1848 Aug.
Capes, J.M.:
London, (England)
to Bishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
He sends Blanc the first monthly number of the Rambler of which he is the editor and which numbers among its contributors a large portion of English Catholic writers. Its great object is to exhibit the bearing of the Catholic religion on political, social, literary and theological questions of the day, (P.S.) The copy sent to Blanc has been consigned to the care of E. Dunigan, bookseller, New York, who will forward it.
V-5-j - L.S. - - 2pp. - 4to. {3}
1848 Aug. 1
Altheimer, Mrs. née Dietrich:
Cincinnati, (Ohio)
to Father (Stephen Rousselon:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Having undertaken the trip to Plaquemine hoping to find a place there according to Mr. Bernard's letter. She found on arriving that Bernard had gone to Cincinnati and asked them to join him there. She decided to go. Separation from her two children at the convent gives her much pain but she relies on (Rousselon) and the Sisters. She has promised to send them news. She is worn out. Three children have been sick. Jule. the fifth, still is; the sixth, Laurence, has recovered; the seventh, Maria Josephine died several days ago. She asks for news of her children.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {2}
1848 Aug. 1
Gilbride, Father Mich(ae)l:
Saugerties, (New York)
to Father (Francis P.) McFarland:
Watertown, N(ew) York
Gilbride thanks McFarland for complying with his many requests and apologizes for his silence. He is well but works among people who grudge his sight, because of his predecessor. Until this attitude declines he cannot be away much. He says it would be invidious to give names to whom he wishes to be remembered. Mr. McMahon visited him and spoke highly of McFarland and his mother.
I-1-a - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 4to. - {1}
1848 Aug. 1
Sanson, Father Ch(arles):
New Iberia, (Louisiana)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans (Louisiana)
He cannot remain in this post any longer. His health sometimes prevents him from walking and the doctor has absolutely forbidden horseback riding. He has done his best to prove his good will to Father (Julien) Priour who has said he was satisfied with him. Priour is strong and robust now. Sanson has followed the advice of Fathers Rousselon and Perché. (P.S.) He cannot leave this week; he is too ill but next week he will take the first steamboat.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {2}
1848 Aug. 2
Dalloz, Father C(harles):
Avoyelles (Louisiana)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
The trustees, meeting last Saturday, recognize that nothing is more just than the complaint (Blanc) made about the renting of the house but the lack of money does not allow them to satisfy his request now. They ask whether (Blanc) would agree to sell them the property. If (Blanc) thinks it proper to consider their proposition Fabius Ricord, the president of the council, would make arrangements. He lives at Marksville. On the 26th the council is to hold an open meeting on the subject. (On the back of the letter in Blanc's hand): Proposal for the house. $150 cash and $125 a year for 4 years dated from August 1, 1848.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {3}
1848 Aug. 2
Lamy, Father J(ohn):
Lempes, near Clermont, France
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
It is four weeks since Lamy arrived home. He had but very little time to visit with his brother and his family. Monseigneur Ferron of Clermont has treated him with great kindness. Lamy sold his brother all his rights to his father's property at the lowest rate. He made him a present of one-third at least. His sister has done the same thing. Lamy is now able to pay Purcell what he lent him. If Purcell desires it, he will leave the money with Father Carriere. Julius Brent will be at Clermont next week. The state of France is very uncertain. The taxes on land and produce are increased. Very few people feel disposed to pay the taxes. Lamy has not found any young priests who are willing to come to America. Many cures in Clermont have been obliges to abandon their parishes.
II-4-k - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 8vo. - {1}
1848 Aug. 3
Fransonius, Cardinal J(ames) Ph(ilip):
(Rome, Italy)
to Bishop Peter Paul Lefevere:
Detroit, (Michigan)
It is known to the Sacred Congregation of the Propaganda that the Poor Clare nun, (Sister) Mary Frances Vindevoghel gave to Bishop Frederick Rese 2000 Roman scudi to purchase a house in the diocese of Detroit for a monastery. This house was purchased with part of the money given by Vindevoghel but listed solely under the name of the bishop. Later, the Sacred Congregation knows that Vindevoghel bought sufficient land in Green Bay for a monastery. Later this nun decided to leave America and to use her goods in another way. This she can do by reasons of a rescript of the Sacred Penitentiary of June 23, 1820 and of November 16, 1825 through the Vicar General of Ghent allowing these nuns to dispose of their inheritance. Since the nun has so decided to sell this house and land Franzoni writes to Lefevere to tell him that it is the mind of the Sacred Congregation that he place no obstacle to this sale. He is sure that Lefevere will help him conclude this business.
