1855 Jan. 2
Spalding, M(artin) J. Bp. Louisville:
Louisville, Kentucky
to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
After wishing Purcell the compliments of the season, he begs to trouble him for his opinion in reference to their extraordinary faculties which expired yesterday. As Spalding understands it, they are deprived of all power to dispense in mixed marriages of any kind. He has two cases and is sadly puzzled what to do. He wrote to Rome to have his faculties renewed but received no answer. He begs Purcell's advice and requests an early answer.
II-4-m - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 12mo. - {2}
1855 Jan. 3
(Rappe, Louis) A(madeus) Bp. Cleveland:
Cleveland, Ohio
to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
Father (Philip) Foley on the occasion of a visit to Toledo has published around that Rappe's denunciations to Purcell had compromised his character and helped to deprive him of Purcell's confidence. Although Rappe was persuaded that Foley chose the best time to retire himself, Purcell knows that he has never been full of denunciations. Rappe asked Purcell to accept Foley in the thought that a change would take Foley away from the dangers that surrounded him at Toledo. If he said anything to arouse Purcell to protect Foley it was because he was strongly solicited by Purcell. He asks Purcell to tell Foley that the role in which he has placed him has never been his and that he acted in good conscience in accepting a resignation that had been offered three times. He also asks that Purcell tell Foley to be more discreet in his language not only for his sake but for that of religion. Rappe has sent a certificate of deposit for $1200 to Father Edward Purcell. He asks that Father Purcell acknowledge its arrival because of the danger of robbery.
II-4-m - A.L.S. - 3pp. - 12mo. - (French and in places illegible.) - {5}
1855 Jan. 4
Guinand, R.S.C., Madame A(dine):
Baton Rouge, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Mother (Annette) Praz, (R.S.C.J.) gave (Blanc) news in December about the (Religious of the) Sacred Heart and of the death of Mother (Maria Cutts, R.S.C.J.). More than ever they have tightened the bond between the four Louisiana houses. This was their Mother's dying wish. All are well at Grand Coteau, Natchitoches and St. Michael; some troubles at Baton Rouge but nothing serious. The children are beginning to come back; up to now 12 or 15 boarders and 8 day scholars; today there are 27 and 12 day scholars. During recreation, about 20 youths got up on their wall and attacked their pupils. They complained to the mayor through some of the parents and he promised to protect them. It would be good to buy ground somewhere else. Mr. Bork's house, at the edge of Baton Rouge, seems a magnificent location. Mother (Anna) du Rousier, (R.S.C.J.) wrote in her last letter that she agreed to buying ground outside the city and to do as Mother Cutts agrees, after obtaining (Blanc)'s consent. Mother Cutts was no longer when Guinand received this letter. Several weeks ago Praz wrote that several postulants had presented themselves, each with different obstacles to surmount. The (Religious) and pupils are offering their prayers for a successful trip for (Blanc) and a prompt return. To gain the Jubilee, They divided the boarding school into 9 groups; each group was a band of missionaries and all the prayers and Communions were said for the missions. Can they not have (Blanc) with them in May? Their First Communion will be in March.
VI-1-i - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - 4to. - {6}
1855 January 4
O'Donnell, Ja(me)s:
Laurence? (Miss.)
to Orestes A. Brownson:
(Boston, Massachusetts)
The writer encloses a note for (John?). The latter is displeased with O'Donnell for not writing to him. O'Donnell assures Brownson that he has done so, and, that someone in Boston has pilferred (John's?) letters.
I-3-l - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 12mo. - {1}
1855 Jan. 5
Denavit, Father:
Lyons, (France)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc):
A fine young man has presented himself to devote himself to (Blanc)'s mission. He is only here for the first year but is a good subject from all reports and came with good notes from the seminary of Alix. He has been thinking of the missions for 4 years. He had decided to go to the Foreign Missions seminary but his parent and a priest brother were opposed to it. Since he saw (Blanc) at the seminary, he is thinking of leaving at once with (Blanc) and asks Denavit to write for (Blanc)'s consent. He wrote to his brother to ask him to come to Lyons within the fortnight to talk to (Blanc) hoping (Blanc) could resolve their difficulties. The brother is a young priest who was a fine and fervent seminarian here and Denavit cannot believe he would make serious objection to this vocation.
