(1854?) (Apr.?)
Conway, Patrick (James):
(Notre Dame, Indiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Conway is well. Father (Edward F. Sorin, C.S.C.) came from France about two months ago. The boys had a large fire in the yard when he came and the professor told the boys to get their ranks. Nearly all the priests and seminarians were there. They sang an anthem in the church and then went into one of the wings of the College and the boys made speeches in Irish, French, and German. One of the Brothers played the fiddle and one of the professors played the harp. They shot off the cannon in the yard three times. (Sorin) told them that coming from France, his steamer was driven on an island; the captain blamed the priests and monks on board. There are several societies in the college; there is one of the Blessed Virgin. It is directed by Father (Alexis Granger, C.S.C.) Grangier. He is a good priest and all the boys like him. There is a picture of the Blessed Virgin over the altar; they are painting palm trees in this little chapel.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 8vo. - {4}
1854 Apr. 1
Guinand, R.S.C.J., Madame A(dine):
Baton Rouge, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
St. Joseph sent them several children during his month, all 15 to 16 years and not knowing how to read and at best could tell you if there is a God. However, all the parents want them to make their First Communion. Guinand will do her best to instruct them and if she succeeds, they will do so May 7. This is the day (Blanc) is to give Confirmation at the church. But, like last year, she asks the favor of (Blanc) giving them Communion and coming again to (The Convent of the) Sacred Heart to give Confirmation. Guinand has been obliged to buy the house they rented at first. The owner wanted to sell. The second part had been taken as they were no longer able to house their 33 pupils in the first building. The price is $4000. Mother (Annette) Praz (R.S.C.J.) came to her aid and Guinand could pay $2000 immediately, the other $2000 remains at 8 percent. The health of the Religious is good; she hopes God will keep it so or send them someone.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {3}
1854 Apr.1
Blanc, Archbishop Ant(hony):
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
On February 1, 1855, Blanc promises to pay Jos(ep)h Benson $500 with interest at six percent. (The interest is given in another hand as) $25.75. (Endorsed by Benson and Eug(ene?) Rochereau.
VI-1-g - A. Note S. - 2pp. - 16mo. - {2}
1854 Apr.(?)1
Curiel, Jos(eph):
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
to Father E(tien)ne Rousselon:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
A receipted bill for gorceries.
VI-1-g - A.Receipt S. - (French) - 1p. - 32mo. - {1}
1854 Apr.1
(Haughery), Margaret (Gaffney):
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony) Blanc:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
A receipted bill for $15.05 for milk in March.
VI-1-g - Bill - 1p. - 32mo. - {1}
1854 Apr.1
Benson, Joseph:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Benson received from Archbishop (Anthony) Blanc, $500 cash and also a note for $500 payable on February 1, 1855 on the account of painting done at St. Patrick's Church. (Written and signed for Benson) by John Benson.
VI-1-g - Receipt - 1p. - 12mo. - {3}
1854 Apr.1
Lambert, Rich(ar)d:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
to Father E(tienne) Rousselon:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
A receipt for 20 piastres for one month's services as organist.
VI-1-g - A. Receipt S. - (French) - 1p. - 32mo. - {1}
1854 Apr. 2
Darby, J.:
New Iberia, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana
Darby writes at the request of Mrs. Goujon. Jean Marie Priour, living at Corpus Christi, wrote to Mrs. Goujon that Blanc had told him that he would give Priour some money last March. Prious asked Mrs. Goujon, his sister, to accept this for him. She would use this to repair her house. She is very poor and worthy of pity. Darby believes she lives on charity. Two or three of Mrs. Goujon's friends to whom she spole of this money which her brother gave her, have asked if Darby could tell them whether the money Blanc gave to Priour came from the estate of the late Father Julien Priour. Darby told them that Blanc, in accepting the estate, had done so only to put it in order and afterwards to distribute some or all of it. Darby has collected none of the accounts which Blanc put into his hands; he believes there will be more of a loss than he thought. He fears to use civil means. Talking with Drozin Broussard recently, he recalled to Darby that Father Julien Priour had often asked that his remains be buried under the steps of St. Peter's of New Iberia so that the parishioners on entering the church would often pray for his soul. He asked to have a granite stone placed over his remains. If Blanc will permit Darby to do this, it will be a great satisfaction to several families of the parish. The time is not suitable now as Father (Anthony) Thèves wishes to repair the church; they will take advantage of the time when repairs are made. He hopes Blanc will grant his request to move the remains of him who first put the fear of the Lord into Darby's heart.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - 4to. - {7}
1854 Apr.2
Delahoussaye, S.:
(Franklin, Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
A Methodist minister, whose name is Craz, she believes, has been here for two weeks and already several members of their church have joined these fanatics. 36 new members have joined this church. The children and servants go to attend these theatrical exhibitions. The most zealous Catholics go out of curiosity, they say. Their good pastor does not have the grace to fight against this fanatic, who they say, has extraordinary eloquence. They ask (Blanc) to send one of the best preachers for some days. The slaves desert their work, braving punishment to go to the church. The children flee from their beds to attend. A prompt remedy is needed. They say incitement is even greater at Pattersonville.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - 12mo. - {4}
1854 Apr.2
Thirion, Father (Hubert):
Pointe Coupée, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Thirion does not know whether he sent a reply to Blanc's letter about his pastoral visit and Confirmation. He asks Blanc to delay Confirmation for their parish and set it for the Sunday after the Ascension as their First Communion will not take place until then. Thirion wrote Father Rousselon lately to send 50 to 70 catechisms; he has not yet received them.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {2}
1854 Apr.3
Chalon, Father G(abriel):
Mobile, (Alabama)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
(Blanc) told Chalon that S(amuel) W. Raymond persists in denying that he was ever married. 1. Mr. Shelton, a former bookkeeper, then associated with Raymond, maintains that the son, who passed as a legitimate son, was here some years ago as a clerk in the store. 2. It is a fact on record that at the time the store was destroyed by fire, it was insured in his son's name in the office of the Merchant's Insurance Company for which rascality he has been sued and amounts have been obtained by his creditors. 3. G. A. Arnold being in New York last summer or summer before last, was met by H. V. Raymond, brother of S. W. who asked how S. W. was, if he was doing well in New Orleans and then spoke of S. W.'s family being destitute. This should be enough to prove that this miserable man lied. (P.S.) Maguire is a man of good faith and respected at Mobile. Bishop (Michael) Portier left Friday for Charleston and will not be back until Wednesday of Holy Week. Chalon sends regards to Father Rousselon.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French & English) - 2pp. - 8vo. - {6}
1854 Apr.3
M(ullon), Father J(ames) I(gnatius):
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
to (Archbishop Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Receipts and expenses for March (1854) at (St. Patrick's Church).
VI-1-g - A.D.S. - 1p. - folio - {2}
1854 Apr.3
McGrath, John:
Maysville, K(entuck)y
to Archbishop Anthony Blanc:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
He encloses $7 remitted by John Dwyer for his children, Mary Dwyer and sister Catherine Dwyer. They sailed from Liverpool on the 20th(?) in the Josiah Bradlee, Captain Baysen. P.S. On reception of this Blanc is to send a few lines. (Added in Rousselon's? hand): Given to Catherine Mulony $7, April 27, 1854.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - 1p. - 4to. - {6}
1854 Apr.3
Mina, Father Ve. M(odest)e:
St. John Baptist, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop Ant(hony) Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana
Mina is alone with so much work. Yesterday Father Basile threw off the mask; from the pulpit he stammered out some words no one could understand and the people left the church. Scandal is at its height. Basile is to leave this afternoon for St. Michael. Blanc is to have pity on Mina and send him help up to First Communion time. The children on the bank opposite the church will be abandoned. Many are poor and cannot cross the river. Infirm as Mina is, he cannot suffice on two sides.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 1p. - 12mo. - {2}
1854 April 3
Forde, Father Michael:
Chillicothe, Ohio
to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
Since the death of Mr. Boulger they are at a loss for one to serve Mass and keep the church in order. Father (John Nicholas) Thisse advises Forde to ask for one of the orphan boys to take care of the church. If he gives any evidence of fitness for the priesthood, they will educate him. They will pay his travelling expenses. Their St. Patrick day celebration went off creditably. The dissension was merely a matter of opinion. Dr. McNally thought his high social position would suffer by identifying himself with the humble railroad man. But McNally has given more scandal by intoxication than a dozen railroad men. Forde encloses $25 for the orphans, a part of a gift he received from a friend. Father Thisse seems to like his new home very well.
II-4-m - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 8vo. - {3}
1854 Apr.4
Andrieu, C.M., Father A(nthony):
(Lafourche, Louisiana)
to Archbishop A(nthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
In writing his last letter, Andrieu was carried away by the impulse of the moment. He asked for something which he could foresee would not be feasible. The trustees of Paincourt met as early as the day after the disaster and decided to build a new church for 7 or 8000 piastres on the site of the old one. Mr. Foley, who built the church at Canal is to give the plan and direct the work. The people of Paincourt and surroundings seem animated by a very good spirit. If they build on the old site, it is because they cannot now buy a large tract behind the cemetery. But in 8 or 9 years, they propose to build a fine brick church and to give the other one, with the presbytery and land to the Brothers of the Christian Doctrine for a school. It would be better, Andrieu believes, to have the church near the village. Here (Lafourche, Assumption Church) the work on their church is going quite slowly; it may take more than two years to finish it. At Napoleonville, the building committee for the chapel is very irresponsive. It will be difficult to obtain only 3000 piastres; perhaps it will fall through. P.S. A letter from Havre informs Andrieu that the American ship John Spear is bringing a box and a bundle of German books addressed to Andrieu at New Orleans, to be sent to Father (Jean-Arthur Poyet?) Puyet. Perhaps he is at the Archbishopric and can reclaim what belongs to him.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - 4to. - {8}
1854 April 4
Madden, P.I.:
Kingston (N.Y.)
to O(restes) A. Brownson:
(Boston, Massachusetts)
He is sending four dollars for payment on Brownson's Review. Since he last met Brownson, he has moved to Kingston and would like Brownson to deliver a few lectures there. He has seen with delight that the Irish University will have the advantages of Brownson's great learning and talents.
