1852 Jun. 1
Cornil, Father:
Cannat, France
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc):
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Mathieu Dumas, employed during his life at (Blanc)'s cathedral, on his death, left some money with Father Mignard to be sent to surviving members of the Dumas family. Mignard's first letter to Cornil asked him how the money could be transferred so that Cornil could give the money to the heirs. Mignard's second letter told of the persecution he had had to suffer in this affair. The collector of taxes had gone after him and he had even been put into prison. Mr. Jouanique, notary for the Dumas family, went to Paris with all the papers wanted by the ministry and the United States consul. These papers were sent in June, 1851 to the French consul at New Orleans, Aimé Roger, who together with Mr. David, attorney, salvaged 3000 francs. Cornil asks (Blanc) to send this money to him or to Jouanique. This would be an act of charity for the two brothers and one sister of Mathieu.
VI-1-c - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - 4to. - {6}
1852 Jun. 1
Thirion, Father (H.):
Abbeville, (Louisiana)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
Thirion asks for a dispensation for the marriage of Leven (?) Alexandre Bourg and Celestine Dupuis, first cousin of the late first wife of the above.
VI-1-c - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {3}
1852 June 2
(De Smet, Father Pierre):
Washington, D.C.
to (Orestes A. Brownson:
Boston, Massachusetts)
He asks Brownson to print an article on the scanty remainders of so many once powerful Indian tribes living in the United States. The Government has at last decided to take some steps to relieve their miseries but for that purpose none but material means are mentioned. Religion the one civilizing principle is neglected. Some infidel teachers and bigoted ministers will be sent among the Indians. The government ought to be convinced of the incapacity of the Protestant system to civilize the Indians. It is a fact admitted by all that Catholic missionaries have more influence over the Indians than all others. It is also a fact that many Indian tribes have applied to the government for Catholic teachers and had their requests denied.
I-3-k - A.L.(Signature cut out) - 3pp. - 8vo. - {1}
1852 Jun. 2
Hecker, C.SS.R., Father I(saac) Th(omas):
New York, (New York)
to (Orestes A. Brownson):
Hecker is gratified to hear that Brownson will give a lecture in New York on Tuesday. Hecker has just returned from Phila(delphia) where they gave two missions and leaves on Wednesday for Cahoas. Brownson is to inform Hecker when he will be there so that Hecker may inform Fathers (Clarence A.) Walworth and (Augustine F.) Hewit.
I-3-k - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 8vo. - {3}
1852 June 3
Fransoni, J(ames) P(hilip) Card. Prefect:
Rome, Italy
to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio No. 4
In regard to Purcell's letter of April 15, concerning the Franciscans in Cincinnati and throughout the diocese, Fransoni has notified the Superior of the Franciscans. The superior, while desiring to afford sacerdotal ministration to the faithful, is opposed to having some of the Franciscans living outside the conventual home to take care of parishes, and thinks it better that those who are outside the conventual house should repair to it to be able to preserve the spirit of their profession. (Signed by) A. Barnabo, secretary.
II-4-l - L.S. - 1p. - 8vo. - (Latin) - {3}
1852 Jun. 5
Kehoe, Father P.:
Leighlin Bridge, (Ireland)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Kehoe received (Blanc)'s letter of (May) 19 enclosing a draft for 8 pounds. Kehoe has forwarded it to the person specified.
VI-1-c - A.L.S. - 1p. - 16mo. - {1}
1852 June 5
Cretin, Joseph, Bishop of St. Paul:
Washington (D.C.)
to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
He thanks Purcell for his kindness in their journey and for having introduced him to his friends of Philadelphia and New York.
P.S. He leaves tomorrow for St. Paul.
