1849 Oct.
Chevillon:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
A bill for $197.15 for repairs to St. Vincent de Paul and Annunciation churches, etc.
V-5-l - A. Bill S. - (French) - 1p. - 4to. - {1}
1849 Oct. 1
Lambert, Rich(ar)d:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
A receipt for 20 piastres from Father (Stephen) Rousselon for the services of Lambert's son as organist.
V-5-l - A. Receipt S. - (French) - 1p. - 32mo. - {1}
1849 Oct. 1
McCaffrey, Father John:
Mt. St. Mary's College,
(Emmitsburg, Md.)
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
McCaffrey received Purcell's letter by Mr. Coleman who has left his son at the college. McCaffrey hopes the son will do credit to the Buckeye State; he has begun well. There is not room for any more seminarians at the present time; they have 25. But if Purcell has any to spare such as Messers Goitz and Quinlan, McCaffrey will endeavor to place them as soon as possible. These two are very promising. Mr. Goitz is employed in teaching French. Mr. Quinlan was found well prepared for theology and Father (William Elder) is spurring him and thirteen others over Perrone's Dogmatic and Neyragrett's Morals. McCaffrey himself teaches them philosophy. As Mr. Wuinlan paid $100 when he entered, McCaffrey was under the impression that he was not to teach; but Quinlan desires to have some employment. McCaffrey got rid of Mr. Becker as delicately as possible. Becker is now the principal of the high school in Lancaster, Pa. McCaffrey wishes Purcell would devise some plan to deliver them from the Smaller Catechism which they are obliged to use. Some bishop is destined to give the perfect Catechism for children. One of their best families, Francis Welty's is about to settle in Dayton. McCaffrey recommends them to Purcell's attention.
II-4-k - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 8vo. - {6}
1849 Oct. 1
McFarland, J(ohn) A.:
Tiffin, (Ohio)
to Father F(rancis) P. McFarland:
Watertown, N(ew) Y(ork)
Jerome has been there and is going to Auglaize. He does not seem to have settled on a future. They are well. There have been a half dozen cases of cholera of which four were fatal. More than half the people of Tiffin fled to the country. They will not visit Francis this year. He thanks Francis for his book and their mother for her gifts. He hopes they will visit them next fall. William has written that he has sent the $50.
I-1-a - A.L.S. - 1p. - 4to. - {1}
1849 Oct. 2
Paret, Father J(oseph) M(ichael):
Red Church, (Louisiana)
to Father E(tienne) Rousselon:
N(ew) O(rleans, Louisiana)
He has a difficulty about a marriage which they have asked him to bless on the 4th. The banns have been published only twice and the young man does not want to get a dispensation from banns. The couple are children of cousins and Paret asked the fiancé to go to Rousselon to get the required dispensation but the young man replied that many of St. Charles, related as he is, have never had to fulfill all these formalities. Red Church is always well attended. A man has offered to open a subscription to have an organ for All Saints day. If the cope which he asked Rousselon to order for him from the Sisters at(?) St. Augustine's is finished, Rousselon is to tell Mr. Henriette how much it is and Paret will pay on his next trip to the city. If there are any letters from Pelussin for Paret, Rousselon is to give them to the bearer.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 4to. - {3}
1849 Oct. 3
Fontbonne, Father James:
St. Martinville, (Louisiana)
to Bishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
He sends by the Bertraud, $150 which the pastor of Lafayette gave him. He gave Emile Veazy $5 to take the trunks.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {2}
1849 Oct. 3
Garesché, Jules:
Pte. Isabelle, Texas
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc):
N(ew) Orleans, (Louisiana)
He thanks (Blanc) for his letter and his interest in his needs. He also had a letter from Bishop (John Mary Odin) who writes that he has found four priests for the valley of the Rio Grande and that he will arrive the middle of November. To give a push to the subscriptions, Garesché has had the letters translated and printed in their newspapers. A lot at Brownsville has already been put aside for a Catholic church and Mr. Mussena has promised a lot here as well as helping them at Matamoros. Garesché hopes they can build in each place.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 1p. - 4to. - {6}
1849 Oct. 3
Le Cler, A.:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
A receipted bill for $44.75 for tin work from March 16 to September 25.
V-5-l - A. Bill S. - (French) - 2pp. - 12mo. - {1}
1849 Oct. 4
Mégret, Father A(nthony) D(ésiré):
Vermilionville, (Louisiana)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Mégret received (Blanc)'s letter of September 27. The letter in question was received and read by Mégret. He called (Louis Lucien) Arceneaux to whom he showed it. It was not signed but Arceneaux recognized the writing of Father (John Francis Llebaria, C.M.) Liberia, pastor of Donal(d)son. (Blanc) is to keep the secret, as he promised. Mégret told Arceneaux nothing of (Blanc)'s letter of September 27 nor the reply Mégret is sending October 4. Mégret believes Arceneaux could do much good in the ministry. His character is a little doleful as in the character of his nation but he is firmer than ever in his vocation. It is in the interest of religion to keep him for (Blanc)'s diocese but it would be against his interests to send him back to (Blanc)'s diocesan seminary. There, because of too much freedom vocations could be lost; there is no order in the conferences, the number is too small for emulation; some of the professors do not pass for learned. Superiors who are absent for long periods cannot truly judge. Father (Louis) Parodi, (C.M.) is an excellent priest, but he cannot have the gift of ecclesiastical teaching. Mégret has gathered this from one source and another which makes him judge that it is so. Lucien wishes to go either to Cincinnati to the Jesuits or to Boston to the Sulpicians. Yesterday Mégret saw the president of St. Charles. Two of his priests are ill. (Blanc) has received his last letter. R(ominger's?) trunks left on the Anna and his money on the Bertrand. The Bertrand was delayed; Mégret does not know whether Father (James) Fontbonne has sent the $150 and the keys of the trunks. P.S. Several days ago Arceneaux wished to write to Father (J.M.) Masnou, (C.M.), his superior, to thank him for kindnesses and to ask him to send his books to the bishop's house. Mégret had him put off writing until (Blanc)'s final decision.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - 4to. - {6}
1849 Oct. 6
(Chanche), Bishop John Joseph:
Natchez, (Mississippi)
to Bishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
A few days ago (Chanche) received a letter from Mrs. Waggaman and this morning one from Henry (Waggaman) asking him to come down to perform the marriage of Henry with Miss Bujac. The mother is afraid if (Chanche) does not go they will be married by a Protestant. Could he, according to law, perform a marriage in Blanc's state? It is officially announced in the St. Louis news letter that the diocese of St. Louis has been raised to an archbishopric. He must doubt until he receives official information. If it is correct, it is time the Province should be divided since so little regard is paid to the wishes of the assembled Bishops. They must begin to think of their southern province. As soon as Bishop (Michael) Portier returns from Bishop Bazin's consecration, they must have a meeting in New Orleans to see what is to be done. They must invite Bishop (John Mary) Odin. They must not suffer themselves to be the victims of intrigue. (Chanche) is sorry to hear that Blanc is likely to have trouble at Natchitoches; he hopes it is not as bad as it looks in the papers. (Chanche) has not been well. Father (William) Blenkinsop has been confined to his room for more than a month. He begins to go about again. One man died of yellow fever; he has not heard of another case. He is happy to learn it has diminished with Blanc.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 4to. - {9}
1849 (Oct. 6)
Conway, Maria C.:
()
A receipt for 15 piastres from the Bishop's house at New Orleans for the hire of her negress, Clarissa, from September 6 to October 6.
V-5-l - A. Receipt S. - (French) - 1p. - 12mo. - {0}
1849 Oct. 6
Odin, Bishop J(ohn) M(ary):
New York, (New York)
On or after November 10, Odin promises to pay Father (Mark) Anthony, (C.M.) $400 for value received, in New Orleans at the residence of Father E. Rousselon. (Endorsements on the back): Anthony to F. Gillow; V. and E. Maignan, F. Guilbeau.
V-5-l - A. Note S. - 2pp. - 16mo. - {4}
1849 Oct. 6
(Odin), Bishop J(ohn) M(ary):
New York, (New York)
to Bishop A(nthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
He has just arrived from Philadelphia and Bishop (John) Hughes has just given him Blanc's letter of September 24. Monday he will take to Father (Annet) Lafont the 150 piastres Blanc wishes to give him so Blanc can write to ask for the things he needs. The death of Father (Anthony) Chanrion affected (Odin) deeply. Several days before he had learned of that of Father (James) Fitzgerald at Victoria. (Odin) received only one letter from (Jules) Garesché to which he hastened to reply telling him that the Oblates (of Mary Immaculate) who would accompany him were destined to work in the valley of the Rio Grande. They will have charge of Pointe Isabelle and all the little towns along the river. They will have at least 4000 Catholics to serve. (Odin) collected almost $1100 at Philadelphia. The Bishop allowed him to preach in the churches. The city was full of collectors. Here (Odin) has little hope. Hughes advised him to come only at this time and he is busy with a collection for his seminary. (Odin) must knock on doors; Hughes cannot permit him to make an appeal in the churches. When the Ursulines arrive here from Quebec, (Odin) will start for New Orleans and hopes to arrive November 6 or 8.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 4to. - {8}
1849 Oct. 6
(Odin), Bishop J(ohn) M(ary):
New York, (New York)
to Father (Stephen Rousselon:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
It is impossible for (Odin) to arrive in Texas in time to pay some pressing debts. He asks Rousselon to collect the letter of exchange he sends and to keep the amount to pay a draft he is sending to Jose Cassiano on Rousselon for 2927 piastres and 60 cents. The draft is for $1869.25, what he has already received, $1000 and what (Odin) is going to pay for Bishop Blanc to Father (Annet) Lafont, $150. (Odin) hopes to start toward New Orleans in two weeks.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 1p. - 12mo. - {3}
1849 Oct. 6
Odin, Bishop J(ohn) M(ary):
New York, (New York)
to Father E(tienne) Rousselon:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Three days after sight Rousselon is to pay Jose Cassiano $2927.60 which is to be charged to Odin's account. (Endorsements on the back include Cassiano's signature and endorsements of) D. Foutrel and Company and Trois Gros and Lampre.
