1847 Aug. 1
Abbadie, (S.J.), Father J(ohn) F(rancis):
St. Charles College
(Grand Coteau, Louisiana)
to Bishop Ant(hony) Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
He hopes that Blanc has already seen Father (John B.) Maisounabe, (S.J.). He wrote from Cincinnati on July 13 that he was leaving the 15th for Spring Hill. Blanc is to let Abbadie know near the time of the beginning of classes whether there would be any dangers in going down to the city. From the city or along the river, there will be at least 10 new students: Delavigne, Fortin, Claverie, Lalande, Labauve, Désobry, two Kleinpeters and their cousin, Morancy. He is sure of only a dozen from the country. He believes there are more than enough to replace those who will not be returning. Abbadie hears complaints about a neighboring confrere who is accused of not paying his debts and whose slaves have been seized, etc. Father (Hippolyte) Gache, (S.J.) is giving the retreat at Sacred Heart.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {12}
1847 Aug. 2
(Hall, S.C.), Sister M. Etienne:
(Emmitsburg, Maryland)
to Bishop Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana
Blanc's letter of the 20th found them in retreat. They are perfectly satisfied "that the change shall not take place before the sickly season be over." They differ on the other point viz: Sister Ann Bridget, (S.C.). It has been decided by the Council that she shall leave the Community and leave from the place where she committed her delinquencies. Etienne will write to Sister Loretta, (S.C.) to act without delay. Etienne cannot say when they will be able to send aid to Sister (Francis Regis, (S.C.). Where are they to find Sisters (of Charity) for the school Blanc contemplates? They hoped Donaldsonville would be in a fair way to supply the southern missions. (P.S.) Their Father (Superior) is here and sends regards.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 4to. - {5}
1847 Aug. 2
Gilbride, Father Mich(ae)l:
Hudson, Columbia County, (New York)
to Father (Francis P.) McFarland:
Watertown, N(ew) York
He sends a certificate of deposit for $200 which McFarland is to pay to: $20 to Thomas Bellew; $18 to Owen McConnell-he received $2 from Father (Philip) Gillick; $100 to Martin Battle; $62 to Hiram Holcimb and Daniel Lee; $54 to Black River Co. on a note of a Corbett; $8 for arranging judgments. Joseph Mullen is Gilbride's lawyer and will see to the business. He will try to raise now $100 owed to Martin Battle. The people of Carthage owe him nearly $400, with interest. Those of Sterlingville nearly $200. The Brownsville has been paid. There was a lot bought in Sacketts Harbor of which he gave the contract to Father Gillick. The people of Watertown seem innocent but there was no understanding between him and them but if he gave half a Sunday they ought to pay accordingly. He did not expect this treatment from Watertown. He thought they would not grumble at paying Battle and Bellew. They knew that Carthage was the death of a priest's pocket and of his character. By refusing to pay Battle they threw the burden on his shoulders. McFarland is to ask Battle if he has been at any loss. If he has Gilbride will be obliged to make it up.
I-1-a - A.L.S. - 6pp. - 4to. - {3}
1847 Aug. 3
Furniss, Father J.:
Newmarket on Fergus,
County Clare, Ireland
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
Mr. Patt O'Keiffe who has lately been adopted as a subject by Purcell is from his parish and had already left Drumcondra college before he had received Purcell's last letter. If he were to return now to get the priesthood, he would have to remain another year since they ordain only at the (ember times) though he has studied Theology at Rome and Drumcondra. In accordance with Purcell's wishes, O'Keiffe thought it best to proceed to America at once. He has borrowed twenty pounds to pay his expenses on the strength of Purcell's promise to lend him that amount for that purpose. Furniss advised him to do as he has done since winter would set in before he would receive Purcell's remittance. O'Keiffe's conduct is both pious and exemplary. If Purcell remits Furniss the money, Furniss will pay the person from whom O'keiffe borrowed it.
II-4-j - A.L.S. - 1p. - 8vo. - {2}
1847 Aug. 3
Lamy, Father J(ohn):
Danville, Ohio
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
Purcell's last letter delivered Lamy from a great anxiety of mind. He asks for a dispensation of marriage in the case of second cousins. Are Catholics permitted to join the Sons of Temperance? Lamy has not written to Father Louis) Senez for he is certain he will not consent to attend to the Newark congregation. The Brent family feels quite honored that their boy is going to be sent to Rome or Paris. Can they expect a visit from Purcell if the Mt. Vernon church is completed this year?
II-4-j - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 8vo. - {5}
1847 Aug. 4
Gandolfo, C.M., Father A.H.:
Ste. Genevieve, (Missouri)
to Bishop Ant(h)ony Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisiana)
Gandolfo troubles Blanc to oblige their postmaster, Benjamin Ammoureux, who having been authorized by Miss M(arian) L(avinia) Todd to open her letters, wishes to know if she is residing in New Orleans. She resided for about a month as a boarder in the house of Dr. Prenaut and about a month at the Convent. Before leaving for St. Louis on her way to New Orleans she gave power to Ammoureux to receive money from a Mr. Green of Cincinnati to the amount of $60 to pay what she owed to several people. They desire to know whether they may rely on her parole or if they are to apply to Green.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 4to. - {5}
1847 Aug. 4
Clotilda, (S.C.), Sister:
Baton Rouge, (Louisiana)
to Bishop A(nthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
She was anxious to see Blanc before leaving New Orleans but was disappointed. Sister Emily, (S.C.) and she reached here Saturday. She is much pleased with everything except the long walk to church in the hot sun. She hopes they may soon get a large house near the church. This infant establishment has done much good already.
- A.L.S. -
1847 Aug. 5
Margaret, (S.C.), Sister Mary:
Baton Rouge, (Louisiana)
to (Bishop Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Sister received (Blanc's letter by Father (Auguste) Martin. She is sorry (Blanc) cannot get a lot to build their (Sisters of Charity) house on now as land will be dear when the State House is built. She is sorry Clotilda has been sent here; she will be little use to the school. There will be very few to teach drawing. Music is what they want. They say if they taught music, many of Mrs. Fisher's scholars would come. It would be useless to send any one to teach music unless she knows it well. Mary Margaret made her retreat as Donaldson. Mr. Hickey's granddaughter boards in town and comes to school.
- A.L.S. -
V-5-h - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 4to. - {7}
1847 Aug. 4
Perisse Frères:
Lyons, (France)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
(Lyons, France)
A receipted bill for 174.30 francs for books, (which are listed). Pinot signs, paid September 2.
V-5-h - Bill - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {2}
1847 Aug. 5
Martin, Father Aug(uste):
Baton Rouge, (Louisiana)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
He has no excuse to offer for not acknowledging the receipt of the wine and bottles except that he was waiting to send news of the drawing off which took place this morning. Martin will fulfill the 20 intentions. The new Sister (of Charity) who came is ill; she seems delicate. The kitchen has been rebuilt; it is a considerable addition. He learned from the Propagateur of the approaching return of Father (Stephen) Rousselon; (Blanc) must have been inconvenienced by his absence. Martin has just received a letter from one of the canons at Rennes. He had read a letter written from Rome announcing that a successor had been given to the Bishop of Vincennes. Martin had heard two years ago that Father Ed(ward) Purcell had been mentioned. Martin rejoices in the selection of Father (John Stephen) Bazin; he would like very much to see him before he goes to his see. Here there is no sickness. If (Blanc) needs help he is to call on Martin. He is to send him any confrere too delicate to withstand the dangerous trial and Martin would be glad to come if he would be useful. He arrived from Plains where things are going well.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - 12mo. - {6}
1847 Aug. 5
O'Connor, M(ichael), Bp. of Pittsburgh:
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
He reminds Purcell that he told him before that he would accept an abatement on his bill on the condition that Purcell thought he was fully entitled to it. As this is not the case, O'Connor insists on paying the bill in full. He would not on any account go back on Purcell's judgment in the case. He encloses $922 to cover the bill in full. He sincerely regrets having disputed the bill as he does not wish Purcell to think that he wished to avoid his responsibilities. His only excuse is that he is very much embarrassed in one way or other. He will not prove this by telling how much he intends laying out for ordinary matters but will merely say that for immediate wants he is using the money he has on hand for building the hospital, which he will replace out of the Leopoldine Association donation and that being for German purposes exclusively will have to be replaced by funds to come from - the Lord knows whence. He is sorry that Purcell considered his manner stern when he alluded to Father (Joseph) O'Meally. Neither of the projects which he had spoken of have strictly speaking failed. The petit seminaire will be opened soon though by other persons. The Brothers of the Presentation are going on as well as could be expected. They are likely to increase and be able to give Purcell a branch soon if he desires it. O'Connor will have to request Purcell most earnestly to let O'Meally stay where he is. O'Meally attends to things with such success that O'Connor could not find another to replace him. Under a person like him the "Brothers" will grow up into a useful community. If Purcell calls O'Meally away, O'Connor will have to make the Brothers disband. O'Mealy is so much in his element in his present position that Purcell might run the risk of crossing him to an extent that would have an injurious influence upon him. O'Connor thinks that the older "folks" should help him since he is one of the few bishops who have little help of clergymen of standing or the means of obtaining them. O'Connor remarks that no official news has yet been received with regard to the Council business.
P.S. At O'Meally's request O'Connor has added $50 to the $77 due on his bill. The bill was not protested, as a similar order on O'Connor was on account of his not being at home when the holder called O'Connor prefers sending the enclosed to having another draft run that risk.