II-4-l - A.L.S. - 1p. - 8vo. - {3}
1852 June 5
Ludington, D(aphne) A.B.:
Sweden, (New York)
to O(restes) A. Brownson:
(Boston, Massachusetts)
She feels that her brother Orestes is the one friend who will assist her in her troubles. She is not boarding with Emeline but expects to soon. Her little girl was taken sick with the measles. It cost her $10 to come down from Michigan where she will never go again nor anywhere with a man who will not provide for her but still abuse her. The old man was not willing to let her go, he threatened her. She will do what she can to support herself
I-3-k - A.L.S. - 2pp - 8vo - {1}
1852(?) Jun. 7
Lucas, Father P(eter):
West Baton Rouge, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
Lucas has carried out the commission Blanc gave him about the trustees. They replied that they knew no one better able than Lucas to get this sum from Blanc. Lucas positively refused, telling them that it was their affair without saying that Blanc had refused Lucas the use of this money so that they could not interpret it as ill will. Lucas consented to inform Blanc that their wish is to have Blanc send them a note. The name of the president is Belizaire Landry. One family told Lucas that their father had given Father (Peter Francis) Beauprez $100 to use for a bell, which he had not done and for which he had never rendered an account. Others said they had given West Baton Rouge $5000 and there was only $5oo left. As for the new church, the trustees will give $200(?) if they want to, and pay for the vestments Lucas bought. If they do not want to, Lucas still remains the master.
VI-1-c - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 4to. - {4}
1852 June 8
Borgess, Father C(aspar) H.:
Columbus, Ohio
to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
A Mr. Henesy desires Borgess to forward to Purcell's care the sum of $75 for his wife in Cincinnati. Father (Johathan) Furlong was still engaged in collecting when Borgess was in Cincinnati. He was given a hearty welcome in Delaware since they knew nothing of him. It is said that Furlong is now in Troy, N.Y. The mendicant P.P. of poor Ireland seems determined to ask charity in defiance of authority. One by the name of Hastez followed up the railroad asking for charity. Borgess was disappointed that Purcell did not find time to make a short stay in Columbus. Father J(osue) M.Young was quite well and in good spirits coming from Baltimore.
II-4-l - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 16to. - {7}
1852 June 8
Nevin J(ohn) W.:
Mercersburg, (Pennsylvania)
to J(ames) A(lphonsus) McMaster:
New York, (New York)
Nevin acknowledges receipt of McMaster's note of May 28. McMaster misunderstood his letter to Mr. Cozans that the latter would visit New York. Nevin's duties prevent such a visit. He meant that a friend of his would soon visit New York. Nevin would be pleased to form an acquaintance with McMaster as the latter had proposed. He thanks McMaster for the information regarding Audin's work translated, and also for a copy of the original work of De Maistse which he shall read as soon as he can. Nevin expresses surprise and pleasure upon hearing of McMaster's interest in the former's writings before and after he became a Catholic. He states that he reads the (Freeman's) Journal with interest as well as protestant sympathy. His sympathies towards Catholicism, in its general character and form, have become strong. It would be a privilege to him if he could be made inwardly sure that the Catholic Church is what it claims to be. Such faith with a truly correspondent heavenly reality would be "like life from the dead." He feels that there are too many difficulties on the road to Catholicism for a protestant. He has been reading Ligouri's "Glories of Mary", and would now like the Virgin's aid if he could get it. He asks McMaster's opinion of Pierce Connelly's letter to the Earl of Shrewsbury, with which the Epsicopal papers seem so well pleased. It makes Nevin sad. He asks if any reply has been given in England, or if any light can be thrown on the man to strip his testimony of force. He asks McMaster where he might find an article, written by Dr. (Nicholas) Wiseman and first published in the Dublin Review to which Dr. John Newman had referred. Nevin is anxious to see the article. He asks if Newman's last series of lectures have as yet been republished in this country. Nevin praises the Pastoral Letter of its last National Council, and states that it would be difficult for a Presbyterian or an Episcopalian assembly to talk in the same manner. He sends his regards.
I-i-m - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 8vo. - {2}
1852 Jun. 8
D'hauw, Father E(dward):
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
The affair is ended and Rousselon can count on $3,000 next week. The conditions are as D'Hauw told him.
VI-1-c - A.L.S. - (French) - 1p. - 12mo. - {1}
1852 Jun. 8
Reynolds, Bishop I(gnatius) A.:
Charleston, S(outh) C(arolina)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
(Blanc)'s letter of (May) 30 was received on the 5th. Under the circumstances set forth in (Blanc);s letter, Reynolds does not think it wise to visit N(ew) O(rleans) on a begging expedition. He asks the favor of being the first beggar of 1853. Next January then, he will be among them. He sends his respects to Bishop (John) Timon; Reynolds would not enter the field with him. Reynolds wishes (Blanc) would send him a handsome New Year's gift for his cathedral and get all the priests who dine at his mansion on Fridays to throw in their mite.