V-5-l - A.D.S. - 2pp. - 16mo. - {5}
1849 Oct. 7
Jourdant, S.J., Father Ant(hony) J.:
(Grand Coteau, Louisiana)
to Bishop Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
They are sad about the reason for not seeing Blanc among them this year. He hopes the epidemic will stop and not add to last year's losses. Two of their Fathers (Jesuits) will go next week to Opelousas. To repay the pastor for their expenses they will relinquish all fees. He hopes Father (John F.) Raviol will find no inconvenience in this arrangement. Since vacation does not end until December 1, he hopes Raviol will return by then. Jourdant had intended to ask Blanc, when he came, about the land of the college and church. The land in front of the college, on the village side, is surrounded on all sides by owners from the other side. One has gone 12 feet into this land. Jourdant immediately made the necessary claims; they have been advised to enclose this land leaving, on the village side, a wide road for access to the church. But they hesitate because of the inconvenience of putting the church any further back from the public road. Blanc is to tell them what to do.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 8vo. - {5}
1849 Oct. 7
Kenrick, Peter Richard, Archbishop of:
St. Louis, (Missouri)
to J(ames) A(lphonsus) McMaster:
(New York, New York)
Kenrick states that he has asked Reverend James Duggan of St. Louis to communicate such church matters of this diocese, as the latter sees fit, to McMaster. Kenrick would regret any interferance with the success of the (Freeman's) Journal, which he regards as the best Catholic publication. He thinks the Journal should avoid controversy and self laudation, although McMaster has been imprudent in so doing. McMaster has given a very elevated tone to the Catholic Press which his contemporaries have taken up without due regard to him. McMaster in his difficulties with some of the Jesuits will have the sympathies of Kenrick as well as that of everyone who does not wish to see the press praise those (the Jesuits) who expect the shadow of a great name to cover the defects, and give importance to every success. It is regrettable that the desire for praise should be found in religious men, and that they should be so narrow in their views. He would be glad to see the religious orders such as their Sainted Founders intended them to be. The men of the system have, however, assumed a position in respect to both the Ordinaries and Secular clergy which is non-cooperative. As-long-as things are in this condition Kenrick believes that such disagreeable occurrances, as those to which McMaster alludes, will not fail to happen. He thinks that unless some radical change be made in the relation between the Bishops and the regular orders that great harm will fall upon them. Kenrick wishes McMaster success.
I-i-m - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 12mo. - {4}
1849 Oct. 8
Llebaria, C.M., Father J(ohn) Francis:
Ascension, (Louisiana)
to Father Etienne Rousselon:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
Father (J.M.) Masnou, (C.M.) has spread injurious rumors about Llebaria, not only in the seminary but also among those whose confessions he has heard for the last 10 years. He seems to have forbidden those at the seminary to set foot in his house although they often come to Donaldson; and this only since the July accounts. In accord with these Ladies (of the Sacred Heart), they claim that Llebaria was the author of certain articles in the papers. Llebaria swears he has been faithful to the advice Rousselon gave him to remain silent. He has heard that Masnou was trying to find some one to refute an article by one of the parishioners of Assumption in which he spoke of the labors and hardships Llebaria had endured at Assumption. One thing which consoles Llebaria is that some bishops have encouraged him and one has written three letters saying that his house is Llebaria's. Llebaria made the vows of obedience, chastity, etc. but he did not renounce his reputation. If Rousselon can do anything to make Masnou more charitable, Llebaria would be grateful all his life. He has all the documents to attack him for libel, if necessary. It is enough that Father (Joseph) Tichitoli, (C.M.) died a victim of like attempts. P.S. Masnou thinks he is the "fac totum" of the diocese; he thinks the Bishop does everything he wishes. Llebaria heard this from his own lips. One of the Ladies, Madame (Louise) Leveque, (R.S.C.J.) said, "In October, he is going to be pushed(?) out."
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - 4to. - {5}
1849 Oct. 8
Rominger, Father Simon:
Evansville, (Indiana)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
He should have waited for his belongings before leaving (New Orleans). He asks Rousselon to send them to George Whunders at the home of Jean Riedel, butcher at Evansville. Rousselon is to add 40 piastres. He counts on Rousselon for the trip from New York to Havre. Father (Roman) Weinzoepflen is rarely in town. Rominger wishes he were already in his home land to go to make a retreat and then to resume his priestly functions. Rominger forgot to ask the Bishop for his letter of ordination before leaving New Orleans. Rousselon is to ask him to send it. Rominger loves the Bishop who ordained him and Rousselon who always gave him good advice.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - 4to. - {4}
1849 Oct. 9
DeGoesbriand, Father (Louis):
Cleveland, Ohio
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
The superior of their seminary wishes to secure someone to conduct a retreat for the students about the middle of November. Could Purcell recommend someone suitable to the task? DeGoesbriand thought there might be someone in the convent at Somerset. DeGoesbriand writes from Canton. Father James Conlan is visiting in Cleveland and is replaced by Father James Monaghan. DeGoesbriand asks Purcell to have published in the Telegraph that the dispensation from the law of Abstinance on Friday granted during the time of cholera is recalled in the Diocese of Cleveland.
II-4-k - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 8vo. - {5}
(18)49 Oct. 9
Weinzoepflen, Father R(oman):
St. Wendelin's, I(ndian)a
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
He is sorry that (Blanc)'s confidential letter of (September) 28 did not arrive until yesterday. The person in question (Father Simon Rominger) has been at Evansville since the 3rd but has not brought nor sent the other letter (Blanc) gave him for Weinzoepflen. Weinzoepflen was at Evansville the 5th and 6th but could not learn his name nor was he in town. Reports about him did not tempt him to make inquiries. People asked about him, said they had seen him drunk. If Weinzoepflen had received Blanc's first letter, he would have tried to get him out of this bad situation. He could have commissioned his brother who saw him drinking. (Rominger) was already in such a state that he refused to take him into his carriage. Such conduct excuses the brusqueness with which Weinzoepflen treated him Sunday night, the 7th, when he came to St. Wendelin, with a man whom Weinzoepflen does not permit to enter his house. Weinzoepflen told (Rominger) to leave Evansville at once and find a refuge where he could do penance. He told (Rominger) he would have nothing to do with his belongings addressed to Weinzoepflen. Now that he has Blanc's letter, Weinzoepflen regrets that he sent him away so brusquely. But even to oblige Blanc he does not see how he could have taken up with this man without compromising himself. It is hard to see the change in a man whom he formerly knew as a good boy. How hard for his pious mother if she is still living and for a priest, a relative of Weinzoepflen, who is pastor of his place. As soon as Weinzoepflen received Blanc's letter, he wrote to Father (Anthony) Deydier to carry out Blanc's intentions as well as possible. But he doubts if Deydier can do it. He spoke of him with contempt when Weinzoepflen was in Evansville.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 12mo. - {3}
1849 Oct. 10
():
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
to (Bishop Anthony Blanc?:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
A receipted bill for $17.55 for cloth(?).
V-5-l - A. Bill - 1p. - 32mo. - {1}
1849 Oct. 10
Levèque, R.S.C., Madame Louisa:
Grand Coteau, (Louisiana)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc):
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
From what they heard from Father Jourdan, they hoped to receive a visit from (Blanc) at the distribution of prizes, but a second letter makes them give up this hope. This year their house at St. Louis lost 8 persons, that of St. Michael, 2 and perhaps 3 as she does not think Madame Corboy, (R.S.C.J.) is still alive. Mother Lion, (R.S.C.J.) is nearing the end and they have a novice who is very ill. Mother Superior has asked Levèque to tell (Blanc) that she has had to give up the foundation at New Iberia. Mrs. Darby was here yesterday to find out what they had decided. Mother told her that with all their losses they could not undertake a new foundation, but that if she wished she could get some other Sisters. Levèque believes she would like to have the Visitandines. Natchitoches needs help. Madames Doremus, Fréret, Gardiner and Wiseman should make their vows during vacation; will (Blanc) authorize some one to hold the examination.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - 4to. - {8}
1849 Oct. 10
Lynch, C.M.,Father John:
St. Mary's Seminary
(Barrens, Perry County, Missouri)
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
He acknowledges Purcell's letter presented by W. J. Donahue. Donahue promises very well; he knows Latin and Greek but is deficient in English, History, Natural Philosophy. Lynch has not as yet seen the Archbishop of St. Louis but intends to visit him soon.