I-3-l - A.L.S. - 1p. - 12mo. - {1}
1854 April 4
Metcalf, Mrs. George T.:
Boston, Massachusetts
to O(restes) A. Brownson:
Chelsea, Massachusetts
She says that he should read the Christian Remembrance of January, 1854 where it has an article on Catholic lying, using as its text some works of St. Alphonsus Liguori. It is very specific and direct, and has influenced some of her friends. She thinks an article will give relief to those who mourn the errors of Rome. She thinks that an Anglican polemic is either unfair or mistaken as to Catholic matters. She thinks Brownson is the only logical man for the job.
I-3-l - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 12mo. - {2}
1854 Apr.4
Chambost, Father C(harles):
Plaquemine, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Chambost has just received (Blanc)'s letter announcing his visit for the Sunday after Easter; it will be the best time for Chambost. He will have a large number for Confirmation this time although there will remain a good number for the end of July. (Blanc) is to tell him on what boat he will come. On Thursday morning there is the Gipsy, on Friday the E.A. White, on Saturday the New Latona. Their brass band and the whole College (of the Immaculate Conception) with the administrators urge Chambost to have a reception for (Blanc). So (Blanc) is to let them know which boat he chooses so they can communicate with the Captain. Chambost sends his respects to Father Rousselon. Father (Joseph Michael) Paret has not yet written; his visit was a blessing for Chambost. All seems to be going well except that he has much to do in the coming weeks.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {3}
1854 Apr.4
Mènard, Father Ch(arle)s M.:
Thibodaux, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Mrs. Key asks Mènard to inform (Blanc) of a rather delicate affair. It is the future marriage of her daughter to an English Episcopalian who, it seems, will not consent to have the children brought up in the Catholic religion. Mrs. Key does not have enough influence to prevent the marriage. However, she will not consent to having the marriage celebrated by anyone but a priest. If it is celebrated by anyone else it will be a great scandal because the parish has always had the Key family in the number of its good Catholics. (Blanc) is to let Mènard know if there is any way to settle this. Nothing new here except that the church at Paincourt was overturned by the wind.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 12mo. - {2}
1854 Apr.4
Raho, C.M., Father B(laise):
Paincourtville, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
On (March) 31, at half past four a.m., when Raho was about to hear Confessions, the church fell down, crushed to atoms. There was only one person in it and she escaped unhurt. The zeal of the people is great; already $3000 are subscribed for its reconstruction. Raho has just begun to see the awakening from spiritual lethargy in a great number of Catholics. Raho wrote 3 or 4 weeks ago on a case of conscience; he asks (Blanc) to inform him if his letter was not received and he will expose it again.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 12mo. - {2}
1854 Apr.4
Salmon, (C.S.C.) Father Peter:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Salmon introduces a Catholic woman who came to the Asylum to ask for a place for one of her children. Salmon refers her to (Blanc).
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 1p. - 16mo. - {1}
1854 Apr.4
Paris, Father Auguste Simon:
St. Michael, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc):
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Paris could not reply sooner because he had to see Father (Anthony J.) Jourdan(t,S.J.). Paris was at Baton Rouge Sunday evening and returned this morning. Jourdan(t) showed a real desire to accede to their request to send a priest during Paris' absence. He regrets that he promised to send two to Bishop (Auguste Marie) Martin. Jourdan(t) said he was going to try to get Father (Vital) Gille(s, S.J.) for St. Michael. Then on August 15 he will send a second priest for Natchitoches. There are seven German Religious (of the Sacred Heart) who know no French so Father (Claude Anthony) Tholomier cannot fulfill all his duty at the Convent because of lack of English. Jourdan(t) advised Paris to ask (Blanc) to have a Lazarist from Donal(d)sonville come here once a week to hear the confessions of the German Sisters and the Ladies who have too much difficulty in confessing in French and also perhaps some American children. There is no serious difficulty about the week-day Mass, there might be difficulty about funerals. Paris would almost give up his plan. Tholomier thinks he should make this trip. Moreover, he has promised his parents in the letters to them for 2 months. He has not talked to Father (Jean?) Martin about coming here to say Mass several times in Paris' absence because he is so involved himself. Also the river is an obstacle at his age. Father Basile has left St. John Baptist; he came to see Paris today. Basile desires to render any services he could. (Blanc) has his reasons for not sending him into the diocese even while awaiting the reply from his Superior. If Basile is worthy of (Blanc)'s confidence, they could retire him here and even have him give service to them while waiting. Basile said he was at Martin's up to the time of his departure. If (Blanc) could approve Basile for St. Michael up to the time of his return to Europe, Basile would facilitate Paris' departure as Jourdan(t) promised to leave a priest here from August 15 to December. Tholomier received (Blanc)'s letter today and asks Paris to assure (Blanc) that he will be at St. John Baptist on the 18th to take him to St. Michael. Paris presumes that (Blanc) will not object to confirming the children on the 19th after saying Mass at the convent. It will be impossible to put off his departure until the Sunday after the Ascension. Mr. (T.E.?) Giraud has not come; he problably will not. When (Blanc) is here, he can determine what is to be done. If the workman is here at the same time, the contract of the repairs could be made.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 4to. - {10}
1854 April 4
McCaffrey, Father John:
Mount St. Mary's College
(Emmittsburg, Maryland)
to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
The remembrance of all the kindnesses McCaffrey received in his recent visit to Cincinnati is still fresh. He will have that lecutre about Church and State printed and send copies to Purcell. He has praised the noble independence and courage of the faithful at Cincinnati. The surest way to avert danger is to be ready for it. McCaffrey notices in the newspapers a great change of opinion and feeling respecting the latest anti-Catholic organization, the Know Nothings. They are now treated with merited contempt all round. Wherever Catholics are prepared to maintain their rights and to uphold social order, their savange foes will shrink from the attack. He sends his respects to all the clergy and several lay people. The Cincinnati boys are doing well. He encloses a check to be paid to James Devit who had worked for the college and now want to buy property in Dayton. Devit authorizes Father J(oseph) O'Meally to act for him. McCaffrey asks to be remembered to Mother Margaret, Sisters Sophia and Anthony and the others.
II-4-m - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 8vo. - {6}
1854 Apr.5
Brousseau, A. and Co(mpany):
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
A receipted bill for $40.91 for carpet and binding.
VI-1-g - A Receipt S. - 1p. - 16mo. - {1}
1854 Apr.5
Gastineau, C.S.C., Father:
Rochester, (New York)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
He asks (Blanc) to forgive him, if not himself, at least the Congregation (of Holy Cross) to which he belongs, for such a sudden absence from his post. The reforms to be made, the shaky vocations, and especially the impossibility of making himself understood to all the students have driven him to this step. He does not think he fits there(?) especially since Father (Francis) Cointet, (C.S.C.) has replaced him advantageously. Assisted by Father (Peter) Salmon, (C.S.C.) and the Brothers (of Holy Cross) which Le Lac is to supply, the good will be done there. Gastineau has written to their Superior General. He will spend Holy Week in retreat with the Redemptorists at Rochester from where he will go to N(otre) D(ame University) to await (Blanc)'s decision as well as that of the Superior General. Gastineau asks (Blanc) to make his excuses to the Administrators and to tell all the members of their Congregation at the Asylum that he is sorry to cause them trouble.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 4to. - {6}
1854 Apr.5
Jourdant, S.J., Father Ant(hony) J.:
Baton Rouge, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
If it makes no difference to (Blanc), Father (Joseph) Lavay, (S.J.) would prefer the first Thursday of May for Confirmation in the missions. Since (Blanc) confirmed last year at Manchac, it would be Plaines' turn this year. Jourdant also asks (Blanc) to ordain (Charles) Booker, (S.J.) at the time of his visit here; Jourdant will have him begin his retreat to end on May 7. Jourdant will have a priest at (Blanc)'s disposal at the beginning of May for the temporary post of Lafayette. It is Father (Anthony) de Chaignon, (S.J.) who can be replaced at Springhill at present. When (Blanc) can send a priest to Lafayette, de Chaignon will go to Grand Coteau. Jourdant has written to (St. Vincent's House), Donaldsville as (Blanc) advised about those Catholic orphans. The Superior, Mother (Mary Austin Mudd, S.C.) replied that it was impossible to receive a single one more. Their house is filled to the attic. (St. Charles) College is doing fairly well; they have 41 boarders and 15 day scholars.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {7}
1854 Apr.5
Menet, S.J., Father J(ohn) B(aptist):
Sault Ste. Marie, (Michigan)
to Bishop (Peter Paul) Lefev(e)re:
Detroit, (Michigan)
Mr. McGregor leaves today for Detroit and Menet takes the opportunity to write. Up to now Menet has applied to Lefevere to draw the money for Brother Lacoste's (S.J.) school. On his trip to Detroit last September Menet asked Lefevere to give the $100 for the second semester 1853 to Mr. Palms to whom Menet was indebted. May he apply to Lefevere for the first semester of 1854 or shall he await the return of Bishop (Frederic) Baraga. He sends the signature of Brother (Lacoste). For a year building has been going on at the Sault; the population has increased a third, and with it, drinking (has increased).
