(1817)
(Flaget), B(enedict) J(oseph):
(Bardstown, Kentucky)
to (Father) (Simon) Brute:
Mount St. Mary's, Emmitsburg, Maryland
If Flaget followed the impulsions of his heart he would have to write every week, but his head, whose limitations are well known is filled with disparate things that he doesn't know where to begin much less where to end. Without speaking of the spiritual sollicitude of his diocese which demands ten times more than he is capable of doing. Flaget is in a labyrinth of temporal affairs all as important as the other. Mr. Scheiffers, one of his young priests, who only two days before returned from one of his apostolic journeys, related the many blessings which God has bestowed upon his ministry in regards to the Catholics and several Protestants whom he received in the church. He stated that the people whom he visited spoke of nothing less than building a beautiful brick chapel in the parish, in another where there is already a chapel they speak of building a monastery for five or six religious, in third they speak of purchasing a beautiful land for the residence of two priests who will serve all the western part. (Guy Ignatius) Chabrat a few days before and said that the excursions were so considerable and continous that he can no longer take care of the buildings and that he can hardly accomplish half of his duties. And since the unfortunate time that Tessier summoned him to Baltimore without delay. The poor man has been so troubled in his conscience and in his actions that at times he falls in a melancholy which alarms Flaget and places a great obstacle to his overwhelming zeal. Although he does not cease telling Flaget that he is no longer good for anything, that all his efforts are useless. Flaget has definite knowledge that he does well where ever he goes, that the protestants as well as the Catholics admire his virtues and talent that in Louisville. Catholics make great efforts to complete their chapel and that ministers from other sectes dare not enter into conference with him. If Flaget has someone capable of filling the place that Chabrat now occupies, he would have him retire to the seminary where his work would be extremely necessary and where he would do greater work, but where to find someone to replace him? Flaget's house in the country alone is a little world at present and fills my mind. In one place you will see workers digging rocks to build a House Mill which is as essential to his large family as the arm is to the body, there are three or four masons, here nine or ten Mill Wrights a bit further two or three carpenters to prepare the roof and floors of the said mill; at the new seminary there are four or five plasterers all the young seminaristes are employed some hauling sand the others passing the lime which they themselves made some mixing the mortar others carrying it and all the servants work all day and part of the night to find and prepare food for this large company. Fortunately this is to last only six weeks at most two months otherwise it would be impossible to hold out and the episcopal treasury would be more than empty. He thanks the Devine Providence who loves him more than he deserves that these vast expenses will be made without any debts and afterwards he will be able to feed twenty or twenty-five seminaristes. His cathedral which he visited yesterday is twenty-two feet high in all its length, the bricks to complete it are made. In two or three weeks all the mason work will be completed. The pillars and other material used to cover it are already or partly on the place, the rest will arrive the following week, and the good and incomparable Rogers assured him that by the month of November it will be covered. Until now all the workers have been paid but at Christmas he will need two or three thousand dollars Dominus provided it. Flaget tells Brute that he will be doing a great favor if he will put his shoulder to the wheel of Providence and send him some funds from his quarters for God said Help yourself and I will help you. Flaget has begged Mgr Marechal to interest his friends in behalf of this great work but he is afraid that Mgr has lost sight of it for his highness will be occupied with the administration and especially the future of the Basilique that the Cathedral will be disregarded as an object of very trifling consideration. Independent of the beautiful things brought back by Nerinkx, a chevalier named Magallon from Nizen Providence sent him two large boxes and two trunks full of books and ornaments which the customs agent d'Orleans permitted to enter free from duty knowing it was for the poor bishop of Kentucky. Flaget will have to pay only for the freight from New Orleans to St. Thomas. He is expecting their arrival any day. He asks Brute to join him in blessing the Divine Providence who has showered its blessing on him, though unworthy as he is. He begs to be remembered in Brute's prayers and sacrifices and asks him to include his benefactors for it is the only way he has of showing his appreciation. Benoit Jh. The enclosed letter is a petition to the Propaganda to obtain as much as he can for his diocese. It is Mr. Diaudrais who encourages him to do it and it is he who has translated the said petition. He asks for details concerning the college and the seminary. Mr. N(ernyx) arrivied in Kentucky the day before. Flaget wants to be informed as soon as DuBourg arrives. Flaget sends his love and benedictions to Elder. Flaget is leaving his studies to the direction of his superiors hoping that will be strong in rhetoric logic for he is destined to teaching. It is time that they think of ordaining him subdeacon. It would be helpful to him if he would study the French language. The same wishes to Chabrat(?) and others B.J. (letter missing)
II-3-o - A.L.S. - (French) - 4pp.
1817 Jan. 1
(Richard, Father Gabriel)
(Detroit, Michigan)
to (Bishop Benedict Joseph Flaget)
Of Bardstown, (Kentucky)
The document is an expose of the facts concerning the troubles at Detroit.
1. The town of Detroit was burned June 11, 1805.
2. On July 8, 1805, Governor (William) Hull announced that the government had sworn in Aug. B. Woodward and F( ) Bates as judges of the territory and that the three had drawn up a plan for a new Detroit. In this plan the ground of the old cemetery and church of St. Anne was crossed by the main street now called Jefferson Avenue.
3. By an act of Congress of April 21, 1806 on the land of Detroit, this provisional plan became legal.
4. On Aug. 4, 1805, the elders of the parish assembled and named a committee composed of Fr(ancois) Chanter, G( ) Godfroy, Jacques Pelletier, Henri Berthelet and Antoine de Quindre to build a presbytery and church and to decide on a site for the church.
5. On Aug. 8, 1805 the assembly of the old Trustees authorized the committee appointed Aug. 4. to examine the rule of the Fabrique of the Church and make a report to a general assembly.
6. On Aug. 11, 1805, the assembly of the elders of the parish approved the conduct of the committee as regards the old site of the church. One side opposed in the register and found a copy containing 6 large pages of rules on the fabrique in use at St. Anne's. These were approved in a general assembly of Sept. 8, 1805. One rule says that they will follow all the rules of ritual of the diocese of Quebec. Among those rules was one that said all assemblies without the presence of the Cure or one whom he should authorize be null and that the cure could invoke the civil power to break up these unlawful assemblies.
7. Dec. 29, 1805 the assembly as a general assembly agreed that the committee should plan the erection of a church of wood 100' by 40', with 228 posts every 5 feet, a sacristy 20' square and a presbytery 30' square, all attached. There were 12 signatures.
8. On Dec. 5,1806 the elders of the parish in assembly agreed that the church and presbytery should be on a little square and that they should be of stone or brick and annulled the previous decrees on this. As a committee to receive the government land and arrange for renting the lots in the cemetery or adjacent they appointed Francois Chanter, Gabriel Godfroy, and Henri Berthelet. There are 12 signatures of which 4 are common to the previous decree. The following acts should be placed after no. 3.
9. Jan. 5, 1795 the Cure of the parish summoned an assembly in which the decrees of the Bishop of Quebec on the fabrique and the benches of the church was read and accepted as the rule for the parish. This was signed by Father (Michael) Levadoux as cure.
10. An act concerning religious societies. Sec.1 sets forth the conditions of incorporation and the election of trustees and their power; sec. 2 Sets forth the conditions for the incorporation of the Roman Catholic Church property in Michigan, as copied from the similar act in the laws of Maryland; Sec. 3 That this act is revocable by the poor of the legislature, as is done in Connecticut and Massachusetts. This was signed April 3, 1807 by Governor William Hull and witnessed by Peter Audrain his secretary and the two judges Augustus P. Woodward and John Griffin.
11. The agreement of the people of the parish of St. Anne in consequence of the act above given; April 12, 1807 the assembly of the parishioners agreed: 1. The title is the Apostolic and Roman Catholic Church of St. Anne of Detroit; 2. according to the act they decided that the goods of the parish shall be administered by a board consisting of the Cure and 4 curators or trustees elected by the assembly of the faithful for 4 years. The older of the 4 will act as Trustee in charge and have charge of receipts. They shall form a corporation and act in its name. For this action the cure and two trustees or three trustees with the cure's consent can transact the business of the corporation. The actual trustees were Antoine Beaubien, Francois Chanter, Gabriel Godfroy and Jacques Campeau; 3. The Bishop or the Cure alone shall make the rules governing the interior policy of the church and school. Of the late this means the appointment of teachers. Signed by 12 and Gabriel Richard as cure and registered in book no. 2 pages 149-150, April 15, 1807.
12. The government needing the wood for the Church to be used for fortification, the trustees in charge were ordered to turn it over, getting for it a certificate of its value etc. Signed by 6 trustees and Richard. Three others were present but did not sign. 13. Dec. 27, 1807 Francois LaFontaine was elected to replace Antoine Beaubien who had gone and Charles Morand and Nicolas Gouin were appointed examiners of the accounts of Francis Chanbert Joncaire. Signed by 8 and Richard.
14. June 23, 1808, Joseph Serre dio St. Jean in the name of the people of Cote du Nord Est, asked for a separate parish and a division of the church goods. The assembly voted that there should be no separation. This is signed by 3 and Richard.
15. July 3, 1808, in an assembly Mr. G. Godfroy announced that the sheriff wished to take away the material of the old church and presbytery and he was authorized to enclose the ancient cemetery. Seven or eight signatures.