III-2-h - L.S. - (Latin) - 1p. - 8vo. - {4}
1848 Aug. 3
Legrand, Father F.:
Pont de Breaux. (Louisiana)
to Bishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana
He has just learned that Blanc will visit Pont Breaux on the 13th or 14th September. He is now preparing for Confirmation on the 14th. Mr. and Mrs. Chevalier Delhomme hope Blanc will accept their hospitality. Legrand hopes the presbytery will be finished but he would not be occupying it then. At Easter more than 200 made their Easter duty. He was very much satisfied for a new parish. There were 42 children and 10 adults in the First Communion class. Father (Aloysius) Rocof(f)ort came to help him that day. So far he has met only one opposition; it was about the old cemetery. On Corpus Christi seven priests assembled at New Iberia for First Communion. There Legrand received the stoles Father Rousselon sent him. He has had a visit from Father (James) Fontbonne, and Father (Julien) Priour. Father (Anthony Désiré Mégret?) Meygret comes from time to time. Legrand wrote Rousselon in mid-April that having 30 piastres on hand and 50 promised by Father (Louis) Dufour, he has continued work on the cemetery and presbytery. On the eve of Dufour's departure he sent Legrand an order for $50 on the pastor of Opelousas for funerals within the limits of St. Martin's. Father (John F.) Raviol, to whom Legrand sent the order, replied that Dufour's claims were exaggerated and that this money would be sent when he returned. Enclosed is a list of church articles needed and two barrels of lime.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - (French) - 5pp. - 4to. - {9}
1848 Aug. 4
Boissel, Father J.:
St. Anne, Guadeloupe
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc):
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Boissel, 11 or 12 years ago, spent two days with (Blanc) at the presbytery at Pointe à Pitre. He takes advantage of his brother's trip to New Orleans. He has never forgotten(Blanc)'s kindness nor his wish to take their Prefect Apostolic, Father Louvet, to work with him. His brother, Hippolyte Boissel, has practised medicine here for four years. In view of the revolution he wishes to go to New Orleans. He is accompanied by a friend, also a doctor.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {3}
(1848) Aug. 4
(Hall, S.C.), Mother M(ary) Etienne:
St. Joseph's (Emmitsburg, Maryland)
to Bishop Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana
The election and retreat prevented her answering sooner. Sister Loretta, (S.C.), it seems, must go. It is difficult to supply her place. Does Blanc think that Sister M(ary) Austin (Mudd. S.C.) is competent to be Sister Servant for Donaldsonville. The South being her native place, and speaking French and Creole, they think so. If they send a good English teacher, Austin can take charge of the novices, as Loretta did, and teach the French. They are sending a fine music teacher for Baton Rouge also three Sisters (of Charity) for the hospital. They think of sending them soon to remain in Natchez until they can proceed to New Orleans.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 8vo. - {4}
1848 Aug. 4
Mouret, Father:
Paris, (France)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Mouret asks for information about a man who went to New Orleans about two years ago. His name is Vegian or Vesian Vielfaure, married to a Miss Garidel whose parents also live in New Orleans. He died without children. He had his parental property as well as quite a fortune in America. His relatives need a death certificate to settle the estate. The brother of the deceased, living at Joannas, says that (Blanc) knew Vielfaure. One of Mouret's brothers is married to a niece of Vielfaure.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 8vo. - {3}
1848 Aug. 6
(Fleix y Solans), Bishop Fr(ancis)co:
Havana, (Cuba)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc):
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
He received (Blanc)'s letter expressing his wish to enter into communication for the common good of their dioceses about the marriages and dispensations.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - (Spanish) - 2pp. - 4to. - {1}
1848 Aug. 7
Maisounabe, S.J., Father (John Baptiste Léon):
Grand Coteau, (Louisiana)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
They forgot to mention to him Rousselon's wish about the note for the Catholic Almanac. Here it is (no enclosure). Since their house (Jesuits) at New Orleans is only a plan as yet, Rousselon may judge whether to mention it. Since his letter about the two boxes of books, he has received a notice signed by the captain of the Hannibal and has sent it to Father Soller. Maisounabe expects to leave day after tomorrow by way of St. Michael and to be in New Orleans a few days after the Assumption. He has just spent some happy days here giving a double retreat. At New Orleans he will begin another kind of life. St. Charles parish will be better served from now on. Father Aloys(ius) Rocof(f)ort, (S.J.) will make trips throughout this vast parish. Maisounabe hopes day by day for the success of the College next year.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {3}