III-2-i - A.L.S. - (French) - 1p. - 8vo. - {5}
1854 Apr.6
Choiselat, Ch(arles):
Paris, France
to Bishop (Peter Paul) Lefevere:
Detroit, (Michigan)
Choiselat sends Lefevere the balance of the allocation for 1853 for the diocese of Detroit. The total subsidy was 12,000 francs; Lefevere had collected for the Association and had on hand 2, 586 fr. 26c., on November 10 Choiselat had sent 2, 413 fr. 74 c.; herewith he sends the balance of 7,000. Choiselat signs as secretary-treasurer. In a postcript he asks that Lefevere let him know the amounts received from the Association of the Propagation in his diocese so that he may have the amount in the closing of the accounts at the end of January. Murphy and Company of Baltimore are to furnish that annals in English, French and German and the persons in charge of the Association can ask for them.
III-2-i - L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 8vo. - {3}
1854 Apr. 6
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
proposes making the fence in front of St. Patrick's Cemetery 285 feet long and 7 feet high, placing the posts 8 to 9 feet apart. (In Father J(ames) I(gnatius) Mullon's? hand): 285 feet, $370.50. (Added in another hand): gates at old cemetery $22.10 making a total of $392. (In Mullon's hand): Credit by Lot 12 by 13 feet $117. (On the back of this paper): Jan(uary) 29, 1854, John M(c)Carty,Ann Tarleton, Ch(arles?) Michael, Oct(ober) 7, Dominick McLaughlin, Ann Scally, Grayson.
VI-1-g - A.D. - 2pp. - 4to. - {8}
1854 Apr.6
(Vandevelde), Bishop James Oliver:
Natchez, (Mississippi)
to Archbishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisiana)
(Vandevelde) is back from a long trip. On his return he found a letter from T.E. Giraud telling of his departure from New Orleans and asking (Vandevelde) to settle the debt of his predecessor for $140 for a trip to Natchez in 1851 for inspecting, drawings, estimates, etc., to be directed care of R. Hern(?). What does Blanc think of these exorbitant charges? (Vandevelde) has received so many accounts which have been rejected that he is suspicious of those which continue to be presented. Bishop (Auguste Marie Martin) writes that he will visit Natchez the second week after Easter on his way to Europe. It is probable that (Vandevelde) will accompany him to New Orleans with Father (Julian) Guillou whom (Vandevelde) wishes to send to Biloxi to take care of the missions of E(ast) and W(est) Pascagoula. (Vandevelde) thanks Blanc for the Mass intentions sent to Father (Mathurin) Grignon. They will divide them between them as it is rare that they have more than 3 or 4 a month. Father Aylward returned yesterday from Port Gibson where he will take charge immediately after Easter. It will be difficult to gain the esteem and affection which Father (John Andrew) Fierabras had. The Cathedral is still in statu quo. (Vandevelde) hopes he can do something this year and can do something this year and can finish it next year provided the Assoc(iation) of the Prop(agation) of the Faith favors him. They are taking good care of Guillou who now is ready to devote himself again to the salvation of souls. P.S. If Blanc finds an occasion, he is to engage the Redemptorists to give a mission at Natchez and Vicksburg. (Vandevelde) will write again to Father (Clarence) Walworth, (C.SS.R.)
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 8vo. - {11.}
1854 April 6.
Preston, Thomas, S.:
New York, (New York)
to Brownson, (Orestes A.):
(Boston, Massachusetts)
The writer has benefited much from Brownson's article on the supremacy of the spiritual order. He considers himself obligated to Brownson. This subjuct "lies at the very foundation of the evils that afflicts society," He has no clear view of the sphere of temporal power. He feels certain the Review is doing and important work.
I-3-l - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 8vo. - {1}
1854 Apr.6
Dubuis, Father (Claude Marie):
San Antonio, (Texas)
to Father (Stephen Rousselon:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
There is a letter of exchange to be changed into California gold dust for Father (J. Masnou, C.M.), Superior of Cap Girardeau. Mr. Alsbury sends it; this name will explain the destination of it. In the Courant for June, Dubuis will recount an episode of his life and will thank (Rousselon) in person for the past, present, and future. Poor (Charles) Mathon is still having a hard time making a living. (On the back of the letter in Rousselon's hand): 196.65 given to Mr. Murnan(?) April 24.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 12mo. - {5}
(1854) Apr.7
Hardey, Father R(ichard) B.:
Vicksburg, (Mississippi)
to Father S(tephen) Rousselon:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
Rousselon's favor of (March) 27 is before him. The wine arrived yesterday. Hardey will say 21 Masses. He has almost completed the exterior ornamental part of his church. All is going well and his health is excellent. He hopes their town will not be visited as last year by epidemic.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - 1p. - 4to. - {2}
1854 April 8
Baraga, Frederick, Bishop of Amyzonia:
Vienna, (Austria)
to Bishop (Peter Paul) Lefevere:
Detroit, (Michigan)
Baraga hoped to be back in America before the end of May, but the marriage of the Austrian Emperor Francis Joseph on April 24, keeps him in Vienna. Almost all the Bishops of the empire will be present and Baraga has been asked to represent the American church, which has received from Austria so many and great benefits. As he will not be able to be home on time to receive from the government the ennuities for the Indian schools of the Upper Peninsular, he asks the Bishop to collect those destined for the schools under his care. When he was in Rome he had two audiences with Pope (Pius IX). Baraga thinks the Holy Father is as good and amiable as a mortal can be, and that he is far too good for the age and especially for the Italians. He gave Baraga a beautiful chalice. Baraga has now found 5 priests who are coming with him to America; 3 speak only German; 1 speaks German, French, and Italian; 1 speaks English and French. He has selected these 5 out of 12 who offerred themselves. He intends to engage 5 more and that will be enough for his little diocese at present. Baraga would like to have the Bishop's letters to him addressed in care of Father (Joseph) Muller, Redemptorist, New York.
III-2-i - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 8vo. - {2}
1854 Apr.8
Benson, Joseph:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Benson received from Archbishop (Anthony) Blanc $500 cash and also a note for $500 payable February 1, 1855 with six percent interest on account for painting done at St. Patrick's Church. (Written and signed for Benson) by John Benson.
VI-1-g - Receipt - 1p. - 16mo. - {3}
1854 Apr.8
Cadou, Father:
St. Pierre, Martinique
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc):
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Father Morel has informed him of (Blanc)'s letter of December 30 in which (Blanc) asked him to send him some priests. Cadou asks to be received. He does not know English. He would prefer a place in town; he has been in Martinique 8 years and has spent six years in town. (P.S.) He will be ready to leave on (Blanc)'s reply. He has all the necessary papers.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {2}
1854 Apr.8
Blanc, Archbishop Ant(hony):
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
On February 1, 1855, Blanc promises to pay J(osep)h Benson $500 with interest at six percent. (Endorsed by Benson).
VI-1-g - A. Note S. - 2pp. - 16mo. - {1}
1854 Apr.9
(Blanchet), Archbishop F(rancis) N(orbert):
Saint Paul, (Oregon)
to Archbishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Father (Francis) Cenas, on leaving Oregon, offered to collect for (Blanchet)'s mission; this is why he named Cenas vicar general. Being too fast in passing from one place to another, (Blanchet)'s letters and instructions did not reach Cenas at Zacatecas, Mexico, Havana. Yesterday (Blanchet) received letters dated February 1 and 7 from New Orleans asking (Blanchet) to write. This he is doing, enclosing a letter for Cenas (no enclosure) which he asks (Blanc) to give him or send on if he has left. The objective being lacking, (Blanchet) withdraws his permission to collect or to collect in Spanish countries as (Blanchet) hopes to go there himself. Time was lacking to accompany (Blanchet)'s memoir with a note to Blanc; it will follow soon. Rome has spoken, the suit is finished. To him they said "the facts vanished"(?); to his brother, Bishop (Augustin Magloire Blanchet) "the facts ruled out!"(?).