16. July 10, 1808, the trustees decided that the cemetery and the site of the burned church be closed and also the place of the presbytery. Eight or ten posts have been planted in a corner of the old cemetery in the midst of the great street, but no more are placed there because the sheriff opposes.
17. Nov. 21, 1808, the accounts of Antoine Beaubine [Beaubien] were rendered and approved, although there was objection to approving the accounts of the cure since all accounts had not been rendered. However, considering his trip to Baltimore as for the glory of God and useful for the parish they approved, knowing that can have him render an account next year. Further he leaves property enough to assure them that he will return to work among them. Signed by Richard. He notes that he left Detroit Nov. 25 for Baltimore and returned July 24, 1809.
18. The old and new trustees and other people of St. Anne's met Aug. 1, 1809. The Cure suggest that the Church of the South Shore accept the property of the North Shore and that both agree to build the church together. This was rejected. The same day it was decided that the billets payable in October 1806 and 1807 be sent back to the people by Francois Chabert Joncaire.
19. Sept. 10, 1809, at an assembly of the parish to choose a site for the new church they agreed on the site between the cemeteries, which was also the site proposed by the government.
20. At an assembly it was resolved that: 1. Father Richard P. Desnoyers and P. Audrain form a committee to see to the construction of the church. 2. That the same committee have charge of the debts of the church and be allowed to pay the debts in so far as they can and to render the value of the wood to those who furnished it. they can not impose any tax which has not been agreed to in the general assembly. Dated Sept. 17, 1809.
21. (is blank)
22. The trustees called on April 4, 1811 to fill out the number of trustees for the corporation, found so few present that they agreed to meet for that purpose on April 29. That meeting also failed. There was no other meeting until May 29, 1814. On April 26, 1816 the supervisor of streets announced that he had been ordered to open the main street and to plow up the land of the cemetery and the burned church. He asks for a meeting of the parish. On April 28 they arrived at a friendly understanding on the exchange to be made with the parish. Richard finding it necessary to reestablish the corporation to do business, convoked a meeting to be held on the North East Shore after the high Mass. All was favorable to the people of the North East Shore and they could easily have elected 3 of the 4 trustees but feeling that their participation would prevent them from having a separate church of their own, they refused to participate and the 7 or 8 persons from the South Shore then elected the 4 trustees to work with the cure to form the Corporation. The following are acts of that election.
23. 1. John Williams was made secretary. 2. The Corporation was declared reestablished. 3. The 4 trustees with the cure were to act for the corporation. The trustees were MM. Barnabe Campeau, Francois Gamelin, Gabriel Godfroy, pere, and Pierre Desnoyers. 4. The trustees with the cure were commissioned to alienate the land in the main street, and to remove the bodies of the N.E. Shore. That the people of all these sections should contribute toward enclosing the cemetery.
24. Dec. 29, 1816. The old trustees elected Louis Buffet of the N.E. Shore to replace Barnabe Campeau, unless Buffet refuses and decided that the resolution for the building of the church on Section 1 of the city of Detroit be approved, that any resolution of the people of the N.E. Shore for paying for the church be agreed to.
25. Jan. 1, 1817, (Richard) read to an assembly of the people of N.E. Shore the letter of the bishop of Bardstown dated Nov. 15, 1816 and returned Jan. 6 to sign the resolutions of joy and gratitude of the people for that letter. On Jan. 19, these resolutions being read to the assembly some, especially 4 of the 7 persons named under the name of the new Corporation of St. Anne, refused to submit to the letter of the bishop and entered their feeling on the registers of the parish. Richard called a meeting for Jan. 26, 1817, at which there were few from the N.E. Shore. They resolved: 1. That they approved the Bishop's letter. 2. That the trustees had all the power to carry out the resolutions of April 28. 3. That they subscribed to the resolutions of Jan. 1817 and revoked all those contrary. 4. That they could not recognize the new corporation. 5. That they cannot accept a division of the parish until the bishop so ordains. Signed by the secretary and Richard.
26. At a regularly convened assembly of April 20, 1815 it was resolved: 1. That they are afflicted by the division and scandal. 2. That they submitted to the decision of the Bishop dated Loretto Feb. 23, 1817. 3. That all good Catholics should obey. 4. That a double list be made of those who submit containing the motives for submission and the other the present deliberation. 5. That all who wish to remain members of the Corporation should attach their name in their own handwriting to these two lists in the presence of two persons. 6. That those living in the parish limits who do not sign are to be regarded as members of the illegitimate parish and to have incurred the interdict. This was signed by Richard and more than 50 others.
III-2-f A.D.S. (Copied by Richard) 9pp. 4to.
3
1817 Jan. 12
Grassi, S.J., Father J(ohn)
G(eorge) T(own, District of Columbia)
to father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, (Maryland)
Grassi has nothing to say but feels that he should write, since Archbishop (John) Carroll used to say that etiquette suggests it. Father Ant(hony) Kohlman has relapsed. This with other problems makes him look for help. He hears from Father Sewall of Stoneyhurst that one or two professors are coming to their assistance, and that the Father General has written to Father Stone that the general will ask permission of the Emperor to go to Rome. Sewall thinks there is little prospect of obtaining permission. There is great distress in England. Grassi asks Bruté to send him a prospectus of Emittsburg and of Montreal College for a gentleman who wants to send his boy away because he has been running home. Grassi has not heard from Father Vespre but hopes he is well. Father (Stephen) Dubuisson is about the same. Archbishop (Leonard Neale) is well, with about 35 nuns. He asks if there is any news of the missionaries in upper Louisiana. It has been a mild winter for them. A priest from Liege, Father D'Etese has improved so much in English as to be able to hear confessions.
II-3-n A.L.S. 4pp. 4to.
5
1817 Jan. 24
Chabrat, Father G(uy) I(gnatius)
St. Michael's, (Kentucky)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, Maryland
He thanks Bruté for the letter he has written to him. He was between two fires but he seeks only the glory of God. He is a bit surprised that he had not heard from Father (Jean) Tessier. Perhaps he should have written but he prefers to leave matters in the hands of Providence. He has, however, written the following reflections. He does not believe that he would have joined the society except on the conditions that he did, that is not to stay in the seminary but to go on the foreign missions and that he cannot see how what was considered a mark of his vocation to St. Sulpice can now be considered an obstacle to that same vocation. He had told his superiors that he did not feel called to teaching and that he felt called to the missions. He would remain in the seminary 4 or 5 years to form himself spiritually but that he wanted to go to the missions. Father (Michel) Levadoux and Father Brissard had him read the 4 volumes of the Lettres Edifiants and advised him to set out with Bishop (Benedict Joseph) Flaget, other wise he would have joined the Fathers of the Faith.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 2pp. 4to.
3
1817 Feb. (4)
(Flaget), Bishop B(enedict) J(oseph), Bishop of Bardstown
St. Thomas, Kentucky
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, Maryland
Bruté's latest letter has edified him with the account of the death of Father (John) Thayer. It is good for religion that he has preserved the faith after the serious error into which he fell and the censure that he incurred. (Flaget) spent some weeks in the region where he gave such scandal. He felt that he had worked an injustice about the land he sold before he left. He believes that Father (Francis) Matignon could make reparations with the funds that Thayer has left. But if all has been done according to the rules of justice Bruté should strengthen the house at Emmitsburgh the best he can, because it is better to endow what exists than to establish new ones. The Roman court thinks the endowments of communities is a condition sine qua non for approval. If an epidemic should occur among the daughters (Sisters of Loretto) of Father (Charles) Nerinckx they would be very much embarrassed. He is going to provide any monastery he founds with the needs to meet such emergencies. Lately he has given the veil to four girls in the establishment of Nerinckx, the oldest is 25 and the youngest 17 and they have a dowry of ten negroes who will be very helpful to the community. It has been a great consolation that there are so many girls practicing chastity in these neighborhoods. Flaget begs pardon for his faults. He speaks strongly and may give offense. Father (Antoine) Duclaux has pleased him with his letter to Father (Jean) David and he approves of their not obeying Father (Jean) Tessier. While he does not accept the seminary as part of the Sulpician seminaries he approves their rule although different from other seminaries. This shows that Tessier and his council treated him very rigorously. If Tessier is with Bruté (Flaget) asks for pardon. The same for Father (Ambrose) Maréchal about whom his conscience would not be tranquil if he had unjustly suspected them. They were unjust and he is not a Saint Francis De Sales.
P.S. He asks for Masses.
2. He asks for 2 lorgnets not for a man such as Tessier but for a man of 50 to 60 years. Mr. Maguire can supply them.
P.S. (John) Rogers asks him to tell Godefroi that they want an affirmative or a negative answer. (Flaget) asks for some tobacco.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 6pp. 4to. & 32mo.
11
1817 Feb. 8
Grassi, S.J., Father J(ohn)
G(eorge) T(own, District of Columbia)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, (Maryland)
Father Paul Kohlman left the two boxes mentioned in the enclosed at the college where the Conewago wagon comes because he thought that would quicken the delivery. He has no news. Father Andres has sent him some Italian books, those of Pelegrini, Trento, Paoli as well as two of his academical memoirs. He sends two other books. He also promises to send his own works. Dell'Origine called by Father Eustache in his Classical tour through Italy a masterly performance. Grassi would prefer to receive a number of good missionaries than books because he has no time to read. When Father Enoch Fenwick was there he spoke to him of the school established by Saint Charles Borromeo. In Grassi's opinion it is the best method of instructing children. He would like to establish it in Georgetown and teach it himself. He sends the greetings of those at the college to those at Baltimore. The ship James Monroe is still at Washington and intends to sail for Bordeaux.