1848 Aug. 9
Vindevoghel, Sister Mary F(rances):
Rome, (Italy)
to Bishop (Peter Paul) Lefev(e)re:
Detroit, Michigan
Cardinal (James Philip Franzoni) has written Lefevere twice and Sister Mary Frances herself has written to find out if it is Lefevere's intention to sell the house at Detroit which was bought in Sister's name and with her money but Lefevere has not answered. Bishop (Frederick) Rese, while in Rome, had this house registered in his name, promising to return it to her. On her return to America, Bishop Rese having left his diocese, the affair was not settled and since it is not known whether Bishop Rese is still living Lefevere alone can carry out the intention. Father Potzi (Eugene H. Pozzo) O.P., who visited Rome, is instructed to complete her business in America and she hopes that Lefevere will not fail to reply to Cardinel Franzoni since the affair was made known in Rome by Rese himself. In one of his last letters to her, Lefevere said that the sum which Rese has spent to repair the house must be given back. She has the notice from Rese himself that he intended to give it back when they lived in it again. Thus; Lefevere can see that she intends to end this business justly.
III-2-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 12mo. - {5}
1848 Aug. 11
Maisounabe, S.J., Father (John Baptist Léon):
On board the Correo
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
New Orleans. L(ouisiana)
He will be at St. Michael tonight and still counts on being at New Orleans one or two days after Assumption. If the Bishop has not yet gone. the Correo will leave New Orleans about 10 o'clock. A young English scholastic, Mr. Lambert is to come from Spring Hill to Grand Coteau. This will be the last trip of the Correo to the city. It will leave regularly for Negreville every Monday and every Thursday for St. Martin.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {2}
1848 Aug. 14
Blin, Father J.E.:
Charenton, (Louisiana)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
Blin received Rousselon's letter of the 7th and learned of the arrival of his church goods. Rousselon's advice to sell part of them is in accord with his present needs. However he will not sell until circumstances force him to. They are to be sent on the Vesta to Gaillard's landing. He also needs two dozen catechisms. The bell at Pat(t)erson rings out in full peal. Conversions among the heretics are impossible without a priest who knows English and French.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 8vo. - {2}
1848 Aug. 14
Llebaria, (C.M.), Father J(ohn) Francis:
Assumption Seminary, (Louisiana)
to Bishop Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
On the 10th he used the dispensation Blanc drew up. He informed the parties and spoke of the alms attached. They said they could pay $80 toward the end of the year. He hopes Blanc will participate in the celebration of tomorrow's feast. More than $40 has been spent. The Misses (Page?) Pahg and Foley are enthusiastic. Llebaria is just about finished with the translation of the catechism in the first part. If Blanc has no objection, he will continue.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 8vo. - {3}
1848 Aug. 16
McFarland, J(ohn) A.:
Tiffin, (Ohio)
to Father F(rancis) P. McFarland:
Watertown, N(ew) Y(ork)
They are all well despite the hot weather. Sickness seems to be on the increase. There have been accidents, also, one killing an Irishman on the railroad. He and his wife attended a concert in Sandusky by the celebrated Madam Bishop. He met Bishop (John Baptist) Purcell at the church and was with him on the cars to Tiffin. Purcell told him a story of Francis when he was at the Mountain. They had church on Sunday and the Feast of the Assumption by a French priest who knew no English six months before. Father (Michael Doherty) Daugherty has left the diocese for Boston because he could not pay a debt of $100 where he was. John has enjoyed Bishop (John) Hughes's answers to Kirwan. This year the political parties are split. The Whig paper will not support Taylor but go over to the Barnburners. George Rogers is visiting Jacob Adams. Their mother would remember him. William Foreman now lives 30 miles west of there, so does John McNeal. Several families from Quincy have moved to Tiffin; Francis Olig is practicing medicine near Hughes' Furnace. Lewis Olig is said to be a very wild boy. Charles Olig is "quacking" in Morrison's Cove. Father (Joseph) McNamee has never come back since he went to Rhode Island. He hopes Jerome is making progress in science. He asks also about their mother's health. P.S. If he needs money Francis is to remind Josiah that he is to answer John's claim to him.