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 1p. - 4to. - {3}
1854 Apr.9
Jourdant, S.J., Father Ant(hony) J.:
Baton Rouge, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Jourdant asks (Blanc) to set the day for the three ordinations of Mr. Booker, (S.J.). If Jourdant spoke of Sunday, it was because it seemed that (Blanc) had only the 4th to the 9th. As Booker has a class to teach he will not lose time from his students. Father (Joseph) Lavay, (S.J.) went to Comite last week; he will have there about 12 people for Confirmation. Lavay wanted to have them come to Baton Rouge, only 8 miles, but there are only 2 horses among them. If (Blanc) could stay until the 14th perhaps he could satisfy these poor people. The penitentiary would demand another Sunday. Jourdant has just written to Bishop (Augustus Mary) Martin about Father (Vital) Gilles, (S.J.); there should be no difficulty in making the arrangements which Father (Auguste Simon) Paris has proposed. As soon as Jourdant hears from Martin he will send Gilles to St. Michael.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {6}
1854 Apr.10
Delahoussaye, S.:
Franklin, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Delahoussaye wrote several days ago about the danger threatening them. Today new details have reached him. He knows that (Blanc) is ill-disposed toward the Catholics of Franklin because of the sad condition of their church. He and his mother (Mrs. L. Delahoussaye?) and several others have decided to make a trip throughout their parish to collect the necessary money. They are waiting for the sale of the pews which Mr. Black had turned over to the creditors of the church. If this sum does not suffice, they will go again. Inclosed is an account of what is happening here; their entire parish is the prey of fanatics. Since the paper appeared, more than 100 new proselytes have joined their (Methodist) church. Mrs. Parkinson, a good Catholic until now, has gone over to them with her whole family. Delahoussaye asks (Blanc) to send them a good preacher, capable of fighting back against these forces. Two ministers live here and two others came from New Orleans yesterday to join them. Delahoussaye's mother was here yesterday, she begs (Blanc) to have pity on them. Delahoussaye went to their pastor and asked him to forbid their Catholics to go to the Methodist church. He did so energetically. If (Blanc) could send them a preacher who speaks the two languages, especially English, they would assume the expenses of his trip. Mrs. Bernard will give him a room and Delahoussaye will take charge of his meals. If it was only for one or two weeks, they would be grateful. These are men of great talent, distinguished orators, against whom they must fight. Delahoussaye has heard that they wish to propose a debate with Catholic ministers. (Enclosed is a clipping from a newspaper of) April 6, 1854 telling of the labors of the Methodist Episcopal Church for the conversion of souls. Reverend Mr. Read of Pattersonville has come to the aid of the ministry so services may be expected for some days yet.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 16mo. - {8}
1854 Apr.10
(Hughes), Archbishop John:
Hutchinson's Island, (Florida)
to Archbishop (Anthony) Blanc:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
The accounts of the weather at New York have determined (Hughes) to prolong his stay in the south for a week or two. This island, about 50 miles south of Charleston, belongs to a convert lady of New York. She has built a little chapel, has a priest sent by Bishop Reynolds and is doing all she can to make her slaves Catholic. Being at the consecration of the beautiful Charleston Cathedral, she claimed the fulfillment of a promise he made her some years ago to visit her island; he will spend Holy Week here. (Hughes) encloses a letter from Father (Leon) Fillion respecting a clergyman now in (Blanc)'s diocese and who is, unfortunately, but too well known in the state of New York. He was stationed for some time at Oswego from which he ran away leaving scandal and debts. (Hughes) thought it his duty to put (Blanc) on his guard. (Hughes)'s health continues good although he took a bad cold in the cars between Montgomery and Savanah. He sends respects to Fathers Perché and Rousselon.
- A.L.S. -
1854 Mar.31
Fillion, Father L(eon):
Charleston, S(outh) C(arolina)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc):
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
The name of Father (Stephen Jules) Foltier, one of Fillion's former college friends, appears in the Catholic Almanac this year, in the list of (Blanc)'s clergy. Fillion feels he must inform (Blanc) of a note Bishop Angebau(l)t of Angers wrote him on December 24, 1849: "They say that Foltier of St. Laud has succeeded in getting a place and is exercising his ministry. How can a stranger be received without asking for information?" If (Blanc) desires to learn Foltier's past record, Fillion will give the facts as they have come to his knowledge. It is a painful duty but the interest of religion demands it.
- A.L.S. - (French) -
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (English & French) - 4pp. - 4to. - {6}
1854 Apr.10
Dumartrait, A.:
St. Martinville, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop Ant(hony) Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Dumartrait has just received Blanc's letter of the 7th by the Delia. Judge E. Simon returned to New Orleans last week so Dumartrait can talk with him about the succession of the late Father (Anthony Desiré) Mégret. Father (Ange Marie) Jan, their pastor is at Vermillionville just now for a retreat and has sent them Father (Louis) Dufour who has been here since last Friday and will stay until after Easter. Their church was crowded yesterday. (P.S.) The Delia will leave at noon on the 15th.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {5}
1854 Apr.10
Morisot, Father (J.M.):
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Morisot thanks Rousselon for getting his letters from the post office and sending them. He will carry out the Archbishop's orders. But last Sunday, "he" said Mass while Morisot was in the confessional. Morisot was much surprised at "his" arrival and as he only saw him on the altar, he could not talk with him. At present he is at the home of his sister-in-law and is looking for a boat to return to France. P.S. Morisot is preparing the children for First Communion which he has set for Quasimodo Sunday. He counts on 60 communicants. He is so-so. Instructions for Lent were well carried out at Annunciation Church. Morisot is having some work done to stop the water from coming in the gallery, then he will have it paved in front of the church.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {2}
1854 Apr.10
Catholic Telegraph:
Cincinnati, (Ohio)
to Archbishop (Anthony) Blanc:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
Receipt for $5 for the Telegraph up to July 1, 1855. Receipted by John P. Walsh, publisher.
VI-1-g - Receipt - 1p. - 16mo. - {2}
1854 Apr.10
Schlatre, M. and Louis Desobry:
Plaquemine, L(ouisian)a
to Archbishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
They counted the collection taken on Easter Sunday and find it amounts to $63.50.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 4to. - {2}
1854 Apr.10
Dupuy, Father Enn(emond):
Iberville, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Dupuy answered (Blanc)'s last letter the same day he received it. As he has received no reply, he thinks (Blanc) is awaiting information from the other parishes. Before or after May 21, for St. Raphael, it is (Blanc)'s choice; it could be set for May 18. Since Dupuy's last letter, they have had a waterspout which almost crushed the house. The damage in the neighborhood is quite great. Many People are still sick from fright. Also they have cholera and measles; Dupuy has much work.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 1p. - 4to. - {2}
(18)54 Apr.10
Meagher, (O.S.A.), Father G(eorge) A.:
Villanova College,
(Pennsylvania)
to The Catholic Messenger:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
A bill for $11.50 for advertising was received a few days ago. Meagher has no recollection of having ordered them to insert their prospectus. He merely inquired what would be the charge for 6 months. He never received an answer and does not feel bound to pay the $11.50 when he pays other Catholic papers $15 for a whole year. Some charge but $12.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 16mo. - {1}
1854 Apr.11
Choiselat, Ch(arles):
Paris, (France)
to Archbishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
The closing of the financial year of 1853 shows new benefits which put at their disposition sufficient funds to pay the allocations which the Councils (of the Association of the Propagation of the Faith) had voted. Choiselat sends Blanc today the balance of 5,000 francs. On November 17, Choiselat asked Blanc to deduct the 2900 francs which Father Rousselon said he had collected for the Association; Choiselat puts the remaining 1,000 at Blanc's disposition and sends 1,000 francs, making up the total of 5,000. He is sending Bishop (James Oliver) Vandevelde the 3,650 francs left to pay on the allocation for Natchez. (P.S.) Choiselat hastened to show the Councils Blanc's touching letter of January 24; he sympathizes with all of Blanc's troubles.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 4to. - {4}
(18)54 Apr.11
Hardey, Father R(ichard) B.:
Vicksburg, (Mississippi)
to Archbishop A(nthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisian)a
Hardey sends the Sentinel, a newspaper in this city. In it Blanc will see the public defense of Father S(tephen) H. Montg(omer)y. Hardey will make no comment but he feels that Blanc will be fully satisfied that Hardey's opinion is confirmed by his conduct. Hardey may be forced to notice the matter in a public way. Part of the defense alludes to the churching of a lady after Mass. Hardey is in good health; no one knows what he has suffered in endeavoring to put all in order here. The exterior of the church is nearly completed. The congregation is at present very large. Hardey knows of no Catholic worthy of the name, save the editor of the paper he sends and now he cannot consider him worthy who sides with M(ontgomery). Hardey is also sending a paper to their Bishop. Whether he or Blanc will do anything rests with them. Hardey is so represented that it appears he may be obliged to act to save himself and religion from reproach.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 4to. - {3}
1854 Apr.12
D'Aquin, Eugénie:
Paris, (France)
to (Archbishop Anthony Blanc?:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
After reading the letter which (Blanc) wrote to her mother, Eugénie cannot resist telling how sad her soul is without his support and advice. The affair treated in his letter set in motion(?) the profound conviction that it was better for her parents and for them that they remain in France. In leaving, their parents would have been obliged to take with them her sister Uranie (? D'Aquin?) and Paul (D'Aquin?). Her sister could not remain here without her mother; there are too many dangers to her soul and reputation. It would be impossible for Eugenie or her sister Elisabeth (d'Aquin?) to take charge of her. If their mother took Uranie to New Orleans she would leave with a bitterness which would make her life painful. It would be a source of discord between Amélie (d'Aquin?), Arthur (d'Aquin?) and her which (Blanc) can judge of. Eugénie's brother also wishing(?) to leave, it would be impossible for her mother to leave him here in a room and his heart would be wounded. Eugénie could not take him because she has her daughters with her. Her sister could not take him either. Her mother had suffered so much at New Orleans, from Arthur's conduct and that of her sister-in-law that she could no longer face the same trials. Lise and Uranie are near Eugénie. Lise is sensible and conforms to the demands of family life. Uranie is more difficult; she demands much supervision. Eugénie is soon going to take back Berthe (d'Aquin?). She needs family life; she will share with her sisters, a teacher who will come to the house every day. Thomas (d'Aquin?) and Eugene (d'Aquin) are at the little seminary. Eugénie is extremely satisfied with the way they are being brought up, especially Thomas. He will make his First Communion in June. (Blanc)'s little goddaughter is growing. Eugénie's health is not good; the doctor says her cure will be slow. She is glad she came to France. She regrets that she can no longer see Amélie and all he relatives. (Blanc) is to give her regards to Madame St. Michael, Madame Ste. Seraphine and Madame Ste. Angèle. P.S. She is writing without her mother's knowledge as she does not want this letter to influence her in any way. Her sister Elisabeth sends regards.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - 12mo. - {9}
1854 Apr.13
Monsseaux, P. H.:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
A bill for $28.80 for slate and marble. Receipted May 18 by P. Chevalier.