A.L.S.
On the same letter:
--------
1817 Feb. 6
Stinchcomb, Benjamin
( )
(This is a receipt stating that) he has received from Father John McElroy two boxes addressed "to Rev. Mr. Debart" to be delivered to Father Bruté at St. Mary's College who will pay 1 1/4 cents per pound.
Receipt S.
II-3-n A.L.S. Receipt S. 3pp. 4to.
4
1817 Feb. 23
(Flaget), Benedict Joseph, Bishop of Bardstown
(Bardstown, Kentucky)
to the Members of the Corporation of St. Anne
Detroit (Michigan)
to Father Gabriel Richard, Gabriel Godefroy, Pierre Desnoyers, Francois Gamelin, Barnabe Campeau and all the Catholics attached to their cause. Flaget received a letter towards the end of the previous year from the people of the Cote du Nord Est, a petition abounding in religious sentiments. Flaget answered them without reproach promising them a pastor and the establishment of a college on the property as soon as possible. He expected them to restore peace and union and such would have been the case if they had been sincere in their protestations. But since that time there have been continued troubles. They have organized a corporation, held sessions and issued decrees. One man has even raised his hand against Father Richard who has served them for 20 years. Such conduct is indecent and against the customs of society. Flaget is impelled by the duties of his office and the need of cutting away the scandals in accordance with the doctrines of Our Lord and of St. Paul in his epistle to the Corinthians. Relying on such authority he makes the following decrees:
1. The Church of St. Anne is to be built in Sec. no. 1 or an adjacent lot or any other selected by legitimate authority;
2. The remains of the dead in the street of Detroit are to be removed and Catholics are forbidden to use this street until this has been done;
3. The legitimate corporation of the Catholic Church of St. Anne of Detroit organized April 28, 1818 is authorized by him to exchange or sell any lot or property belonging to the Church of St. Anne and to assist in the construction of the new church;
4. Father Richard is to announce these decisions during the sermon of the Mass on Sundays and on holy days of obligation. He is also to summon the 7 chiefs designated as forming the new corporation of St. Anne whom he now designates as schismatic. They are to be considered as interdicted, that is forbidden the sacraments of the living, attendance at the offices of the church and, if they die without atoning, Christian burial. This interdict will be incurred by the delinquents 30 days after the 3rd denunciation. (Document is incomplete, of American Catholic Historical Records, vol.XII pp.88-89)
III-2-f A.S. (incomplete) (French) 4pp. 8vo.
6
1817 Mar. 2
Grassi, S.J., Father J(ohn)
G(eorge) T(own, District of Columbia)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
(Baltimore, Maryland)
Grassi is very grateful for Bruté's letter. He has received a letter of September 20 from the General from Polock where he says he is like a prisoner. The government refuses him permission to go to Rome or to send others. Father Cross Tristram says a new publication has appeared answering Dallas's work in favor of society or rather against the Catholic religion. There is still a Father (Charles) Plowden although he is old and losing the elegance of his pen. The division over the veto still troubles the Catholic body. Grassi will send Bruté Father Andres' pamphlet. He sends his regards to Father (Ambrose) Maréchal and others. Father (Francis) Neale is doing poorly.
P.S. Bruté's friend Joseph Byrne being almost insane from scruples father Ant(hony) Kohlman sent him home. Since the General does not speak of the expulsion of the Jesuits the story about Geneva is quite unfounded. He saw the article in the Edinburgh Review on Father Viscard; he saw it about 10 years ago. This letter was to have been sent with Father Henry a week ago but he delayed his trip because of Father Neal's indisposition. He has received Bruté's of the 6th. Until Father Benjamin Fenwick arrives it will be impossible for Grassi to go into town to get the copies of the Portico mentioned by Bruté. The Archbishop (Leonard Neale) does not bother with Porticos or newspapers. If he saw the Fernandez article or the Charleston article he does not mention them. If they get two professors from Stonyhurst or some help from the Low Countries, they can turn their hand to establishing a Catholic magazine. Mr. Baxter, one of the expected professors, has already published in England. There is a rage of pamphlets against Catholics in that country. It would be folly for them to start something they could not continue. Father Plowden said they must build with one hand and write with the other but he did not think of the hand they have to use on the missions in America. They are thinking of sending their men to Rome or Palermo for their education. As he never goes out in Washington he cannot give any particulars about the oath of Monroe, but will ask Father (William) Mathews who was present at the ceremony. He does not contradict Mr. Farrell but they are all well. March 10, 1817.
II-3-n A.L.S. 4pp. 4to.
5
1817 Mar. 24
(Cheverus), Jean, Bishop of
Boston, (Massachusetts)
to (Father Simon Gabriel Bruté
Baltimore, Maryland)
(Cheverus) should have written to (Bruté) 20 times as he attaches great value to his friendship. He has lately received the box of things that Father ( ) Vespres [Vespre] sent him. He has begun to read the "Tradition of the Church" which he began to read after Easter. He has been refreshed by the news from Rome of the new prelate chosen from the society of St. Sulpice, (Ambrose) Maréchal. Baltimore thought of (Cheverus) only because Maréchal has been nominated for Philadelphia and that was just a dream. Last Saturday he ordained Father Dennis Ryan who has been with him two years. He invited the congregation and preached a brief instruction. Father (Francis Matignon is well and sends his regards. (Cheverus) wishes that the Catholic Magazine announced at New York would be submitted to (Bruté)'s supervision. He will write to Mother (Elizabeth) Seton after Easter. He sends his regards to the priests at the seminary (whom he mentions). If he does not always agree with (Bruté)'s opinions he recognizes in them zeal and fervent piety.
P.S. He sends his regards to Father Vespres and to Dr. and Mrs. Chatard.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 2pp. 4to.
5
(1817) Apr. 4
(Seton, Elizabeth Ann Bayley
Emmitsburg, Maryland)
to William (Seton 3
Leghorn, Italy)
William's letters by the Scioto(?) endears him to his mother. Far be it from her to hold him by any tie of duty in a situation which does not meet his wishes. But she entreats him to have yet a little patience. She wrote Mr. Fillichi's (Antonio Filicchi) some months ago on William's future prospects in commerce and twice on the situation of Richard (Bayley Seton) and now a letter accompanies this with a statement of William's sentiments in his own words. She sees by them that integrity and filial love overrule his natural feelings but she must be grateful that they have so long held him under circumstances so painful to him for, her main object in parting from him was to give him time to know himself and to overcome his first ardent propensity for the navy. She fears not for his person but for the immortal object which his Nina (Anna Maria Seton) and Bec (Rebecca Seton) would now solicit for William, even more earnestly than his mother and Kit (Catherine Josephine Seton). All the pains she ever endured are rewarded by the love and duty in William's last letters. She would be happy to enclose William's letters to Filicchi but feared William might not approve. Could William but speak his mind and freely point out his consciousness of not earning his bread, as he says. Fearing some delay or accident to the original letter, Kit has run off the copy of a part of it. The more she thinks of it the happier she is that William has spoken his heart out. Filicchi must be pleased for how could William have passed 2 years in a way so unfruitful without himself being sensible of it? Here their second Good Friday of separation.
II-1-a A.L. 2pp. 4to.
6
1817 Apr. 8
Grassi, S.J., Father J(ohn)
G(eorge) T(own, district of Columbia)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Balt(imor)e, (Maryland)
Grassi avails himself of the opportunity of Mr. Chassing leaving for Baltimore to send Bruté the Memoria Academia of Father John Andres. He says little about the young man. If Father Paquet obtained very little from so indolent a character no wonder that his stay at Georgetown has not improved him. On the arrival of Mr. Baxter he hopes that it will be useful about the article in Portico and for the college. Grassi is disappointed about his hopes for Father Benjamin Fenwick but when he was ready to start he was called into court in a case of the Catholic trustees against the paper Exile. He asks how things are going in France as he has not heard. He said two Masses on Easter Sunday and Monday because there are only 2 priests in the college.
II-3-n A.L.S. 2pp. 4to.
4
1817 Apr. 15
Grassi, S.J., Father J(ohn)
G(eorge T(own, district of Columbia)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, (Maryland)
He wants to inform Bruté that when Baxter heard of Bruté's article in the Portico he felt that that publication was enough and would not write anything else. He expects that Bruté will have seen the two articles in the Intelligencer, and article signed by W. in reply to A. who had written of Leplace's impious conclusions. He replied to W. and W. is preparing a reply to him. Bruté asks if besides Lelande there was anyone else in Paris finding ground for atheism. Bruté has probably seen the prospectus of the Catholic Magazine to be published in New York by a Mr. Field. Father Benjamin Fenwick says he is inadequate to the task and that it shall not begin at all. Murphy, the printer at Georgetown, wants to publish a magazine. Bishop Cheverus took from grassi a copy of True Piety published in Ireland by Bishop Coppinger. It has excellent things and Grassi thinks they will be printed with additions. He sends regards to Father Maréchal.