VI-1-i - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {1}
1855 Jan. 5
Raymond, Father G(ilbert):
Opelousas, Louisiana
to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
Mr. Schwab came to install the organ a few days after Raymond wrote to Purcell. Schwab is a most skilful artist and Raymond thanks Purcell for recommending him. He is well pleased with his work.
II-4-m - A.L.S. - 1p. - 8vo. - {2}
1855 Jan. 5
Whelan, Father (David):
Mt. St. Mary's (Emmittsburg, Maryland)
to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
Whelan read to Bonner the portion of Purcell's letter which referred to him. Yesterday Bonner came to him and told him that he has taken a solemn resolution to repair the past by future good conduct and that he would pursue his studies with satisfaction. Whelan will help him keep his resolution. It appears that Purcell has Mr. Peters back again as conductor of the Cathedral Choir. Whelan should oppose as strongly as ever too frequent Orchestral Masses. He encloses a copy of two decrees of S.R.C. concerning the questions propounded in Purcell's letter. The copy of the Roman Ordo for 1854 was received today. There is a new office set down for Dec. 14, B. Pauli a Cruce. Whelan is already engaged on the ordo for next year.
II-4-m - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 8vo. - {2}
1855 Jan. 6
Fregier(?), Marie Antoine:
St. Etienne, (France)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Fregier is searching for the prisoners and asks (Blanc) to give her news about Cleris Bonnet, son of the late Félix Bonnet, lieutenant commander, who died in England as a prisoner of war at Plymouth, a Creole of St. Pierre, Martinique. The son was born near Bordeaux from which Fregier also comes. The mother, Fregier's sister, deceased, told her that he was living at New Orleans, and that he was a merchant.
VI-1-i - A.L.S. - (French) - 1p. - 8vo. - {3}
1855 Jan. 6
Spalding, M(artin) J. Bp. Louisville:
Louisville, Kentucky
to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
Purcell's telegram relieved Spalding of considerable embarassment. He never saw that nephew of Father Elet! He went to St. Mary's on Spalding's written permission, but did not call to see him on his return. Spalding is almost discouraged from receiving any of these rambling men. He joins Purcell in a hearty Deo Gratias on the dogmas honoring the Holy Mother. He asks Father (Sylvester H.) Rosecrans to hunt up articles in the papers about Achilli. The bigots here are making a stir about Achilli because Spalding's lectures drew such crowds. Spalding rejoices that they are to have a council in May. He is sorry that the Bishop (George A. Carrell) of Covington is getting into so much trouble. His Miscellanea will appear soon.
II-4-m - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 8vo. - {6}
1855 Jan. 7
Herval, Father G.:
Havre, (France)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc):
On January 17, the steamer, Union, Captain Adams, will leave for New York. Room 21, the finest on board, is reserved. William Iselin, general agent, asks Herval to assure (Blanc) that the Union is one of the first in speed and strength. Herval also wishes to know if (Blanc) will be accompanied by some priests or servants.