II-4-j - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 8vo. - {5}
1847 Aug. 5
White, Father Cha(rle)s I.:
Baltimore, (Maryland)
to Bishop A(nthony) Blanc:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
As the time is approaching for the publication of the United States Catholic Directory, Blanc is to forward the particulars relative to his diocese. (A list of particulars follows). (P.S.) Direct answer to F(ielding) Lucas, Jr.
V-5-h - Printed Form L.S. - 1p. - 4to. - {2}
1847 Aug. 6
Borgess,Father Otho H.:
Zanesville, Ohio
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
Borgess has been requested by the congregation in Dresden to ask Purcell for permission to build a frame chapel there. A German will give a lot gratis for that purpose. There is also a small chapel being built on the land of Mr. Cressiel; Borgess requests the faculty of blessing it. Borgess's congregation at Zanesville is in a good condition and peaceable. All corresponded liberally to his call to have pews made for the church. In two months the church was furnished with handsome pews. A little difference has been created about singing in German at Mass which Borgess hopes will soon be done away with. The congregation at Newark requested Borgess to pay them a visit, but as he understood the Dominicans at Sommerset had charge of it, he hesitated to go there without permission. He believes that Purcell told him at Chillicothe to visit Newark occasionally.
II-4-j - A.L.S. - 1p. - 8vo. - {5}
1847 Aug. 7
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
to Father (Napoleon Joseph) Perché:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
Perché accuses his confrere, Father James J. Malavergne of having been sentenced at Bordeaux, to two years of forced labor and the pillory. This accusation is false since it could not be pronounced under the French Law. Is Perché's conscience clear? Did he give the money Miss T. charged him to give him? No, Perché applied it to his own use. Did he give back this same Miss T. the $800 she loaned him while she was at the Ursuline Convent in order to found his Propagateur? No, Perché denied the debt because he thought the proof had been destroyed. But the third person, who writes this note, has Perché's letter. Did Perché not try to get a power of attorney from this same body to run her affairs and even sell her properties? The virtuous notary Octave de Armas could not swear the contrary without perjury. Perche had better keep still.
V-5-h - A.L. - (French) - 1p. - 12mo. - {4}
1847 Aug. 7
Glajeux, Berard des,:
Paris, (France)
to Bishop (Peter Paul Lefevere:
Detroit, Michigan)
The twenty-six years of existence of the Association of the Propagation of the Faith gives the Central Council at Paris the opportunity of pointing out important facts of general interest to the society. One of these points is the more complete and regular rendering of accounts by the heads of the missions to the Council. This is the particular object of this letter. The administration of the Association is divided into two councils, each equal in rights, except that the editing of the Annales has devolved upon the Council of Lyon, the cradle of the society. The relations of each Council with the missions of its province are: 1. The sending of the allocations to their destined places; 2. The collection of the receipts which each of the heads of the missions must make to the Treasurer of the Council 3. The ordinary correspondence with its own missions. Outside this ordinary correspondence there is another matter to which the Councils of Paris wishes to call attention in a special manner. The funds of the Association are allocated each year in advance, after deliberation and by vote of the two councils, their work usually beginning in February. That their work may be properly done, the following two conditions must be fulfilled: 1-The heads of the missions must send annual reports of the state of the churches they govern exposing their needs and resources and the success of their labors; in a word, the information indicated on the printed form and all that would inform the administrators of the Association and direct their votes: 2-The annual report must be sent, in duplicate, to both councils. Since both councils examine the needs of each mission and distribute all funds, they both should have equal facilities for judging. The two councils have considered the absence of correspondence on the part of the missions as a renunciation of the help of the Association. The letters from the missions furnish the material for the Annales and renew the interest from which the alms ensue. It is also recommended that the Association of the Propagation of the Faith be established in each diocese. The essential attribute of the Association is that it is Catholic; that is, it is for the rich or poor wherever the Church has children. This letter is signed by Glajeux as President and also by Choiselat Gallien, Treasurer. (Form letter).
III-2-h - Printed L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 8vo. - {2}
1847 Aug. 7
Gautrelet, S.J., Father F(rancis de Sales):
Mobile, (Alabama)
to Bishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
Blanc sent him the will Gautrelet asked him to make. A lawyer here says it is entirely legal and there is nothing to change except that Alabama requires the signature of three Witnesses. So Gautrelet returns the will and Blanc can have it signed and Father (W.) Gilles, (S.J.) will bring it back when he returns.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {2}
1847 Aug. 7
McFarland, J(ohn) A.:
Tiffin, (Ohio)
to Father F(rancis) P. McFarland:
Watertown, N(ew) Y(ork)
He would have answered Francis' letter sooner but he was expecting the books. Francis said they would come in a week but after three weeks they have not come. He asks if the name was printed on the box. There has been much sickness this summer. Ann was quite ill a few days ago. Three have died of puerperal fever. He mentioned in his last letter that Father (Joseph) McNamee had gone east for his health. He heard from him from Providence, Rhode Island. He asked the Bishop to send a replacement in his absence and Father (Patrick) O'Mealy of Dayton has been sent. Francis is aware that a new diocese has been created at Cleveland. He has heard from William, Josiah, and James. He asks if their Mother is well. The railroad has been completed to Bellefontaine. When completed the trip to Cincinnati will take from 12 to 14 hours. A conductor was killed the other day, the first death on the railroad. Aug. 14 He has been forced to delay the completion of the letter because of business. There has been considerable sickness; one case of black tongue and other cases. Of the three women who died, one became a Catholic just before she died, although her husband and children were Protestants. Father O'Mealy's father, who lived near Dayton, died and they will not have an English pastor for a while. Alexander McLanahan's death has been announced in a Philadelphia paper. They are to have a bank in Tiffin with a capital of $100,000. The books have not come. He asks about the address on them. He sends $10 and will send the balance later. Ann and the babies are well.
I-1-a - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 4to. - {3}
1847 Aug. 7
Vandevelde, S.J., Father James:
St. Louis University,
St. Louis, Mo.
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
Father John Elet has been elected to go to Rome. Vandevelde has selected Father J. B. Druyts to replace him. Father George A. Carrell, S.J. replaces Father John Blox, S.J., and Father (Dennis) Kenny replaces Father J.B. Duerinck at the church. Vandevelde asks Purcell to give them the necessary faculties. Father Herman Aelen, S.J. is named Superior at the Purcell Mansion and Father Joseph Patschowski, S.J. will superintend the schools of St. Mary's and there catechize the children and hear their confessions as requested by Rev. (Joseph) Ferneding and Father (Clement) Hammer with Purcell's full approbation. Vandevelde suggests to Purcell in case he desires professors for his new seminary, Father Elet's journey to rome will be a fit occasion to apply for competent teachers. If this meets with Purcell's eishes, Bandevelde will take pleasure in recommending the measure to the Very Rev. Father General of the Jesuits.
II-4-j - A.L.S. - 1p. - 8vo. - {13}
1847 Aug. 9
Rappe, Father (Louis) A(madeus):
Toledo, Ohio
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
He received Purcell's letter and now wishes advice about a line of conduct to be followed. He has received a visit from a Father (J.) Moran from Milwaukee. He has his exeat which Rappe thinks he received for failure in respect and obedience. He wrote to Father Michael Heiss the vicar general about the man. He would have written to Bishop (John Martin) Henni but Moran said he was in Europe. Rappe is keeping Moran, who is making a retreat, but will not let him celebrate Mass until Father Heiss is heard from. Rappe thinks that by being too hard on such a case they might drive him to despair or scandal. If the man is willing to return to his diocese Rappe will send him back. The Superior and Sisters of Notre Dame are well. Father (Louis) DeGoesbriand is at Maumee and is well. Rappe speaks of his friend O'Hara. Wishes that he would be severely sober and everything will be right.
II-4-j - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 12mo. - {9}
1847 Aug. 11
Dupuy, Father Enn(emond):
Iberville, (Louisiana)
to Bishop Ant(hony) Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisian)a
Dupuy wants to talk about the future church at Plaquemine and the chapel of Ste. Rose de Lima. From what the Catholics say at Plaquemine their church is finally to be finished. The last State Legislature passed an act by which corporations may be formed without recourse to the houses. The signature and approval of the district attorney, the secretary of state, and the governor, suffice. At Plaquemine they are going to incorporate the church with a charter similar to that of St. Raphael's Chapel. Judge Dutton has decided to remove the clauses encumbering it. It is necessary to buy the two lots on each side of the building; this will give a square acre. Dutton asks $1000 for the two, payable in 1852 at 7 percent interest. Mr. Labauve said he thought he could get them for $800. If they conclude the deal, Dupuy wants Blanc to choose the patron. Some want St. John, others St. Paul. About Ste. Rose De Lima Chapel: in the last session of the state legislature they detached from Iberville all that part east of St. Gabriel and joined it to Ascension. The line passes almost 100 arpents from the church and hits Bayou Manchac so that all the houses not on the river are in Ascension. In compensation a piece of St. Martin parish was given to Iberville. In this case, Dupuy thinks the priests of Ascension should serve New River where the chapel is. Some people want to continue to go to Ascension, others to Iberville, others to Donaldsonville. If Blanc tells Dupuy to continue as before without regard to civil limits, he will do so but he prefers to be excused. The priests of Ascension could do it better than he. The Plaquemine church will be turned over to Blanc free of debts except for the two bordering lots on each side.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - 4to. - {7}
1847 Aug. 11
Ménard, Father Cha(rle)s M.:
Thibodaux, (Louisiana)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
All steps have been taken for building the chapel at the corner of Brulé l'Abbadie road. Ménard asks (Blanc) to permit him to lay the first stone. He bought the land in his name until he finds occasion to transfer it to (Blanc); the workmen can begin in two weeks. This chapel will be 30 by 50 feet; Ménard would like it to be under the patronage of St. Philomena (Labadieville). The new St. Joseph's Church can scarcely be begun before December or January. The brick and sand are on the grounds but the subscriptions are coming in slowly. Ménard does not know whether (Blanc) received his July letter enclosing two letters of Dr. Isard which he confided to Judge Prival to bring to (Blanc). Ménard thinks he will have nothing to do, however, as Mr. Jamey is now making considerable improvements on the land in question.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 1p. - 4to. - {6}
1847 Aug. 12
Magne:
Lyons, (France)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
(Lyons, France)
A receipted bill for 431.95 (Frances) for materials and soutanes. Paid August 14.