P.S. He apologizes for some ink blotches on the paper.
II-3-n A.L.S. 2pp. 4to.
3
On 17 Apr. 20
Richard, Father Gabriel
(Detroit, Michigan Territory)
On this day the inhabitants of the parish of St. Anne of Detroit convoked in general assembly according to the rules in use and presided over by the Cure of the parish passed the following resolutions:
1. That the people are extremely afflicted by the scandalous division which has existed in the parish for several years;
2. That their entire submission to the command of Bishop (Benedict Joseph Flaget) given in his letter of Feb. 23, 1817 to the members of the corporation is the only way to reestablish peace;
3. That all the Catholics ought to obey the Bishop and after hearing the letter of the Bishop read they agreed unanimously to accept the conditions of the Bishop so that there will be no doubt about those who adhere to the illegitimate corporation it is resolved;
4. That there will be two lists made of all who submit, one to be preceded by the motives which brought them to submission and the other in the registers of the parish following the present deliberation and the letter which shall be inserted in full;
5. That all holding house and home in this parish and desiring to be regarded as true Catholics and to have all the privileges of the church of St. anne will sign their name in their own hand on the two lists or have it inscribed there in the presence of two witnesses who will testify to his consent;
6. That each and every inhabitant holding house and home in the parish of St. Anne from the Rivere aux Ecorses to the Riviere a Guillonet who does not confirm himself to the preceding resolutions after 4 days from this assembly shall be considered as members of the illegitimate corporation and consequently to come under the pain of interdict inflicted by the Bishop's letter. Signed by Richard and 60 others.
III-2-f A.D.S. (French) 3pp. 4to.
2
1817 Apr. 20
Richard, Father Gabriel and others
Detroit, Michigan Territory
The undersigned inhabitants of the parish of St. Anne of Detroit, knowing that all Christians are obliged to obey the church since God does not regard as his children in heaven those who do not respect the Church on earth as their mother; that those who are not on the side of the bishop's and the church are not on the side of Christ, but are outside the church where there is no salvation, and considering that obedience to the church is an article of faith and that without faith it is impossible to please God; and that it is the office of the Bishop to determine the limits of controversy that may arise in their diocese; and wishing to avoid falling into schism which would lead to the loss of their souls - having heard the pastoral letter of the bishop (Benedict Joseph Flaget) from Loretto, Feb. 23, 1817 addressed to the members of the Corporation of St. Anne of Detroit, and all the Catholics attached to it, to end the division between the members of that parish, declare that they submit purely and simply to the command of the bishop. Signed by Richard and 62 others.
III-2-f A.L.S. (French) 2pp. 4to.
2
1817 Apr. 22
(DuBourg), L(ouis) Wil(liam), Bishop of Louisiana
Paris, (France)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, (Maryland)
(Letter incomplete). His delay in going to his diocese has probably been wondered at and may have given scandal but he has followed in this the Sacred Congregation of Propaganda and Bishop (Benedict Joseph) Flaget. They just lost Father Nicholas Parage. Bruté's friends there ask him to send their greetings to him to their confreres in Baltimore and Emmitsburgh.
(P.S.) He recommends particularly Mrs. Baker, the bearer of this letter. She is an American who has become an excellent Catholic with her husband and family and desires to meet the priests at the seminary. (DuBourg) is much indebted to her for attentions at Montpelier. Her husband has been consul at Barcelona and Bordeaux.
II-3-n A.L.S. Incomplete (French) 3pp. 4to & 16mo.
3
(1817 Apr. 25)
(Flaget), B(enedict) J(oseph), Bishop of Bardstown)
Loretto, (Kentucky)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Brutéy
Baltimore, Maryland
It was during the Paschal season, the harvest season for the priests and bishops, that (Flaget) received Bruté's letter. Apparently there are many sheaves but the final results will show a greater abundance of straw than grain. To all the burning pains of a laboring ministry, perhaps fruitless, are added the inexplicable contradictions and unexpected disappointments v.g. the instance of (Maximilian) Godefroi who failed to send the plan which he had offered so generously is an example. He is compelled to yield to the first one who comes with the certainty that he will erect an absurd and ridiculous structure. His position, though distressing as it might be, would be even more so if he had not tried on time to get the plan. Though (Flaget) is poor he would have offered this good man compensation, but he is so pretentious that his pride might easily be hurt. Godefroi had repeatedly expressed his happiness on having the occasion of helping his friend the Bishop of Bardstown and to offer God a monument as symbol of his devotion. In brief, godefroi, without explanation, has placed (Flaget) in a predicament; the latter foresees that before the end of the year he will have the disappointment of seeing erected an edifice which will perpetuate bad taste and vandalism in Kentucky and the surrounding country. He wants Bruté to tell Godefroi not to bother about the plans of the Cathedral and to thank him for the trouble that he has already taken. Another of (Flaget)'s disappointments comes from Bruté's traveling companion, Mr. Millet. A letter of his addressed to Bishop (William Louis) Dubourg dated June 15, 1816 was found recently in the room of the Italians and was sent to (Flaget) by (John Baptist) David. After common excuses, Millet assures DuBourg that his purpose in coming to America was to be useful to the diocese and that in France he would have presented himself had he not heard that the Bishop was taking priests only. He had then received only minor orders. He admitted also that he was not physically able to stay at (Flaget)'s seminary where half the time students are occupied with duties so heavy that no Frenchmen would stand, that the seminary is so poor that often the necessities are lacking, that more than thirty students finding life too hard have already left the seminary, that their dress was so quaint that he did *** not care to share them. Since writing this letter Millet has made a retreat and received the subdiaconate. Yet he told (Flaget) twenty times that he was satisfied. He has also made a fine tabernacle for the altar. (Flaget) asks why, if he has changed his mind he did not destroy the letter. He will have to resolve this problem. Father (Joseph) Rosati with Father (Guy Ignatius) Chabrat has gone for a visit to Vincennes where they will speak in french and English. On Easter Monday the Trappist Horloger who has been at Bardstown since the departure of Father Urbain drowned in the little river between the town and the seminary. He was with an apprentice who suffered the same fate. He is disturbed about the trouble about the bill of exchange sent to Father (Jean) Tessier.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 4pp. 4to.
7
1817 Apr. 28
Bouquet Des Chaux, Jean Claude Marie
Ambierle, France
A passport for Father Anthony Blanc to go from Ambierle to Bordeaux. A note on the back of the passport states that it was certified by the sub-prefect of Roanne on april 29.
Printed Form (French)
On the back of the passport is written:
--------
1817
(Blanc, Father Anthony)
( )
On May 4, 1817 Blanc left Ambierle after a stay of 6 months. He stayed that night with Father Jordan, priest in charge of the chapel of ease at Roanne. There he spent the evening together with Fathers Plasse(?), Josseraud(?), Guillon, and Boue, his cousin. The next day at St. Just in Chevallet he had the unexpected pleasure of seeing Fathers Bessaire, Chavareu, and Rodamel(?). The next day he arrived at Clermont. Informed that Fathers (Benedict?) Richard and (Michael ?) Portier had not arrived Blanc went to call on Father Royer, director of the Seminary at Montferran(?). The next day he returned to Clermont. His companions arrived and they left for Bordeau, arriving May 12. None of the missionaries had arrived except Fathers (Segundo?) Valezano and Father (V. Modesto?) Mina from Italy. Blanc was received at the home of Father L'Espian(?) for the day and next day went to the home of Father (?) Martial where he spent the rest of his stay at Bordeau. From there he gave his family news of his departure and received news of them. It was the last letter from his father as he died on September 10 before the end of Blanc's voyage. On June 18 Blanc boarded La Caravane which was his home until September 4 when they disembarked at Annapolis. He remained there until October 26(?) when he went to Baltimore. From there he left November 4 for Pittsburg.
A. Note (French)
V-4-c Printed Form A. Note (French) folio 2pp.
6
(1817)
(Flaget, Benedict Joseph Bishop of
Bardstown)
to Father Gabriel Richard and the members of theCongregation of St. Anne's Church
(Detroit)
(It is not clear whether this is a copy of a letter from Flaget or of a formula proposed by Richard to Flaget. It is apparently incomplete). (Flaget) renews and confirms the decrees he issued from Loretto, Feb. 23, 1817 with the following exceptions.
2. Richard gave in too easily to their unjust violence and made the agreement of May 5 with the illegitimate corporation of St. Anne, treating them on an equality with the proper corporation. This is shameful and unfair to the real corporation and to the Cure who should have begun the 3 denunciations of the schismatics the following Sunday. Consequently (Flaget) decrees that Richard must accuse himself of his fault and demand pardon of God. If he does not do this he is suspended from his priestly functions and if he should exercise such functions he is excommunicated.
3. All the bones are to be removed at the expense of the 7 men who signed the agreement of May 5th and their adherent 4 after these words (incomplete)
III-2-f (copy) D. (French. Incomplete) 2pp. 4to.