I-1-a - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 4to. - {5}
1848 Aug. 17
Martin, Father Aug(uste):
Baton Rouge, (Louisiana)
to Father E(tienne) Rousselon:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Not having a reply to the letter he wrote two weeks ago, he excuses himself for writing today because he would feel guilty not to communicate his impressions about Father (Joseph Michael Paret) Parret. He came here from Plaines Monday and returned the 15th. Besides the obstacle of his 41 years, he has a greater one. He knows the mechanics of the language but Martin is convinced he will never understand and speak it. He is humiliated; he has said several times that he regrets leaving France and that he will stay until the end of October but then he requests another place or to return to France. Paret is a good priest, ardent and enthusiastic. The Sunday Martin was at New Orleans, Paret read part of his sermon. He said he would never try to preach there again.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - 4to. - {2}
1848 Aug. 17
Priour, Father J(ulien):
New Iberia, (Louisiana)
to Bishop Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisia)na
He is ashamed to be so negligent in answering Blanc's two letters, the first of April 24 in which he announced Confirmation for September 17 and the second of June 7 which Father (Charles) Sanson brought. In this Blanc recommended this good confrere in a paternal manner. His zeal and modesty have recommended Sanson to the parishioners. Dr. Mudd gives them English lessons every day. He loves to sing High Mass; his voice is very strong. His health has improved. However horseback and even the carriage are very harmful to his health. He went only once to St. Martin. Mrs. Foulhouse said he was almost dead when he arrived at her house. Priour believes the only remedy is to recall him. P.S. When Priour sees Blanc he will give him the two contracts, that of Franklin and that of Fausse Pointe. He is going to write to George Lanaux to draw on Blanc for a balance of $150 which he still owes Priour.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 4to. - {7}
1848 Aug. 19
(Smith, S.C.), Sister Regina:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
to Father E(tienne) Rousselon:
(New Orleans. Louisiana)
Sister has just read Rousselon's letter and that of their Mother to Bishop (Anthony Blanc). She understands the one of Mother Etienne (Hall, S.C.); she hopes the three Sisters (of Charity) who come will be good subjects. She regrets she forgot to ask Rousselon to invite Mother Ste. Thérèse with her Sisters to join them during these 30 days prayer for Rousselon's intention. She has written to Father Martin at Baton Rouge and to Father Raho of Natchez to that effect.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {5}
1848 Aug. 19
Lecoffre, J(acques):
Paris, (France)
to Madame Ste. Seraphine (Ray), R.U.:
New Orleans (Louisiana)
Lecoffre asks if she can hasten payment of the 4275.14 francs owed them according to their letter of April 28. They are adding a year's subscription for Father (Napoleon Joseph) Perché to L'Ami de la Religion. They suppose that Mr. Jamey has not yet carried out the sales on which they counted to pay their bill. They would not trouble her if the events in France had not brought such a terrible crisis.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - (French) - 1p. - 4to. - {3}
1848 Aug. 19
Pierz, Father Francois:
Arbre Croche, Michigan
to Bishop (Peter Paul) Lefevere:
Detroit, Michigan
Pierz is just back from a visit to the savages at Machkigan. To Lefevere he sends a report concerning his visit and the conditions of the savages as far as Kachagen Ondichaning, 50 miles from Arbre Croche, where Pierz established a mission last spring. Pierz says that the place chosen for the mission is very good for such as purpose and that there are already 163 baptized. By next spring the same mission will be increased to a number of 400 or more because of the 5 small villages nearby and of the savages' assurance that they will establish themselves at Kachagen Ondichaning and buy the land. All the Indians shook hands with Pierz and promised him to become Catholics. It would be necessary to have a permanent priest in the mission. All the Catholics of Grand Traverse bought some good land in the bay and are going to settle a small village there. Pierz believes that the mission of Kachagen Ondichaning and the new village in the Bay of Grand Traverse could be cared for by one priest since the two places are only 10 miles apart by land and 20 by water. At Machigan Pierz discovered 204 Catholics (savages) established in a good village about 60 miles from the lake, in the woods along the navigable river. These savages have very nice houses and beautiful gardens. It is also an excellent place for hunting. They will not leave the place unless the government chases them out. If a priest could be sent to the savages at Machkigan, more than 200 savages from Kickadinang and Sagitang would come to establish a mission, which would make a mission of more than 400 of 500 savages. But for this a permanent priest is needed. Pierz took a census of the missions for the government and the savages fear deportment. The present time is the most favorable to convert the savages to the Catholic Religion. This would be possible if Pierz had the time to instruct sufficiently and if he had the means to travel or stay with the savages long enough. In his last visits to the missions Pierz did not baptize many adults because of the lack of time to prepare them and of funds to pay 3 ecus a day to feed three men. Pierz promised the