V-5-h - Bill - (French) - 1p. - 8vo. - {1}
1847 Aug. 12
Marteau and Company
Lyons, (France)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
(Lyons, France)
A receipted bill for 679 (francs) for vestments.
V-5-h - Bill - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {1}
1847 Aug. 12
Mégret, Father A(nthony) Désiré):
Abbeville, (Louisiana)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
He has waited to write, uncertain as to what he should do. The reproaches in (Blanc)'s letter of the 24th are only the result of impressions gained from talk he has heard about Mégret. (Blanc) believes those who deceive him. Mégret's assistant has surrounded himself with men who are enemies of his pastor; he has alienated Mr. Poltin at St. James and stirred up Seris, workman at the presbytery. When old Labarthe defended Mégret, he hit him on the lip with a stick. He had told (Blanc) that he would pay at the end of April but the sum he counted on has not yet come and he was far from expecting (Adrien?) Dumartrait's deceit. He had other things to do at that time than writing to (Blanc) to ask $400 credit. (Blanc) asked the intervention of the pastor of St. Martin who informed Mégret of (Blanc)'s fears. To dispel all suspicion Mégret said that he would have his sale on the 25th of this month. He advertised the lumber for St. Martin Church, his property of 10 by 40 arpents, his negro and negress, his house in Lafayette, (etc.). At Abbeville he has sold on contract: 5 lots to Nicolas Desoudry(?), a lot to Edouard Broussard, another to Camile Landry, a lot and house to Germain Bouquinet, 2 lots to Victor Boete, 2 to Achille Mouchet and one to Rosemond Boudreau, in all $3000 payable in 1857 at 8 per cent. He is hurrying up the presbytery; in a month (Blanc) can house a priest there. On his return he will send (Blanc) the reply to the letter of the French consul. If (Blanc)'s intention is that Mégret remain some time longer at Vermilionville, he will sell what he can but he does not want a public sale. He will reserve the lumber for St. Martin and the negress and (Blanc) could buy the first two items. Mégret is going to write to the Sisters of Mount Carmel to turn over to (Blanc) the 200 piastres they do not know they owe(?) Mégret. They could also use the lumber for St. Martin as they must enlarge. If Mégret does not have word from (Blanc) before the 25th he will proceed with his sale. P.S. The poor harvest has kept Mégret from pressing his creditors; more than 2000 piastres is owed him. (The handwriting of this letter is difficult to read; this translation is questionable).
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - folio - {16}
1847 Aug. 12
Pascual, C.M., Father R(oman):
Mississippi River
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Pascual informs (Blanc) of his return to Natchitoches to again begin his work which he has longed for so long. On the day after the feast of their founder, Father (John) Timon, (C.M.) gave him permission to return to Louisiana to rejoin Father (Joseph) Giustiniani, (C.M.). Pascual left St. Louis on the 6th and is now at the mouth of the Red River. He does not dare to come to see (Blanc) because of the yellow fever. He asks for faculties in (Blanc)'s diocese.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 1p. - 4to. - {3}
1847 Aug. 13
(Odin, C.M.), Bishop J(ohn) M(ary):
Galveston, (Texas)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
(Odin) is greatly embarrassed by the arrival of Mr. Lacour from The Barrens. Father (Thadée) Amat, (C.M.) was too hasty in sending him away. The little flightiness of which he was guilty does not merit so severe a punishment. (Odin) has been giving him lessons but it is difficult to give him the attention he needs. Also the absence of companions of his own age can only thrust him into society that will make him lose his vocation. Does (Odin) dare ask (Blanc) to admit him into his seminary? The undertaking of the church at Galveston, Mr. Merle's failure and the bad outcome of the bequest of Father (Augustin) De Angelis throws (Odin) into embarrassment. It is impossible for (Odin) to pay Lacour's tuition; he asks (Blanc) to admit him at Assumption. Father Duplay recommended Lacour to (Odin) in a special way. The two young Irish postulants (Ursulines) seem pleased in their new house. The older one has a good education; the younger one is a little less advanced. At present they have three postulants and three novices but they need a mistress of novices and Sister Ste. Gertrude, (R.U.)'s departure has embarrassed them.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 12mo. - {7}
1847 Aug. 14
Glajeux, Berard des:
Parie, (France)
to Bishop (Peter Paul) Lefev(e)re,:
Detroit, (Michigan)
Because of the calamities which have befallen several countries of Europe, the receipts of the Association of the Propagation of the Faith have suffered noticeable reduction while the number of dioceses and apostolic vicariates has not ceased to increase. The two central councils of Paris and Lyon have been forced to lessen their donations this year. Therefore the figure allowed for 1847 for the mission of Detroit has been fixed at 16,000 francs. If the receipts of the current year do not fall below expectations a supplement of 400 francs will be added to this allocation but this cannot be ascertained before next March when the collections for 1847 will be known. This letter is signed by Glajeux as President and also by Choiselat Gallien, Treasurer.
III-2-h - Printed form L.S. - (French) - 1p. - 8vo. - {2}
1847 Aug. 14
Glajeux, Berard des:
Paris, (France)
to Bishop (Peter Paul) Lefevere,:
Datroit, (Michigan)
The Central Councils of Paris and Lyon of the Association for the Propagation of the Faith have allotted Detroit 17,000 francs from the funds collected by the Association for 1847. If the receipts do not fall below those of last year, 4000 francs will be added to this allocation. The funds upon which the allocations are made are only the extimated receipts and the collections are not complete until the beginning of March of the following year. In a postscript he asks that Lefevere see that the enclosed letter is delivered (no enclosure). The allocation made to the Redemptorists is distinct from that of Lefevere as announced in this letter. This letter is signed by Glajeux as President and also by Choiselat Gallien, Treasurer. (Lefevere noted that he) answered Feb. 15, 1848.
III-2-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 8vo. - {3}
1847 Aug. 14
Arnet, J.(?):
Lyons, (France)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
(Lyons, France)
A receipt for 260 (francs) for redingotes, trousers, etc.
