Sernin, of Father Prepaud, canon and secretary of the archdiocese, of Fathers Lamarque, Mortie(r) and Carme, curates of St. Sernin, and Duprat, treasurer. The relics were placed in an oval wooden box and the reliquary was closed with the seal of the Chapter of St. Stephen. The extracted parts were given to (DuBourg). LaRoque signs with Mathieu, Lamarque, Mortier, Carme, Duprat, and Prepaud.
D.S. (French)
Enclosure:
--------
1816 Nov. 11
Laroque, Father (Antoine)
Toulouse, (France)
Laroque certifies the authenticity of the relics of St. Exupery. (Signed also by) Prepaud, Keeper of the seal.
D.S. (Latin)
V-4-c D.S. (French and Latin) 3pp. 4to.
1
1816 Nov. 11
Laroque, Father Antoine
Toulouse, (France)
On this date at the request made to the vicars-general of Toulouse by Bishop Louis William DuBourg of Louisiana for a portion of the relics of St. William of Aquitania, La Roque, one of the vicars-general went to the Church of St. Sernin. They opened the reliquary in the presence of the above mentioned bishop, of Father Mathieu, pastor of St. Sernin, of Canon Prepaud, secretary of the Archdiocese, of Fathers Lamarque, Mortier, and Carme, curates of St. Sernin and Duprat, treasurer. They took out a piece of the shoulder bone and enclosed it in an oblong box which they gave to (Dubourg) and closed the reliquary with the seal of the Chapter of St. Stephen. Laroque signs with Carme, Mathieu, Prepaud, Mortier, Lamarque, and Duprat.
D.S. (French)
Enclosure:
--------
1816 Nov. 11
Laroque, Father (Antoine)
Toulouse, (France)
Laroque certifies the authenticity of the relic of St. William. (Signed also by) Prepaud, custodian of the seal.
D.S. (Latin)
V-4-c D.S. (French and Latin) 4pp. 4to.
1
1816 Nov. 15
Flaget, Benedict Joseph, Bishop of Bardstown
Monastery of Loretto, (Kentucky)
to the Inhabitants of the
Cote du Nord Est, Detroit, (Michigan)
Flaget acknowledges the receipt of the petition of the habitants of the month of October. He has read it with close attention, but feels he must wait until he has heard the other side so that he can examine the matter sincerely and render a just judgment in the case. He wishes, however, to set forth certain principles which must be the basis of the future judgments. 1. It appears to him and to Bishop (Joseph Octave Plessis) of Quebec that the church of St. Anne should be rebuilt in Detroit since that growing city will probably be the future apostolic see. 2. All Catholics depending in any way on St. Anne's should contribute according to their means to raise a church which will be a worthy monument of their faith. 3. If, for that purpose, it was judged suitable to sell the cemetery, that would not be repugnant to the Catholic faith provided the bodies would be removed. 4. That since the inhabitants of Cote du Nord Est having shown a real zeal in buying a ground and erecting a church, they can expect Flaget to give them a priest in the next year except for some unforseen obstacle. 5. That he does not believe the land of Cote du Nord Est should be in the names of the laity because of the possibility that their claims would come under inheritance laws and creditors and heirs might claim their shares of it. 6. He proposes that the land be incorporated in so far as this can be done in the Territory in which they live and that the administration and the revenues be placed in the hands of the bishop and that this be mentioned in the incorporation. 7. If the bishop cannot or does not wish to provide a priest for the church, the trustee according to the law will collect the revenues of the land and deposit them in the treasury of the "fabrique." 8. That, if the incorporation cannot be made according to the laws of Michigan Territory the property be incorporated in the name of the bishop and his successors as is done in Kentucky with the provisions of no. 7, and he never dispose of the land except according to the wish of the donor or without the consent of the generality of the parish. 9. That his intention is to establish a college or little seminary on the land of the Cote which would provide means of education for the children of the inhabitants and priests to serve them. Flaget desires that these reflections make a good impression on them and that they forget the past and unite themselves as good brothers with inhabitants of Detroit to build the new church as soon as possible. He exhorts the others to do the same. He urges them to establish again the reign of peace in their hearts as did the first Christians. (Copied in the hand of Bishop John David.