P.S. He thanks Purcell for his kind attention to him on his recent visit to Cincinnati.
II-4-k - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 8vo. - {2}
1849 Oct. 10
Ménard, Father Ch(arle)s M.:
Lafourche Interieure, (Louisiana)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
According to the instructions in (Blanc)'s letter of September 25 concerning the building of St. Mary's Church, Ménard has begun the work. He gave the letter of approbation to the trustees. Then he called a meeting of the people to let them know the means to take. They arranged for the subscription to run from March 1850 to March 1851. Ménard hopes to get $1500 or $1800, enough to build a church for their needs. He will not give the contract before spring. The church at Longueville, 21 miles above Thibodaux, will be ready for services the first part of January. It is almost the same size as that of St. Philomene. Longueville, or Lockport, as the Americans call it, is on Bayou Lafourche where the Barataria or great Attakapas canal comes and so opposite another canal into Lake Fields. Lockport is destined to become one of the most important places on the Bayou. Ménard has not asked (Blanc) to come for Confirmation because of sickness which has reigned almost continually and because of the bad roads. He has heard nothing recently of Father Barthe. Father Tumoine is well and sends respects.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {3}
(18)49 Oct. 10
Parret, S.J., Father A(nthony):
Grand Coteau, (Louisiana)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
New Orleans, L(ouisia)na
Saturday some one came for the publication of banns; the parties are related in the second degree. What should Parret do in a case where persons say it is immpossible to give the fixed fee? Up to now he has taken what they offered. The names of the couple are Honoré Bernard and Marguerite Anastasie Bernard.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 16mo. - {3}
1849 Oct. 10
Pise, Father Charles Constantine:
New York, N.Y.
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
Bishop (John) Hughes has put off Pise's exeat to Cincinnati. Pise had been associated with the late Father (John) Power and was left the only assignee after Power's death. One Sunday afternoon at Vespers Bishop Hughes addressed Pise's congregation and reproached Father Power and himself on their conduct of the parish. The Bishop ordered Pise to discharge his brother-in-law who had been acting as book-keeper having been appointed by Father Power. The Bishop consulted their lawyer; but the lawyer convinced him that his apprehension and suspicions were all utterly groundless, and that Pise and Power had in the most satisfactory manner discharged their duty to their creditors. The Bishop then leased the church taking all future responsibilities from Pise. The Bishop came before the Congregation and took back what he had said against Pise but proposed a plan which among other things called for the priests of that church to give their services gratuituously. All this has saddened Pise. He had conducted the affairs along the same line as Power; much mischief could not have been done in the few months since his death. The congregation finds no fault with him. Pise believes the Dominican, Father (Thomas) Martin, had something to do with it.
P.S. Pise finds that he cannot with any satisfaction to himself continue in St. Peter's church. He has not yet determined whether to build a new church with the Bishop's approval or to go to Albany at the invitation of Bishop McCloskey.
II-4-k - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 8vo. - {5}
1849 Oct. 10
(Portier), Bishop Michael:
Mobile, (Alabama)
to Father Et(ienne) Rousselon:
N(ew) Orleans, (Louisiana)
(Portier) has only time to ask Rousselon to accept this draft and keep it until it is exchanged. (Rousselon notes on the same paper): Settled with Portier November 14, 1849.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {1}
1849 Oct. 10
Rominger, Father S(imon):
Evansville, (Indiana)
to Bishop Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Rominger on October 8 wrote a letter in which he told of his sad position. As soon as Blanc sends what is necessary, he will leave for New York to embark for his home, to see his old father. He does not have his papers with him, especially his ordination papers. He impatiently awaits his belongings as well. His address is in care of (George) Whunders at Johan Riedel's boarding house. Riedel is one of Rominger's old acquaintances. He must return to his country; he will make a retreat at a monastery there. Father Rousselon will tell Blanc what he needs for expenses. To cross the ocean he will need 145 piastres. He also needs 40 piastres to get out of here. Blanc can examine the list of burials and baptisms which Father (John F.) Raviol owes Rominger. Blanc is to send his belongings; he does not know whether there is still money in one trunk. He cannot return to New Orleans. He is not at Father (Roman) Weinzoepflen's nor at the French priest's. Neither one has the generosity of character which Blanc has nor the kindness of Rousselon.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - 4to. - {5}
1849 Oct. 11
Carriere, S.S., Father (Joseph):
Paris, France
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
The youths Albrecht and Bender whom Purcell announced arrived this morning as Carriere returned. They are well and seem well disposed, and have gone to Issy for philosophy. Purcell needs the means for these five youths. At half price they cost yearly 2000 fr. without considering the cost of repairs, etc. M. Boiteaux has given him 147 fr. for Father (Louis) DeGoesbriand which he hopes Purcell will pass on despite the fact that DeGoesbriand is no longer in the diocese. M. Choiselat has nothing for Purcell because the Central Council thinks that the diocese of Cincinnati has resources sufficient to take care of its own needs, considering the dimunition of the receipts of the Association of the Propagation. Carriere gives an account of the money he has for Purcell. He has received including the 300 fr. for Father (John) Lamy, and the above mentioned sum for Father DeGoesbriand, 4342.75 fr. He has spent 4242.75 fr, leaving 100 fr. He owes besides this 600 fr. to M.Lerous, 500 fr. to MM. Guame and 550 fr. to S. Esprit for the balance on the passage of the two travelers. (Purcell writes in here that Carriere has received 2000 fr. from Bishop (Louis Amadeus) Rappe, as the inclosed receipt indicates. The receipt dates Oct. 23, 1849 is signed by Carriere.) Carriere suggests that Purcell can arrange with some neighboring bishops who still share in the funds of the Association. He wishes that all the malefactors would go to America at least that Europe would be delivered. But enough have remained to upset all Europe. He hopes that God will grant them peace. He thanks Purcell for his news about Bishop Benedict Joseph Flaget and about Father (Theodore Stephen Badin) whom he thought dead. He is pleased that the cholera served to distinguish the Catholic from the Protestant clergyman. A youth has just arrived with them from Buffalo and they have three from Boston.
II-4-k - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 8vo. - (French) - {10}
(18)49 Oct. 11
Martin, Father Aug(uste):
Baton Rouge, (Louisiana)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
N(ew) Orleans, (Louisiana)
Martin asks Rousselon to pay Mr. Lav(e)au, the wine merchant, $25 which he owes for wine sent to Terrehaute. He sends with Father (John F.) Cambiaso, (S.J.) $7.50 which added to the $17.50 Rousselon has, makes the $25. He hopes Father (Charles) Chambost is well now and acclimated;. Martin will see Rousselon soon; the retreat is coming up fast.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {4}
1849 Oct. 11
Praz, R.S.C.J., Madame A.:
St. Michael, (Louisiana)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
In her last letter, Praz expressed their desire to have (Blanc) preside at their distribution of prizes to be held November 6. She hopes nothing will prevent. Madame Corboy, (R.S.C.J.) is considerably weaker. All the children are in perfect health. Miss Lacoste has recovered; she has been at her home for a month. The latest news from St. Louis was very good. Mother (J.) Gallwey, (R.S.C.J.) writes that she has received several postulants. The young lady (Blanc) recommended has not yet appeared. Praz has asked Mr. Callot to get them one or two altar stones for the altars of their church and that of the Children of Mary.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {5}
1849 Oct. 12
(Chanche), Bishop John Joseph:
Natchez, (Mississippi)
to Bishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
(Chanche) thanks Blanc for his kindness in relation to the barometer. Captain Thomasson would take good care of it, if Blanc would give it to him. (Chanche) goes with Father (Blaise) Raho, (C.M.) this evening to Vicksburg for the blessing of the new church next Sunday. He leaves Father Pitrat here with a young Frenchman sent a short time ago by Father Gautrelet. Except for preaching, Pitrat can attend to the rest of the business very well. His progress in English is quite remarkable. If Blanc leaves him here another month, he will be sufficiently advanced to be employed in an English mission. Then Blanc will have to "pony(?) out" his $3000. Bishop (Michael) Portier must be home by this time. (Chanche) is sorry he did not bring with him the decrees of the Council. Charles Louis Napoleon Bonaparte must be a real fool if he is the author of the letter imputed to him. The remarks of the editor of the Ami de la Religion are just and pertinent. (Chanche) has seen no particulars of the meeting of the Bishops in Paris except that the council was to meet in Issy. (Chanche) will return immediately from Vicksburg.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 8vo. - {7}
1849 Oct. 12
Cretin, Father J(osep)h:
Dubuque, (Iowa)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc):
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Three weeks ago Cretin wrote to inform (Blanc) that Mr. Marechal, who was to call on (Blanc) to get a letter containing $30, had died some distance from here. He went by way of the Lakes, instead of taking the road to New Orleans. (Blanc) can send back the letter to Cretin. The brother who is here is a drunkard and would have soon spent this little sum. No more news of Bishop (Mathias) Loras except that he sailed (September) 22 on the Europa. Cretin is expecting a box from France by way of New Orleans. He wrote Father Rousselon about it.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 8vo. - {3}
1849 Oct. 12
(Kenrick), Archbishop Peter Richard:
St. Louis, (Missouri)
to Bishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
The visit of Bishop (Edward) Barron, his valued friend, affords (Kenrick) the opportunity of presenting his regards.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - 1p. - 4to. - {2}
1849 Oct. 12
Pierz, Father Francois:
Arbre Croche, Michigan
to Bishop (Peter Paul) Lefevere:
of Detroit, Michigan
Pierz sends Lefevere a report concerning the mission since his return from Detroit. At Mackinac he found the savages waiting on the shore of the lake for more than 2 weeks exposed to the cholera of which Mrs. Fontaine and several white people died. The savages went to the agent every day to get their payment and the agent consoled them with a: tomorrow you will be paid. But he could not make the list of the savages for the distribution of the money since the savages were not all here at Mackinac for fear of cholera. The agent received the Indian name of Endassowabang-always tomorrow. But when the cholera took 2 savages he paid them all at once, and the savages left the same day for their home. The result is, however, deplorable, since the savages brought the disease with them to their home. Pierz had to work day and night to take care of the sick and to hear their confessions. There were 9 dead in the village of Grand Traverse. Providence preserved Pierz's savages, and Pierz bought some very good drugs in Detroit against the cholera. It is remarkable that all the dead were great drunkards and the ones who were temperate were never sick. This had a tremendous influence on the savages. This epidemic was good for religion and the safeguard of Pierz's mission. All the Catholics went to confession and did penance. After taking care of the sick in Arbre Croche Pierz left for Agagotchiwing, Kachagens Odibaning, Chamebobing, Grand Traverse, etc. to pay a visit to the savages. He won over many pagans and baptized several protestants. Yesterday Pierz was back at Arbre Croche with a big cold. He went through a lot of hardship, several times he felt the symptoms of the cholera, but he prevented it with the help of his drugs. Pierz has some difficulties in getting help for his boats, and during his trip to the savages he has to feed and pay 3 men at $1 a day for each man. Consequently Pierz asks Lefevere to send him a check on the Michigan Bank for the 4th. quarter of his salary. He asks Lefevere to send several books for the savages and among them several beginners readers. Pierz will start building a new church next spring at Kachagen Ondibaning, and another one on the extreme side of the Bay at Grand Traverse. The savages through Pierz ask Lefevere to be kind enough to send them some help for that purpose and bells. Lefevere has told the Indians at Cheboygan that they must give him the deed to their church. Pierz asks Lefevere information concerning the form of this dead for the new churches. It will also also for other churches. The Savages did not have a good crop this summer because the summer was dry and the fall wet. He has a German who is a good cook working for him now.