V-5-h - A. Bill S. - (French) - 1p. - 16mo. - {1}
1847 Aug. 14
Icard, J(osep)h:
Marseilles, (France)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
Lyons, (France)
Father Goure(?) gave Icard the letter Rousselon brought from New Orleans. His niece in the letter pointed out that Rousselon counted on going to Marseilles which would have given Icard the satisfaction of learning about his brother's family. Goure told him of the change of itinerary; if he changes again Icard invites Rousselon to stay at his house. They could talk of the future of the three little orphans, in whom as children of his brother, Icard is very much interested. He asks whether Rousselon would take charge of five or six hundred francs which Icard would like to send to Mrs. Viges. He also wishes to know how long Rousselon plans to be in Lyons so he can send an enclosure for New Orleans. (He addresses Rousselon at) Miss Janicos(?). (In Blanc's hand? on the back of the letter) Joseph Pizzeta, cabaret.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - 4to. - {5}
1847 Aug. 15
Maisounabe, S.J., Father (John B.):
Grand Coteau, (Louisiana)
to Bishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana
Maisounabe found an arrangement which allows him to call Brother (Thomas) Fairhurst, (S.J.) to the college here. Father (Anthony) Parret, (S.J.) of French origin and knowing English, will replace, at Spring Hill, Fairhurst whose English origin will do very well at Grand Coteau. The only difficulty is in going through New Orleans. Blanc is to let him know if there is any danger of exposure. The question of Jefferson College is a grave one. Blanc wrote to the (Jesuits) in Europe about acquiring it; he does not believe they could think about it after acquiring Spring Hill. But all sorts of reasons are in its favor. If Blanc is still in favor of it what price does he think they could have it for? There is a house and much land, has some been sold? Did the fire damage the walls? What agent could they get? Mr. Cantrelle of St. James, they say, is working hard to get it for 12 or 15,000 piastres. Maisounabe thinks that Father (A. Pierre) Ladavière, (S.J.) will go to New Orleans next week to replace Father (Vital?) Gilles, (S.J.) who is needed at Spring Hill. Maisounabe repeats his offer of help during the epidemic at New Orleans. While remaining at St. Michael until further orders, he is at Blanc's disposal. P.S. He will be at Grand Coteau until August 24 and plans to leave Opelousas on the 25th with Parret if he can go through New Orleans. If Blanc's reply does not reach him by that time the reply to the first question can be addressed to Father Abbadie; Maisounabe can be addressed at St. Michael about Jefferson.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 4to. - {9}
1847 Aug. 16
Abbadie, (S.J.), Father J. F(rancis):
Gr(and) Coteau, (Louisiana)
to Bishop Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
He had arranged to leave the 18th to get their students but the accounts the newspapers give of the state of the city frightens him. So he will leave the 25th and go no further than (Charles) Fortin's where he will await the Cora. With their little family he hopes to find Mr. Thomas Fairhurst, (S.J.) who is to replace Father (Anthony) Parret, (S.J.) whom the Father Superior is forced to take away from them. His visit was very agreeable; Abbadie talked to him about Jefferson (College) and he is to write Blanc. One of the reasons Abbadie wanted to go down to New Orleans was to try to find a gardener, a caretaker somewhat of a tailor, and especially a baker. He is writing to Mr. Merissot and Mr. Calot to help him out. If anyone comes to Blanc looking for work, Blanc is to send them to one of the two. Abbadie and Father (Joseph) Soller, (S.J.) are going to ask to be naturalized.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {8}
1847 Aug. 16
Deparcq, Father D.A.:
Loretto, (Kentucky)
to Bishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana
Deparcq received Blanc's letter to Sister Eulalia Kelly wherein Blanc stated that the difficulty between her and Father (Joseph) Richard Bole had been settled. The obligation of one Mass for Richard Bole annually will be complied with. The case of those Sisters (of Loretto) in Arkansas has been a very hard one. They went thither from the Missouri; Loretto had never been consulted and had no hand in making those debts. Therefore Bishop (Guy Ignatius) Chabrat was unwilling that the Sisters in Kentucky should pay. (P.S.) Deparcq has charge, besides the charge of Loretto and all the different Communities, of two congregations, Holy Cross and St. Vincent's. If he could get an assistant he might be able to visit Blanc next winter. He sends respects to Richard Bole and Father Maenhaut.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 4to. - {5}
1847 Aug. 16
Martin, Father Aug(uste):
Baton Rouge, (Louisiana)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Martin learned today that five of (Blanc)'s priests in the city have been stricken by the epidemic. Here they have no more sick except a few isolated cases. Mr. Guzman was very ill; the oldest son of Bouvrier Favrat died day before yesterday. He was 13; his father was opposed to his making his First Communion and Martin was not called. Yesterday in spite of rain 70 or 75 received Communion; 55 were enrolled in the Arch onfraternity and 20 received the scapular. Martin would be obliged if (Blanc) would send him a hundred application blanks in French for the Archconfraternity. They began the public exercises of their association yesterday. Their choir is doing marvelously. High Mass is now sung regularly each Sunday. Mrs. Lange continues to give him great help in the care of the church property. Old Philipps has married a young widow, Mrs. Fischer, whose boarding school, left to her sisters, is going to furnish new growth to Martin's school. Poor Sister Sister Clotilde, (S.C.) is always ill.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - 12mo. - {7}
1847 Aug. 17
Ganier, Father G.A.:
Lisle en Rigault, (France)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Four years ago today, Bishop Letourneur, then Bishop of Verdun, brought Ganier a letter from (Blanc) saying that if his papers were in order he could be received into (Blanc)'s diocese. Letourneur did not wish to give him an exeat and appointed him pastor of one of the finest parishes of his diocese. But Ganier is uneasy and today he renews his request for a place in (Blanc)'s diocese. Family trouble makes him renew his request. (Blanc) is to reply to Ganier directly as his last letter was not given him by Letourneur until long after his arrival in France and after his appointment as pastor. If he is to leave, Ganier will use the instructions in (Blanc)'s first letter. He does not doubt that the present Bishop of Verdun will recommend him as he has never reproached him.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 12mo. - {2}
1847 Aug. 17
Ladavière, S.J., Father A. P(ierre):
St. Michael, (Louisiana)
to Bishop Ant(hony) Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
According to Blanc's wishes, Father (John) Lefranc will leave, at the latest, on the 23rd. They will do their best for the sick Irish. Father (John B. Maisounabe, S.J.) Maisonabe will come when he can; he will attend the most urgent cases. Ladavière could go to visit the ones in the woods if he does not have to go on horseback. If Father (F.) Zeller does not know English perfectly he would be useless; he could always take refuge at St. Michael for the bad months.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {4}
1847 Aug. 17
Lucas, Father P(eter):
West Baton Rouge, (Louisiana)
to Bishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
The receipt of Blanc's amiable letter urges him to write without delay as well as the articles he awaits with such great impatience. He would like to have a cross, a censer, a ciborium and a monstrance. They could be sent safely on the Majestic which makes two trips a week. Ten months have not completely gone by since Lucas' arrival at this church where he found almost nothing. Now he has surplices, altar linens, a 400 pound bell and a fine holy water font of Italian marble. There was a debt of $400 and today there is $300 and some in the treasury to reduce it. Some $200 has come out of his pocket but others have not let themselves be outdone by his example. The number at Mass and Vespers grows every day; there are always more men than women, which astonishes him. On September 26 he plans to have a numerous First Communion; he has had catechism all summer. (On the back, in another hand) the mailboat(?) Captain(?) Martin leaves Wednesday and Saturday for the Balize.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 4to. - {3}
1847 Aug. 17
Glover, Father T.:
Rome, Italy
to Father J. C(oolidge) Shaw:
Boston, Massachusetts
J. C(oolidge) Shaw's reasons for remaining in Boston are more cogent that any for returning to Rome. He thinks it a filial duty he should remain there to care for his parents. He believes Mr. (Orestes A.) Brownson's critique on (John H.) N(ewman's) developement is very good and cannot be easily refuted though someone has tried to do so in the last issue of the "Dublin Review". Since Brownson desires his opinion, he says that he does not think Brownson's development into positive and negative is not so happy as some of his other distinctions. He thinks it might better be divided into explicit and implicit development. That is, the deposit of faith has come down to us with much explicit dogma, and more implicit dogma. And later on, much that had been implicit was made explicit by development. This, he says, is more positive than negative. Also, when the Church condemns a novelty she also makes more explicit her own teaching. However, he thinks that Brownson and he agrees substantially, the difference being of words. He is much honored by Brownson's attentions, and will attempt to repay him by prayers and masses for his intention. The supposed plot against the Pope, which the newspapers made much noise about, was a sheer fiction. The people of Rome have got over their scare.
I-3-h - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 8vo. - {3}
1847 Aug. 17
Sanderl, Father Simon, C.SS.R.:
Monroe, (Michigan)
to Bishop (Peter Paul Lefevere,:
Detroit, Michigan)
The lawsuit of Mrs. Livingston is over and has turned out into a verdict against her. She had falsely accused Father (Louis) Gillet, (C.SS.R.) of solicitation. Gillet will tell the story to Lefevere. This woman has caused discord between Sanderl and Gillet as their views entirely disagree. On the day of Confirmation Mrs. Livingston, as it came out in her trial, received absolution and went Publicly to Communion. She had been sent away by Sanderl who told her that not the Pope himself could give her absolution as it was a condition sine qua non to raise her children in the Catholic religion. She had agreed with her husband to raise her children Presbyterians. She pleaded that she could not disturb the family peace. In her trial she implied that Sanderl had impeached the validity of her marriage. Sanderl blames Gillet for having given her the sacraments and he is glad that punishment followed so closely because Gillet must now be convinced that his penitent turned out to be a most impious wretch. The French are now persecuting her. It is foreseen that "she goes to Jackson" if justice be done to her unless the Presbyterians plead insanity. When Sanderl reproached Gillet, Gillet told him that Lefevere had been consulted and had allowed it. Mrs. Livingston has proved her disposition by making two false oaths for which she is liable to be sent to the state prison and Sanderl hopes that such a latitudinarian principle will not be approved, showing from examples in Prussia that her arrangement was sinful and that while she might in her old age receive forgiveness, she could not while of childbearing age.