VI-1-c - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 16mo. - {2}
1852 Jun. 9
Lalaun:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Since the day he came to see Blanc who did him a favor, Lalaun has gone to other persons who also did things for him. So now he is short only $3 to buy his cart. He asks Blanc for this sum. (On the letter in Blac's hand): "I had given him $7.50 before".
VI-1-c - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - folio - {1}
1852 Jun. 9
(Timon), Bishop John:
Buffalo, (New York)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
(Timon) feels the necessity of putting the roof on the Cathedral of St. Joseph and fears the will be much embarrassed to meet payments. He has had to contract a debt for churches, the sick, and the orphans. If (Blanc) who has lately passed by their place, would write to Lyons or Paris, urging them to give (Timon) a good allocation, he would hope for much good from it. (P.S.) (Blanc) is to communicate this to Bishop Portier that he would aid.
VI-1-c - A.L.S. - 1p. - 8vo. - {2}
(18)52 Jun. 11
Gleason, J.E.:
Charleston, (South Carolina)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Wishing to move to (Blanc)'s diocese, Gleason has been recommended to apply to him for some engagement. Gleason has been professor of music in the Academy of the Sisters of Mercy here for 4 years. For 3 years he has been organist and director of the choir in the cathedral. The salary is so small that were it not for private pupils he could not live. He can give recommendations from the Bishop, clergy, and others here and in New York.
VI-1-c - A.L.S. - 1p. - 4to. - {1}
1852 Jun. 12
Kinsela, Andrew E.:
Franklin, (Louisiana)
to Father (Stephen Rousselon?:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Kinsela asks for an advance of $100. He will be ready next month for his payment and it can be deducted out of it although there is a bal(ance?) due him out of his first payment. At present he is in great need of money.
Vl-1-c - A.L.S. - 1p. - 4to. - {1}
(18)52 Jun. 14
Praz, R.S.C.J., Madame A(nnette):
St. Michael, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
The Propagateur announces (Blanc)'s return to (New Orleans). She does not dare invite him for the feast of the Sacred Heart for after so long an absence he will be very busy. They have one very ill; it is Sister Courvel, (R.S.C.J.) of Baton Rouge whom Mother (Adine) Guinand, (R.S.C.J.) brought at the beginning of May. They also have Madame Hoa, (R.S.C.J.) whom they cannot count on since her serious illness. There are now only 140 pupils; others are to leave. They say the cholera is at Mr. Fagot's; he has lost several slaves. Praz sent Mary Fox to the boarding school at Grand Coteau, accompanied by Madame Jourdan, (R.S.C.J.) who is going there for her probation and who will return here after her profession. The last news from Grand Coteau was good. Madame Stanislas, (R.S.C.J.) has returned to Natchitoches; that house has been sorely tried. Measles broke out in the boarding school, then typhoid. Their vacation will be in six weeks. They will probably resume classes at the beginning of October.
Vl-1-c - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 4to. - {8}
1852 June 15
McDonald, Aeneas:
Cornwall, C(anada) W(est)
to (Orestes A.) Brownson:
Boston, (Massachusetts)
He asks for a receipt for the subscription he handed Brownson. He didn't think he would have occasion to show a receipt as he was dealing directly with Brownson. He is endeavoring to place several subscriptions for the Review.
I-3-k - A.L.S. - 1p. - 8vo. - {1}
1852 Jun. 17
Watson, James:
Lower Saginaw, (Michigan)
to Bishop P(eter) P(aul) Lefevere,:
(Detroit, Michigan)
Watson has Lefevere's favor of June 12. About the same time he received the paint and oil for their church. He expected to receive it knowing the charity which had actuated Lefevere through life. Lefevere's letter mentioned that he ordered 200 lbs. of white lead and 10 gallons of oil but Watson has received 100 lbs. of white lead and about 5 or 6 gallons of oil, the cask of oil was badly put up and leaked out by the appearance of the barrel. In a postscript Watson adds that they would all like to have a visit from Lefevere.