III-2-h - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 8vo. - {1}
1849 Oct. 13
Glajeux, Berard des:
Paris, (France)
to Bishop Peter P(aul) Lefevere,:
Detroit, Michigan
The desire of the Councils to make the alms of the members of the Association for the Propagation of the Faith available to the missions as soon as possible and the necessity of knowing the sum total of their resources before fixing the definite amount of the allocation, which will not be known until April 1850, has led them to decree that Payments will be made in proportion to the receipts already in the treasury. Therefore the treasurer at Paris is authorized to send Lefevere 3,200 francs. They hope that the state of their receipts will permit them to follow this with another remittance. This letter is signed by Glajeux as President and also by Choiselat Gallien, Treasurer.
III-2-h - L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 8vo. - {2}
1849 Oct. 15
(Fleix y Solans), Bishop Fr(ancis)co:
Havana, (Cuba)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc):
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
(Fleix y Solans) replies to (Blanc)'s two letters of September 5 and 21 in regard to the marriage of his diocesans who are falsifying their residence. He is glad to see (Blanc)'s firm stand. In (Blanc)'s first letter he presented the case of Tomas Aranda and Dolores de la Guerra and in the second, that of Juan Martin Hidalgo and Soledad Ferreras. (Blanc) knows that the Spanish bishops do not have faculties for first grade relationship and affinity. Recourse to Rome has never been easier as he corresponds every month with the governor and with the papal nuncio at Madrid. His diocesans must apply for a dispensation in good faith. So he cannot grant the dispensation. His conscience would not be easy if he cooperated in such marriages. He encloses (no enclosure) a copy of the Rogation Circular.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (Spanish) - 3pp. - 4to. - {5}
1849 Oct. 15
Praz, (R.S.C.J.), Madame A.:
St. Michael, (Louisiana)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
She does not know whether she will be more fortunate this year in inviting Rousselon to attend their distribution of prizes which will take place November 6. She recommends to his prayers, one of the Sisters, Madame Corboy, (R.S.C.J.) who asks for them.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {2}
1849 Oct. 16
Clancy(?), C.:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
A receipted bill for $7.70 for dishes for the Bishop's house.
V-5-l - A. Bill S. - (French) - 1p. - 12mo. - {0}
1849 Oct. 16
Figari, C.M., Father H(ector):
Cloutierville, (Louisiana)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
N(ew) Orleans, L(ouisian)a
He asks Rousselon to send by the bearer, Victor Rachal, 2 or 3 dozen catechisms. He also asks him to try to send some Mass intentions to pay as he has no money. This will be a great service and a charity toward these poor people who have such a need for instruction.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {2}
1849 Oct. 16
F(itzpatrick), Bishop J(ohn) B(ernard):
Boston, (Massachusetts)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
He has just received (Blanc)'s letter of the 6th. He does not believe he should advise (Blanc) to offer a place to Mr. H. If (Blanc) asks he could get the letter from him which F(itzpatrick) gave him when he left Boston; it explains everything. He has a good education and other admirable qualities but he drinks to excess from time to time. F(itzpatrick) did all he could to correct this; it is not habitual. He might go for a year and then the attack strikes and there has been scandal. He does not know H.'s history since he left. As a preacher he talked at random; for the rest of the ministry, he did very well.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {1}
1849 Oct. 16
McElroy, S.J., Father John:
St. Mary's, (Boston, Massachusetts)
to (Bishop John Baptist Purcell):
Cincinnati, Ohio
In his last letter McElroy forgot to acknowledge Purcell's invitation. An unexpected but pleasant trip with Bishop (John Fitzpartick) to Montreal and Quebec will prevent him from visiting Cincinnati. They were absent 11 days. It was his first visit to Canada and the first for the bishop to Quebec. They were well received by the Archbishop (Pierre F. Turgeon) and his coadjutor Archbishop (Charles F. Baillargeon). McElroy was much edified by the clergy, churches and religious establishments. The Sulpicians received them hospitably. He was much edified to see the 17 of them at table. At Montreal they likewise visited as many institutions as time permitted. On his return he has received a letter from the superior of the Sisters of Notre Dame which he answered the same day. He will meet the sisters in New York. He hopes that their arrival in New England will be a blessing for religion as they have a large field for the exercise of their charity. He sends his respects to the Cincinnati clergy. The people of Providence are anxiously awaiting to hear of their future bishop. The prelates of the (Provincial) Council (of 1849) seem to have preserved silence concerning the choice for vacant Sees.
II-4-k - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 8vo. - {6}
1849 Oct. 16
White, Father Charles I.:
Baltimore, (Maryland)
to (Bishop (Anthony) Blanc:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
White received Blanc's directions about some changes in the account of his diocese. He would like to know the number of Catholics in the diocese. The other Bishops have done so.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 12mo. - {1}
1849 Oct. 17
Boué, Father:
Lyons, (France)
to Bishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Boué received several letters from Blanc to which it was impossible to reply sooner. It seemed best to wait for the reply of Father Jouve, canon of Valence, to whom Boué had made known Blanc's double proposition to accept an assistantship at the Cathedral or to go to Blanc at his disposition. As Bishop (Michael) Portier, still in Italy, is soon to return to Lyons, Boué has invited Jouve to talk with the Bishop and learn more details. Jouve came to spend several days at Ainay. He saw the Bishop of Mobile twice and was delighted with him. The Bishop told Boué that he was satisfied with Jouve and that he could be very useful to Blanc. Jouve asked for several weeks for reflection. At the time of Blanc's last letter he had irrevocably decided to give up his canonship and go to New Orleans. Important business will prevent his immediate departure. He is detained by the publication of a work on canon law. He plans to leave right after Easter. If Boué can get some seminarians he will put off their departure until then. Boué told the Superior of the seminary about Blanc's needs. He said Blanc's presence among them would do a hundred times more than his exhortations. When Blanc's last letter arrived, Portier had probably arrived in Mobile. As he has received a commission in Canada from Rome he barely stopped at Lyons; he spent only a few days at Montbrison. The letter for him was destroyed without being opened. Boué thought seriously of going with Portier to join Blanc. He could not decide. If Blanc comes to France next year, Boué may follow him. Boué is making some repairs to the church at Ainay. Blanc will have learned from Mr. Poidebord that he has received the sum Blanc asked Boué to give him for the interest. He insists on retiring his capital less the amount of a pension. Boué presumes Blanc will be paying it a long time; though old he is very well. Blanc's nephew Victor is to be a professor at Montbrison. He believes Blanc's godson will enter there also. If Blanc can do something for his excellent brother Pierre to help in his education of this youngest son, it will be well placed. They are coming out of a retreat preached by Father Combalat who had an audience of 500 priests. They will soon have a provincial council. The affairs of Rome have become complicated at Paris. Meanwhile the Pontiff is still at Naples. All Blanc's family are well. Boué was in Sury this autumn.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - 4to. - {4}
1849 Oct. 17
Maller, (C.M.), Father M(ariano):
Baltimore, (Maryland)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Although he wrote only a few days ago he finds it necessary to do so again. He has learned that Father (Joseph) Guistiniani, (C.M.), when he went through here to go from Philadelphia to Donaldson, had shown symptons of an alienation of spirit. Maller fears the same thing happened to him at Donaldson and so he innocently gave scandal. Maller has written to him and if he hears another report on the same subject, he will be obliged to withdraw him. But who will take his place? That is why Maller asks (Blanc) to permit them to leave Natchitoches as soon as possible. For the same reason they cannot serve St. Therese Church which (Blanc) offered them. Maller's desire to do the best for the Sisters of Charity will entail great sacrifices and he hopes for a favorable occasion to put this plan into execution. Maller does not know who is the confessor for the Sisters at Donaldson. He would not like it to be Father (John Francis) Llebaria, (C.M.) nor Giustiniani. Father Masnou is the only one in whom he has confidence.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {4}
1849 Oct. 17
Bourret, Father A.:
College of St. Anne,
Canada
to (Orestes A.) Brownson:
(Boston, Massachusetts)
He is becoming annoyed at not receiving Brownson's interesting "Review". It is true that he did not pay his subscription for the present year at the right time; but he paid it several months ago to Mr. Farant of Quebec, in the hope that he might he able still to have all the numbers of this year, but he hasn't received any; he wrote to Mr. Farant who was so interested in Brownson's work, but he has had no reply. He dares to believe that Brownson may yet have a copy of all the numbers of this year, and that he would send him one. He hopes that the College of St. Anne will soon subscribe to the "Review". He would be happy to be able to second the efforts of Brownson in the good cause; but even when there would be no religious motive, the pleasure alone of reading a good piece of work would keep him among the most faithful subscribers.