VI-1-g - Receipt - 2pp. - 16mo. - {2}
1854 Apr.13
(Purcell), Archbishop J(ohn) B(aptist):
Cin(cinnati, Ohio)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
(Blanc)'s letter of the 31st is thankfully received. (Purcell) thought that (Blanc) might come by railroad; it is now 6 or 7 days to Cincinnati but he sees (Blanc)'s letter was ten days on the road. The express beats the mail. Bishop (Ignatius A.) Reynolds invited (Purcell) to his fine ceremony which was to be last Thursday though he knew all (Purcell) had to do here. He had a church to dedicate, etc. last Sunday. Archbishop (Francis Patrick) K(enrick) is said to have a carbuncle, unsafe and unpleasant thing enough. Who was the John (Hitselberger? The paper is torn here) stabbed by an enraged mother whose daughter he had seduced? The brother of Father Alexander (L. Hitselberger?)? (Purcell) is anxious to know for certain reasons. The bearer is a very good young Baltimorian; perhaps (Blanc) might venture to ordain him if the climate suits him. Cardinal Fransoni writes that Bishop (Frederic) Baraga wishes to have his vicariate made a regular diocese and that the Nuncio (Archbishop Cajetan Bedini) had arrived and informed them of the warm reception given him by American bishops and Catholics generally. (Purcell) does not know the first on the list for Chicago; he has already expressed his opinion to Rome against the selection of the third, though a very good priest. (P.S.) (Purcell) thanks (Blanc) for his kind answer about the Ursulines; he has not broached the subject to them thus far. He will do so toward the end of the academic year.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 12mo. - {9}
1854 April 15
Garesche, Alex:
St. Louis, (Missouri)
to Brownson, O(restes) A.:
(Boston, Massachusetts)
Garesche tells Brownson he has received two copies of the Review and asks that this error be corrected. He mentions sending to Brownson a number of the Shepherd (of the Valley) with an article marked for his attention, from a lecture given by Garesche's cousin. He says that Brownson sees that the cousin is entirely converted to Brownson's position. Garesche tells of the conversion to Catholicity of a Miss Hull, whom Brownson met at Dr. Van Studafords. She joined the Church despite bitter family opposition. Garesche asks Brownson to write a line to a Dr. V. and says that, because of the influence Brownson has over Dr. V., this might be the means of perfecting the work of his conversion.
I-3-l - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 4to. - {3}
1854 Apr.15(?)
Lacour,Father P(eter) M.:
Liberty, Texas
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Some days ago, being in Galveston, Lacour showed Bishop (John Mary) Odin the impossibility of building a church at Liberty unless he found help elsewhere. Odin advised him to take a trip to Louisiana to ask for help. Although Lacour does not think (Blanc) will oppose it, he asks for permission to leave. He proposes to leave toward the end of May if (Blanc)'s reply is favorable. As he is to make the trip by land, he will visit the Catholics of Calentior(?).
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 1p. - 4to. - {4}
1854 April 15
Sorin, C.S.C., Father Ed(ward):
Notre Dame du Lac, Indiana
to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
He thanks Purcell for the invitation to be present at the consecration of Bishop (Josue M.) Young. Sorin had nearly resolved to go, but everyday brings fresh trouble in this world: he would meet there Bishop (George Carrell) of Covington who recently played a little trick on Sorin, and Bishop (Peter Paul) Lefevere whose two last letters, together with one from the Superior of the Cleveland Seminary, for Purcell's perusal. Sorin knows that the first letter was given to the young seminarian after the receipt of Father M. Caron's communication on the strength of which his dismissal from Detroit Seminary was pronounced. How could Lefevere recommend him as he does in that letter? Last summer when Sorin told Lefevere that he intended Mr. Monicum for Holy Orders, Lefevere kept a complete silence on his character. As to the Sister Providence lately dismissed by the Visitatrix of the (Sisters of Holy Cross) on the formal order of the Rector, Sorin is sure she must have laughed in her sleeves at seeing herself so readily believed in her own case. Sorin is at a loss to understand how the Bishop could take on himself such a weighty decision before hearing the word of the other party. Sorin cannot go in the presence of those two prelates before he makes peace with them.
- A.L.S. - 4pp. - 8vo. -
1853 Dec. 6
(Lefevere), Peter Paul, Bishop of Detroit:
Detroit, Michigan
to Father Francis Cointet:
Lefevere introduces the bearer Martin Van Niewenhugsen who has resided in his seminary for some time. During his stay at Detroit his conduct has been befitting a seminarian and as he wishes to join the Congregation of Holy Cross, Lefevere recommends him to Father Cointet. (To which is added a note by Father F(rancis) Cointet to Father Alexis Granger asking him to examine him and admit young man if Granger thinks it convenient.Cointet says he supposes the bishop would not recommended the man if he were not worthy.) (the next letter copied is as follows)
1854 March 28
Caron,A:
Cleveland, Ohio
(Apparently addressed to Father Sorin) At (Sorin's) request he gives some information about Niewenhugsen. He came to the seminary at Sandusky with recommendation from Father (James) Conlan. Caron seeing that he had neither vocation or talent decided to send him away but not until the vacation. The young fellow, sensing this, tried to stir up trouble among the fellow Hollanders, then sent to Detroit where he was admitted as a seminarian. Bishop Lefevere asked Caron if he had been sent away on account of morals, but Caron told him that it was merely because of lack of talent. Three or four months later he received word from Father Conlan that there had been some charge of immorality against the young man. He suggested that Conlan inform the Bishop of Detroit of this matter, but Conlan feared to do this. An enquiry among the seminarians at Sandusky revealed nothing evil except an unusual attention to the treatise on marriage. For the rest the young man is a good carpenter, a good gardener and orderly in his work. (Signature and salutation copied by Cointet.) (Added to the above is an extract of a letter of Bishop Lefevere to Father Sorin dated April 6, 1854, in French). Lefevere has had an interview with Sister Providence of the (Sisters of Holy Cross) who has been sent away from her community. He has not been able to find a sufficient reason for sending into the world an old sister without means of subsistence, and not to recognize her vows. In justice he thinks that the community owes her wages for her work for the time she has been in the community. (Cointet then adds an extract from the "Dossier des Soeurs" no. 8) It accounts how Sister Marie de la Providence came to Notre Dame in 1844 and was employed in various work in the kitchen and infirmary but was removed because of certain faults. She was sent to Canada in 1847 but was returned as unbearable. She was penalized after another failure in the infirmary but was restored in 1851. Again penalized in 1853, she was sent to the orphans and then dismissed by Father (Basil Antoine Moreau) through the visitor in March, 1854. As she refused to accept an arrangement to live in Bertrand they left her to herself with $20. She merited by her conduct her dismissal 20 times rather than once. (Document ends here.)
II-4-m - L. - 4pp. - 8vo. - (Partly French) - {17}
1854 Apr.16
Blanc,Archbishop Ant(hony):
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
By February 1, 1855, Blanc promises to pay J(osep)h Benson $500 with interest at 6 percent. (Endorsed by Benson).
VI-1-g - A. Note S. - 2pp. - 16mo. - {1}
1854 Apr.16
Blanc,Archbishop Ant(hony):
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
On February 1, 1855, Blanc promises to pay J(osep)h Benson $500 with interest at 6 percent. (Endorsed by Benson).
VI-1-g - A. Note S. - 2pp. - 16mo. - {1}
1854 Apr.16
Lamy, John,Bishop of Santa Fe:
Paris, France
to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
Lamy arrived last Tuesday. He has seen Purcell's seminarians, Bender and Goetz. Everything is quiet in Paris. The Emperor is popular. Lamy made good passage from Boston, only nine days on sea. On Palm Sunday he stopped at Birmingham but did not see Father Newman. Lamy was all day with Bishop Ullathorne. At Boulogne he went to see Les Soeurs Ursulines. Lamy will most likely leave in France his two Mexican boys.