III-2-h - A.L.S. - 1p. - 8vo. - {1}
1852 June 21
Gillet, C.SS.R., Father Louis:
Piqua, (Ohio)
to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
Gillet received a letter from Father Pinkers requesting him in Purcell's name to proceed immediately to Cincinnati. Gillet writes to explain the reason which detained him here. In one month he spent on two trips to Cincinnati more money than he received in his former French mission. He has been obliged to sell his horse and buggy to raise money to make the trip. Purcell can send him a few lines if he can be useful in any way while he is here. He is living with a private family.
II-4-l - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 8vo. - {2}
1852 June 22
Borgess, Father C(aspar) H.:
Columbus, Ohio
to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
Despite Purcell's orders that no person be allowed to beg in the diocese, two beggars persist in calling upon all for charity. One, a Father Hastez, finds fault with American Bishops for interfering. The other is a Franciscan monk from Ireland. Borgess tells this so Purcell will know that the begging is done without his sanction. Borgess has again resumed control of the English portion. He has not opened the school. He has not visited the Penitentiary and the other institutions since Father (Jonathan) Furlong informed him that they had been transferred to him. They had some threats of cholera in the past week.
II-4-l - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 8vo. - {4}
1852 Jun. 22
Martin, Father Aug(uste):
Natchitoches, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
He received (Blanc)'s letter yesterday. He was ill with a bilious upset which he had not time to take care of last week as he gave the (Religious of the Sacred Heart) a retreat in preparation for the renewal of their vows. Martin needs (Blanc) here so much; he begs him to come as soon as possible. He will announce (Blanc)'s arrival for July 11. First Communion having been set back for fall or even winter, the Confirmations will be limited to about 40. But since Natchitoches is to have a resident bishop, the new Bishop can choose the times. The proximity of a change makes him desire (Blanc)'s presence all the more. This morning Martin saw a contractor for the enlargement of the house. The house is old but it is urgent to make it as comfortable as possible while waiting for better. The Bishop who will come, after going up the Red River, will not be surprised to see beside a humble cathedral, in a humble little town, a humble residence. For three years, Father (Julian) Benoit and Martin had neighboring missions; seeing each other every month or oftener. Benott is one of the best subjects brought by Bishop Bruté Martin judges him to be the best of the Indiana clergy. His position at Fort Wayne, where he has been 14 years, obliges him to devote himself especially to controversy. He preaches with talent and knows English perfectly. His constant mingling with Americans has americanized his manners but he has the ecclesiastical spirit and zeal. Martin learned from Terre Haute that Benoit wants absolutely to leave the area; Martin doubts that Bishop De St. Palays will consent easily. If Benoit comes, would (Blanc) send him to Martin to spend some time and to rest. He knows no one more likely to succeed here, among the Americans, both Catholic and Protestant. If he liked it here he would be a powerful aid for the Bishop or perhaps even a vicar general. It would be a great consolation to Martin to see him again and to leave him, in Martin's place, while Martin returned to (Blanc)'s jurisdiction or to his family. Father (Felix) Dicharry sends his respects; he seems satisfied. (P.S.) (Blanc) has no doubt heard of the death of Mrs.(?) Phanor. Madame (T.) Landry, (R.S.C.J.) and Madame Prau, (R.S.C.J.?) Of Lyons, are ill. Martin is going to inform Campté and Cloutierville of (Blanc)'s coming.
Vl-1-c - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 4to. - {8}
1852 Jun. 22
(Milde), Vincent Edward, Archbishop of:
Vienna, (Austria)
to Bishop P(eter) P(aul) Lefev(e)re:
Detroit, (Michigan)
(Milde) hopes that Lefevere has received the letter of May 22 containing the first bank drafts for $320 from the Leopoldine Association. He now encloses the second drafts for the same amount for the Diocese of Detroit and the missionaries mentioned in the previous letter. They expect a much needed report on the condition of the diocese giving the missions both in the cities and in rural areas under his care.