I-3-i - A.L.S. - 2pp.(French) - - 12mo. - {1}
1849 Oct. 18
Adams, S.J., Joseph R.:
St. Joseph's College
Mobile, Alabama
to O(restes) A. Brownson:
Boston, Massachusetts
He sends Brownson a small pamphlet containing discourses of students at the college, members of the Philomathic Society. They are beneath criticism, but have been published for several reasons: 1. That publication might stimulate and awaken a more lively interest in them for the study of the history of the Middle Ages. 2. That whatever good and praiseworthy those singular times presented was due to the agency of the Church. This idea is prevalent in all the discourses although diluted to some extent in those of the two Protestants, Shaw and Thompson. 3. That publication of their discourses will do much to correct prejudices and diffuse correct opinions about the Middle Ages. The discourses of Thompson and Bermudez on Socialism will do more to discredit Socialism in the sphere of parents, kindred and friends than the ablest articles of our Catholic Journals. He asks whether or not he has not set an example for the literary societies of the Catholic colleges to follow. One great reason why so many stupid misrepresentations of everything Catholic is allowed to circulate freely through the periodical press is because Catholic young men think it an effort of genius to write a newspaper article in defense of their faith and church. He requests that Brownson give them an article in the "Review" on the course of civilization from the 16th century to the present. The young Philomaths are not altogether unacquainted with the "Review", and he would be gratified if Brownson would be their pioneer through this tangled portion of history.
I-3-i - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 8vo. - {2}
1849 Oct. 18
Purcell, Father William:
Camolin, Ireland
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
William Purcell received no answer to his two letters regarding the Widow Archbold. He attributes the fact to the negligence of the mails. The Widow still looks forward to a remittance that will deliver her from poverty. Ireland looks like one in the throes of its dissolution; every Post brings word of fresh horrors. Many of the clergy of Leinster are leaving for America. Father William Purcell asks Bishop Purcell what he thinks of such a step. William Purcell regrets to hear of the cholera in Cincinnati.
II-4-k - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 8vo. - {2}
1849 Oct. 19
Mazzuchelli, Father M. F(rancis):
Alexandria, (Louisiana)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
New Orleans, Louisiana
The supposed removal of Father (John Peter) Bellier has created a great sensation among the majority of the people and a great discontent. Some said if Bellier is removed they do not want to have anything to do any more with the Church. Though Mazzuchelli likes this place very much he would not want Bellier to leave. Prudence suggested saying nothing without consulting some experienced clergyman. This he found in the pastor of Natchitoches who advised him to write to the Bishop or to Rousselon. Rousselon is to advise him on what steps to take.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 4to. - {2}
1849 Oct. 19
Chandy, (C.M.), Father (John):
Cape Girardeau, (Missouri)
to Father E(tienne) Rousselon:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
He received a letter from Mrs. Gonzales informing him that she had given Rousselon $100 for Chandy. He has given John Lyons an order; will Rousselon give Lyons this sum. He has written several times but received no reply.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {3}
1849 Oct. 20
Shannon, (R.S.C.J.), Madame A.:
Grand Coteau, (Louisiana)
to Bishop A(nthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Madame (Maria) Cutts, (R.S.C.J.) desires her to inform Blanc of the death of Madame Lion (R.S.C.J.) on the 18th. They were sorry that the distribution of prizes was not honored with Blanc's presence. They had 96 pupils and will probably have more next year.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 4to. - {3}
(18)49 Oct. 21
Emily, (S.C.), Sister:
Baton Rouge, (Louisiana)
to Bishop A(nthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
They have been waiting so long expecting to see Blanc daily in Baton Rouge. Father (Auguste) Martin went to New Orleans not long since and told them to go to confession to the priest he left in his place. In the mean time Sister Serene, (S.C.) arrived and said that the council had passed that they could go to no priest but the one appointed except with special permission from the Bishop. Sister asks for this permission. The school is getting pretty good. Poor Sister M. Ambrose, (S.C.) will not last very long; she still gives her lessons. They have seven music scholars. Ambrose keeps the drawing since Sister Clotilda, (S.C.) left. They could do with four Sisters if Ambrose was not so delicate. It is going on two years since Blanc has been here.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 4to. - {5}
1849 Oct. 21
Mégret, Father A(nthony) D(esiré):
Vermilionville, (Louisiana)
to Bishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Mégret received Blanc's letter of the 11th yesterday. He will reply in just a few words as they will soon see each other. He has looked everywhere with Lucien for the letter in question but in vain. He remembers tearing it up and burning it after taking out the excerpts to send to Blanc. (Louis) Lucien Arceneaux affirmed that he knew the writing of Father (John Francis) L(lebaria, C.M.) and only he could write like that. If Blanc wants to avoid new trouble with L(lebaria) he ought to let the Superiors of the order act in his displacement at Donal(d)son. Arceneaux and Mégret thank Blanc for his permission. Mégret will do all he can to furnish the necessary means for his board and room and trip to Baltimore. Mégret will keep him during the retreat so that on his return Arceneaux can leave in the first days of December. He is writing now to his superiors.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 4to. - {3}
1849 Oct. 22
(Blin, R.U.), Sister de St. Arsène:
Galveston, (Texas)
to Bishop A(nthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
This is the second letter Sister has sent to Father Rousselon to be given to Bishop (John Mary) Odin on his arrival in New Orleans. If Rousselon is absent, Blanc is to have some one do so; Odin should know their contents.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 12mo. - {2}
1849 Oct. 22
Brownson, O(restes) A.:
Boston, (Massachusetts)
to Father J(eremiah) W. Cummings:
New York, (New York)
He has been waiting impatiently for the last three weeks for the promised article. He wants it very much, and wishes Cummings to send it as soon as possible. He has an article from Miles and one from Philadelphia which he will publish in the next number. He, himself, has done an article on Metaphysics in the spirit of Cummings' favorite, Gioberti. He knows not how much he is indebted to him, nor if he agrees with him throughout. He was recalled to his metaphysical studies last Spring by learning the philosophy taught by Father (Felix) Sopranis at Worcester (Holy Cross) College. It struck him as unsound, and his son told him that in spite of himself it was leading him to pantheism. He was able to save himself only by making an act of faith. He has become convinced a man may be an orthodox theologian and an heterodox philosopher, after seeing this Catholic professor virtually adopting Cartesianism. Gioberti confirms the suspicion. He also believes that modern Democracy is merely Gallicanism transferred from the Church to the state. The heresies are merely developments of principles emitted by orthodox doctors. He tells him not to get discouraged.
I-3-i - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 8vo. - {3}
1849 Oct. 22
Brownson, O(restes) A.:
(Boston, Massachusetts)
to James Fullerton:
Philadelphia, (Pennsylvania)
He will be pleased to lecture before the Library Association as soon as possible after Epiphany. If it is a charitable association his charges will be only his expenses to Philadelphia and home, but if not a charitable institution, as much more than his expenses as they please, since it is not his custom to name any sum. He will be obliged to Fullerton for getting him another lecture, but asks if it would not be best to have it before the one before St. Michael's. He intends to spend the whole month of January after the twelfth in lecturing and would like to begin in Philadelphia. He asks that his kind and grateful remembrances be given to Bishop Kenrick.