Indians of Grand Traverse, Kachagen, Ondichaning, and Jamegobing, etc. which are about 100 miles apart, that he will be back in September to give them the necessary instruction and to baptize the pagans. Pierz asks Lefevere to send him the balance of his salary for the year. Lefevere could send the money through some salesman going to Mackinac for the the next payment. Right after the payment Pierz will leave for his missions; consequently he needs the money for the trip and for the teachers' salaries. The savages at Mackigong asked Pierz to build a school for the children but Pierz did not accept, since he did not know how he would manage to pay the teacher. Lefevere should take care of the expenses of the mission and send him only $100. Furthermore, Pierz believes firmly that Lefevere should send him half the government funds for the education of the mission's savages, since he has more work and more expenses than anyone else. It is only just that the funds should be distributed according to the number of savages, and the expenses the education will require. He hopes that Lefevere will send him the necessary amount of money to pay his debts and to take care of his missions properly.
III-2-h - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 8vo. - {1}
1848 Aug. 20
Laurentia. (S.C.), Sister M.:
(Baton Rouge, Louisiana?)
to Father (Stephen Rousselon:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
She is ashamed when she reflects that nearly a year has passed since she left New Orleans and she has not written. She is perfectly contented with her present mission and has no desire to return to the hospital. Father (Auguste) Martin gave two instructions a day for their retreat. The Sisters are all well and wish to be remembered.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 16mo. - {2}
1848 Aug. 20
Pereira. Father Ant(hony):
Havana, (Cuba)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Father Benito Lopéz has died and as his testamentory executor Pereira wishes to reach his brother and sister Ciriaco (Lopez) and Margarita Eleuteria, both of Pensacola so that they may send their full power or come over to take up the inheritance. He asks (Blanc) to forward the enclosed letter to the rector of Pensacola. He offers (Blanc) the Canongia he serves in this Cathedral as well as his small faculties.
V-5-j - L.S. - 2pp. - 4to. - {4}
1848 Aug. 20
Purcell, Father Edward:
Cincinnati, (Ohio)
to Father E(tienne) Rousselon:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
(Bishop John Baptist Purcell) is again absent and Purcell replies to Rousselon's letter. The glass arrived safely; he sends a check on Messrs. Dufillio and Company payable to Bishop (Blanc) dated last February. The young man to whom Purcell advanced the money had a letter of credit from Father (Gilbert) Raymond, president of St. Mary's College, Baltimore.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 16mo. - {4}
1848 Aug. 21
Boiteux, Father:
Issy, (France)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
On the recommendation of Bishop (John Mary) Odin of Texas Boiteux sends two boxes, the larger one containing a statue of the Blessed Virgin and the other books and a violet cassock, all ordered May 17. He excuses himself for sending previously a letter for (Charles?) Chambost, not knowing if it would reach him if he sent it to Assumption. He would be glad if in acknowledging the receipt of the above, Rousselon would send a few words and even give him advice.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 8vo. - {3}
1848 Aug. 21
Power, Father Jo(h)n:
New York, (New York)
to Bishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
In reply to Blanc's favor of the 1st, Power has arranged for the return passage of Miss Moynahan who by this time has sailed for Liverpool in the packet Sardinia. He has drawn on Blanc for $67.50 expended for Miss Moynahan's passage, her provisions and money to pay her expenses from Liverpool to Ireland. $11 of this was paid for her board in the city. Her brothers will be glad to hear that she is well and evinced no reluctance in returning to her native country.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - 1p. - 4to. - {2}
1848 Aug. 21
Ravoux, Father:
Bordeaux, (France)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
He asks (Blanc) to forward the letter to his brother, Father Auguste Ravoux, not having heard from him for more than 18 months when he was about to go on a trip which he said was not without danger. With his letter Ravoux sends a cask of white wine. If (Blanc) wishes to know the present situation in France he has only to read pages 2, 3, and 4 of the letter addressed to Ravoux's brother.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - (French) - 1p. - 8vo. - {2}
1848 Aug. 21
Spalding, Father M(artin) J(ohn):
Louisville, Kentucky
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
Spalding sends this letter to the care of Purcell's brother. After mature reflection Spalding thought it his duty to accept the office of the Episcopacy. He hereby earnestly invites Purcell to attend his consecration. The already protracted delay and the wish of Bishop (Benedict Joseph) Flaget have decided Spalding to fix the time as early as possible—the 10th of September, the feast of the Holy Name of Mary. Purcell's presence would afford them much pleasure. Spalding hopes he will receive this letter in time to make the necessary arrangements. Spalding will endeavor to emulate Purcell's zeal for souls. He has also invited the two Bishops Kenrick, the Bishops of Nashville, Charleston and Pittsburgh. He asks for a speedy and favorable answer.