III-2-h - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 8vo. - {2}
1847 Aug. 18
Amat, C.M., Father T(haddée):
Perryville, M(iss)o(uri)
to Bishop A(nthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
Amat has just received a letter from Father (J.M.) Masnou, (C.M.) telling him to send him (John) Budd if Amat thinks he has a vocation and to send him home if he thinks Budd does not. The young man does not have much talent but he applies himself to his studies, and with patience could become a priest. So Amat is sending him to the seminary. Since they have no money he is giving Budd a letter for the captain of the boat he will take so that the trip can be paid for at New Orleans. Amat has heard that Mr. Lacour, who was sent away from their seminary, stayed with Blanc for some time and that he talked against their seminary and against Amat. But Amat does not think it is true. On the advice of those Amat consulted, he deserved to be sent away and it is certain that if he had waited longer he would have been obliged to send several others with him.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 4to. - {4}
1847 Aug. 18
(Czackert) Chakert, C.SS.R., Father Peter:
Baltimore, (Maryland)
to Bishop(Anthony Blanc):
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
No doubt (Blanc) expected their priests (Redemptorists) daily but he is to have patience for one or two weeks more. Chakert's letter did not reach Father (Martin) Star(c)k, (C.SS.R.) until the beginning of this month as his arrival in the colony where Father Alexander (Czvitkovicz, C.SS.R.) should have met him was postponed to the present month. Not knowing the language or the localities he reached nearly all the different houses later than he meant. He sent word by Alexander who has already returned that he would be in Baltimore next week and then send one or two to New Orleans.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 4to. - {4}
1847 Aug. 18
McMaster, (Rev.) G(ilbert):
Oxford, (Ohio)
to J(ames) A(lphonsus) McMaster:
New York, (New York)
McMaster tells his son, James, that the latter's sister, Helen, received a letter that was supposed to have been from him. He expresses the general sorrow of the family that they were unable to minister the son's needs when he was sick with fever, but at that time they were asked to watch and give relief to domestic sufferings. On July 11, James' brother, Erasmas D.(McMaster) was attacked by inflammatory rheumatism, which has caused him extreme suffering. He is still confined to his room except for commencement day, over which he presided. Since it is vacation and he has little work to do he will recover. He encloses a catalogue of the students and the course of study at the university, the reputation of which is rising. The aim of this institution is to make thorough scholars. He tells James that Mrs. McMaster accompanied him up the Ohio River and remained five weeks with Algernon S. (McMaster) and his family while he, visited Pittsburg and other places. The mother was pleased with Algernon's fine family as well as his personal character and accomplishments. Mrs. McMaster was sick from fatigue in waiting on Erasmus and her grandson. John Crawford is to visit them this autumn, having recovered two months ago. McMaster says that the stated domestic matters could be detailed if James desires or if he has any place for them in his revolutions. He acknowledges receipt of James' note, which he received just as he was leaving for Pittsburg. He explains why it was not mentioned or explained previously. McMaster explains that in his reference to Bishop H as a discpile of St. Ignatius Loyola he did not mean that he thought the Bishop was connected with the Society which St. Ignatius Loyola founded; but explained that, since the Bishop played the part like Loyola he was a Jesuit. He does not wish to pursue the subject further. He states that he is still interested in his son's health and happiness, and hopes that he will some day return to the faith his father taught him. He had always prayed that James be saved from Catholicism. He states that though he does not explain it, still it has some meaning that they must ascertain in order that they might know whether or not they have some connection with the dark system. He states that a system which brings mental and moral degradation of the human being cannot be of God. He quotes scripture in order to prove his point. He hopes that his son will always believe his father too pious to yield to the (Catholic Faith). He sends his son the regards, of all his family. He asks James to reconsider all of the protestant teachings from which the latter has slipped, and to give up his present beliefs.
I-1-m - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 8vo. - {1}
1847 Aug. 18
Mégret, Father A(nthony) D(ésiré):
Vermilionville, (Louisiana)
to Bishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Mégret has just received Blanc's letter and replies in haste to the request of the consul, as they are waiting for him for a sick call. Blanc received a letter Mégret wrote from Abbeville; Mégret will not reply with ill will toward anyone but it seems they are deceiving Blanc. Mégret hopes to triumph over their common enemies.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 4to. - {1}
1847 Aug. 19
(Chanche), Bishop John Joseph:
Natchez, (Mississippi)
to Bishop (Anthony) Blanc:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
He received Blanc's letter enclosing two ten dollar bills and has disposed of them according to Blanc's intention. (Chanche) is sorry to learn that the fever is likely to be severe with Blanc this year; he trusts the mortality among priests will not be with Blanc as it is in Canada. He has received notice of six Sulpitians who have died, among them Father Richard and Father McRay from Lyons. Neither Father (William A.) Bleinkinsop nor (Chanche) have yet seen his yellow majesty. (Chanche) supposed Father (Louis Stanislaus) Buteux would prefer to be at Biloxi but (Chanche) has no notion of dispossessing Father (Symphorian) Guinand. He offered B(uteux?) the Bay when he was in France and he came to take it. (Chanche) is glad there are two priests on that coast. The position of the two Bishops of Vincennes is rather singular. The Prefect of Propaganda seems to have supposed jurisdiction in the Bishop-elect. In the case of Buteux, Bishop (John Stephen) Bazin was written to, to obtain an exeat for (Chanche)'s diocese. Bazin sent this exeat to Rome and gave (Chanche) notice that he had granted the request. He hopes Bazin will not think of his consecration till the sickness is over.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 4to. - {8}
1847 Aug. 19
Gallwey, R.S.H.J., Madame J.:
St. Michael, (Louisiana)
to Bishop A(nthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
It is very long since they have heard from Blanc. Their building advances considerably. She will be thankful if Blanc will permit R.P. Rice, their superintendent, to see the chapel of the Ursuline convent. She desires to have their benches arranged similarly. She has just heard that Father (Nicholas) Point, (S.J.) has returned from the Rocky Mountains and is at St. Louis. He is to come to St. Michael to see his sister. As soon as the yellow fever subsides Blanc should come to the country for relaxation.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 8vo. - {3}
1847 Aug. 19
Vandevelde, S.J., Father James:
St. Louis, Missouri
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
He has deemed it proper to let Father (John) Blox return to Cincinnati in order to fill the place of Father (John) Elet at the college. It suffices Vandevelde to know that the change would have created confusion in the Congregation and that Purcell would prefer having Father Blox. Father (Joseph) Patschowski is detained here at St. Joseph's Church because the Father who is to take his place is sick at St. Charles. Vandevelde hopes that Father Blox will be able to make suitable temporary arrangements with Fathers (Clement) Hammer and (Joseph) Ferneding. Father Blox will inform Purcell about anything of interest. Vandevelde is sorry that he had not been informed before of Father (J.B.) Duerinck's unbecoming conduct towards Purcell. Though the local Superior of the Jesuits has rebuked Duerinik for it, Bandevelde thinks the incident should have been communicated to him and requests Purcell to inform him if anything of this king should happen again.
II-4-j - A.L.S. - 1p. - 8vo. - {10}
1847 Aug. 20
Lamy, Father John:
Danville, Ohio
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
Lamy will leave Danville for Covington, (Ky.) at Purcell's orders. The fact that he will be so near to Purcell consoles him. He would like to stay two or three weeks longer to settle his affairs.
II-4-j - A.L.S. - 1p. - 8vo. - {3}
1847 Aug. 21
(Portier), Bishop Michael:
Mobile, (Alabama)
to Bishop A(nthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
It seems that Blanc has an epidemic of yellow fever in his city; 50 victims a day is something as Father (Vital?) Gilles, (S.J.) says. Five priests sick at one time is a painful trial. They have been talking at Mobile of 4 or 5 cases but their town has never been healthier. What is this new battle between Fathers (Napoleon Joseph) Perché and (J. J.) Malavergne? (Portier) supposes that the latte lost his professors and accuses Perche of having deprived him of them. (Portier) also believes there are too many ill-disposed minds in New Orleans to let an occasion escape to deceive the public. On the question of the two Californias and New Mexico: (Portier) does not know if this Father (Charles Etienne) Brasseur de Bourbourg, vicar general of Boston, is Blanc's ex-pastor but he does not think it could be the same person; he seems to have seen a French priest who came from Canada and could well respond to the noble name. He was a professor at Montreal where they manufactured the archbishopric of Oregon City and then the bishoprics "in partibus". Domestic manufacturers are in a state of prosperity and English subjects are not lacking. Why has not the see of Galveston been approved and why would they hurry to insult Mexico while the war is still pending? What strikes (Portier) in the Cardinal's letter is that they do not know at Propaganda that there is already a Mexican bishop at Mont(e)rey in California; an issue of the (Catholic) News Letter of St. Louis names him and sets the Catholic population of this diocese at 50,000. If (Portier) had any advice for Rome it would be to refer the affairs of this country to the recommendations and advice of the provincial council. It is in departing from this way that grave errors have been committed. No bulls for the Bishop-elect of Vincennes! They are asking from Rome to give Father (Louis Stanislaus) Buteux an exeat, that is, to perform an act of jurisdiction and the resigned bishop does not want to leave his post and the jurisdiction which would be an official letter would indicate the acceptance of his resignation. Brittany has always been full of thick heads. Is it not astonishing that even the Archbishop does not know the action of Rome on their last Council; eighteen months have gone by. It is too long for their honor especially since sinister rumblings come back from Rome against the bishops. On March 25 they wrote to Father (John Stephen) Bazin that the bulls would be sent soon and they have not been received. (Portier) owes Blanc several hundreds of piastres for his two seminarians but cannot pay before next May. He is going to write to Rome and express himself frankly; he will not forget the coadjutor of Bardstown. Everything seems good at Spring Hill although September is not a good choice in their latitude.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - 4to. - {18}
1847 Aug. 22
Abbadie, (S.J.), Father J(ohn) F(rancis):
St. Charles College
(Grand Coteau, Louisiana)
to Bishop A(nthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
Blanc's letter of the 17th found their Superior on retreat. He leaves on the 25th with three companions, Father (Anthony) Parret, (S.J.), Brother (Theodore) Willebois, (S.J.), and Abbadie who is going to look for students. Parret will be replaced by Brother (Thomas) Fairhurst, (S.J.) and willebois by Brother (Philip) Corne (S.J.). Fairhurst will take the students to the city and Abbadie will wait for them at St. Michael at Mr. Fortin's. Without counting Alf. Delavigne there will be 12 at least, not much less than last year. Father (John B.) Maisounabe, (S.J.) wrote Blanc about Jefferson (College). While waiting for sickness to subside in New Orleans, he is going to St. Michael to temporarily replace Father (John) Lefranc. He would like to leave Father (Vital?) Gilles, (S.J.) for Blanc but he does not see how he can spare him at Spring Hill; he has written Gilles to be there for the opening of classes. Before Gilles leaves, Blanc is to tell him that the Superior left a trunk with Blanc's porter that he wishes sent to St. Michael on the Cora for the 29th. Abbadie asks for the same faculties Blanc gave to Father Nicholas Point, (S.J.): 1) those set forth in the printed sheet which Blanc gives his priests and 2) those given November 2, 1837, (Abbadie lists them in Latin).