III-2-f (Copy of letter) (French) 2pp. 4to.
4
1816 Nov. 18
Chabrat, Father G(uy) I(gnatius), St. Thomas
Bardstown, Kentucky
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, Maryland
Chabrat writes to Bruté about the proceedings of his superior, Father (Jean) Tessier, or rather of his counsellor Father (Ambrose) Maréchal who is a kind of Father Badin in Baltimore. Father (Stephen Theodore) Badin tries to deprive the Bishop (Benedict Joseph Flaget) of his bread and the other tries to deprive him of his spiritual aides such as Father (Jean) David and himself. He may be ignorant. They tell him that his services are absolutely necessary for caring for the sick and several congregations about Bardstown. Father David is taken up with the seminary where he does more work than one could imagine. They will have 20 seminarians next week and several are to be ordained subdeacon and deacon. If he obeys Tessier about 4,000 souls will be destitute of spiritual assistance. Tessier tells him he must leave this because it is foreign to his vocation as a Sulpician. Chabrat hopes that this will not be put into effect. If there were another to take his place he would not hesitate to go to Baltimore. He has seen so many uncharitable things since he came to America he is a bit regretful that he ever trod American soil. He feels that the spirit of Father Olier is not in St. Mary's Seminary or they would not treat (Flaget) as they do. Chabrat asks Bruté to ask Father (Jean) Dubois, (Pierre) Babade and others what they think he should do or what they would do themselves under the circumstances. P.S. Tessier or Maréchal insists that if he is a Sulpician he must obey his orders. Chabrat asks Bruté to pray for him in his sorrow.
II-3-n A.L.S. 4pp. 4to.
5
1816 Nov. 18
(Flaget), (Benedict) J(oseph) Bishop (of Bardstown)
St. Thomas
(Bardstown, Kentucky)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, Maryland
(Flaget) says that his letter to Father (Jean) Tessier which Bruté thought sensible received a peremptory answer which demanded that if Chabrat remained with (Flaget) he would no longer be a Sulpician. Nothing like that would ever be written by Father Emery or Father Olier. Despite this, Father (Guy Ignatius) Chabrat has decided to remain with him, hoping that the brethren in Paris will be considerate and not erase his name from the Sulpicians. Since the matter will be sent to Father (Antoine) Duclaux (Flaget) asks that his letter to Tessier be sent there also, at least a copy. (Flaget) thinks this is the machinations of the devil who is disturbed by the success of Chabrat. The seminary progresses well, Millet has changed for the better, and (Flaget) thinks he will ordain him subdeacon along with another from Kentucky. Another will be made deacon and Derigaud will be made a priest to say Mass. Another will receive tonsure and 2 others minor orders. At the September ember days four Dominicans were ordained priest. One of them preached before him yesterday, and before a large crowd including Protestants. His pronunciation was so much better than that of the French priests. The Dominicans are not as useful as his own because they are to work in their college. (Flaget) sent through Bruté a letter to the Archbishop of Bordeaux. If Bruté writes to the Archbishop he should inform him and the Bishop of Cahors about the conduct of Mr. Ganil(h) and Mr. Millet. The young man who seemed so attached to (Flaget)'s diocese now says he will serve the diocese twenty years and then return to France. This has aroused the suspicions of Father (Jean) David. (Flaget) hopes that Bruté will also write to Duclaux to see that justice is rendered to him.
P.S. Archbishop (John) Carroll left him a sum of money but (Flaget) does not know who is the executor or the amount. He asks that Bruté try to find out.
P.S. He sends his regards to Babade, DuBois and the Elders. (There is a note in another hand on the back): Arrived this instant I have not read it all.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 4pp. 4to.