II-4-k - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 8vo. - {3}
1848 Aug. 22
Bouè, Father:
Lyons, (France)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
He thought the grave circumstances might make some young subjects decide to set out for America. He told the Superior of (Blanc)'s need. He replied that the revolution had caused the loss of some ordinary vocations but had inspired no extraordinary ones. A certain number have left the seminary. (Blanc)'s nephew, is among them, although at the end of his third year. Last Friday they buried Father Gardette, the last, perhaps, of the exiles from Isle de Rey. Boué saw only six priests older than himself: Fathers Baron, Menaide, Allibert. Cholton, and the two Cattes. Boué often meditates on the plan he talked about and which (Blanc) entertained favorably in his letter of July 25 just received. He has a chance through the Bishop of Natchez on his way from Rome. They have not announced a general retreat this year, Boué will go to spend several days at Valle Fleurie and there will decide definitely on the plan. In case of a negative decision, he has given 1000 francs to the Bishop of Natchez. Mr. Poidebord being paid, as well as what was due on the board of (Blanc)'s nephew, there still remains 320 francs for his board next year. This will be the last sacrifice (Blanc) will have to make. He does not have great talents but he is a very good subject. At Lyons they have a little security thanks to their garrison of part of the army of Alps. Their parliamentary elections were very bad; the municipal ones were better. At Sury the people appointed 22 members to the council. (Blanc)'s brother Pierre (Blanc) is among the members. Business is still bad; there is no confidence. The harvest and vineyards are good. Boué sends regards to Father Rousselon and young T(h)eve(s).
V-5-j - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - 4to. - {4}
1848 Aug. 22
Brown, James:
Charleston, (South Carolina)
to Bishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
He sends a bill for $14 for 3 ½ years to July 1 for the Catholic Miscellany.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 4to. - {2}
1848 Aug. 22
Maller, C.M., Father M(ariano):
Ste. Genevieve, (Missouri)
to Bishop A(nthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
Maller received from Father Boullier Blanc's letter of the 24th. He has considered the wants of Natchitoches and will bear them in mind in their arrangements here. Also New Orleans and the seminary. They will have time to deliberate on these matters when he sees Blanc in October.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 4to. - {1}
1848 Aug. 24
Martin, Father Aug(uste):
(Baton Rouge, Louisiana)
to Father E(tienne) Rousselon:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
The uncle of P. McDonald will be the bearer of these few lines. Rousselon had not received Martin's letter when he wrote the one which came on Monday. He was forced to buy a horse and carriage for $125. He used the $150 from the sale of a piece of woodland at Plaines which the Bishop had authorized him to sell for repairs on the chapel at Plaines. Father (Joseph Michael Paret) Parret was very well last week. Martin is worn out; he needs rest. Mariette regrets her last master. (P.S.) Rousselon is to ask Mr. Colar to put the Sisters on board the Majestic. When Rousselon sees Mr. Daron of the Asylum, he is to think of Martin for another boy; he cannot do with one.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {7}
1848 Aug. 25
Barthe, Father E(dward):
Houma, (Louisiana)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc):
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