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {12}
1847 Aug. 22
(Odin, C.M.), Bishop J(ohn) M(ary):
Galveston, (Texas)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
(Odin) has just received (Blanc)'s letter of the 18th. He sees with pleasure that (Blanc) may decide later to admit young Lacour into his seminary. Father (Thaddée) Amat, (C.M.)'s letter about Lacour made (Odin) truly pity Lacour; he complained to Father (John Timon), (C.M.). The only fault which brought about Lacour's expulsion is a letter of one of his fellow students which he sealed. The letter found in his desk was opened by Amat; it contained complaints and the case was considered grave enough to send him away. It seems to (Odin) that he should have been notified. Lacour began his studies very late but he has means and with time will make a good priest. During (Odin)'s stay in Europe he thought he saw a good number of aspirants to the episcopacy who, fearing they would not get a see in their own country, were busy with the foreign missions. It was Santo Domingo then, today it is California, New Mexico etc. Propaganda has not sent (Odin) the memoir of which (Blanc) spoke but if it does, (Odin) would be far from encouraging the views of Father (Charles Etienne) Brasseur (de Bourbourg). A vicar apostolic has already been named for California; it is to be presumed that he would know the needs of his people better than a man living in Europe. California has scarcely 4000 white inhabitants, Mexicans, French, Italians, Spanish, and Americans. The Mormons there are in revolt against the United States. Where would one place six bishops in this vast desert? Six priests would be better working with the vicar apostolic. If California remains under the United States at the end of the war, it will be settled rapidly and towns will be formed. Then one can judge the proper places for new sees. When peace is reestablished between the United States and Mexico, it would be best to give California an English speaking coadjutor to the Vicar Apostolic or give them a man accustomed to the customs of the United States. The Mexican population would be eclipsed by the Anglo-Saxons. Santa Fé sooner or later will become an episcopal see, of little importance however. New Mexico is an arid country and its reputation depends on its commerce with St. Louis and Chihuaha. But after the peace trade will follow new ways. Propaganda should defer until another time the steps it proposes for the advancement of the faith in these two countries. The idea of making Santa Fé the metropolitan see seems ridiculous. Brasseur seems to have an imperfect knowledge of the country. California is separated from New Mexico by immense chains of mountains; it good land is in the valeys which slope to the Pacific Ocean. Therefore the cities will be built along the coast. The bishops should reside there. Brasseur would have them, every three years, cross the deserts and scale the mountains to find their metropolitan at Santa Fe. How is (Blanc) coming with the estate of Father (Augustin) De Angelis? (Odin) has great need of the little part to come to him. He sees that the yellow fever continues and that several priests have been stricken. Here the doctors complain of nothing to do. The Sisters are well. Sister Ste. Gertrude will stay another three or four months. Bishop (John Stephen) Bazin has invited (Odin) to his consecration and he will go. Mr. C. Le Brun left Galveston; he is a poor subject, if not an impostor. How fortunate that he arrived without an exeat or letters of ordination! (Odin) would have ordained him priest and what regrets for the future. He hopes he will go into a monastery.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 4to. - {11}
1847 Aug. 23
Vandevelde, S.J., Father James:
St. Louis, University
St. Louis, Missouri
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
He acknowledges receipt of Purcell's letter of the 15th. He is sorry to see that Purcell has taken umbrage at the hurry with which a clean sweep was made in the College and Congregation of St. Xavier's. He offers two words in excuse: 1. The changes were decided upon only on the day previous to Father George A. Carrell's leaving St. Louis; 2. He would have given Purcell notice of the change had not Father Carrell asked to leave St. Louis before any of the people should become aware of the change. As regards Father Joseph Patschowski, S.J. at St. Mary's he had been assured that Purcell had been consulted on the subject and that Purcell approved the measure, for he told Fathers (Clement) Hammer and (Joseph) Ferneding that he would not acceed to any proposal without Purcell's consent. Mr. Francis Horstmann was to have been sent if he could be ordained, if not no one. Though earnestly urged Vandevelde refused to make a decisive promise. Without authority from Vandevelde the gentlemen announced publicly that a German priest was to superintend the school, and wrote to him afterward that they would have been disappointed had not Father John Elet S.J. pleaded their cause. With two priests sick in St. Charles, (Mo.), Father Patschowski cannot be replaced in St. Louis, and must yet remain awhile. The seminary proposition originated in a desire to gratify Purcell that suitable teachers might be obtained and that Father Elet being in Rome might urge the measure for they are very slow in Rome. He applauds Purcell's desire in reference to hasty marriages to see things done orderly and according to the regulations of the Church. He will deem it a pleasure and duty to cooperate in bringing about that happy result. He should be sorry indeed to be deficient in want of courtesy to Purcell after all Purcell has done for him and the Jesuits.
II-4-j - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 8vo. - {11}
1847 Aug. 23
Gotier, Marie J(osep?)h:
Pointe à; la Hache, (Louisiana)
to BishopBishop (Anthony) Le Blanc(!):
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
She asks Blanc to be the judge in the differences between herself and Father (Anthony) Savel(l)i. She gave the land to build a church but reserved a place in the cemetery. Savel(l)i says she has no right to burial. She also thought she would have a pew in the church but he will not even allow her to bring a chair. She asks Blanc to tell Savel(l)i to let her pray without paying.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - folio - {2}
1847 Aug. 23
Sanson, Father:
Mandres, (France)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
(Blanc) will have already received or will receive shortly, Charles Sanson, in minor orders, who left Havre on July 16, at the proposal of Father (Stephen Rousselon) Rousselean, to be accepted in the diocese of New Orleans. Family business has made it necessary to write him soon after his departure. He asks (Blanc) to give the enclosed letter to his brother.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 8vo. - {3}
1847 Aug. 24
Fohr, Jean Pierre:
St. Charles, (Missouri)
to (Bishop Anthony Blanc ?:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
As he came up the river so fast to St. Louis and since it seems that there has been time enough for a letter from Nassau from his father, Fohr asks (Blanc?) to send it to the Bishop of St. Louis and also anything from Texas from his brother. The Bishop of St. Louis is his sincere friend as (Blanc?) was at New Orleans. He hopes he can be of service to (Blanc?) in return. He has already begun to make vinegar but he is also working at a master cooper's.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 1p. - 4to. - {1}
1847 Aug. 24
Marziou, (Victor) and Company
Havre, (France)
to Bishop Anthony Blanc:
N(ew) Orleans, (Louisiana)
They notify Blanc that they have sent on the John Cadmus, (L. ?) Cammet, Captain, 5 packages belonging to Father J(oseph) Crétin, vicar general of Dubuque, Iowa. They are being sent to New York and Blanc is to write there about their further dispatch on the Mississippi. They are also sending a box of books for Father E(tienne) Rousselon. The bill of lading, signed by Cammet, is enclosed. H.J. (?) Mathey signs for Marziou.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {5}
1847 Aug. 24
Rappe, Father A(madeus):
Toledo, Ohio
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
The folliwing is a statement of Rappe's mission: Toledo, Lucas County, St Francis of Sales - Rev. Amadeus Rappe and Father (Louis) DeGoesbriand. Maumee, Lucas County, St. Joseph's attended by the same every Second Sunday. They visit also, Wood, and German township in the same county. Two chapels are to be built immediately in these places. Providence, Lucas County - church built but not dedicated, attended every Sunday by Father DeGoesbriand. Defiance, Defiance County, - church built but not dedicated, attended every second Sunday by DeGoesbriand who visits also Junction and Ridge occasionally. Lower Sandusky, Sandusky County, - St. Boniface's attended every first Sunday of the month by Rappe, who visits also La Prairie, St. Mary's and Woodville every month. Sisters of Notre Dame, Toledo, Lucas County - this community of seven Sisters has charge of a young ladies institution, boarding school, free school and Sunday school - Madame Louise Gonzague, Superior. Fifteen boarders, 25 day scholars 65 free scholars. Males free school - Robert Whantford teacher, 40 scholars. One temperance society at Toledo. Total Catholic Population 2450.
Rappe acknowledges Purcell's letter of the 16th. He will observe Purcell's recommendation about Father (J.) Moran. It would give Rappe pleasure to bring a reconciliation between Moran and his bishop. Moran made a retreat and appears now to be disposed to do everything to gain the confidence of his bishop. Bishop (Ignatius) Reynolds is surely one of their best friends in America, and may count upon their immortal gratitude.
II-4-j - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 8vo. - {15}
1847 Aug. 24
Poidebord, F(rancoi)s S(ylves)tre:
Sainte Croix en Pavazin, (France)
to Bishop A(nthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana
Poidebord received Blanc's letter of May 10 and the 11,216 francs from Blanc's vicar general (Father Stephen Rousselon). He cannot lose on the notes at 8 percent as Pargout did to his family. Poidebord will leave half the capital for Blanc to place as best he can and he will take the other half. Poidebord sees that the attorney did not present the truth in court and Poidebord's attorney said nothing. If Poidebord had been in New Orleans he would have had recourse to the Minister of Justice to prevent this irregularity as he did at St. Etienne for his life annuity. (P.S.) It is only the property at La Fourche which is settled(?). He knows there is other property to sell. He will send Blanc a bond to begin with and send another later. He will find the bond for 20,000 francs enclosed.