VI-1-i - A.L.S - (French) - 2pp. - 12mo. - {3}
1855 Jan. 7
Raymond, Father Gilbert:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc):
He has been told that if he wishes to write to (Blanc) by the next messenger, he has three quarters of an hour. He is going to write a few words to Father Boué to thank him for his kindness to them and tell him a little about their actions. Raymond wrote (Blanc) quite a long letter about two weeks ago. He will tell, if Father Rousselon has not done so, that Father (Cyprian) Venissat has gone as chaplain to Sacred Heart. His lack of English frightened him; he thought also that he was too simple for the Ladies who have always had Jesuits as their directors. Venissat is living with Father (Claude Anthony) Tholomier. Rousselon would have liked him to live alone. However the arrangement is only temporary. His niece is with a family at the home of the agent of the Convent while waiting to enter a religious house. His nephew is at St. Charles where he is doing well. The youngest is in (Blanc)'s seminary; he does not have a good head on his shoulders. Raymond is still busy among the Brothers and Sisters of Father Moreau at St. Mary's Catholic Asylum. Last week he gave their retreat to the Brothers and Sisters. Father (Francis) Gouesse, (C.S.C.) was the principal cause of the little divisions; there is now a much better spirit. They asked Raymond to write to Father (Basil Anthony) Moreau. From what Raymond hears, (Blanc) would approve of having a novitiate there. Besides the retreat, they have also had First Communion for 52 children with a little retreat in preparation. Raymond's brother, (Father J. Francois Raymond helped him a great deal as well as the others who taught catechism in English. How Opelousas has been neglected; they hope to do good there. In his last letter, Raymond gave details about the men with him. Raymond has not told (Blanc) about the 1000 francs that Boué advanced. The parish of Opelousas will go about repaying it at once. Raymond sent the Bishop of Angers all the money people had given. Raymond will be very happy if they can help (Blanc) with his enormous expenses.
VI-1-i - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp. - 4to. - {9}
1855 Jan. 9
Ogden, Henry:
New York, New York
to William (Seton 3):
(New York, New York)
On hearing of his loss Henry wrote him immediately. He hopes he received the letter. Mr. R. Ray told him today how things stood since William's wife's death and asked him to write William. Ray had just written to him to go by the steamer tomorrow. William should get a lawyer to start his case and make such arrangements for him during his absence as will relieve him from the dilemma. The lawyer could offer some plan for his present provision, since he should not bring his family home during the winter. He could return by mid-April, or at least embark then, to reach New York about May 1,. In appointing trustees for his family's security he would need double the amount of the estate. The court might insist on as much as $300,000 security. It "is a great obstacle to procure parties for so large a sum". All can be arranged when he returns, but his "presence will be necessary". The distressing times have caused not only individuals, but banks and firms to fail, stop payments, pass their dividends. Money is scarce and though he has marked down his paper it is still hard to get rid of it. Unemployment is great and the distress is worse than in 1836-7. Times have improved the past week and business will be better. There has been no wholesale business for three months and retail business have failed. The last interest due Sandusky and Mourfull on his bonds remains unpaid. They have made a statement. His wife is improving and beginning to walk. He does not expect her downstairs before March. Her bodily health is excellent. Emma has had an empty house this summer. It is now full except for one room. Old Mrs. Depeen, aged 82, is dead. Seton's sister came to see Mary and looked well. Ogden has not heard from Dr. Shrob for some time. The steamer is due tomorrow and they hope some pieces of quartz have become valuable. His mind is represented as sick. Ogden still hopes it will turn out well. He sends regards to Seton's daughters and children and in this he is joined by Mary.
II-1-a - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 12mo. - {1}
1855 Jan. 10
Caulfield, B.G.:
Chicago, (Illinois)
to Orestes A. Brownson:
(Boston, Massachusetts)
Caulfield begs to be excused for his neglect in answering Brownson's letter. He supposes that Brownson knows his son's (John H. Brownson) address in Milwaukee. He regrets that (John) left his firm, but he hopes the latter will not repent his decision. Two lawyers, Caulfield and (John) were to do business under two firms but work separately. (John) decided to go to Milwaukee first to see if he liked it there. The Bishop and the trustees of the University of St. Mary of the Lake requested the faculty while Brownson was there to resign. They assented. The writer believes Bishop (Anthony) O'Regan is the "very man for this place". (Thomas D'Arcy McGee?) Magee's lectures have not been as good nor as well attended as Brownson's. After this series of lectures a young fellow named Kenny lectured in South Market Hall. The results were scandalous as regarded delivery and the subject matter. (James A.) McMaster will follow next week. He has not read the Review yet. He extends his best to Brownson for the new year.