2
1817 May 3
(Flaget), B(enedict) J(oseph), Bishop (of Bardstown)
Loretto, (Kentucky)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Brutéy
Baltimore, Maryland
In his recent letter he wrote as a child who forgets the things of the past in the excitement of the moment. The affair of Mr. Millet has been resolved to Flaget's satisfaction and he has said his mea culpa about his letter to Bishop (Louis William DuBourg). As a mark of their good relations Flaget has given Millet permission to make a reredos for the altar in the seminary which has already a fine tabernacle. If Bruté has not told anyone of this affair he asks him not to do so. Tomorrow Flaget goes to St. Thomas for a procession. Father (Joseph) Rosati has returned from Vincennes with a fever. Father (Guy Ignatius) Chabrat is at Louisville to finish his chapel. Father (Felix) D'Andreis was called to attend a poor man who had nothing to eat or a place to sleep. A Protestant neighbor offered D'Andreis shelter which he accepted. They had a long conversation on religion and the man asked D'Andreis to return. The whole family has become religious. Last Sunday D'Andreis preached at one of the parishes of Father Chabrat. In four years he will be the Bridaine of the country.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 4pp. 4to.
5
1817 May 3
(Richard, Father Gabriel)
Detroit, (Michigan Territory)
to (Bishop Benedict Joseph Flaget)
(Bardstown, Kentucky)
(Richard) acknowledges (Flaget's) letter of April 6 and thanks him for the consolation and advice it contained. If his sins prevent the grace of God from coming to his people, it will be consoling to know that the glory of God has been procured elsewhere by those who serve God better. He asks the bishop's prayers that he persevere. He does not seem to have long the necessary sincerity. He speaks now of the schismatics. He announced on the 3rd Sunday after Easter that he would go on a mission to the chapel of St. Francis of the Riviere aux Huron, 27 miles from there, and that he would give them until his return before pronouncing the 3 denunciations. They became hardened and thought that these were only threats and that (Richard) would not have the power to put them into effect. On the day after, April 28, they began to renounce the first plan to remove all the bones. They had left on purpose some biers. On Tuesday things were yet worse. (Richard) hastened to the place and made sure that the Supervisor of the streets had not acted on his own authority but under the direction of Mr. Pierre Chene, one of the seven, and that he had not yet received any official communication of (Flaget's) pastoral. (Richard) then read him the 5 declarations on the spot in the presence of several witnesses. Renouncing his trip he announced that the following Sunday he would begin the denunciations against the adherents of the schismatics. As soon as he ordered the Catholics who were arranging the soil above the bones without removing them to open the graves, the good people who had been deceived all obeyed without difficulty the orders of the bishop. Mr. Chene and Mr. J(oseph) Campeau were terrified and the latter invited (Richard) to his house. Soon Mr. Benoit Chapoton and Mr. P. Cheverions followed. The lawyer came soon to make the peace and (Richard) reproached him severely for causing the trouble by advising the persons whom he knew had no right. (Richard) did not know how to profit by his advantage. The lawyer was the mediator. After telling them that there was no other point of agreement than that they should sign the paper containing the proper words set out by the Bishop in his pastoral. Nevertheless, after an hour's conference, 4 of the 7 signed the agreement of which this is a copy.
III-2-f (Copy of A.L. unsigned) (French) 2pp. 4to.
7
1817 May 5
(Richard, Father Gabriel)
Detroit, (Michigan Territory)
to (Bishop Benedict Joseph Flaget
Bardstown, Kentucky)
Although several of the seven members of the corporation which (Flaget) has called illegitimate attempted on the 3rd of May to interfere with the removal of the bones from the cemetery, (Richard) denounced only one Charles N. Gouin by a goodness which (Flaget) will call weakness. Gouin committed two evil deeds. Before the very eyes of (Richard) he had recovered and filled a section which Pierre Chene had uncovered. (Richard) wishes to give some delay to the 3, Messrs. J. Campeau, Ben. Chapoton and Louis Moran because they signed the agreement of April 29 which obliged them to remove all the bones. They acted against that promise Saturday and again today in a scandalous manner by causing a large group of persons, disposed to fight, to come to interfere with the workers. Under threat of bloodshed there resulted an agreement of which Mr. Charles Larned sends (Flaget) a copy - an agreement which is dishonorable to those who have supported the bishop and honorable to those which have rebelled. Whatever happens he will obey the bishop. On the first question he (Richard) says, that the only corporation is that formed April 23, 1816 since it was formed in a legitimate assembly. On the second, that the church can be built only where the government desires it. The ritual of Quebec recognizes the right of the bishop alone to fix the site. On the third that the true corporation can sell any lot it judges suitable. On the fourth that all the bones ought to be removed. On the fifth question, the cost should be at the expense of the illegitimate corporation since the people of the town and the south shore have come twice to do the work and have been prevented by the people of the Cote du Nord Est. (Richard) has this day called the workers together and announced that he is going to carry out (Flaget's) orders. He admits his fault to (Flaget) and if the bishop wishes he can be given some other parish where he may be able to do some good, or a seminary. He would willingly travel through Ohio gathering up the scattered flock. During the war he has seen many persons from that state and he believes it would be easy to establish a Catholic church at Columbus or Chillicothe. Or (Flaget) can let him return to the seminary at Baltimore where he came in 1792. His parish before the fire in 1805 deserved his praise but now it deserves a better man. He has not imitated St. Dunstan. He let them be contemptuous of (Flaget's) censures. The opposition do not deserve new favors. The agreements which they demanded and he granted were only to avoid public indignation and have been only a trick to avoid obeying (Flaget's) commands. He could have overwhelmed them by a long letter and could have reasoned as did Susanna. He certified that he had read the pages sent to Flaget and had excused the writers on the grounds that they were deceived. (According to the law the charges should have been made before a magistrate and before the one accused if possible, otherwise they are null). He found nothing in the manuscript to prevent the publication of (Flaget's) decree os Feb. 23. Even if he were guilty of their charges, that would not make them innocent or take away the validity of (Flaget's) decisions. On the first question: He observes
1. the small number of those who voted in the election does not render the election null,
2. The act of the general assembly of April 12, 1867 following the enabling act of April 3, 1807 states that the corporation is composed of the cure and four marguilliers. Thus without the cure there can be no legitimate corporation. On the second question: the paper even though signed by Richard, which Mr. J.C. attaches the date Feb. 18, 1810, is so far from having authority that the civil judge refused to give judgement against those who refused to pay their subscriptions to the church even when it was begun. The paper carried the title of extracts and does not appear in the registers. This was probably done with the intention that the 3 men should choose the place in general but not in detail. They did not have the right to judge the titles of the land nor to place the foundations 10 feet from a lot belonging to one of them a minor 14 years of age. They did not have the privilege of blessing the stone with whiskey. J(oseph) C(ampeau) is the only one of the 3 who survives, and Richard thinks he has lost all his rights by his irregularities. The true Corporation of St. Anne, however, will allow him his costs in so far as they are reasonable. The other committees, even that on the construction of the church, are regarded as revoked indirectly. On the 3rd question: the act of legislature of April 3, 1807 gives the corporation alone the right to all the goods of the society. The constitutional convention did not change this and only the bishop can legitimately oppose.
III-a-f A.L. (copy) (French) 4pp. 4to.
10
1817 May 20
Grassi, S.J., Father J(ohn)
G(eorge) T(own, District of Columbia)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, (Maryland)
In compliance with Bruté's request they tell Bruté that he will find the debate over Father (James) Wallace in the National Intelligencer. He lists them and expresses regret that there was no answer by Baxter. Baxter's letter appeared on the very day there was an assembly of Protestants in Alexandra under Bishop Moore, Grassi thinks they should answer everything that appears against them. He asked what happened to Mr. Cooper who left Georgetown for Philadelphia to get money to sail to Gibraltar. They have heard nothing from him. He would like to know if there is a chip which intends to sail from Baltimore to Bordeaux although he is not certain when he will make his trip. Bruté is to tell Father Vespre that the box he sent has been received by Father (Stephen) Dubuisson in good condition. They will have three priests next week, Franklin and Regan who will be ordained, and (Roger) Baxter who is already in fourth theology at Stonyhurst. He supposes Bruté has heard of the death of Father Brooke a week ago after receiving only extreme unction.
II-3-n A.L.S. 3pp. 4to.
6
1817 May 27
(Flaget), B(enedict) J(oseph), Bishop (of Bardstown)
St. Thomas, (Kentucky)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, Maryland
(Flaget) is ashamed to write on the envelope but he hopes that he will do for Madame Fourrier what he has done for the Archbishop of Bordeaux, from whom he has a response. That prelate has a lamentable tale of his diocese. What Bruté tells him of Father
(Antoine) Duclaux, astonishes him because he blows hot and cold out of the same mouth. (Flaget) has submitted in advance to what he decides about his seminary. He followed his conscience in holding on to Father (Jean) David and (Guy Ignatius) Chabrat on the belief that Father Emery did not give them merely to begin the work but to bring it to perfection. David has been suffering from rheumatism and has been unable to work. Father (Felix) D'Andreis has been acting as teacher of theology. The Italians are beginning to fear that Bishop (Louis William) DuBourg will not come that spring, a fear that (Flaget) shares. If Father (Charles) Nerinckx arrives with some companions he is to ask Tessier and Moranville to give them hospitality. The cathedral is already 5 or 6 feet above the ground and paid for so far.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 2pp. 4to.