III-2-h - L.S. - (Latin) - 1p. - 8vo. - {2}
1852 June 24
Borgess, Father O(tho) H.:
Columbus, Ohio
to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
Fathers (Maurice) Howard and (James) Meagher called at the house while Borgess was out. They informed his nephew that they had a letter from Purcell for him. They called again in the evening and refused to give Borgess the letter saying that Purcell said that Borgess should not fight. When one priest takes the keys from the church, has not Borgess a right to ask for them? If the letter referred to this matter, Borgess does not care to see it. Borgess does not rule as pastor but as assistant. No Priest shall ever be troubled by Borgess; Let him mind his own business.
II-4-l - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 16to. - {4}
1852 Jun. 24
Guinand, R.S.C.J., Madame A(dine):
Baton Rouge, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
She asks (Blanc) to pardon her long silence. Their pupils like to hear about (Blanc) and his visit which left such sweet memories. When will (Blanc) return? They hope to have Confirmation of which they have such great need against their enemies, even here in the convent. Two pupils have withdrawn; there are only 19, and 20 or 25 day scholars. Their little community is reduced to 6; one sick sister went to St. Michael to exercise the charity of Mother Praz. One novice, Sister Martin, (R.S.C.J.) is weakening the grace of her vocation by her infidelity in small things. Perhaps Guinand is guilty. What a sorry Superior! Could they transfer the feast of Sts. Peter and Paul to the following Sunday? The Sisters want to celebrate(?) her feast, June 29.
VI-1-c - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 4to. - {2}
1852 Jun. 24
Joyce, Father James:
Maysville, K(entuck)y
to Archbishop (Anthony) Blanc:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
On February 27, Joyce sent $10 from Laurence O'Brien to his wife Catharine O'Brien. The money had not reached New Orleans when she applied for it. Both husband and wife are now torturing Joyce about it. although he advanced $3 our of his own pocket. He asks Blanc to let him know whether the letter reached him.
VI-1-c - A.L.S. - 1p. - 4to. - {3}
1852 Jun. 26
Dartigues, J.V.:
Franklin, L(ouisian)a
to Archbishop Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
At Blanc's last visit to Attakapas to consult about the prospects of building a church here, Dartigue replied that he was convinced there was only one sure way, which was to obtain a loan of $1500 for several years. His aim was to harass no one. Later Father (Paul) Guerard came, disposed to contract for $500 to build the church. Dartigue made the same observation to Guerard as he had to Blanc but Guerard's devotion no doubt kept him from heeding it. Dartigue believed that Guerard was authorized by Blanc to go ahead without counting on the resources of the place. Now they are in difficulties. Those on whom Dartigue counted a little, the ministers of neighboring parishes, view the construction of this church with an evil eye. In the interest of the faith, Blanc should make a change. Guerard should be given St. Mary's Church; from there he could serve Franklin and Pattersonville. With(?) the $1250 Blanc loaned, Dartigue paid the first part of the $2500. For the rest of the contract, $1200 is necessary but if Blanc makes the change Dartigue requests for Guerard, he could count on being repaid.
Vl-1-c - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 4to. - {3}
1852 Jun. 26
Méridier, H.:
New Orleans, Louisiana
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
A receipted bill for $20 for 300 copies of the pastoral letter in Spanish.
VI-1-c - A.Bill S. - 1p. - 16mo. - {1}
1852 Jun. 28
Benoit, Father J(ulian):
Fort Wayne, (Indiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Last night, Benoit received (Blanc)'s letter. He ended the Jubilee during which nearly all the Catholics received the sacraments. Benoit, if he could, would come to express his gratitude for (Blanc)'s fatherly interest. But in a congregation where he has had to create everthing and can count on scarcely any one else, there are a multitude of things to settle which cannot be done before the middle of September. (Blanc) can count on Benoit's arrival in New Orleans around the 15th or 2oth of October and then he will be entirely at (Blanc)'s disposal. He is writing today to the Administrator of the diocese of Vincennes, Father (J.) Corbe, to ask for the necessary authorization. He hopes this good friend will not oppose his decision and force him to wait for the return of Bishop (Maurice) de St. Palais, whose trip to Europe seems to be prolonged in undue measure.
VI-1-c - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {3}
1852 June 28
O'Donnell, John:
Lawrence, ()
to O(restes) A. Brownson:
Chelsea, Mass(achusetts)
He intends to have a course of lectures in their hall now already. They will expect six from Brownson during the fall and winter. The lectures are to be purely Catholic.