He waited so long because he was waiting for a meeting of the building committee. In going to Houma he passed the home of the president. Cleborne Thibodeau who seemed well disposed and spent the first days visiting the members who live near. All made fine promises. But they did not meet. He saw Mr. Gagné and Mr. Priant(?) several times; they said the roads were too bad or the time not favorable to collect, etc. The two first days he lived in the presbytery-cabin, 15 feet square. a Mr. Fiter asked if he intended to continue living there. When Barthe said yes he said he had a permit to sell until the money which the Bishop still owed him for it was paid. It was $14 so Barthe paid it. The first week Barthe had a floor laid in the chancel of the church and set up a little altar. On Sundays about 30 or 40 attend; on Assumption Day about 80 came. He told Mr. Gotreau he was surprised but a fellow in the crowd said it was the good weather and curiosity to see the third money grabber the Bishop had sent. These good Creoles, these pious people of Houma, today marry their children by civil rites, baptize their children privately, accompany their relatives to the cemetery. all without the priest. This was done last week in 2 marriages at Bayou Black and a burial at Petit Caillou. Since Barthe has been here he has had 4 baptisms and blessed a marriage contracted three months ago. The good people of Terrebonne fear he will go into debt and make him pay in advance. Mr. Guedry, the baker, said he would not give him a loaf of bread without ten sous in his hand. Confidence in a priest has been entirely lost and they conduct their religious affairs themselves. He will not be discouraged as long as the difficulties seem surmountable.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - 4to. - {8}
1848 Aug. 25
Delcros, C.M., Father J.M.:
Donaldsonville, (Louisiana)
to Bishop A(nthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
The contractor for the Sisters (of Charity)'s house being in financial difficulties, he asks Blanc to accept an order for $400 drawn to the order of Mr. Moore who furnished the lumber and payable September 1. Delcros asks for a dispensation for a marriage between Bourgeois Derozin and Odalie Gaudin. Father (Anthony) Andrieux. (C.M.) has been asked for by the people of Paincourt. Father (John) Boullier, (C.M.) has not given any news but a letter Delcros received from the Visitor gives almost certain assurance that he is determined not to let him go down again. What he wants to do with him at St. Louis, Delcros does not know.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 4to. - {7}
1848 Aug. 25
Masnou, C.M., Father J.:
Assumption, (Louisiana)
to Father E(tienne) Rousselon:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
Masnou received Rousselon's letter of the 19th. He will try to send a skiff to Bay Baroohic to take Bishop (Anthony Blanc) to the little mission of Bayou Boeuf which they serve. The Bishop can count on it for September 28 or 29.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 8vo. - {3}
1848 Aug. 25
Robin, E.:
Bordeaux, (France)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc):
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Robin is commissioned by one of his friends, Father Ravoux, chaplain at the hospital here to send Bishop (Mathias Loras) of Dubuque, in care of (Blanc) a barrel of white wine for his brother, (Father Auguste Ravoux). He sends the notice of this cask, a letter for (Loras) and a letter for the missionary Ravoux.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - (French) - 1p. - 4to. - {4}
1848 Aug. 26
Bellinger, E. Jr.:
Barnwell, C.H., So(uth) Car(olina)
to O(restes) A. Brownson:
Boston, Massachusetts
He asks Brownson to make some remarks on the inconsistency and injustice of having a Presbyterian parson as Theological professor in a state college.