6
1817 Jun. 9
David, Father J(ean)
Bardstown, Kentucky
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, (Maryland)
He would have answered Bruté's letter but he has been ill. His asthma has been severe. He has improved and can now sleep on his bed. He has received with gratitude the advice of Dr. Chatard. He does hope for a radical cure. He regards his condition as a favor from heaven that will ban any suggestion that he become a bishop. Father Felix D'Andreis added his theologians to his own. He has only the classes of English or French for the priests. When Father (Charles) Nerinckx returns he hopes that Bishop (Benedict Joseph) Flaget will find a way to have Father (Guy Ignatius) Chabrat come to his aid. David is amazed at what Bruté tells him of the growth of unitarianism. the answer is first to defend with zeal the doctrine in sermons and writings proving the divinity of Christ. Bruté has done a good job answering the Presbyterians. Should be not do a better job in this matter. The second force to be used is the aid of heaven, and for this he proposes a confraternity of chosen souls. They could make the 40 hours in churches successively as in time of public calamity. They go on as before; Providence seems to favor (John) Rogers. They continue to build the cathedral. They have made the bricks for the front. The side walls are already up 9 feet. The masonry will be finished in October and the roof on by Christmas and finished in a year. The Presbyterians and the Baptists are excited and they talk of building meeting houses. Flaget pontificated and gave Confirmation at St. Thomas on Pentecost. He returned for Corpus Christi and they had a procession which he describes in detail. Millet was embarrassed to explain his letters to DuBourg. He apparently was so upset he did not realize what he was saying. He has made a fine tabernacle and other things which show that he is a fine artist. David is beginning to want the prompt return of Bishop (Louis William) DuBourg. Things commence at St. Louis and the communications with New Orleans are bad. If he delays longer there will be problems. Savine does not wish to be at St. Louis. Bruté should warn the bishop that if he does not come until the end of June or July there will not be enough water on the Ohio to come from Pittsburgh and that he should come on horseback with one or two companions and join those who are going to prepare the way for the rest. They will give him a welcome and he will find his workers ready to work in French and English. Father (Joseph) Rosati has returned from Vincennes where he went with Father Chabrat for six or seven weeks. 41 made their First Communion. Father (Felix) D'Andreis has very much shaken a Protestant with whom he spent the night and who invited him to return. There is hope that he and his family will be converted. But he insists that he came here only to return to Italy. The Bible Society has printed a report in which they say that two priests from Louisiana have prevented the distribution of Bibles. Father (Stephen) (Theodore) Badin has justified their action because these bibles are mutilated and mistranslated.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 4pp. folio
10
1817 Jun. 24
(Cheverus), Jean, Bishop of
Boston, (Massachusetts)
to Father (Simon Gabriel Bruté
(Baltimore, Maryland)
(Cheverus) has received (Bruté
s letter of the 11th. Young Gallet has not added a word and since he has no rights over him he cannot decide anything. He has consulted Father (Francis) Matignon and Mrs. Perkins who are the correspondents of the family. They think it best to send him to Martinique. Perkins has written to William Lorman of Baltimore to obtain passage. The whole affair is left to (Bruté)'s discretion. At midday the previous Sunday he received a letter from Father Grassi announcing the death of Archbishop (Leonard Neale). He told the people, telling them also that when Aaron died on the mountain Eleazar came down to replace him. (Cheverus) asks (Bruté) to convey his respects and obedience to Eleazar. After vespers he chanted the DeProfundis and yesterday he offered Mass for the deceased. Father Matignon left yesterday for Canada with two young Irish girls who will enter the novitiate of the Ursulines at Trois Rivières under Abbé Calonne. They will return to Boston and try to form an establishment. While they were in Boston they seemed to be ladies of merit. They are sisters, Mary and Catherine Ryan from Limerick. They are recommended by Father (John) Thayer. Of the three Archbishops (Cheverus) say the first, (John Carroll), expressed the beauty and dignity of the church, the second, Neale, the perfection of conduct and the third will enforce the discipline of the church. St. Sulpice has in him the perfect model.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 2pp. 4to.
8
1817 Jul. 1
(Flaget) Benedict Joseph Bishop of Bardstown
Loretto, (Kentucky)
to All the Catholics of the parish of St. Anne
Detroit, (Michigan Territory)
Flaget gives his definitive judgment regarding the differences which have taken place in the parish. Flaget expresses his sorrow at the unhappy division which threatens them with schism and even loss of faith and finds no more suitable expression of his feeling than those of St. Paul to the Corinthians (I Cor VI, 8, 12, 13, etc.). If St. Paul had been writing to the people of Detroit instead of the Corinthians he would have made the same reproaches. Flaget regrets that in the past two years their scandals and quarrels have only increased and that they have gone not to ecclesiastical superiors but to the civil powers, who are not interested in promoting harmony in the Church, to seek a decision. Then after this chicanery they sought the decision of the bishop. But judging by the spirit of their writings he doubts their sincerity and fears further troubles. He has found in the writings they have sent him the same principles and spirit which plunged France into its sea of troubles. What can he think of the men from the Cote de Nord Est who went before a magistrate and said they were the trustees of the people when they did not have the sanction of the pastor, and in the name of the people called an assembly, as if that was not the duty of the pastor. They dared in asking him to bless the corner stone to say that he was too zealous in his ministry to deprive the people of their rights. This spirit will in time seek to name the chanters, suppress the feasts and overturn all church discipline. They must seek to suppress such abuses. When (Flaget) was Pastor at Vincennes all united to choose a man living in public concubinage as trustee and in his indignation he declared the election null. If that man had been inbued with the spirit of the men of the Cote du Nord Est he would have insisted on sitting on his bench because he was justly elected, and (Flaget) would have been forced to give him the incense every sunday. This example should show why ecclesiastical matters should not be subject to laics who lack knowledge of ecclesiastical matters. It is for this reason that the Church has always entrusted to bishops the care of her temporal goods. He as a father can take care of distribution of the goods and the care of the needy. These principles have always been in force among them as says the ritual of Quebec (which he quotes) on page 629. At Bardstown he has just made an agreement for the erection of a new cathedral 125' x 65' at a cost of $20,000. The contracts and the sale of the benches is left entirely to the bishop. The people built the church, protestants contributing as well as Catholics, yet by this rule while the church belongs to them they are excluded from the administration of the temporalities. The people of Bardstown not less jealous of their prerogative than those of Detroit have submitted with little difficulty to this arrangement. These are the rules of Catholic countries and at all times, since the church government is that of the family with the Father in charge. But just as the father of a numerous family will consult those of his family he regards as capable of aiding him so the Church seeks the aid of the most capable lay people to aid in the administration of her goods. The rules observed from the time immemorial at Detroit say there are 4 marguilliers or curateurs who with the cure administer the temporal goods of the parish. To arrange for their election the cure calls an assembly from the pulpit to which he invites all the heads of families and at the assembly these Marguilliers are chosen by plurality of votes. That is by a majority of those present and voting. When the elections have been confirmed by the cure these four unite with the cure to handle the temporal affairs of the Church. But any action without the participation or approval of the cure is null. (This is an extract of the rules of the Church of St. Anne). On these principles he now discusses the five questions submitted to him by his decision.
I. As to what persons compose the legal corporation of St. Anne's Church, the persons who compose the corporation are the 4 marguilliers presided over by the cure as the representative of the Bishop. This is the only corporation that can and should be confirmed by the government of Michigan since it is the only one established according to the rules of the Catholic Church of Detroit. This is conformably to the Constitution of the United States which gives each religious society the right to be governed by its own rules and statutes. Thus he confirms as authentic the corporation presided over by Father Richard and condemns as illegitimate that of the Cote du Nord Est as contrary to the rules of St. Anne, of the discipline of the church and of the Constitution of the United States. But the question may be asked if Mr. Joseph Campeau and his two colleagues may not proceed to build a church since they were authorized by a legal assembly presided over by Father Richard. In answer, (Flaget) says that since the deliberations were not entered in the registers of the parish of the assembly, not as a real assembly, and the committee should be of the same nature. (Blackstone, t, 8 p.24). But granted that the committee was properly appointed the power that appointed it can revoke it if the members of the committee do not do what they are appointed to do or if they do not follow the rules set out for them. Consulting the documents before him he sees that the committee did not follow any of the rules and exceed them in many serious matters.
1. They set the foundation without conferring with the pastor who alone could decide on the location of the altar and the cross and who ought to bless the corner stone.
2. They did not have a good title to the land on which they laid the foundations, having acquired the title only last February.
3. The foundations are only 10 feet from the lot belonging to a minor which is contrary to all rules of prudence.
4. The committee demanded, as if it were a right of the people, a ceremony purely of a religious nature.
5. They turned into ridicule the religious services by their farcical actions.
6. By their own authority they dug up and moved the bodies in the midst of foundations already laid which is dangerous and contrary to the canons of the church. These facts being true, Richard and his curateurs justly deprived the committee of its powers. Mr. Campeau has shown enough of good sense to submit. Laying aside his position of bishop and Judge (Flaget) becomes a suppliant and asks Campeau to use his influence to bring about the peace which the parish has lacked for so many years. Thus, what graces will he and his family receive. But on the contrary if he refuses to do this, he will be held responsible before God for all the scandals which will result from his action, and for the evils which come upon the parish once so noted for piety and good morals. (He should think well on this).