- A.L.S. -
1842 Jun. 5
Poidebord, F(ranc)ois S(ylves)tre:
Sainte Croix de Pavazin, (France)
A bond for Blanc for 20,000 francs proceeding from two inheritances of his uncles N(ico)las (Girod) and F(ranc)ois Girod of New Orleans, to be applied after Poidebord's death to the missions, he reserving the revenue from it during his lifetime.
- A. Note. S. -
1846
Poidebord, F(ranc)ois Syl(ves)tre:
(Sainte Croix de Pavazin, France)
Poidebord received from Blanc 1,000 francs in cash, coming from the inheritance of his uncle, N(ico)las Girod who died in New Orleans.
- A. Receipt S. -
(1846)
(Blanc), Bishop Ant(hony):
N(ew) Orl(eans Louisiana)
Blanc sent a draft for 1,000 francs on Father Boué, pastor of Aine at Lyons on the 18th or 20th of June, 1846. (P.S.) According to his letter of August 8 from Lyons, the draft was paid, $188.96.
- A. Note S. -
1847 Jul. 31
Poidebord, F(rancoi)s S(ylves)tre:
Lyons, (France)
He received from Blanc at the hands of Rousselon, 11,216 francs from the estate of his uncles who died at New Orleans.
- A. Receipt S. -
V-5-h - A.L.S., A. Note S. - 7pp. - 4to. & 12mo. - - A. Receipt S. - (French) - {6}
1847 Aug. 24
Icard, J(osep)h:
Marseilles, (France)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
Lyons, (France)
Icard received Rousselon's letter of the 19th and regrets that he could not hear from Rousselon's own mouth the information about his nieces. He sends Rousselon an enclosure for Mrs. Viges and an order on Lyons for 500 f(rancs).
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {2}
1847 Aug. 24
(Ray, R.U.), Sister Ste. Séraphine:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
to Bishop A(nthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
The religious profession of Sister St. Pierre (Harrison, R.U.) could take place the 8th of next month if Blanc sees no obstacle. Next Saturday being the feast of their patron St. Augustine, they hope to see Blanc.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {2}
1847 Aug. 25
Baraga, (Father) Frederick:
Lapointe, (Wisconsin)
to Bishop (Peter Paul Lefevere:
Detroit, Michigan)
Baraga received several letters from the Bishop and he thanks him for the money that is being sent to him. He has already made arrangements to settle his bills, but those who have received money-orders do not have to be paid immediately, they will wait until the Bishop has received the sums mentioned in his letters. The first money order of $181- is made out to a man who can wait until spring 1848. The Bishop should not pay until he has received the annuities for the Indian schools in the spring of 1848. The second money order is $50.-; the third one is $348.-. This sum contains the contribution which Baraga made to the Church of Fond du Lac, which will be 40 feet, by 24 feet, by 11 feet when it is finished. Baraga asks the Bishop not to say anything about that expense which he has made for a mission which is not in his diocese. It is all done for the honour of God and the salvation of souls. Bishop (John Martin) Henni contributed $100; Father (Otto) Skolla $50; and Baraga an equal quantity. Concerning the circular of the War Department, Baraga will write to the Bishop on his return to L'Anse. Baraga arrived at Lapointe on Aug. 22 and he will remain not altogether two weeks. He is quite grieved about the poor Indians at Fond du Lac (Minn). Those at Grand Partage (Minn.) have meanwhile some hope. Father Chone, who is presently at Lapointe, has promised them that they will very soon have a Jesuit father. But the poor forsaken souls of the Fond du Lac Indians will be lost.
III-2-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 8vo - {5}
1847 Aug. 25
McCaffrey, Father James:
Marietta, Ohio
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
The following is an account of the churches and several stations in McCaffrey's district: Marietta, Washington Co., St. Mary's Mass on the three first Sundays of every month at 10:30; Vespers at 3:00, Catechism classes at 2:00 (25 members), Population 51 families numbering 254 souls; Meigscreek, Morgan Co., St. James, Mass on last Sunday of every month at 10:30, Cathechism Class 20 members, Population 13 families or 75 souls; Beverly Station, Washington Co., Mass once a month, 2 families or 11 souls; Windsor and McConnelsville stations, Mass once a month, Windsor five families or 31 souls, McConnelsville four families or 28 souls; Pomeroy Station Meigs County, visited from Marietta four times a year (fifth Sunday) also twice a year by a German priest. It is hoped that a church will soon be erected in Pomeroy, on the bank of the Ohio River seventy-five miles below Marietta. The town is growing fast, twenty families, English and German.
II-4-j - A.L.S. - 1p. - 8vo. - {7}
1847 Aug. 25
Maisounabe, S.J., Father (John B.):
On board El Correo
to Bishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana
Toward the end of retreat at Grand Coteau, Father (John Francis) Abbadie, (S.J.) received a letter from Blanc expressing the desire to keep Father (Vital?) Gilles, (S.J.) at New Orleans. Gilles is absolutely necessary at Spring Hill; Maisounabe would have liked him to be there right after August 15 but the thought of his services to Blanc made him decide to leave him until the latest day. He wrote him several days ago to ask him to accompany the students from New Orleans going to Spring Hill. Maisounabe has left Father (Joseph) Soller, (S.J.) at Blanc's disposal. He is acclimated and one of their priests can replace him as president of the College and Abbadie can replace him at the convent. This would conform with the intentions of Maisounabe's superiors in Europe who sent Soller to be, with Maisounabe, one of the first members in residence in New Orleans if Blanc receives them. While waiting at St. Michael for Blanc's reply to this matter and to the question of Jefferson (College) Maisounabe could visit there and see for himself. He will do his best at St. Michael during Father (John) Lefranc's temporary absence. What faculties can he use? He has seen a sheet given, they say, to all Blanc's priests; perhaps he needs one too. (P.S.) Their Father (Anthony) Parret. S.J. will bring this letter on his way to Mobile. (on the back of this letter in Blanc's hand is a list of Jesuits): Fathers Abbadie, Soller, (Theodore) De Leeuw, (Florian) Sautois, (Hippolite P.) Gache, Rocofort, (Adrien) Van Hulst, (William) Mearns, Brothers Norris, (Edmund?) Barry, (James) Donahue, (Francis Van der Borght?) Van deburgh, (Anthony?) Hoffstetter, (Philip) Corne, (Joseph) Ryan; Scholastics (Florentine) Boudreaux, (J. Lavay?) Lavey, (Ferdinand Coosemans?) Courssman, (T. Halpin?) Halpher, (Thomas) Fairhurst.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {26}
1847 Aug. 25
Mégret, Father A(nthony) D(ésiré):
Vermilionville, (Louisiana)
to Bishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Fearing he would not receive a letter from Blanc for the 25th, he has announced that his sale would be postponed to September 6. He thanks Blanc for his letter of the 21st. All Blanc's anxiety has a basis but can he forget that he has a priest at Lafayette? Blanc will recall that Mégret told him there had been a fight some time ago between the Protestants and Catholics. One of these, a lawyer, seized the first moment of Mégret's absence to make a demand for three sums: $5, $18, and $50. Father (Hyacinthe Tumoine) wrote down these demands, put it aside, and said nothing to Mégret about it. He also set aside the notices of payment which came and said nothing. When Mégret found out he sent the constable $150. To pay St. Martin at the end of April Mégret counted on a return of $500 from the Boudreau family and the income from the pews of his chapel. He received only $23 from his chapel and nothing from the family. (Tumoine) associates with unsuitable people and plants suspicions about Mégret in their minds. He asks Blanc not to reproach (Tumoine) or separate them until all is in perfect order. Mégret has written to the Sisters of Mount Carmel to give Blanc $500.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - 4to. - {5}
1847 Aug. 25
Eccleston, Samuel, Abp. of Baltimore:
Baltimore, Maryland
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
He takes the liberty to addréss to Purcell's care the bulls of the Rt. Rev. Bishop (Louis Amadeus Rappe) elect of Cleveland. Eccleston received them this morning (Aug. 25) in company with the Documents relative to the last Provincial Council (1846) of which the Acts and Decrees have been confirmed with slighter modifications than usually. As soon as Mr. L'Homme and the printer can dispatch the work, Purcell shall receive a printed copy. Buffalo, Albany, and Vincennes are alrready provided for as Purcell is already assured.
II-4-j - A.L.S. - 1p. - 8vo. - {8}
1847 Aug. 26
Jessé, A(ntoine) de:
Lyons, (France)
to Bishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Due to calamities in Europe, the allocation from the Association of the Propagation of the Faith for New Orleans for 1847 will be 18,000 francs. If receipts are not below their anticipation they will add 4500 francs in March. They hope the diminution in receipts will extend beyond this year. P.S. 8000 francs will be paid by Lyons; 10,000 by Paris.