I-3-i - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 12mo. (ms. damaged) -
1849 Oct. 22
Dubuis, Father (Claude Mary):
Castroville, (Texas)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Dubuis writes in behalf of their families to ask information about Marie Reitzer, age 8, left with Jacques Manigold who died at New Orleans. This orphan, daughter of Ambroise Reitzer and Marguerite Manigold was placed in an asylum after the death of her uncle. (Charles) Matton is not made for the rough life; this makes Dubuis sad. He contributed a great deal to their civilization, calmed the Germans, fished, hunted squirrels and pigeons. Dubuis has charged him with respects and compliments, especially to Rousselon. Matton can give all the news of their German missions if Rousselon is interested. He also wishes to be remembered to Bishop Blanc.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 12mo. - {6}
(18)49 Oct. 22
Fox, Father Edw(ard):
Myrtleville, V(irgini)a
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Patrick Boles, Lynchburg, handed Fox an exeat of a young man lately arrived from Ireland who is anxious to be received by some bishop. His exeat speaks well of him. He has finished his Latin and Greek, is praised by Boles, his brother-in-law. Boles says he will pay his travelling expenses, if invited.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - 1p. - 4to. - {2}
1849 Oct. 23
Pitrat, Father:
Natchez, (Mississippi)
to Father (Stephen Rousselon:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
In the beginning the study of the English language was very disagreeable chiefly because he felt the trouble he gave to Bishop (John Joseph) Chanche and Father (Blaise) Raho, (C.M.). The fifth day after his arrival he recited the prayers in the church and gave a short advice, but badly. The Bishop presented him to many persons and he was obliged to speak English. Since his letter to Bishop Blanc his tongue is a little untied and his ears more familiarized. Chanche says he will be able to preach in two months and to administer the sacraments. Pitrat will be pleased then because he can return to New Orleans. He desires to see Blanc, Rousselon, and Father Percher and to work for souls.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 4to. - {3}
(18)49 Oct. 23
Roule, L.:
Avoyelles, (Louisiana)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc):
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
(Blanc) is to pardon him for asking again about the house. The first part of September he sent a letter to a man with the necessary money to be given to (Blanc) who wished to be paid January 1. On his return this man told him that (Blanc) had refused the 200 piastres saying that it should be 300. The house was sold for 400 and (Blanc) wrote that he had received 200. He had on hand 2 notes for 150 piastres. Each month, no doubt, (Blanc) forgot to cancel one of these or to send a payment of 100 piastres to the pastor. If (Blanc) wishes to give Roule the interest, the man who will bring this letter is commissioned to give (Blanc) the 200 piastres due. Roule will bring the money himself if (Blanc) will let him know when he will send a priest so that Roule can prepare for him.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 4to. - {1}
1849 Oct. 24
Rappe, (Louis) A(madeus), Bp. Cleveland:
Paris, France
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
He is in Paris and has witnessed the chambre interesting debates upon the Roman matters. Victor Hugo made a speech in the manner of Voltaire and was answered by Rosiere and Montalembert in a manner worthy of the fathers of the church. Rappe has seen Purcell's students and they are well. He has paid 160 fr. for the student in Urban college and 2000 fr. for those at St. Sulpice. The Association of the Propagation has allowed him a very weak allowance but they tell him that the portions have been made and the members are in the country. Ohio is considered as rich as California. He goes tomorrow to Brittany where he desire to great the family of Father (Louis) DeGoesbriand. He will go to Rome during the winter. He hopes to find the Pope there. Nothing has happened as yet about the Council of Baltimore.
P.S. Conformably to Purcell's orders Rappe has instructed M. Parkes of Cleveland to draw on Purcell for $2260. As he believes the funds are low at Cleveland.
II-4-k - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 8vo. - (French) - {7}
1849 Oct. 25
Allen, J(oseph) H.:
Washington, (D.C.)
to O(restes) A. Brownson:
(Boston, Massachusetts)
It is always a gratification to see a decided and consistent statement and he is obligated to learn the real significance of Catholicity and Protestantism from Brownson's point of view in Brownson's article "Protestantism In A Nutshell". He thinks it is just and correct to maintain that that which divides the Catholic and non-Catholic worlds in one of Principle rather than opinion, of character rather than absolute position. He is willing to take issue with this and comments that this ground makes his case in his book upon which Brownson commented more hopeful. He does not think Brownson is quite consistent in saying that none other than a normal process or one of supernatural conversion can effect the change from one position to the other. Brownson throws him-self upon the moral appeal but asserts that to admit any fundamental beliefs will guide the mind logically into Catholicism. He cannot admit that there can be no positive belief except on Catholic principles. Every man who would not have his life a wreck and a waste after a critical-skeptic tendency must accept something for authoritative truth, although no other man may dictate what it shall be. There must be a primary assumption somewhere and in a logical point of view he cannot see the difference in principle between the assumptions of the Scotch Philosophers and the Catholic. The difficulty with an honest Protestant is not with the fact of making these primary assumptions, but with the character of those offered by the Church. There can be no intelligent discussion of its claim except on this postulate which mist be accepted by both sides: that the natural condition of mankind is one of emnity to God, and that the natural doom of man is God's unending curse, from which we can be saved only on certain strict and defined conditions of salvation. His understanding is that Brownson urges as the fundamental positions of the Catholic Church, and as the basis, too, for any other system of doctrine or philosophy to be: there can be no salvation for one who understandingly denies the claims of the Roman Catholic Church; that the head of that Church is to be an authoritative and infallible teacher of truth and duty. He makes infallible as doubtful because some have claimed that there is no authorized and official claim to infallibility. Whatever process of reasoning, moral or intellectual, induces a man to accept these propositions, they are precisely as illogical as the primary assumptions of any school of philosophy. He has no more logical reason to accept them than to assume that the indwelling spirit of God in the human race. If they do not accord with his general habits of thought, and do not seem satisfactory to him, he cannot see how he varies in logical consistency in rejecting them. He wants to assume a point of departure, which will necessarily be the resultant of the sum total of his intellectual experience, modified by his sense of moral and religious need. And, setting aside any influence from a superior spirit, he has a position equally as legitimate as if found in an institution claiming to teach objective truth by divine authority. As a bare point of ligic, and position is as good as the other and barring special revelations to the individual, the Protestant philosophical basis of religious belief is precisely as legitimate and sound as that offered by the Church of Rome, only wanting in cogency of motive and a certain sense of tangibility. The reason which makes him prefer the Protestant to the Catholic class of assumptions if the naturally lost and hopeless condition of the human race. If Brownson should see in his position a want of moral perception of human sin, he would have Brownson bear in mind the qualifications he has made in that regard: he speaks not of men's actual or apparant guilt, but of their theological or constructive guilt; his purpose is to be positive rather than negative or merely critical, and in so doing he wishes to take some point of departure least encompassed with doubt, free from fatal objection, and most congenial to the present character and condition of his mind. It is fair as a point of rational inquiry and a point that must be met before the way if fairly open for argument, and one which he believes keeps him from a candid listening to arguments proceeding from the Catholic side, to suggest the antecedent improbability of the final perdition of the vast majority of mankind, irrespective of moral desert, or of the condemnation of conscientious and devout Protestants, who refuse to admit the claim of the Roman Church.
I-3-i - A.L.S. - 6pp. - 8vo. - {1}
1849 Oct. 25
Blanc, Anthony, Bishop of New Orleans:
New Orleans, Louisiana
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
The Bishop of Mobile (Michael Portier) has finally returned to his flock in good spirits. Bishop (Edward) Barron has been with them since last Saturday and is apparently in good health. Bishop (John) Odin of Galveston is on his way to New Orleans with four Oblates from Canada and two Ursuline nuns. Blanc asks Purcell to inform him what he knows of Father (Richard B.) Hardey who after leaving Boston with an exeat spent some time in Purcell's jurisdiction. Hardey is in New Orleans for the benefit of his health. Blanc gave him permission to say Mass. Some of the people are anxious for Blanc to do more for Hardey. Blanc is in real want of a good priest for a place in the city but is slow to yield to petitions in such cases. The Lazarists (Vincentians) are going to take four or five of their priests from his Diocese. It appears that the Sisters of St. Joseph of Emmitsburg are going to be affiliated with those of France.
P.S. will Purcell tell the superior of the Ursulines that Father (Stephen) Rousselon has $75 for them from the Duplifis family for the board and tuition of Miss. Elizabeth Snelling?
II-4-k - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 8vo. - {12}
1849(?) Oct. 25
Blanc, Augustine:
St. Etienne, (France)
to Bishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Her father is so busy it deprives him of a chat with Blanc. He had promised to send a few lines with Bishop (John Mary) Odin but her father is at Sury for a week for the wine harvest. Her mother and Félice are there also. Augustine wishes every day she could be with Blanc to offer her affection. It is nine years since they have seen Blanc. She was a child then. Since then she spent happy years at boarding school and it was hard to leave there. How ever she gladly returned to her family and has been busy with her sister Jenny who was behind in her education because of poor health. She is now big and strong. It is Augustine who is frail. The least thing weakens her. This paralyses all her intentions. She cannot leave her family and she would have liked to teach. Perhaps some day her uncle would call her to his warm climate. She is sure Blanc is laughing at this dream.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - 12mo. - {2}
1849 Oct. 25
Delacroix, Father C(yrus):
New Orleans, Louisiana
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
Madame Snowden has followed Purcell's advice in the letter sent to Delacroix, and will send her daughter to the Ursulines at Fayetteville, O. Delacroix asks Purcell to write to her giving her the directions his wisdom will dictate and also to write to the Sisters telling them of Mrs. Snowden. He asks Purcell to ask Father (Michael A. Byrne at Fulton if he had received the $20 which had been sent to him by a poor Irish immigrant, and which he had returned by Father (W.) Mearns. Apparently the man did not receive the money because he wrote to Father Mullon on the subject in September. Blanc, Rousselon and Mullon have charged him to convey their good wishes.