II. On the question as to what plot the new church is to be built on, (Flaget) says they shall build on the plot he has assigned in his recent pastoral, because it seems to be most advantageous for the Corporation of St. Anne. The Governor desires it there and the Bishop of Quebec is of the same opinion. The land there is 6 times as great as that where the foundations were begun, while it could not be sold for one/sixth of the value of the lots in the town. Also the plan of the city demands its erection there. No one can accuse Flaget of partiality after considering these reasons or the judgment of the Governor and the Bishop of Quebec. But they ask why lose the $2,000 spent on the old foundations, and the generosity of Joseph Campeau.
1. In answer, Flaget says the foundations were laid contrary to the rules and those who laid them should endure the loss.
2. The greater part of the materials can be sold and the loss be reduced.
3. The governor and the Bishop of Quebec considered these losses in making their decision and their judgment is to be respected. As to the generous offers of Mr. Joseph Campeau, if he has been inspired by the right spirit he will submit willingly to the decision of the bishop and do all he can to bring about the submission of others. Such conduct will bring him further honor.
III. As to the question as to what part of the church land shall be sold, (Flaget) leaves this to the corporation which alone is recognized by the governor and to which he has given full power to dispose of whatever land they wish.
IV. As to the question whether all the human bones shall be removed from the ancient cemetery, (Flaget) says that if the legitimate corporation decides to sell the land of the cemetery and of the church to pay for the new, so as to diminish the costs to the parishioners, all the bones should be removed because of the Catholic sentiments for the dead as well as the general sentiments, since the land will become the property of individuals.
V. In answer to the question, by whom they were to be removed, (Flaget) says that according to the rules of justice, those who have refused to aid their part and have prevented others from removing the bones should pay the whole expense. However, after all are reunited as they are obliged to be, if there is any difficulty all should unite in this honorable and pious work. These are the judgments of (Flaget) and his council after mature reflection and are those he would give in the presence of the final judge himself, and consequently he expects the decision to be carried. He hopes that their appreciation of his position will assure them of his impartiality. He regrets that he cannot come among them to calm the ruffled spirits. But besides his work as bishop he has also the care of 4 congregations in a territory of 60 miles, the care of two convents of sisters containing 28 sisters and 80 pupils and the care of a seminary. He calls himself a worse slave than the slaves themselves and points out how they have added to his burdens. He wishes that he might give them the kiss of peace and hopes that heaven will crown his efforts with success. He welcomes them with the joy of the father of the prodigal son and hopes that their reunion will be a foretaste of future happiness.
(In the same manuscript is the following letter).
--------
1817 Jul. 8
Flaget, Benedict Joseph, Bishop of Bardstown
Loretto, (Kentucky)
to the Catholics of the Parish of St. Anne
Detroit, (Michigan)
If the members of the opposition persist in their revolutionary and Calvinistic principles, (Flaget) will carry out his former pastoral and place them under interdict and if they persist he will include with them all who do not sign the lists prepared by the legitimate corporation. Even if 2/3 of the congregation join the rebellious group he will not give in, because they will have really excluded themselves from the bosom of the church. He will be sufficiently satisfied by the good of those who submit. if the schism continues, which he hopes will not be, and the civil government gives in to them, the faithful are to give in, in the manner of Christ and celebrate their services in private homes and God will give them the means to build a church. As to the others who seize the property of the church the Council of Trent has already pronounced their excommunication. (Flaget) hopes that Father (Gabriel) Richard, a man of talents and piety will make up for his past weaknesses and too sweet condescension by repairing the evil. For ten years the church of St. Anne enjoyed peace. If 3 or 4 then had been punished as they deserved them, 300 or 400 would not now have to be so treated. But it is now time to separate the chaff from the grain and that the true sheep shall range themselves with the pastor and gain their proper reward. (To this is added the formula of submission to which Benoit Chapoton, Francoisse, Pierre Chene and Louis Mauran have signed their names.
III-2-f A.L.S. (French) 15pp. 4to.
9
1817 Jul. 20
David, Father J(ean)
St. Thomas, Kentucky
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, (Maryland)
He thanks Bruté and Dr. Chatard for their good advice. He awaits the pastilles. His asthma continues but so light that it does not bother him. He has had other sicknesses which he describes. Father (Felix) D'Andreis took his theology class but he himself kept his class for the priests in which he corrected their sermons in English and his other work. Chabrat could not take his place without leaving the seminary. Father (Charles) Nerinckx came with two companions and gave him some relief. They had services for the Archbishop (Neale) on the 30th day. The next day they celebrated pontifically the feast of St. Vincent de Paul. He sends an extract of his letter which he has received from the superior general so that Bruté can compare it with the one he wrote to Father (Pierre) Babade. He quotes the letter in which David is praised for his work and for his desire to have St. Thomas Seminary aggregated to the Sulpicians. But the Father says that Bishop (Benedict Joseph Flaget) has not been permanently settled. Also they have been considering a project of uniting all the Sulpician seminaries but the matter is still under consideration. When that is settled David's seminary will not be forgotten. This does not agree with the previous letter which said the seminary would be accepted when the Bishop's see was fixed. David asked the Superior two questions:
1. About the future of the Sulpicians there: Will they be like the Canadians also pastors? He proposes a third plan for those who would go on missions in the diocese like the Lazarists.
2. He asks if there should be a central authority. Should they be dependent on Baltimore? The Bishop would not want to be in danger of losing his subjects or of not having them replaced. The Bishop would not care to have renewed the difficulty he had with Father (Jean) Tessier. David lacks the leisure to examine the question of cooperation. He recalls reading an example from a Jesuit in China, and of St. Benedict. He does not see much difference between a temple of an idol and a temple of a Unitarian. Some hold that opinion. He asks Bruté to send him the life of Father Surin and the three other parts of a small breviary. The cathedral walls are up more than 15 feet. They await the arrival of Father Nerinckx and Bishop (Louis William) DuBourg. Nerinckx has been embarrassed by his expenses. The Bishop cannot help him. The Bishop does not have any money and Father Tessier probably does not have any money despite his sale of Bob whom they had to sell because he stole continually. Flaget has written for the $300 left him by Archbishop (John) Carroll but does not expect to get it. Nerinckx speaks of selling a part to free the remainder. David hopes that DuBourg will come as soon as he can to Kentucky. They have not received news of the $3000. David thinks that DuBourg's arrival at St. Louis with 4 or 5 missionaries will have a good effect.
P.S. He adds the report of the Bible Society and the answer of Father (Stephen Theodore) Baden (no enclosure). (Note on the back): This letter will be delivered by Edward Hayden, a good Catholic and trustee of the cathedral who goes shopping to establish himself as a merchant in Bardstown. Tessier is to get a globe for the Sisters.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 3pp. 4to.
9
(1817 Jul. 31
Grassi, S.J., Father John)
(George Town, District of Columbia)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, (Maryland)
Grassi thanks Bruté for the news that new laborers have come for the vineyard although he would have been more pleased if some were for his Georgetown. Father (Anthony) Kohlman is in a very weak condition. Grassi is dreadfully embarrassed by the lack of help. He hopes for some from the old world. Father Debrosse of the little seminary of Bordeaux has sent him a fine story about the Marechal de Salon. If any of the gentlemen want to see him he will try to come and see them in Baltimore before they go to Louisiana. Father (F.) Vespre has promised them a visit next month and Grassi asks if Bruté can come along. Bruté will send him back the relation of Thomas Martin.
II-3-n A.L.S. 2pp. 8vo.
2
1817 Aug. 21
(Cheverus), Jean, Bishop of
Boston, (Massachusetts)
to Father Simon (Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, Maryland
Perkins, the correspondent of Mrs. Gallet tells him that young Gallet does not want to go to Martinique but he is vacationing with one of his comrades and plans to return to college after the vacation. Perkins has received the money for this. (Cheverus) hopes that the boy will behave and that he will have the friendship of Bruté. Father (John) Byrne is with him and awaits the same ship that brought him. (Cheverus) is anxious to hear of the arrival of Bishop (Louis William) DuBourg. He awaits Father (Francis) Matignon the day after tomorrow. He himself will spend some days on the mission.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 2pp. 4to.
3
(1817?) Sept. 8
Grassi, Father J(ohn) S.J.:
GeorgeT(own), District of Columbia
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Brute:
Baltimore, (Maryland)
Grassi has scarcely time to answer Brute's letter. Here is something to offer the Blessed Virgin for the itinerant aspolsles of Lousiana. He sends respect to them. P.S. excuse his haste he is sorry that he has no time to write such a friend.