I-3-k - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 12mo. - {1}
1852 Jun. 28
O'Donnell, Thomas:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
to Father (C.) Mouret, deceased:
Plaquemine, L(ouisian)a
A bill for $41 for books.
VI-1-c - Bill - 1p. - 12mo. - {1}
1852 Jun. 28
Canavan, Father P(atrick):
Monroe, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Having received two of Blanc's letters, Canavan hastens to inform him about Monroe. The last 15 days Canavan has been out looking for subscriptions for their church. He succeeded very well. They will get mechanics to work immediately and have everything arranged for Blanc's coming in the fall. Mrs. Julia Dabbs has arrived and says Blanc will have Father (George) Blackney, (S.J.) with him to preach. Canavan hopes to have 20 or more for Confirmation. He has baptized 5 these last days. Shreveport is a very hard place; they defame the church and the priests. He can procure the lots there and a chance to build a house this fall. He hopes Blanc will send that gentleman on there and let him make his own mission. A few there do not like to deed to Blanc. Canavan's eyes are very weak at present from the sun. In two years infidelity and paganism will withdraw from northern Louisiana. When Canavan came to Monroe, one came to Mass the two first Sundays; now the greater part come. SO will it be in Shreveport. When Canavan was in New Orleans, Father Rousselon gave him $6 for Masses. Canavan was glad to hear from his great old fellow sufferer, Father (J.) Corry of Albany.
VI-1-c - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 4to. - {6}
1852 Jun. 29
Fierabras, Father J(ohn Andrew):
Port Gibson, (Mississippi
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
He waited to write in hopes he could give definite news about the school at Port Gibson. The court has set back Mr. Moore's affair to the end of August or beginning of September. He asks 5000 piastres damage and interest for his house for which rent has not been paid for years. The one who ran the school now is leaving for the north next week with his wife. The school is at last going to be finished. The contractor has given his word to Mrs. Moore that the church will be finished by the first of November. Mr. Wineman(?) is here now and will stay at least four months. He has offered to form a choir. Fierabras recently visited Colonel Ballard's negroes. The evening Fierabras arrived, the Colonel sent an order to his slaves in his plantations near Magnolia, to come the next day. It was Sunday and Fierabras preached and said Mass. Afterwards, the Colonel announced that they were free to do as they wished but if they wanted their children baptized Fierabras would do so. They brought all the children under three. All the others had been baptized three years ago by a Methodist minister. Fierabras hopes to rebaptize them later. Recently Fierabras baptized 22 negroes on a plantation between Rodney and Port Gibson. 7 or 8 others are preparing for baptism. Fierabras is waiting for the arrival of Mr. McDonald from New Orleans in order to baptize the children and negroes of Mr. Griffing. His wife does not have the courage to say the word. McDonald has a great influence on his sister and brother-in-law. Fierabras would like to have a station at Griffing's. There are two young ladies who live on the neighboring plantation who are close friends of Mrs. Griffing. They were educated by the Sisters of the Sacred Heart at Grand Coteau. One became a Catholic and the other was about to be baptized when their father brought them home and gave them no rest until they promised to renounce Catholicism. They declare they will never be happy until they can embrace Catholicism publicly. Through Mr. Griffing, Fierabras hopes to dispel the father's prejudice. Last Sunday Fierabras said Mass for the first time in the new church at Cedar-Creek. The crowd was immense. It was the first time most of them had attended Catholic services. Several of the prominent men offered Fierabras their hospitality; some asked for Catholic books. Several Protestant ministers have said that the Papists should not be allowed to build churches. Fierabras' idea in trying to build as many little churches as he can is to familiarize the separated brothers with the Catholic word and to make them see that Catholics are not as absurd and unreasonable as they suppose. Books are very scarce; Fierabras would like to have a little bookshop attached to each church. He asks (Blanc) to get some information about the price of such books from Murphy or Lucas. In his isolation he feels more than ever the need of a confrere. He awaits (Blanc)'s return to go, as well as Father (John Baptist) Babonneau, and perhaps Father (Julian M. Guillou?) Guillour to refresh himself with priestly zeal.
VI-1-c - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - 4to. - {13}