I-3-l - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 12mo. - {7}
1855 Jan. 10
Clereton(?), Nicolas Eugène:
Annonay, (France)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Providence decreed several years ago that he suspend his studies to serve the Republic. Now that he has returned home he feels more strongly than ever the desire to consecrate himself to the altar. He was leaving for Africa where he intended to continue his studies when he was detained by the Superior of the house where he had taken his classes. So he entered as a novice in the Society of St. Basil which placed him as prefect of studies at Privas. This year he is at Annonay and they propose giving him the subdiaconate at Easter. But it seems to him that he is called to the salvation of the Indians. He gives himself to (Blanc). He has completed part of his theology.
VI-1-i - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 4to. - {1}
(1855 Jan. 10)
De Busschere, Auguste:
Bruges, (France)
(Copy) Father Claude-Pascal Maistre, a missionary priest living in Laubressel, son of Claude Maistre and Anne Simonnot, both farmers, appeared before De Busschere and constituted as his agent, his oldest brother Eugène Maistre to whom he gave the power (in detail) to administer all his property. Made at Bruges, on April 1, 1850, in the presence of Dieudonné Joseph Tomballe and Pierre-Jean-Louis Gudders, Xaverian Brothers living at Bruges, attesting to the identity of the person appearing before the notary; and Alexandre Florien(?) and Dominique Warnier(?) both living at Bruges, witnesses. Maistre signed with the witnesses. (No signatures on this copy).
- Copy - 3pp. - folio -
1855 Jan. 10
Maistre, Father C(laude) P(aschal):
Chicago, (Illinois)
As attested by the notes to be found in this portfolio, Maistre loaned John Flageole of Bourbonnais Grove $4150 at 10 percent interest for six months. Also he loaned $300 to Toussaint Ménard of Chicago on the same conditions. Maistre also has some money in the Chicago Saving Bank. He has besides, a small house in Bourbonnais worth 3 or $400 of which the deed is here. Flageole is Maistre's agent for this house. In case of death, the Bishop of Chicago is to sell this house and put the money with that of the notes. As Maistre has no debts, the expenses of illness and burial being paid, the rest will be sent to France to Maistre's father through the Bishop of Troyes. Maistre gives 100 piastres for Masses, 100 for the hospital of Chicago and 100 for the poor as well as all his furniture. (He signs as) pastor of St. Louis Church. (Lines are drawn through this note)
- A.N.S. -
1854 Feb. 6
Maistre, Father C(laude) P(aschal):
Bourbonnais Grove, (Illinois)
In case of sudden death, Maistre gives this information. His name is Claude Paschal Maistre, misssionary pastor of Bourbonnais, of the French Church at Chicago, and later at New Orleans. (The last two phrases apparently were written later). His father's name is Claude Maistre landowner living at Laubressel, France. In case of sudden death his father is to be written to and also the Bishop of Troyes, where Maistre was born and where he was pastor and assistant for almost 5 years before coming to America. The news is also to be given to the Bishop of Detroit and to the priest at Cahokia, Ill(inoi)s or the French village near St. Louis in order to have a service in each of these two places where Maistre was pastor as well as to the pastor of Bourbonnais, his successor. (This note also bears the date of) January 10, 1855 (and some lines are crossed out).
- A.N.S. -
1854 Feb. 6
Maistre, Father C(laude) P(aschal):
Bourbonnais Grove, (Illinois)
In case of sudden death and no previous wills, this will serve to carry out his last wishes. The person in charge of his business is to collect all his ready cash and draw what is in the bank, as shown by the checks which he will find in this same portfolio. All his money is to be sent to his father; all his furniture is to be sold and after all expenses are paid, the surplus is to be turned over to the church of which Maistre is the pastor at his death, to be distributed to the poor of the parish. (Below this note is a note dated) January 10 (stating that) the Bishop of Chicago will be Maistre's executor to have his money sent to his father through the intermedium of the Bishop of Troyes. (This note is crossed out).