II-4-k - A.L.S. - 1p. - 8vo. - (French) - {5}
1849 Oct. 25
Mazzuchelli, Father M. F(rancis):
Alexandria, (Louisiana)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Father Bellier received (Blanc)'s letter stating the time of the retreat. Mazzuchelli takes for granted that he is not to go, having made a retreat this year. His health is good especially after his return from Natchitoches where he went two weeks ago to see Father (Anthony) Andr(i)eu, (C.M.). He is edified by the church affairs there and to see Andr(i)eu so beloved.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - 1p. - 4to. - {2}
1849 Oct. 25
Mazzuchelli, Father M. F(rancis):
Alexandria, (Louisiana)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
He has just received a letter from his uncle, Father (Samuel Mazzuchelli, O.S.D.) who seems to have forgiven him for his past offences and misfortunes. If (Blanc) thinks proper will he write his uncle and give him some news of him. His health is good and the consoling news that his father still lives has encouraged him to spend his time in studying and exercising his ministry.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 4to. - {2}
1849 Oct. 26
Cummings, Father J(eremiah) W.:
New York, New York
to O(restes) A. Brownson:
(Boston, Massachusetts
He has been so busy that he has been unable to complete the article on Ecclesiastical History. However, he is to give a lecture in Boston and he hopes it will answer for an article. The subject is Religion in a Society, and they might put the title "Solution de Grands Problemes" at the head and pave the way for Mrs. Ripley's translation. He cannot say whether Appleton will publish it or not. He is glad to hear of Brownson's article on the starting point of metaphysics. He has never been able to see anything in courses of philosophy but a vibration from Egoism to Pantheism. And if, as Brownson says, these are fatal to the political principles of European youth, he can assure him that they are no less to be deplored in their influence on Dogmatic theology. Brownson is writing the first letter on the Aristotelian "tabula rasa", and Cummings asks him if he is aware of the great dispute very near to his subject between Rosmini on one side, and Galuppi and Gioberti on the other. It arose in consequence of Rosmini's proposed system of "innate ideas". While they virtually admitted the necessity of the intelligible in some more available shape than Cartesianism, Condillacism, or Kantism, they were busy about the How and not What. Although he never read Gioberti's "Introduzione", and perhaps does not understand Brownson's sense, he has often spoken of the evils of the vagu and gratuitous presentation by what are called treatises of Catholic philosophy. If they could get rid of Pantheistic philosophy and the heathen literature preceding it in the colleges, perhaps there would be fewer gulls among the ex-collegians for the political reformers to find.
I-3-i - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 8vo. - {1}
1849 Oct. 26
Prescott, M.R.E.:
Bayou Robert, (Louisiana)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Prescott addressed (Blanc) some time since in behalf of a free coloured girl, requesting a place for her in the convent. She will be ready to leave on a few weeks. $100 is all the freewoman is able to pay annually. Her needle is her maintenance; she contemplates living in Prescott's family so long as her daughter is at school. Prescott gives her five bits(?) a day. The idea of losing their pastor overwhelms them with sorrow. The letter Father (John) B(o)ullier, (C.M.) received from (Blanc) was not at all satisfactory to the congregation. It is true that some were prejudiced against B(o)ullier but this has in a great measure subsided. Under his auspices the church has flourished astonishingly. He is beloved by all who know him. The warm affection Prescott's boy evinced for him in his dying moments will never be forgotten. Willie would have been 6 years old on August 30; he expired on June 4, 1849. P.S. Just as she concluded her letter, her brother stepped in and asked her to ask (Blanc) if there is an institution of the kind for boys of color. He has one left to him by his parents.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 4to. - {2}
1849 Oct. 27
(Chanche), Bishop John Joseph:
Natchez, (Mississippi)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
He is sorry to learn that Father (Mariano) Maller, (C.M.) has been so severe on (Blanc)'s diocese. It is a great blessing that the Society has consented to take charge of the Sisters of Charity but they ought not to abandon their old friends. (Chanche) has not heard from Maller but supposes he will soon receive the walking papers for Father (Blaise) Raho, (C.M.); he will be very sorry for it. Father (John) Llebaria, (C.M.) came a few days ago to consult with Raho who advised him to submit to his superiors and return to Europe. He left yesterday determined to start for Spain. Father Pitrat continues to improve; (Chanche) hopes they will make a good English scholar of him. (Chanche) received the barometer. He is sorry to learn that Father (Napoleon Joseph) Perché's health is so delicate. (Chanche) sends thanks to Father Rousselon. No news yet about the bell. Has the vessel Mr. D'aron spoke about, The Three Sisters, arrived? (P.S.) Sister Augustine, (S.C.) is here on her way to Mobile to replace Sister Martina, (S.C.).
V-5-l - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 8vo. - {10}
1849 Oct. 27
McMaster, N.A.H.:
Oxford, (Ohio)
to (James Alphonsus) McMaster:
New York, (New York)
She comments on the delayed exchange of letters. They are about to move to New Albany, where Gilbert McMaster has been for a month, but he will return in a few days to assist them in moving. Her father left for Venice, (Ohio) Friday, where he will remain for one or two weeks; after which he will join the family in New Albany. (James') future letters should be directed to New Albany, Indiana. The family is and has been in good health since September 1, although before that time Mother, Rebekah, and Gilbert had slight attacks of cholera. The epidemic was present in Oxford, (Ohio) for six weeks. During this period there were forty-three deaths; thirty-eight of these died of cholera, in a population of 1200. She states that the dead are of all ages, classes, and characters; some of them were their friends, though most of them were strangers. They expect to leave Oxford on November 6.
I-1-m - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 8vo. - {2}
1849 Oct. 27
Waldron, E. Q. S.:
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
to O(restes) A. Brownson:
Boston, Massachusetts
He paid the subscription pirce for two "Reviews", one for himself, the other for his brother, Major Waldron, at the Boston Navy Yard. He has heard nothing from his brother concerning his receipt of the "Review". If Brownson would return their call at some time, he is sure his brother would be glad to see him since he is very liberal toward Catholics and at heart he is one. He prays daily that his brother be brought into the fold.
I-3-i - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 8vo. - {1}
1849 Oct. 28
Brownson, Orestes A.:
Boston, (Massachusetts)
to (Joseph H.) Allen:
(Washington, D.C.)
Brownson tells him that he has fallen into the error of trying to comprehend his statements prior to apprehending them. This error proceeds from modern psychologism. He has translated Brownson's statements on Protestantism into something different from the original. He has tried to comprehend or has thought he has comprehended the statements without having apprehended them. He writes with the greatest generality in his statements, any any attempt to give them greater generality is to change them essentially. This Allen has done. Brownson stated that Protestantism was the negation of all principle; the spirit of error, or vulgar pride. Whether true of false, that is his statement. It is very different from what Allen represents him as making. For the latter, Protestantism has a principle, but not drawn out into specific doctrine; for Brownson, it has no principle, and is the spirit of error in general growing out of the pride of the human heart. Consequently, Allen must either accept or reject his statement as he makes it in the role of philosopher, and without allowance for his position as Catholic.
I-3-i - No signature - 3pp. - 8vo. - {1}
1849 Oct. 28
(Donnet), Archbishop Ferdinand:
Bordeaux, (France)
to Bishop (Anthony Blanc):
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
The first affections of life are the sweetest and most lasting. (Donnet) has loved and revered (Blanc) for more than 30 years. Does (Blanc) ever come back to France? If he wishes to be one of the fathers of the Council of Bordeaux, (Donnet) invites him today. The bishops of the United States have long had this prerogative. This letter will be brought by one of (Donnet)'s best diocesans whom he recommends. The enclosed letter (no enclosure) from the first president will tell better than (Donnet) can, what is asked of (Blanc).
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 8vo. - {1}
1849 Oct. 29
Rocoffort, (S.J.), Father L(ouis):
Opelousas, (Louisiana)
to Father (Stephen Rousselon:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
A young man of color, Vital Leblanc, told Rocoffort some time ago that he wished to marry Sydalise Matteo assuring him that they were not related. One of their neighbors said yesterday that their fathers are brothers with the same mother. Rocoffort does not know whether this is true but he asks for the necessary dispensation which he will not use unless it seems indispensable and to avoid scandal. St. Landry parish is quiet. The Father (Simon) Rominger affair is forgotten. Everyone seems indifferent to what goes on in the church. Rocoffort holds strictly to the instruction given by the president of the college. He makes no visits or missions. He is ready to serve when asked.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {5}
1849 Oct. 29
Seton, Sister Catherine:
Convent of Mercy, New York, N.Y.