II-4-m - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 8vo. - {2}
1854 Apr.17
Conway, Daniel:
St. Louis, (Missouri)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Conway requests (Blanc) to let him know where is the son of Hugh Conway who died in Carol(l)ton, New Orleans, five years ago. Daniel is informed that (Blanc) took charge of the boy (Patrick James Conway). A friend told him that the boy was at school in Mobile (?). Daniel is a brother to Hugh. If he knew where the boy was he would write to him and do all he could for him. If (Blanc) would consent to let the boy come to him this summer, Daniel would pay his way. Daniel would like to have him with him but as (Blanc) has taken charge, he knows he will be better off. (Blanc)'s letter is to be directed in care of George King, St. Louis.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 4to. - {4}
(18)54 Apr.17
Paris, Father A(uguste) S(imon):
St. Michael, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Paris received (Blanc)'s two letters, one on Friday, the last one this morning. Father (Claude Anthony) Tholomier will be at St. John Baptist Monday evening to bring (Blanc) Tuesday after Confirmation. They hope (Blanc) will be here on Wednesday the 26th. If (Blanc) does not have a steamboat Sunday or Monday morning, it will be necessary to send a telegram to tell Tholomier not to go to St. John Baptist. Does not (Blanc) think that it would have been better to stop in going to Plaquemine or returning? If they receive no contrary orders, (Blanc) will be here Tuesday to confirm the children at the Convent Wednesday, the 26th. Paris has received a letter from Father (Anthony J.) Jourdan (t, S.J.) which gives him hopes that Father (Vital) Gilles, (S.J.) will come to replace him. If (Blanc) arranges otherwise, they will be satisfied with (Blanc)'s wishes.
VI-1-g - A.L.S - (French) - 1p. - 4to. - {4}
1854 Apr.17
Raviol, Father J(ohn) F.:
Opelousas, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc):
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Raviol writes to renew the request he has already made. His condition is becoming worse. On March 19 he could hardly finish Mass. He remained in bed until Palm Sunday; 3 persons were there to turn him over. He is now on his feet but incapable of bending his right knee. He asks (Blanc) to have pity on him so that he can go home and settle his affairs in his parish.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {1}
1854 Apr.18
Raymond, Father G(ilbert):
Angers, (France)
to Archbishop (Anthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
On reading Blanc's letter of February 23, Raymond could not help but smile in seeing the "sad conflicting thoughts which marred your joy and went deep into your heart." To console Blanc a little: if he thought that Raymond would at last tire of opposition and be tempted to do like Blanc's nephew (Victor Blanc?), Raymond hopes that Blanc would be deceived. Raymond can regard the matter settled and granted and this permission has not been revoked. The year he spent at Angers was only to better examine the will of God and has only confirmed his dispositions. This is what Raymond told their Superior when he was here several days ago. When vacation comes, Raymond will be ready to leave. Blanc speaks of the urgent need for good priests. Doubtless there are many bishops in France who would easily let their subjects go there but there are others who impose almost insurmountable obxtacles. If it were a question only of defective ones, it would be a way to get rid of them. Blanc says that he had written a letter of advice to a priest who, he learned after he was in the diocese, had been sent away from somewhere else. It is probably a priest from the diocese of Angers. Raymond noticed in the Catholic Almanac for 1854 that at St. Mary Magdalen, Abbeville, there was a Father (Stephen Jules) Foltier. Foltier no doubt went to America with letters of recommendation. However when he was vicar in one of the parishes of Angers, he had given great scandal and was also summoned before the court about some deposits of money. He could not remain in France; he went to America. He got into Oswego in the diocese of Albany. There again, he gave scandal and was obliged to leave. He returned to France and spent some time at La Trappe at Melleray in a sort of hostelry. If it is Foltier that Blanc has had to send away, Raymond is sorry; if not he will be very happy. Blanc says that for good priests there is no more danger in America than in France. In France, Raymond has seen fervent, zealous seminarians turn into negligent priests. In America, he sees some priests dominated by the love of money, having a certain zeal but applying themselves to material things. Father de Montfort made 200 missions by himself; the little community of missionaries he left after him has continued this good. It seems to Raymond that he, alone, would be useful but associated with fervent companions his efforts would be much more effective. Now Raymond will give some details about the young men about whom he has already said a word to Blanc. The first, who has been a priest a year, is Raymond's brother, Father (J. Francois Raymond). He was at the seminary at Clermont for 4 years and for three years at St. Sulpice in Paris. Their men in Paris did all they could to have him enter the Society, but he wished to go to the missions. (Francois) confided in G(ilbert) and found that their wishes were identical. (Francois) was not the first in his class but he has an excellent spirit, pious, zealous, and humble. He has great zeal for the negroes. In trying to get him in their order, they tried to persuade him that the Bishops would allow them to follow their little rules and to live as they wished. After receiving the first letter that Blanc wrote saying that they had his approbation, they were overjoyed and (Francois) could reply to any further objections. They They gave (Francois) Father Carrière as confessor, which bothered him, as he is very timid but Carrière finally let him follow his bent. (Francois) has had a little experience in the ministry as he was the head of catechism in the parish of St. Sulpice. The Bishop of Clermont had destined (Francois) to become a member of a diocesan missionary community which he had formed. There are also two more students who have been under G(ilbert) for two years; both wish to accompany him. They are about 23 years old. G(ilbert) fears that their parents will object but they have decided to go without telling them. The difficulty will come from the Bishops. If it comes to the worst, G(ilbert) will pay back their expenses in the seminary. The young men could be ordained in two years and during that time, G(ilbert) could teach them many things useful for the missions. If he could make a tour of the seminaries, he could find other useful subjects. But he cannot leave Angers at present. Father Boué, the pastor of Ainay, has said that they could not count on Blanc's nephew but he added that he was going to send Blanc three subjects from the seminary at Lyons. G(ilbert) asks Blanc to write that he wants them to come. G(ilbert) fears only one thing - affluence. When a community is poor, it does much good. That vast parish, bordering on Texas would please G(ilbert) greatly because there are neither priests nor Protestant ministers there and these poor people have been abandone. Being next to Texas, it would give some little relationship with the diocese of Bishop (John Mary Odin) Audin. Their objective is to do good not only in the place they are but throughout the whole diocese. G(ilbert) has mentioned neither Blanc nor Louisiana to these men. Their affairs are still secret. (Francois) is taking courses at the seminary in Paris and G(ilbert) must wait to settle his affairs. Paris is a little later than Angers; that would give him time to go to Lyons. He would also see Blanc's cousin, the pastor of Ainay. If Blanc replies, would he reply in such a way that G(ilbert) could show it to the young men who wish to join him. Also, if he would write a recommendation in case they need it and a few lines for the Nuncio in Paris. G(ilbert) regards it as being decided that he is to work in Blanc's vineyard.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 6pp. - 4to. - {8}
1854 Apr. 18
(Vandevelde), Bishop James Oliver:
Natchez, (Mississippi)
to Archbishop A(nthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, L(ouisia)na
Father (Julian) Guillou is leaving for Pascagoula; (Vandevelde) knows that he will be among friends at the Archbishopric. He will tell Blanc of the blessings sent to Natchez since Palm Sunday. (Vandevelde) has written to Father (Stanislaus) Buteux to come to meet him to serve as a guide. (Vandevelde) received Blanc's letter of April 10. He wrote to (T.E.?) Giraud that he would settle with him at the time of his visit to New Orleans. (Vandevelde) foresees that he could not leave Natchez with Bishop (Augustus Mary Martin) of Natchitoches. The election of trustees is to take place May 1; and then he plans to begin the subscription to finish the church. He hears nothing from the Redemptorists; if they do not come or if they do not come until mid-May, (Vandevelde) will try to meet Blanc at Baton Rouge on May 4 or 5 and then go to New Orleans where he has affairs to settle.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 8vo. - {7}
1854 Apr.18
White, Father Charles I.:
Pikesville, (Maryland)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Having undertaken to write an historical sketch of the Catholic Church in the English American Colonies and under the republic, White applies for the loan of such letters, documents, etc. as (Blanc) may have in his archives, relative to religion in Louisiana. Enclosed (no enclosure) is a commendatory letter from Archbishop (Francis Patrick Kenrick) and another from Bishop (Martin John) Spalding who have promised their assistance. If (Blanc) approves, he is to forward by Adam's Express, anything he considers useful. P.S. Any package may be addressed in care of Lucas Brothers, Baltimore.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 12mo. - {3}
1854 Apr.19
Daly, Owen:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc):
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
A receipt for $225 for the balance due for work done at St. Patrick's Cemetery and at the gate of the old cemetery.
VI-1-g - Receipt S. - 1p. - 32mo. - {2}
1854 Apr.19
Mina, Father Ve. M(odest)e:
St. John Baptist, (Louisiana)
to Father E(tienne) Rousselon:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
John Baptist Cambre wishes to marry Mathilde Cambre and asks for a dispensation. P.S. At the first opportunity, Mina will send the 60 piastres in question. (In Rousselon's hand on the letter); April 25, St. Peter's, Eduard Rankin and Elizabeth Nelson, mixed(?); St. Ann's, Patrick (Clancy?) Clency and Margarita Finn.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {7}
1854 Apr.19
Tholomier, Father (Claude Anthony):
St. Michael, (Louisiana)
to Father (Stephen Rousselon:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Tholomier sends by Narcisse Landry, one of their most worthy parishioners: 1. 100 piastres, the Easter collection for the diocesan seminary. 2. 54 piastres for the Association of the Propagation of the Faith; (Rousselon) is to give Landry 8 or 10 numbers of the Annals. If possible he is to give them copies of the numbers they lack.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 1p. - 12mo. - {2}
1854 Apr.20
New Orleans Insurance Company:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony) Blanc:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
A meeting of the stockholders will be held on the 22nd where the presence of Father (Peter Francis) Beauprez is requested.