- A.N.S. -
VI-1-i - Copy A.N.S. - (French) - 4pp. - folio - {10}
1855 Jan.10
(Fransoni, Cardinal James Philip):
Rome, (Italy)
to Archbishop Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
The Sacred Congregation was very pleased with the documents Blanc drew up concerning the visitation and the state of the diocese on December 12 of last year. Because of the amount of business then, (Fransoni) could not reply but he hopes that this will reach Blanc as he returns to his see. They cannot neglect to acknowledge the growth of religion as compared with 20 years ago. While instructions concerning more serious chapters are about to be sent to all the bishops of those provinces, Blanc will notice an anticipation of some parts of his report. If the form from the Council of Trent for celebrating marriages does not thrive everywhere in the diocese, and seems that it ought to be relaxed, (Fransoni) will explain the opinion of that Sacred Congregation. Special care ought to be taken that the mention of religion is not omitted in Catholic schools. Special care should be shown to maintaining concord with the regular clergy; however when it is a matter of placing or removing without the knowledge of the bishop, this cannot be done. The Firmandi of Benedict XIV ought to be kept in mind here. The works of charity fulfilled by the nuns are a very beautiful example. Blanc should strive that ecclesiastical discipline be arranged every day according to the councils of Baltimore. There will be an opportune occasion in the provincial council to be held shortly. Blanc's respect for the apostolic see and the care with which he strives to promote the growth of the church committed to him is very much approved.
VI-1-i - L. Signature cut - (Latin) - 3pp. - 4to. - {1}
1855 Jan. 15
Beaubien, John Baptiste et al:
Essex County, Ontario
to Antoine Beaubien et al:
Detroit, Michigan
Subpoena of the Circuit Court of the U.S. 7th circuit, District of Michigan to Antoine Beaubien, Robert Beaubien, et al including Bishop Peter Paul Lefevere on the complaint of John Baptist Beaubien et al to appear in the Court on the first Monday of February. Witness Chief Justice Roger B. Taney, John Winder, Clerk.
III-2-i - D.S. - 2pp. - 8vo. - {2}
1855 Jan. 17
(Brunner, C.PP.S.) Father Francis de Sales:
Glandorf, Ohio
to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
He asks Purcell to give his signature and seal to the enclosed testimonial letters for Father Felix Tob, a member of the Precious Blood Fathers who has served them well in Alsace for 12 years. Brunner has received Purcell's letters and has also received a letter from the Bishop of Vincennes granting jurisdiction provisionally, but Brunner does not think that (Bishop Maurice De St. Palais) correctly understood the matter since he said that as soon as one of their priests was permanently attached to St. Mary's home, he would grant faculties which would be impossible in their case because of their frequent changes. P.S. The letter for Father Felix Tob may be given to the post.
II-4-m - A.L.S. - 1p. - 12mo. - (Latin) - {6}
1855 Jan. 19
Cénas, M.C.:
Lyons, (France)
to Archbishop(Anthony Blanc):
(Lyons, France?)
In their conversation, they spoke of fabrics and ornaments for churches. Their shops are not as well stocked in this month of inventory but if (Blanc) will visit them, he will be satisfied. Or, they could send him a small collection of samples. Cénas is going to call on (Blanc) next week. Perhaps (Blanc) would bless his two small daughters whom he has often recommended to the prayers of their uncle, (Father Francis Cénas), his brother.
VI-1-i - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 12mo. - {2}
1855 J(an.) 19
Herval, Father G.:
Havre, (France)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc):
Herval has just put down (Blanc)'s name for the departure of the Saint Louis, which is to take place February 14. (William) Iselin sends his respects. (Blanc) has nothing to pay for his booking on the Union; he can be assured of very good accommodations. He has informed Iselin that (Blanc) may be accompanied by an ecclesiastic.