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
Mrs. O'Shaughnessy has clled to say she is departing for Cincinnati and Sister Catherine uses the opportunity to recall herself to Purcell. Her solemn vows have been made now six months and she is very happy. They are anxious for an increase in their order as their duties are accumulating. Sister Catherine finds her duties of visiting the sick and instructing very interesting. She hopes Purcell will pay her a visit the next time he attends the General Council. The summer has been very dangerous, nearly 1500 a week dying. The Sisters of Charity are increasing greatly and their (St. Vincent's Hospital) new hospital will be opened Nov. 1 under their direction.
II-4-k - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 16to. - {4}
1849 Oct. 29
Vente, Dr. Eugène:
Charleston, So(uth) Car(olina)
to Father Adrien Ro(u)quette:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
He writes in regard to a poor but honest family. Francois Sureau, father of six small children, has asked him to try to obtain information about an uncle, Francois Couvigné. Couvigné always lived in New Orleans and stopped writing his sister, Mrs. Sureau, in 1821. According to a letter of Messrs. des Crosses, dated Paris, December 31, 1848, 4887 francs were assigned to Couvigné by the indemnities of Santo Domingo. Couvigné never having given any sign of existence, the money was put in the treasury on deposit and if his death certificate cannot be procured before May, 1850, the government will claim it. The certificate should be legalised by the French consul, since he died intestate. The pastor of St. Mary's, Father R.S. Baker and the secretary, Father (Timothy J.) Sul(l)ivan directed Vente to Ro(u)quette.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 4to. - {7}
(18)49 Oct. 30
Bertin, Father (R.) L.:
Havre, (France)
to Bishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Part of the hopes of Bishop (John Joseph) Chanche are beginning to be realized. His little Breton colony will arrive full of ardor and good will. Bertin will try to prepare a second colony for next year. Their men are charged with presenting Blanc with Bertin's respects and gratitude. The revolution, the death of their superior, and other events have upset all their plans. Bertin will keep the United States in mind. He hopes Providence will lead him there. The departure is so near that he does not have time to write to Father Rousselon. P.S. Blanc is to give their men going to Natchez the trunk which Bertin left last year and the book of the constitutions of their little Society.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 12mo. - {2}
1849 Oct. 30
Brownson, O(restes) A.:
Boston, (Massachusetts)
to Father J(eremiah) W. Cummings,:
(New York, New York)
Brownson shall rely on the promise of an article, but asks that he not abandon the one on ecclesiastical history. The first part of "Solution de grands Problemes" is dull and if published alone will not take well. He had not read it when he made the recommendation to translate it, but is now reading it and it is more than he had expected. If Appleton will publish it, it will have a grand sale. It is good but does not compare with (James) Balmez, a translation of whom by (C.J.) Hanford he wished he could induce Appleton to publish. It is the book for our times, and should be before the American public. It does for Protestantism under the political and social what (John Adam) Moehler does for it under the dogmatical and Gioberti under the philosophical point of view. (Vincenzo) Gioberti has injured himself by making his philosophy subsidiary to his politics, and by his war on the Jesuits and hartred of Austria, preventing his philosophy from receiving the consideration that is its due. But these are the three great authors of the time: Moehler, forever silenced the dogmatic pretensions of Protestantism; Gioberti its philosophical and Balmez its social and political. Each country represented has spoken the needed word, but Italy too much. They are representative of the genius of their nations and it is of the greatest importance that their works be studied by both Catholics and Protestants. They pronounce judgment deon Protestantism in the name of human reason--men who are competent to pronounce the final judgment of mankind. They have closed the controversy and pronounced judgment, leaving us nothing to do but to convey the judgment into execution. He is glad Cummings sympathizes with him in his philosophical aspirations. He has not read Galluppi, nor does he know the ground he takes in opposition to Rosmini, but he does know the latter's doctrine, and rejects it. He goes against innate ideas, and for direct, immediate intuition. He agrees with Rosmini that l'Ente is the forma of the intellect, but he differs with him as to its being l'ente in genore, and make it l'ente reale. He supposes not that the idea of being is innate, but supposes real being to reveal itself immediately to our intellect in direct intuition, and by this revelation our intellect is constituted, not vis intellectiva, but vis intellectus. It is not innate, for it is not in the psychological faculty, but is the object of that faculty and present to it as its object as early, perhaps, as the advocates of innate ideas themselves contend. The vis intellectiva is in potentia in regard to its object, the the intelligible, and can act only as the object presents itself to it as the intelligible. The advocates of innate ideas make the idea not the intelligible object, indispensable to every act of intelligence, but the innateness of the intellect itself which in the fact of human knowledge is presented not as the object known, but as an element of the subject knowing, and which, as Liebnitz contends, supplies from it our funds, he, Brownson, would rather say, since the idea is God, that we are born in it, than that it is born in us.
I-3-i - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 8vo. - {7}
1849 Oct. 30
Lafont, Father A(nnet):
New York, (New York)
to Bishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Yesterday Lafont received the second letter Blanc wrote about Mr. Wh. He delayed until he could give more complete information. Bishop (John Mary) Odin having left, Lafont did not have a chance to acquaint him with Blanc's intentions. However, this will not prevent Lafont from fulfilling Blanc's commission. He will advance the sum to add to the 150 which Odin left on deposit and will draw on Blanc for the amount. Lafont has not yet seen Mr. Wh., but on his arrival in New York Lafont will do all he can to carry out Blanc's plans.
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 12mo. - {2}
1849 Oct. 30
(Proust, O.C.S.O.), Father Marie Eutrope:
Havre, (France)
to Father (Stephen Rousselon:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
He asks for a service which (Rousselon) did for him last year. The bearer of this letter is an excellent Trappist priest, going to Gethsemani in Kentucky in charge of 12 new Brothers whom (Proust) has recruited in France. Father Placide, (O.C.S.O.) knows neither English nor how to manage at New Orleans. (Proust) asks (Rousselon) to put him in touch with the captain of the first steamboat for Louisville and make the arrangements. (Proust) is giving Placide money for their passage. Last year (Rousselon) gave 3 piastres per person and 20 cents for every 100 pounds of extra baggage. He asks (Rousselon) also to go to the customs office with Placide to declare that they are bringing things for use of the Community. (Proust) sends his respects to the Archbishop whose kindness has been so great toward them. He hopes to thank (Rousselon) personally on his way through (New Orleans).
V-5-l - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 12mo. - {3}
1849 Oct. 30
Whelpley, James D.,:
New York, New York
to O(restes) A. Brownson:
(Boston, Massachusetts)
He thanks Brownson for having spoken to Webster, and thinks his object, to arouse his attention, has been gained. He cut out the bitter parts of Brownson's article and asks him if he remembers a certain Democratic Review which aroused so much ire in certain quarters by articles of Brownson. Greatly as he esteems the power of Brownson's mind, he cannot let him write for him without retaining the privilege of cutting out the bitter parts. Brownson would have put a colocynth apple into the mouths of the Whigs. He did not let him know sooner because he did not discover it until nearly ready for the press--he had an attack of cholera and another had to read the manuscript. The sense of the article was not destroyed. A combination of unlucky circumstances have rendered their relations somewhat unpleasant, but he would seek Brownson's society with the same confidence as at first. He believes Brownson is right in that a political editor should be an autocrat--he is either that or he is a tool--but his decrees cannot always be just unless he is a god. His own place has involved him in so many contests, (in which he has not always come out with a clear conscience) that he is case-hardened, but is not in the position of Editor John Smith who has been so long the representative of others that he no longer has any opinions. He believes that it is sometimes as necessary for the success of a good cause to remain silent as it is to speak the truth.
I-3-i - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 8vo. - {1}
1849 Oct. 31
(Brownson, Orestes A.):
Boston, (Massachusetts)
to Count (Charles) de Montalembert:
(France)
Count de Montalembert may be surprised to be thus addressed by an obscure foreigner who is, even in his own country, altogether too insignificant to intrude himself upon his notice. But he is no longer able to refrain, either through delicacy or humility, from expressing to the Count de Montalembert the warm admiration he feels towards the truly Catholic position and the part he has taken in the affections of his beautiful country. He has also thought that the voice of even an obscure journalist from this side of the Atlantic would not be unwelcome to the Count de Montalembert amid his labors and trials to which he sees his religion and country exposed.
I-3-i - A. Drafts (Incomplete) - 2pp. - 12mo. - {1}
1849 Oct. 31
Chanche, John Joseph, Bp. Natchez:
Natchez, Mississippi
to Bishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
Chanche followed Purcell's advice and bought a stove instead of a range. He thanks Purcell and Father Collins for their kind attention in the matter. He is happy to learn of the continued progress religion is making in Ohio. He has lately blessed two churches one at Bay St. Louis and one at Vicksburg.
He hopes to establish a college soon in Natchez under the charge of the Eudists. Protestant opposition grows more violent. Chanche is sorry that the Bishop of Mobile (Michael Portier) did not wait until the decrees were approved. Chanche is glad to learn that the Sisters of Charity in France have consented to unite those of this country and that the Lazarists (Vincentians) will have charge of the community. The sisters seem delighted with the idea.
II-4-k - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 8vo. - {9}