V-5-h - Printed L. - (French) - 1p. - 4to. - {2}
1847 Aug. 26
Mina, Father Ve. M(odest)e St. John Baptist,:
(Bonnet Carré, Louisiana)
to Bishop Ant(hony) Blanc:
New Orleans (Louisiana)
Mina has received 14 copies of the Annales No. 111. The members complain of not receiving No. 110. The deacon, Mr. (C.) Le Brun has not reappeared at St. John Baptist where he left some things at Dr. Weindahl's when he left for Texas. He wrote from alveston on the 27(?) of last month(?) to send Blanc his letter. Mina forgives him for what he tricked him out of. He said he was going to Blanc's seminary.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {3}
1847 Aug. 27
(Blanc), Ant(hony), Bp. New Orleans
:
New Orleans, Louisiana
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
He writes these lines on the occasion of receiving a letter from Baltimore announcing that the Redemptorists are starting that week for New Orleans. He fears that this will not arrive in time so that Purcell can prevent their coming to New Orleans at this season since the yellow fever is so widespread at LaFayette, (La.), where they are to go. It is worse there in proportion than at New Orleans. However, he has a very strong active priest there. He asks Purcell to tell them not to arrive among them until the end of the sicknesses, which he fears will not be before the end of October. They may, however, come as far as Natchez where the bishop will show them hospitality and where they can await instructions. If they wish they might stop at Carrollton, (La.), seven or eight miles from New Orleans where they can write to him and he will come to see them. They can go to the hotel and might take care of some Catholic families while awaiting news, but he prefers that they wait at Natchez if they come down below Cincinnati or Louisville. Seven of his priests are sick now and Purcell can see how the others are overworked. One of the Sisters of Charity, Sister Delphine, from the hospital is in her agony and will probably die that evening. Another Sister is sick but she has not yet given up hope. In case the Redemptorists stop at the Fathers at St. Xavier's, Purcell will oblige him by preventing them from coming lest they come when the sickness is most strong and become a solicitude instead of an aid to him. Those who are sick take a long time to reestablish themselves entirely. At St. Patrick's Father (James J.) Mullon is alone. His two vicars were taken among the first. One is at Mobile and will return the next day or so and Blanc hopes he will be able to do some of the work. Father (Cyrus) De La Croix will be able to say Mass the next day, but will need several days before he can do anything. He went to work the day after he arrived and before he took sick he had assisted twenty-two. He is extraordinary and his colleague, a young priest ordained by Blanc last year, is no less courageous. Father Mullon is enchanted with his two vicars.
II-4-j - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 8vo. - (French) - {10}
1847 Aug. 27
Lamy, Father J(ohn):
Danville, Ohio
to (Father Edward Purcell):
of Cincinnati, Ohio
The following is an account of his missions. Danville, Knox County, St. Lukes - 100 families. Mass every Sunday except the third of each month. Mt. Vernon, Knox County, St. Vincent of Paul church not completed - 25 families. Mass every third Sunday. Mohican, Holmes County, St. Joseph's - 50 families. Pine Run near Brownsville, Ashland County. Mansfield, Richland County - 20 families. Lamy asks Purcell to ask the Bishop whether he must go immediately.
II-4-j - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 8vo. - {7}
1847 Aug. 28
Barthe, Father F(rancois?):
St. Charles, (German Coast, Louisiana)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Barthe has received Father (Simon Rominger?) Romanger with pleasure; he knows from his own experience how one sometimes needs a refuge and a friend. Barthe is exhausted by a fever. Romanger is very weak; Barthe's doctor gave him some advice. He hopes to spend some days with Barthe to recuperate and then leave for Baton Rouge.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {2}
1847 Aug. 28
Mégret, Father A(nthony) D(ésiré):
Cote Gelée, (Louisiana)
to Bishop (Anthony) Blanc:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
He left St. Martin, going by way of Cote Gelée, to go to Abbeville tomorrow. Experience has shown him that great talkers are never great doers and Father (Louis) Dufour bears this out. Dufour cannot render the service Blanc proposed because January will not find him in Louisiana. Dufour only came to Louisiana to make money and then go on further. Mégret has seen the tiger (Adrien?) Dumartrait who is not satisfied with an average sum; he demands all and has forbidden Mégret to sell the seized articles on September 6. Mégret will send him to Dufour; they say they understand each other like two thieves. So Mégret will sell the articles which have not been seized but he does not think he will be able to satisfy the ogre. Megret asks that Blanc make Father (John Francis) Abbadie, (S.J.) the proposition that he made Dufour. It would give him all the services dependent on the possibility of his house. Mégret owes him but he will see that he is paid before January. Mégret will leave no debts.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {4}
1847 Aug. 28
(Eccleston), Archbishop Samuel:
Baltimore, (Maryland)
to Bishop (Anthony) Blanc:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
He directs to Blanc's care the bull for the erection of the See of Galveston and other documents for Bishop (John Mary) Odin, (C.M.). The decrees of their last P(rovincial) Council have, with slight modifications, been confirmed. As soon as Father (Francis) L'Homme and the printer get through their work, (Eccleston) will send a printed copy of the 6th P(rovincial) Council. (Eccleston) does not mention the new bishops as doubtless their names and destinations are familiar to Blanc.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - 1p. - 8vo. - {5}
1847 Aug. 29
Abbadie, (S.J.), Father J. F(rancis):
St. Michael, (Louisiana)
to Bishop Ant(hony) Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
Abbadie is going down to Ch(arles?) Fortin's to wait for those whom he hopes will be brought by Mr. (Thomas) Fairhurst, (S.J.). But before leaving Father (A. Pierre) Ladavière, Abbadie must speak to Blanc about the young man Ladavière has with him. In July Bouige pleased Abbadie very much; he pleases him still more now and if Blanc has not changed his mind about him Abbadie will write to his uncle at Donaldsonville to get his permission to have him come to the College at Grand Coteau. With his disposition for study and his desire to become a priest, Abbadie thinks a bourse should be given him. Father (John B.) Maisounabe, (S.J.) has been here since Thursday and has begun his curial functions.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {6}
1847 Aug. 30
Borgess, Father Otho H.:
Zanesville, Ohio
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
Borgess reminds Purcell of a former letter in which he mentioned the difficulty concerning the singing in the congregation. Being a lover of good singing, Borgess tried to improve the singing but was insulted for his good intention. He was told that the congregation had to decide what ought to be sung. As the congregation had built the church they wanted to have it as it pleased them. One of the leaders Michael Buckler, a quack Doctor, formerly gave a great deal of trouble to Father Josue Young at Lancaster and has written the most insulting letters to Father (Joseph) Gallinger which has been the principal cause of Gallinger's leaving America. Buchler has brought it about that the congregation elected him Trustee. Buchler claims that the Priest has nothing more to say about church matters than to stand on the altar. He divulges such principles on the street corners and in taverns. After seeing that this proceeding will separate his congregation which already divided into two parties, Alsacians and Bavarians, Borgess finds the proper means is to abolish the election of Trustees by the congregation if it meets with Purcell's approval. Borgess finds that if he does not show firmness and pastoral authority, such men will not submit to the rules of the church. If Purcell approves, Borgess intends to select two of the best practical Christians for his assistance in temproal affairs. He requests further, if Purcell is satisifed, to retain $400 for his salary as he has to pay $60 for house rent. He remarks that the men of Taylorville are the most impertinent he has met.
II-4-j - A.L.S. - - 8vo. - 2pp. {5}
1847 Aug. 30
Wood, Father James F.:
Bedford (Springs?), Penn.
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
Wood came to Bedford against his original intentions. Bishop O'Connor has enlisted Wood in his service in spite of his remonstrances of feeble health. Wood is glad to inform Purcell that his health is much improved. On the first days journey from Pittsburgh Bishop (Michael) O'Connor and Wood visited the Benedictine Monastery near Youngstown. They also visited the new convent of the Sisters of Mercy where the sisters have opened a boarding school a mile from the monastery. Sister Isadore is formerly a sister of Charity and is now superior of the convent. That evening Wood visited Blairsville, where he met Father T. A. Stillinger, the pastor. O'Connor gave confirmation and made Wood preach. That night they took the Canal Boat to Johnstown, and Father T. C. Brady relieved Wood from the burden of preaching. They went on to Harmon's Bottom where they met Father (Thomas) Heyden with whom they started for Bedford. Wood has had a most delightful trip so far. The Bishop wants Wood to accompany him to Loretto where the remains of Father (Demetrius) Gallitzin are to be translated, but Wood is determined to go to Chambersburg in the morning. Heyden's mother is not expected to live. Wood will hasten on as fast as possible.
II-4-j - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 8vo. - {14}
1847 Aug. 30
Icard, J(osep)h:
Marseilles, (France)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
(Lyons, France)
Icard sent Rousselon on the 24th an enclosure for Mrs. Viges and an order on Lyons for 500 f(rancs). He was far from expecting that the next day he would be struck a terrible blow by the death of his mother, aged 80. This sad event makes him write to Mrs. Viges a second letter which he encloses.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {2}
1847 Aug. 30
Lucas, Father P(eter):
West B(aton) Rouge, (Louisiana)
to Bishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
It is about 2 weeks since he replied to Blanc's letter telling Blanc that he could safely put the articles in question on board the Majestic, addressing them to Bruly Landing. So far they have not been received. Peace and good order reign; Lucas' health is good. But his heart is not satisfied to play the master, much less to be pastor.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 8vo. - {2}
1847 Aug. 31
Boullier, (C.M.), Father J(ohn):
Donaldsonville, (Louisiana)
to Bishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
Boullier sends a box containing a new chalice, a present to his church. If Blanc has time he is to consecrate it and return it by the F.M. Streck leaving Saturday. Boullier has just received a letter form Father (John) Timon, (C.M.) recalling Father (John Francis) McGerry to St. Louis and sending young Father (John M.) Delcros, (C.M.) to replace him. Delcros scarcely knows English and has never been on a horse. McGerry left this morning for the seminary; he will return tomorrow and leave for St. Louis at the first opportunity.
V-5-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {4}