VI-1-i - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 12mo. - {2}
1855 Jan. 20
O'Regan, A(nthony) Bp. Chicago:
Chicago, Illinois
to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
Father (M.) Aylward who writes that he has been residing in the diocese of Cincinnati for some months has applied for a mission. O'Regan asks Purcell for his opinion of him. O'Regan was obliged to dismiss four priests who had charge of the College and the mission connected with it. They commenced a church in opposition to their Bishop. It has a debt of $45,000. The building is not worth the sum it owes. O'Regan knows no possible means of paying the debt. He would welcome advice from Purcell on the matter.
II-4-m - A.L.S. - 2pp. - 8vo. - {3}
1855 Jan. 20
Villefort, S.J. Father Ph. de:
Rome, (Italy)
to Archbishop Anthony Blanc:
Villefort's delay in answering (Blanc)'s letter was caused mostly by the desire to better enter into the views Blanc proposed in his letter to AbbéMuller. He finally decided to send back the letter but he has not found Muller at home and Muller has not come to see Villefort. He found Muller a l ttle eccentric but at the same time the solidity of his virtue and zeal compensate for it. (On the address side of the letter) Courtesy of Father Reynaud.
VI-1-i - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {3}
(18)55 Jan. 22
(Hailandière), Bishop Cel(estine de la):
Triandin, (France)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc):
(Hailandière) thanks (Blanc) for finding time amid the confusion of leaving, to write him a few lines. But why is he in such a hurry; it has been so long since (Blanc) has been in France. It seems it would be in his interest to remain here several months. Good Breton priests or others would be desirable for him. It would have been an occasion for (Hailandière) to show (Blanc) his remembrance of the hospitality and friendship given him. It is hardly possible to travel in this bad weather. They have snow on the roads as in Indiana. It is not probable that (Hailandière) will be able to see (Blanc) in Paris when he goes through. Nevertheless he would like to have (Blanc)'s address there. He tried to find there the address of (Blanc)'s colleagues from N(ew) Y(ork) and Balt(imore) before they knew (Blanc) was coming but he could not. Ordinarily (Hailandière) asks for hospitality at the Foreign Missions in Bac Street. He would have had some business with Bishop (John Hughes); (Hughes will stay in France for the winter, they say. Is it for his health? Bishop (Auguste Marie) Martin came to see (Hailandière). He said he found forty persons, especially at Nantes. He should be back in Louisiana by the time (Blanc) leaves. It seems that (Hailandière)'s successor at Vincennes is in state bordering on poverty. The passage of Bishop (John Stephen) Bazin through the episcopacy was worth, besides the money (Hailandière) left, 60,000 f(rancs) or more of debts. Mrs. Hopkins, (Blanc)'s diocesan, is at Rennes. She came to find her little sister Aimée De Petit. (Hailandière) sends his respects to (Blanc)'s vicar general. (Hailandière) has some small hope of going to see (Blanc). P.S. If the pastor of Ainay (Father Boué) is (Blanc)'s cousin, the one who received (Hailandière) so kindly in 1839, at Furvieère, (Blanc) is to offer respects to him.
VI-1-i - A.L.S - (French) - 3pp. - 12mo. - {8}
1855 Jan. 24
Herval, G. (?):
Havre, (France)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
The departure of the steamer St. Louis is set for February 14. First class is 800 f(rancs), second class is 400. Herval believes that if (Blanc) were accompanied by a certain number of persons, he would be given a reduction in price. William Iselin, general agent, asks Herval to tell (Blanc) that if he comes he will be welcome and if he cannot take passage on the St. Louis, he will not be troubled for the difference. However it will be bad to deprive them of a visit.
VI-1-i - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 12mo. - {2}
1855 Jan. 25
Catholic Institute of New Orleans
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
The Catholic Institute was established on December 17, 1854. The officers are J.C. Dinnies, president; N.C. Hall, Albin Rochereau, Octave De Armas, vice-presidents; Thomas J. Semmes, corresponding secretary; Raymond A. Bourk, recording secretary; George W. Byrne, treasurer. The objects of the institute are the promotion of social intercourse, a library, and public lectures. Gentlemen desirous of membership can apply to officers or to these directors, C.J. Mansoni, T.S. Elder, B.F. Simms, D.P. Scanlan.