8
1816 Dec.
Dubourg, Bishop Louis W(illia)m, Bishop of Louisiana
Rome, (Italy)
Rescript of indulgences send from Rome by Dubourg, received during December, 1816.
Note (French)
Folded inside the above wrapper:
A copy of the Pope's decree of March 23, 1776 to Mother Marie Louise de St. Joseph, present assistant of the Ursuline Convent in Rome, granting certain indulgences. Signed by Cardinal G. Calini, Prefect and Julius Caesar de Somalia, Secretary of the Congregation of Indulgences. On the same paper is a copy of the decree of indulgences of Pope Clement XIII on the occasion of the office and mass granted in honor of Blessed Angela Merici, foundress of the Ursulines, dated February 10, 1769. Signed by Calini as prefect and S(tefano) Borgia as secretary of the Congregation of Indulgences. With the above is another copy of the decrees written in another hand and differing slightly from the first copy. On the back of this second copy is written: Indulgences granted by Pope Pius VI in 1776, received here in February, 1778.
V-4-c Note and Copies (French) 6pp. folio and 4to.
2
1816 Dec. 6
(Flaget), B(enedict) J(oseph), Bishop (of Bardstown)
Loretto, (Kentucky)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, Maryland
He apologizes to Bruté for writing to him only on envelopes but he has to take advantage of the best means to get his letters to Europe through Baltimore. He encloses a letter for Madame Fourrier which is for the most part for her brother, the Bishop; he hopes that Bruté will not delay it. That to Father (Jean) Tessier is open so Bruté can read it and also their confreres who may be interested. Father (Felix) D'Andreis and eight of his confreres who may be interested. Father (Felix) D'Andreis and eight of his confreres (Vincentians) will spend the winter in Catholic homes. They can help by saying Mass and will have to learn English. Father (Stephen Theodore) Badin offers to take two. They delay because they do not speak french perfectly and they want to enter with the Bishop (Joseph Rosati) to make a grand entrance. The presence of Father Andreis has been good for his seminarians.
P.S. Father (Jean) David is very happy to be able to offer hospitality to these men. It would be unfortunate for religion if Bishop (William) DuBourg became coadjutor. His new diocese is a field suitable to his zeal. He does not consider (Father Ambrose) Maréchal for bishop and five times more as archbishop. He is a grand man but does not have the talent for government. (Bruté notes that he considers this an indescretion that should not be passed on). He sends regards to Babada, Dechevigné and Vepres.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 2pp. 4to.
9
1816 Dec. 8
Grassi, S.J., Father J(ohn)
G(eorge) T(own, District of Columbia)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, (Maryland)
Bruté has reason to be angry with him for not answering letters and the book on the "Institution of Bishops." He can offer as excuse his absence from the college and the accumulation of business. He gives good news. Dr. (Felix) Gallagher has come to the college and submitted to the Archbishop (Leonard Neale). That ends the Charleston schism. Gallagher is going to Baltimore on his way to New York and will probably visit the college. Grassi has visited for the first time the missions in Charles and St. Mary's counties. Priests are scarce. He has heard from Conewago the Father (Adam) Britt is unable to do anything there. In the Laws of Maryland he has found a law of October 26, 1723 against blasphemy and thinks it might be used against the Freeman. Father Ant(hony) Kohlman is recovered from his breast indisposition. Father (Stephen) DuBuisson seems improved. Little Jo Byrne is troubled with scruples. Grassi has not heard from Europe and DuBuisson has not received the box from France. Grassi asks Bruté to thank the gentlemen who did the work for him. As Bishop (Jean Cheverus) has given the news about the archbishop; he will say nothing except that he is well and rejoiced about Gallagher. Father Wallace has not received back his balloon. Next Sunday the addition to Father (William) Mat(t)hews' church will be blessed.
II-3-n A.L.S. 4pp. 4to.
8