VI-1-g - Printed Form - 2pp. - 4to. - {2}
(18)54 Apr.20
Thèves, Father (Anthony):
New Iberia, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Thèves, has received the magnificent bell which Mrs. Dubuclet has presented to the church. He asks (Blanc) to appoint someone to bless it. They began work yesterday on the church. All the materials are ready; the work has been given to good workmen at a quite moderate price. He believes all will be finished quickly. Eugène Leblanc and Josephine Boudin ask for a dispensation.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 12mo. - {4}
1854 Apr.21
Leahy, P.:
Natchez, (Mississippi)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Leahy addressed a letter to (Blanc) on the 15th of last month for Father Tho(ma)s Burke enclosing a a draft in his favor of Fuller and Vaughan for $175. As he has not heard from Burke since, he asks (Blanc) if it has reached him.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - 1p. - 4to. - {3}
1854 Apr.22
Cretin, Bishop Joseph:
St. Paul, (Minnesota)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
(Blanc)'s letter of March 25 reached Cretin only today. Letters from Lyons arrive here in three weeks. He is very sorry about the trouble that Elisabeth Develin is in. It is not Cretin's fault; he thought he was obliging this family by seeing that this sum reached her. Cretin gave her husband's brother, last January, an order for $50 on Father (John Arthur?) Poyet telling him that he could claim 40 piastres from (Blanc) which were due Cretin and promised(?) by Father (Edward E. ) Legendre and that Cretin would send the other $10 by banknote or an order of Mr. Welch of St. Louis. It seems this note never reached this lady and was not presented to Poyet. Cretin sends another order for $50 to (Blanc) on Welch. If this lady has already gone through the city or has already received the sum, he asks (Blanc) to destroy the order. Does Cretin have any more to expect from the late Legendre? They have not yet received the ordos.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 16mo. - {5}
1854 Apr.23
(Martin), Bishop Aug(uste) M(ar)ie:
Alexandria, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
(Martin) is here against his wish. Father (Hector) Figarri, (C.M.) insisted so at Natchitoches where he came to see him, that (Martin) visit Alexandria that (Martin) could not refuse. This trip upsets all (Martin)'s plans. It is impossible to leave Natchitoches without putting things in the hands of the (Jesuits); they should arrive today on the Compromise. (Martin) cannot leave before Thursday, to arrive at New Orleans on Saturday evening or Sunday. Tomorrow Bishop (James Oliver) Vandevelde will receive from (Martin) a message announcing that (Martin) will see him at (Blanc)'s. Easter Sunday (Martin) confirmed 32 at the Cathedral; on Wednesday he baptised 4 young Protestants, of whom two were from the boarding school and a young man, W. Campbell, recently married. Thursday 30 First Communions at the boarding school and 60 Confirmations. Father (John F.) Cambiaso, (S.J.) arrived that morning before Confirmation and preached at all the ceremonies. Cambiaso is here with (Martin) also waiting for a boat. Here only 6 Confirmations; they were not prepared. Everything is going well here and at Natchitoches; the convent is doing better than ever.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 12mo. - {7}
1854 Apr.24
(Blanchet), Archbishop F(rancis) N(orbert):
Oregon City, (Oregon)
to Archbishop Ant(hony) Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
In sending Blanc in the mail, last March, the report which he presented to the S(acred) C(ongregation) of Propaganda in 1846, (Blanchet) did not have time to send an explanation with it. His purpose, in sending it to Blanc, was not to arouse hostile dispositions against the regular clergy, whose importance and necessity (Blanchet) knows but solely to let Blanc know the first cause of the accusations brought to the National Council of Baltimore against him and his brother, Bishop (Augustin Magloire Alexander Blanchet) of Nesqualy, as well as a short history of the discovery of Oregon, its colonization, the establishment of its first missions, and its erection as an ecclesiastical province. Reading the report, Blanc would soon understand how great Blanchet's boldness was, when learning at Rome what had transpired in his Apostolic Vicariate during his absence, he dared to attack the regulars in what they hold most dear. Although the S(acred) C(ongregation) had only discussed the question of the erection of the province, without opening up that of the privileges of regulars, they began to regard (Blanchet) as an enemy of the regulars and, as a repercussion, the Bishop of Nesqualy was placed in the same category. Thus, the unkindly interpretation of (Blanchet)'s intentions and his legitimate actions on returning from Europe. Regarded in the same way was his opposition to some of his priests entering religious novitiates, on arriving from Europe with them at the moment of setting up everything. It was the same with some severe acts which the good order of the diocese demanded. The result was the charges conveyed to Rome and from Rome to the National Council of Baltimore "of treating the seculars quite harshly and the regulars especially so and of being their bitter enemies." These, among others, were the accusations which the Cardinal Prefect communicated to Archbishop (Francis Patrick Kenrick) in his letters of September 10 and November 19, 1851. The accused Bishops who did not know what was going on, learned about it with astonishment, at the Council. They gave such explanations as circumstances allowed them. In their eyes, they were enough to ask the Council to discuss them with the Holy See, but the Fathers of the Council declared "Resolved that there is no evidence for complaints brought against the Archbishop of Oregon city or the Bishop of Nesqualy by certain religious societies in their dioceses;" the cause returned to Rome. (Blanchet)'s brother wrote from Baltimore to the Holy Father who sent him a very consoling reply. It was followed by one from the Cardinal Prefect stating that the facts were to be referred to the Council. F(rancis) N(orbert)'s explanations and proofs, sent from Montreal and Oregon City to His Holiness and some to the Cardinal Prefect, had the same result. The Superiors of the regulars, when questioned, replied that they had never written to Rome against the Bishops. Also, the claim of the Superior of the Oblates (of Mary Immaculate) who wanted the bishops of the country to signify that his order, on leaving Oregon City would have a right to the value of the funds spent in improving the missions from whatever source they might come. The S(acred) C(ongregation), on this occasion, declared through the Council (of the Association of the Propagation of the Faith) in December, 1851 that "the prime intention of the faithful is not to a grant exclusively applicable to the person of the Bishops or other heads of missions but that the grant is destined for the support of all the workers in the mission and to the mission itself." So it has pleased God to confound the designs of those who wished to put them in disgrace. Now that Rome has spoken the prejudices will no doubt abate and the truth be known. This is the explanation which should have accompanied the report. If he sees fit Blanc is to put it with the report. P.S. (Blanchet) hopes that Blanc has had his letter long ago informing him that the title of V(icar) General given to Father (Francis J.) Cenas, to collect in favor of (Blanchet)'s mission, was withdrawn at the end of Cenas' mission for him. Father Lampfrit, formerly a religious of Rome, who later became an Oblate at Marseilles, fell into the most shameful disorderliness on Vancouver Island where he was during the absence of Bishop (Modeste) Demers. Being in California at the time the scandal was told, 1853, Archbishop (Joseph Sadoc Alemany) dismissed him with an exeat such as he deserved. (Blanchet) asks Blanc: 1. In Blanc's diocese, how is the revenue used which comes from fees and pew rent. 2. How are the clergy supported in general. 3. If the parishioners are obliged to contribute, how it is done and how does one treat those who do not cooperate.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - 4to. - {11}
1854 April 24
(Blanchet), N(orbert) F(rancis)Abp. Oregon City:
Oregon City, Oregon
to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati. Ohio
When he sent Purcell in March the Memoire that he had presented to the Sacred Congregation in 1846, he did not have time to send a word of explanation. Now that Easter is passed he desires to supply the defect by showing that he had no hostile designs against the Regular Clergy, but wanted merely to make known the real cause for the accusations made against himself and his brother Bishop (Magloire) Blanchet of Nesqually at the Plenary Council of Baltimore (1852) as regards the history of the discovery and colonization of their ecclesiastical province. The reading of the memoire will show how great had become his temerity when he learned what had happened in his vicariate during his absence, - a temerity that led him to attack the regulars in that which they hold most dear. This temerity was proper to excite prejudice. (The Letter is partially unreadable here). The result is that he and his brother were placed in the position of haters enemies of the Regulars. All his actions have been given a bad interpretation. Such was regarded his opposition to one of his priests entering the noviciate of the Regulars. Further on his return from Europe he was forced to some severity in his discipline. These things caused him to be accused at Rome and Baltimore of severity and of being the embittered enemies of the regulars. These were among others charges sent to the Archbishop (Francis Patrick Kenrick) by the Sacred Congregation of the Propaganda in letters dated Sept. 10 and Nov. 19, 1851. The accused Bishops, expecting nothing, heard in full council what they were accused. Astonished they explained as well as they could the circumstances of the matter. The council resolved that they had been accused unjustly and the matter was sent back to Rome. Bishop Magloire Blanchet has since received a consoling letter from the Pope, and the Prefect of the Propaganda says that the facts sent to Kenrick as Apostolic Delegate to the Council was not to be charged against them but referred to the Council. The Archbishop Blanchet wrote to Montreal and Oregon City also for explanation. He received the same kind of an answer from Rome and from the Religious Superior at Oregon City he received a denial that charges had been sent to Rome against the bishops. Further Blanchet points out that the demands of a certain community of religious to be reimbursed on leaving the diocese for their expenditures within the missions of the diocese according to the allocations of the Association of the Propagation had been condemned by the Papal Allocation of December, 1851. That Allocation said that the intention of the faithful was to aid not the bishop or men in the missions but the missions themselves. P.S. What was done at the National Council he has placed before Archiepiscopal synod. P.S. He warns Purcell that Father Francis J. Cenas having decided to quit the diocese of Oregon City and offering to collect for Blanchet in Spanish America, he made him a vicar general for that purpose. But as he failed in that and has terminated his work for Blanchet, the title and office have ceased. He feels obliged to tell Purcell that a Father Lampfrit who has come into this country as an Oblate Father had fallen into disorder in Vancouver during the absence of Bishop (Modest) Demers, and being found in the diocese of San Francisco, Bishop (Joseph) Alemany gave him the exeat that his conduct merited.