VI-1-i - Printed L. - 1p. - 4to. - {11}
1855 Jan. 25
O'Connor, M(ichael) Bp. Pittsburg:
Pittsburg, Pennsylvania
to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell:
of Cincinnati, Ohio
He encloses a letter handed to him to Rome for Purcell. O'Connor can never forget the impression that the festivities at Rome made on him. He applied to the Pope for a copy of the Encyclical on the Immaculate Conception for Purcell. There is a young man here named Madden, a Propagandist. An accident to this foot made him unable to attend to his mission and he came with an excellent exeat from Bp. Phelan of Kingston. He would like to teach in a seminary. Could Purcell use him? He was a good student. (Father Sylvester H.) Rosecrans knows him. P. S. The Portland (Maine) appointment was the only one made before they left Rome.
II-4-m - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 8vo. - {4}
(18)55 Jan. 26
Praz, R.S.C.J., Mother A(nnette):
St. Michael, (Louisiana)
to Father (Stephen Rousselon:
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Up to now Praz has not sent any observations about the chaplain whom (Rousselon) sent them in December. From his last letter, she understands that it is difficult to choose one in this country and they would have been satisfied with Father (Cyprien) Venissat if he had acted with more prudence. But the impression being given, it is impossible for him to succeed. Venissat asks questions of his penitents which are not pertinent to Confession and his long conversations do much harm to the Sisters. Praz asks permission for them to go to Confession to Father (Claude Anthony) Tholomier, already their extraordinary confessor or to Father (Charles) Boglioli, (C.M.) who comes every two weeks for the Americans. They would prefer to go every two weeks while waiting for the Bishop's return.
VI-1-i - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 4to. - {4}
1855 Jan. 27
Duncan, W(illia)m H.:
Hanover, New Hampshire
to Orestes A. Brownson:
(Boston, Massachusetts)
Duncan brings to mind a meeting with Brownson at Norwich University on which occasion Brownson was awarded the degree of LL.D. The writer is a trustee of the University; and, is also a Democrat compaigning for the coming election against the "Know-Nothing" Party. He resents the accusations of this group against the Catholics even though he is a protestant. In refuting the charges about the temporal power of the Pope set forth by the "Know Nothings" Party, he appeals to Brownson for aid in the nature of some article or book which he might read. His "Know-Nothing" opponent is Mr. Hogan.
I-3-l - A.L.S. - 4pp. - 12mo. - {5}
1855 Jan. 27
Dunand and Company
Lyons, (France)
to Archbishop (Anthony) Blanc:
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
A receipted bill for 35 for a mitre (from the firm?) of Au Bon Pasteur.
VI-1-i - Bill S. - (French) - 1p. - 8vo. - {1}
(18)55 Jan. 28
Brownson, Henry F.:
Boston, (Massachusetts)
to John (Dalberg Acton:
Munich, Bavaria)
Soon after his return form Minich, Brownson wrote (Acton), enclosing his letter with one from (Orestes A. Brownson). He has not received an answer. Perhaps Acton never received his letter. (Orestes) received a letter two days ago from Count Ch(arles) de Montalembert in which Montalembert said he had not received (Orestes') last letter. Henry hopes that it is not because the kindness with which (Acton) always treated him in Munich either was not real or has undergone a great change. He realizes he was often troublesome to his friends. He attempted on his return from Europe to be an assistant to his father and wrote two articles on (Joseph Maria von) Radowitz and one on (Joseph Ignatius) Ritter's "History of Philosophy." These did not turn out so well as he expected and he thinks he shall never make anything more than an amateur Reviewer. On a late visit to New York (Orestes) spent considerable time with (George) Bancroft and feels persuaded that Bancroft will soon become a Catholic. Both Bancroft and (George) Ripley will in all probability join the Church before a great while. Bancroft's son intends visiting Munich to study art. Dr. (John Williamson) Nevin, whom they all thought about to enter the Church, has made no progress for nearly two years. Nathaniel P. Willis is raging mad because his sister, Mrs. Tarrington, has shown him in his real character in an autobiography under the name of Ruth Hall. The Know-Nothings are in power in Massachusetts. Bills are now before the Legislature which will disfranchise Catholics. If this should happen his father would remove his family to New York. (Orestes') article against them in (Brownson's ) Quarterly Review for last July raised the whole Irish population in America against him. The excitement against him was so great that he wrote a conclusion to the number for October, saying that the Review would be discontinued. His friends persuaded him not to publish the notice. Henry would be most happy to send (Acton) the volumes of the Review which he lacks and also any American books that he wants.