I-3-i - A.L.S. - 1p. - 8vo. - {1}
1848 Aug. 27
(Blanc), Bishop Ant(hony):
Grand Coteau, (Louisiana)
to Father E(tienne) Rousselon:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
(Blanc) can only think that the pastor of St. Ch(arles) has lost his head. If Rousselon has not yet seen Mr. G. he is to lose no time. Mr. Fouch(er) is said to be a son of Madame Rost, next to the church. Mrs. Rost at present is in the north but her daughter whose maiden name was Louise Foucher is at home. Father Maenhaut should know her as he must have performed this marriage in 1847. Foucher must be her brother or uncle. Rousselon is to weigh the statements of the witnesses with Fathers Perché, Duquesney. Maenhaut, and Jamey. If they are satisfied of their truth, Rousselon is to write to Father (Francois) B(ar)the to come to the city within 3 days or his faculties will be taken away. If his reasons do not satisfy Rousselon he is to give him 8 days to leave the parish. If his reasons are plausible. Rousselon is to try to persuade him to leave before (Blanc) has to act on the petition about to be sent him. The present complaint is the third in six months. If all is false there is no way for B(ar)the to remain where the complaints are so incessant. (Blanc) arrived at Opelousas Saturday. Father (John F.) Raviol had just said Mass for the first time since his illness. (Blanc) decided to give Confirmation on Tuesday at Opelousas and Friday he will go to Vermillionville. (Blanc) regrets that Perché did not announce his departure and indicate his probable return as the first week of October. Rousselon is to pay the prorata on the notes presented; it is still for St. Patrick's.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - 4to. - {6}
1848 Aug. 27
Lamy, Father (John):
Clermont, France
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
When Lamy arrived at Clermont, the seminarians of Mt. Ferrand were on vacation. He has not the time to wait until they return. There are many priests that intend to go to the missions but the Superiors advise them to join religious orders. Lamy will try to bring a few young priests. Father M. Caron, a friend of Bishop Rappe, has already decided to come to the new diocese. Lamy known a priest he knew in the seminary who is willing to come to Cincinnati. Lamy will go to England with Julius Brent. He will tell the Ursuline nuns at Boulogne to have three sisters ready to come to Fayetteville. Lamy's sister may come with them. The clergy of France is generally as well respected as it has been since the republic. Cavagnac is invested with the supreme power in France. Mivlas has the supreme power in Prussia. Everybody is looking for some dreadful explosion. Those in Clermont remember Purcell very well and congratulate Lamy on being in his diocese. Lamy is happy to procure the articles Purcell requested. He left 1000 francs at the Seminary of St. Sulpice for Purcell. Bishop (Guy I.) Chabrat passed twice in Clermont but Lamy did not see him. It is reported that the Pope gave Bishop (John J.) Chanche a marble altar for his cathedral.
II-4-k - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 8vo. - {5}
1848 Aug. 29
(Odin, C.M.), Bishop J(ohn) M(ary):
Galveston, (Texas)
to Bishop A(nthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
(Odin) cannot let Father (Louis) Chambodut leave without writing a few lines. Having accompanied Father (Richard) Hennesy. (C.M.) to Galveston, Chambodut thought he should return to his post by way of New Orleans. Bishop (John) Timon will be here for November 29. (Odin) hopes Blanc will accompany him. (Odin) leaves next Friday for the west and will not return until the first days of November. A strong wind on the 17th and 18th took a good part of the tin off their new church, an expense of at least $300. Father (Claude M.) Dubuis has been here for several weeks; his health is bad. He is an excellent young man.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {5}
1848 Aug. 30
(Chanche), Bishop John Joseph:
Paris, (France)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
He is once more in Paris. He was here during the horrid days of June and would not be surprised if he saw more trouble. He received (Blanc)'s letter of June 28 in Rome. He left Rome August 4. The late events in Italy will no doubt give more peace to Rome. (Pius IX) deserves all the praise given to him, he is pious, enlightened, and firm. He has constantly refused to comply with the mad desire of declaring war against Austria. He treated (Chanche) with the utmost kindness and confidence. (Chanche) remined one month in Rome and saw him four times. With him and with the Cardinals, everything was in accordance to their wishes. The sees of Vincennes and Chicago were not filled when (Chanche) left owing to a clause in the Archbishop's letter by which he promised to write again after the meeting of the Bishops at Detroit. This was unfortunate as the bulls will be deferred. The Cardinal promised that if the Archbishop's letter did not arrive before the meeting to be held this month, he would proceed with the nomination from the names presented to him. (Chanche) found that the pallium had been sent to the Archbishop of St. Louis. He hopes that at the meeting in August, (Blanc) will be appointed Archbishop. Both His Holiness and Cardinal Fransoni promised it should be considered. The Archbishop of Baltimore will be Primate. It Lyons, (Chanche) saw (Blanc)'s cousin, Father Boué. He gave (Chanche) 1000 francs for (Blanc). Should he delay too long he will require Father (Louis Regis) Dèluol to forward them. (Chanche) has had very little success with the Propagation (of the Faith). They are bad administrators of the good feelings of the people.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 12mo. - {7}
1848 Aug. 30
Regis, (S.C.), Sister F(rancis):
New O(rleans, Louisiana)
to Father E(tienne) Rousselon:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
Their confessor has just sent to tell her that he is quite sick and will not be able to come this week. She asks Rousselon to send them one tomorrow.
V-5-j - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 4to. - {1}