(Manuscript damaged)
II-4-m - A.L.S. - (French) - 6pp. - 4, 8vo., 2, 12mo. - {16}
1854 Apr. 24
Roduit, S.J., Father J(oseph):
Grand Coteau, (Louisiana)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Roduit asks for a dispensation for Joseph Leger and Oliva Richard. This marriage is to take place in two weeks.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {3}
1854 Apr. 24
(Lavay, S.J., Father Joseph?) Lavey, J.C.:
Baton Rouge, (Louisiana)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
Rousselon is asked to dispense with the three banns for Philip Ory and Catherine Bouillan.
VI-1-g - Telegram - 1p. - 16mo. - {3}
1854 Apr.25
Blake, Father James:
Franklin, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Their churches are beginning to assume a more prosperous aspect that they did when Blake made his first debut. He had difficulty in removing bad impressions in consequence of monies that had been subscribed and no account rendered. The Pattersonville church owed $500; Blake has paid all except $100 by the pew rent. He transferred the entire to liquidate the debt and reserved none for his own sustenance. The people now openly express their confidence in Blake. Messrs. Charpantier and Corney have requested Blake to write to (Blanc) to take possession of the church and graveyard. If (Blanc) passes his note to them conjointly with Blake for the $100, Blake will assume the responsibility of paying it himself. The people are prejudiced against those gentlemen; Blake does not know for what as they seem to have acted fairly. Blake is assured that as soon as the church is taken off their hands, Blake can open a subscription to paint it inside and outside. Franklin church is also in a fair way to be out of its difficulties. Blake sold the pews there last Sunday and the rent amounted to $700 which he transferred to Mr. Dartique and Mr. Vassaille. The people at once opened a subscription list to purchase a bell and $75 in cash was collected. Dartique made a present of a suit of curtains for the windows which cost $150. If Blake had known that (Blanc) subscribed so largely, he would not have applied for aid; he told the people what (Blanc)'s subscription was. Blake expects before summer is over to have the church plastered and fenced. Blake is cautious in preaching, knowing that his churches are always attended by Protestants.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 4to. - {7}
1854 Apr.25
(Vandevelde), Bishop James Oliver:
Natchez, (Mississippi)
to Archbishop A(nthony) Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Since he has not received an answer to his last letter to Father (Clarence) Walworth, (C.SS.R.) and not knowing where to address him, (Vandevelde) asks Blanc to send the enclosed either to Father Alexander Cvitkovicz, (C.SS.R.) or Walworth. They are expecting Bishop (Auguste Marie Martin) of Natchitoches this evening or tomorrow. (Vandevelde) is very sorry that he cannot accompany him. Next Monday is set for the election of the trustees and he has chosen the same day for taking measures such as opening subscriptions, etc., to finish the Cathedral. He is sure he can find the means here without going to strangers. (William St. John) Elliot, this good man, with one foot in the grave, came to see (Vandevelde) last week, F(rancis) Surget, Jr., (Major) Henri (E.) Chotard, father and son, the former abjured Protestantism and was baptized with General Long during Easter week, all are well disposed and will come to (Vandevelde)'s aid. The Catholics have never been better disposed; they are happy about everything that has been done for them since the arrival of Father (Arnold) Damen, (S.J.), who left yesterday. Father (Julian) Guillou will give Blanc an account of all the ceremonies, instructions, etc. which they have had since Palm Sunday up to Easter Wednesday. Last Sunday, the church was filled. At the first Mass on Easter, there were 196 Communions. Last Sunday a High Mass and sermon and Confirmation by the Bishop. At Vespers a sermon by Damen and his farewell and the consecration of the congregation to Mary. A telegram came from Alexandria from Martin saying that he could not be in Natchez, that he would see (Vandevelde) in New Orleans on Saturday, and would leave there the Monday or Tuesday after. Father (John F.) Cambiaso, (S.J.), was with him. This upsets all (Vandevelde)'s plans, he cannot leave Natchez. He will write and send him a Minister Plenipotentiary. Father (Mathurin F.) Grignon complains of being ill; he needs a little rest and recreation. (Vandevelde) has a priest who could take his place. Grignon is from Rennes; he could say goodbye to Martin for (Vandevelde). On May 7 the notes of Greaves and Brown will come due. (Vandevelde) saw Brown yesterday. The 1852 note is for $192.88, two years of interest at 6 per cent, $23.13; that of 1853 is for 202.68, one year of interest $12.16; that of 1854 for $212.48; a total of $643.34 for Brown. For Greaves this year $917.85. (Vandevelde) has the money deposited at interest with Benoist, Shaw, and Company for Natchez and Chicago. He prefers to leave this money on deposit to help in finishing his Cathedral. Blanc would have more than this sum; (Vandevelde) gave an order to Father (Stanislaus) Buteux on Blanc for $200. He should deduct $50 which he has already received. Then there will be some debts due to Father Rousselon. If Blanc will permit (Vandevelde) to draw on him for 12 or $1400 it would settle things and when (Vandevelde) goes to New Orleans next month, they could settle their accounts.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - 4to. - {17}
1854 Apr.27
Despouey, J.:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony) Blanc:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
A receipted bill for $10.32 for oats, corn, and hay. Receipted by A. Dartigue.
VI-1-g - Receipt - 1p. - 12mo. - {2}
1854 Apr.27
Mouras, Geo(rge?):
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
Receipted bill for $40 for repairs to the roof of St. Augustine church.
VI-1-g - Receipt S. - (French) - 2pp. - 32mo. - {2}
1854 Apr.28
Henriot, Father Stephen:
Cleveland, Ohio
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
(Blanc)'s invitation to write to him frequently in English, the kindness he had in marking the blunders, encourage Henriot to send a new specimen of his style. Henriot received the letters which (Blanc) returned to him. His health is strong and he is ready to dare the yellow fever. The climate of Cleveland suits him and he begins to be reconciled with the "beauty" of the English language. Bishop (Louis Amadeus) Rappe and his vicar general were very kind to Henriot. Last Saturday he supplied the place of the Bishop in the confessional. The Bishop went to assist at the consecration of Bishop (Josue M. Young) Woung at Cincinnati. Henriot entered the confessional at 2 o'clock and the tenth found him in the same place. He understood them and they understood him well enough. When Henriot received (Blanc)'s letter he was going to write for the privilege of remaining here 3 months more, but according to (Blanc)'s wants, he thought his supplication could be of no effect. The departure of Father (Auguste Simon) Paris for France does not surprise Henriot. He knew his intentions but could not think he could dare to undertake such a voyage when (Blanc) had such need of priests. It appears that Paris was promptly disgusted to live with his inseparable friend, Father (Claude Anthony) Tholomier. In order to preven all delay in being in New Orleans before July 1, Henriot proposes to leave on June 10.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 12mo. - {5}
1854 Apr.28
Masquelet, Father (J.):
Gertviller, (France)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
It is time for him to start for New Orleans but he cannot do it right now. His godfather who is almost 80 and to whom he owes much, begs him not to leave him while he lives. Since Masquelet has promised him, it is uncertain when he will return. The interest, $140, for this year on the 2000 piastres are due June 24. (Blanc) is to give it to Father (Angelo) Mascaroni.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - 1p. - 8vo. - {2}
1854 Apr.28
Parisot, O.M.I., Father (Peter F.):
Galveston, (Texas)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
On the eve of leaving for Calcassiou with a priest whom Bishop Odin has just placed at Beaumont, Parisot asks a favor. Having worked for some time in Calcassiou, a parish so poor that they gave all their services gratis in order not to weaken the faith, already so weak in this quarter, Parisot asks (Blanc) to authorize him to go to some other parishes that he might, with the consent of the pastors, apply to some of the charitable faithful to obtain a little pecuniary help. They have not yet obtained enough money to finish the College building and the time set by the village corporation is not far away. If (Blanc) can authorize this, he is to send a letter of recommendation and introduction to Parisot at Lake Charles, Calcassiou parish.
VI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 1p. - 4to. - {3}
1854 Apr.29
Calot:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
to Father (Stephen) Rousselon:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
A receipt for 18 piastres for a crucifix furnished for the seminary.
VI-1-g - A. Receipt S. - (French) - 1p. - 32mo. - {1}
1854 Apr.29
Passion, (M.S.C.), Sister Mary of the:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
For a long time Sister has wanted to call on (Blanc). At present, she cannot; because of the difficult position in which she finds herself, she would be happy to see him in private. She does not want anyone at the Asylum to know that she has asked to talk to him. If (Blanc) comes today, she asks to talk with him.
CI-1-g - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {1}
1854 April 29
Pius IX,Pope:
Rome, Italy
to Orestes Augustus Brownson:
Boston, Massachusetts
Bishop John (Fitzpatrick) has presented Brownson's letter and books and spoken to Pope Pius of Brownson's devotion to the Holy See. The pope beseeches the blessing and protection of God on Brownson's work and gives the Apostolic benediction to Brownson and his household.
I-3-1 - L.S. - Latin - 1pp. - 4to. - {2.}