III-3-a - A.L.S. (Xerox Copy from Acton Papers) - 8pp. - 12mo. - {15}
1855 Jan. 28
Barat, R.S.C. Mother (Madeleine Sophie):
(Paris, France)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc):
(Lyons, France)
She has just received (Blanc)'s letter from Lyons and greatly regrets that she cannot thank him by her own hand. She hopes that on his way to Paris she will be recovered enough to make up this privation imposed by her illness. She would also have need of this consolation after the loss of Mother (Maria) Cutts, (R. J.). (Blanc)'s kindness for the families confided to his care will also be doubly precious. She will have the honor of talking to (Blanc) face to face and recommending them to him.
VI-1-i - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 4to. - {2}
1855 Jan. 29
Choiselat, Ch(arles):
Paris, (France)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc):
Choiselat hastens to reply to (Blanc)'s letter of January 27 from Lyons. The order for 1200 f(rancs) drawn on Choiselat in favor of Father (Basil Anthony) Moreau has been accepted. (Blanc) wants to know if Choiselat can furnish more funds if necessary. Before answering this Choiselat presents an account of the situation of the treasurer of the Association (of the Propagation of the Faith) showing that only 1300 f(rancs) remain to (Blanc)'s credit. But (Blanc) could disregard the printed form which Choiselat sent to New Orleans and so 3000 f(rancs) more could be given to (Blanc) on his way through Paris. Or even more if necessary. (Blanc) could even not consider as revenue the 4500 f(rancs) collected by Father Rousselon for the Association.
VI-1-i - A.L.S. - (French) - 3pp. - 4to. - {3}
1855 Jan. 29
Vicari, Hermann von, Archbishop of Freiburg and Baden:
Freiburg, Breisgau
to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell:
Cincinnati, Ohio
Mrs. Marie Charlotte Bechmann of his archdiocese teacher in the convent of Notre Dame of Offenburg asks that her brother Victor Bechmann be presented to Purcell. Bechmann is in needy circumstances because of the times and would be greatly helped if he could be employed in the erection or repair of churches. So far as the Archbishop knows he is worthy of this recommendation and Purcell will lose nothing in aiding him.
II-4-m - L.S. - (German) - 1pg. - 8vo. - {2}
(18)55 Jan. 30
Maugon(?), Father:
Lyons, (France)
to Archbishop (Anthony Blanc:
Lyons, France?)
Maugon is happy to attest that for the more than 12 years that he has known Miss Clotilde Sage, he has heard anything unfavorable. She has often expressed her regret at not being able to persevere in her first vocation. She is anxious to cross the ocean again convinced that nearer to (Blanc) she could more easily do good and assure her salvation. Maugon asks (Blanc) to hear her prayer.
VI-1-i - A.L.S. - (French) - 2pp. - 12mo. - {2}
1855 Jan. 31
Weninger, S.J., F(rancis) X(avier):
Indiana
to (Orestes A. Brownson):
(Boston, Massachusetts)
Weninger does not know whether Brownson received his letter of criticism or not. Brownson has since elucidated the points of criticism and shown himself very sound in doctrine. Weninger only regrets that Brownson had not been so clear on the question of civil government in the beginning. He apologizes and promises prayers for Brownson and his family.
I-3-13pp.(Latin) - - 8vo. - {1}