II-3-o - A.L.S. - (English) - 1p. {4to.} 1
1817 Sep. 29
David, Father J(ean)
St. Thomas, (Kentucky)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, (Maryland)
David thinks that Bruté now enjoys the visit of Bishop (Louis William) DuBourg. Bishop (Benedict Joseph) Flaget will start thursday, October 2, for St. Louis with Father (Felix) D'Andreis and Father (Joseph) Rosati to prepare for DuBourg. They are now building a horsemill. They thought they could make it for $600 but the costs are already over a thousand. It is nearly finished and will pay for itself in a few years. The old one may come in use if Bishop DuBourg leaves some of his clerics with them. They have 15 seminarians, counting Desrigauds and Moretti, who has become very fervent. The Bishop has two more who want to join them. They are having requiem services for Dorin about whom Duclaux has informed them and Father Ferrari, about whose death Bruté is to inform DuBourg. The brick work of the Cathedral continues. The collection of funds goes slowly but (John) Rogers advances money. They hope to have the Cathedral covered by Christmas, DuBourg will find many faults in it. He finds some himself. They will have two rooms below, one for a baptistry and another for a catechism room that can also be used for confessions. Oct. 3. The travelers started yesterday, after the rain stopped. David thanks Bruté for the life of Father Surin. He asks if Bruté has seen Hayden. Flaget will bring back D'Andreis and Rosati so that the Bishop can hold a synod with them and DuBourg on matters of discipline. Circumstances might not again allow the two bishops and their priests to meet together and perhaps prepare a pastoral to all the faithful of their dioceses. David believes they are on the vigil of a grand religious revolution in this country. Catholics are fervent, heretics are converted, the savage infidels seem drawn to the Gospel. He asks Bruté for books from which he can draw the subjects for the meditations of the seminarians. He mentions Challenor, Dubois, and Bishop Carroll. He wishes also the little breviary of which Bruté sent only the winter volume. They have learned by letter from New Orleans of the death of one of DuBourg's priests. Mr Maguire has passed by Louisville but did not come to see them. He asks for some things to be sent by Hayden (letter damaged here). Father Tessier should send a statement of what he has for Flaget so that they can plan their demands. He asks Bruté for some other items (page damaged).
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 4pp. 4to.
6
1817 Oct. 1
Badin, Father S(tephen) T(heodore)
Bardstown, (Kentucky)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Brutey [Bruté]
Baltimore, (Maryland)
Brutey's zeal for religion and charity prompts Badin to write him about a project on his farm he had in mind for some time. They have three nunneries in Kentucky but no orphanage for orphan boys. Daily experiences show that there are boys bound out to tradesmen and mechanics destitute of the true principles of religion who lose their faith and morals and are hindered from following the faith of their ancestors and from attending divine service on Sunday and holydays and the like. To prevent these evils is the business of the Catholic clergy, especially since Protestants are doing this for Catholic youth. Bishop (Benedict Joseph) Flaget encourages him in the project. Badin admits his weakness yet says God uses the weak to do great things. He will ask his friends to help. The youngsters will not only receive a Christian education but also trades and, if the disposition appears, training for the priesthood. He needs a sufficient number of mechanics, a school master. These would be like lay brothers in a monastery. Brutey may have such candidates for the brotherhood among his acquaintances. They would be welcomed. Orphans of other dioceses would be admitted. He sends his compliments to Bishop (Louis William) DuBourg who brought letters for him from France. He sends his regards to Tessier and the other gentlemen.
II-3-n A.L.S. 3pp. folio
3
1817 Nov. 1
(DuBourg), L(ouis) W(illiam), Bishop (of Louisiana)
(Baltimore, Maryland)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
(Baltimore, Maryland)
He is scribbling on paper for Bruté. He does not have time to speak to Bruté this morning and is setting out. He wishes the things could be decided today. The premature departure of Crugy and Portier and other unexpected expenses upset his calculations. (DuBourg) asks if Bruté can help him from the funds destined for Portier and Des. Tomorrow he must give money to de Crugy. (Note in Bruté's handwriting): In answer granted $200. Explain tomorrow that if the money is for New Orleans where there is wealth he wants the $200 returned to him.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 2pp. 4to.
1
1817 Nov. 4
(Seton, William)
Emmitsburg, Maryland
to ( )
( )
(Seton) has received with pleasure a Mid(shipman)'s warrant from the Navy Department. He gratefully presents his acceptance of it together with the oath demanded.
II-1-a note 1p. 16to.
1
1817 Nov. 13
(DuBourg), L(ouis) Wil(liam), Bishop of Louis(iana)
Pittsburgh, (Pennsylvania)
to Father S(imon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, (Maryland)
What a road; what precipices! DuBourg does not remember enduring such fatigue. After walking half the second day to avoid breaking their limbs on the third day they could not keep the stage from overturning three times. They have at last gone all on foot, following their stage on which their baggage was loaded. After the brambles, and the slippery rocks of the way they were in bad shape when they arrived at Pittsburg. At the inn they left Neil and Martin with Augustin and the baggage and got a conveyance to Pittsburg. Yesterday Augustin was still forty miles away with the baggage. He fears he will not find a wagon. Their vanguard had better success; they have had no breaks, not even a bruise, despite the 130 miles walk. DuBourg would never advise anyone to travel that road by stage until the turnpike is built several years from now. The most disagreeable part of the stage is that one has to leave at 3 A.M. and travel until after midnight. They find at Pittsburgh ample compensation in the care of O'Brien, Ross and Beelen. William Valentine is their steward. Several celebrate Mass in the house, others in the church which is at some distance. Next Sunday he will give Confirmation if Augustin arrives with the luggage. They count on taking the Ohio and he will write from Bardstown. He asks Bruté to convey this information to the faculty and Mr. Pochon. He recalls the commission he gave to Father Joubert. They are missing a basket and a trunk which they think they left at the seminary. If Joubert finds them he can forward them by way of New Orleans to his brother P.F. DuBourg in New Orleans. These things might be at the home of Mr. Pochon. The flat trunk and the things he asks of Father Joubert are to be entrusted to Captain McMeal. These letters are to precede the arrival of Captain McMeal and that of Ducrugy and Portier. Young Moranville has not arrived and Joubert is to look into his trunk and send the articles mentioned. Father (Jean) Tessier is to give DeCrugy [Ducrugy] masses to be said. The other priests need none and he does not want a great number himself.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 4pp. 4to.
1
1817 Nov. 26
Badin, Father S(tephen) T(heodore)
Near Bardstown, K(entuck)y
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Brutey
Baltimore, (Maryland)
On his return from Lexington on the 22nd he found Brutey's letter of October 25. He had no doubt of receiving Brutey's approbation since he had that of Bishop (Benedict Joseph) Flaget. He wrote to Brutey because of his connections with Baltimore and Emmitsburgh where some subjects might be found among those who are dissatisfied after starting for the ecclesiastical state. He did not intend to put Brutey to the trouble of finding subjects since they have many in Kentucky. He would exclude those orphans whose parents were not of the faith. He would prefer in this country those who have no other dependence. His purpose is not to make scholars of them but good men and useful members of society. Some will be worthy and be even called to the ecclesiastical state. He is less in need of teachers than tradesmen. He already has two teachers. He desires lay brothers disgusted with the world. They have nunneries for the other sex and need a monastery for men. The brothers are to act as masters in the trades they followed in the world. They are to watch over the children. Some can be found in large cities and even in the wilderness. Brutey notices the societies raised up by Protestants of the eastern states. They have them too in the backwoods, poor schools, Sunday Schools, etc., which circulate religious tracts and engage in various activities. God has sent them many supplies but the pamphlet of Charles Wharton is found in stationery shops. Badin has read Brutey's letter thrice and Wharton's answer. Knowing the heretical etc. views of Wharton he is not surprised that Wharton charged Brutey with having the spirit of an inquisitor. Still Badin regrets that Wharton published Brutey's letter. Wharton shows his heretical spirit. How congenial is his essay on the death of his wife. Badin hopes that Wharton will receive an answer. Bishop (Louis William) DuBourg has not yet arrived. Badin understands that the bulls have arrived for the consecration of the Archbishop (Ambrose Maréchal) and he sends good wishes, as also to Tessier and the other gentlemen.
P.S. Bishop Flaget has written on the subject of this letter to Father Moranvilliers but has no answer. He asks Brutey to convey this message to Father Fenwick and the others. He forgot that after the institution had taken a good footing, another place will be opened to boys who are not orphans for preparation for their first Communion. He will probably also establish a free school to be managed like those of the Brothers of Christian Doctrine in France. It will have no connection with the other and will be separated from it at least a mile.
II-3-n A.L.S. 4pp. folio
3
(1817 Dec.)
David, Father J(ean)
(Bardstown, Kentucky)
to (Father Simon Gabriel Bruté
Baltimore, Maryland)
David takes the liberty of sending to (Bruté) some dispatches for Europe which are very numerous because there are so many Europeans there. He sends them with one of their merchants, Mr. Shadburn, who is not a Catholic but married to one. He knows nothing new except that he has been ill and kept to his room for three or four days. There is no news from the Bishops who have taken the steamboat from Louisville to St. Louis. They do not know if the ice has hindered them or how the Bishop and Father (Stephen Theodore) Badin will return. Everything goes as usual. The new students learn English. Their expenses are very great. The cathedral is not yet covered because of the illness of the man who was to take care of the rafters. Among the letters he has sent (Bruté) is one to Cardinal Litta concerning his nomination to the coadjutorship written at the suggestion of the two Bishops (Benedict Joseph Flaget) of Bardstown and (Louis William DuBourg) of Louisiana. He wants to refuse the bulls of appointment but (Flaget) says this is the work of Providence and that David cannot refuse them. He exposes the situation to the Cardinal in all candor and confidence. His great sorrow is his loss of liberty that when he would be replaced he could retire and prepare for death, whereas a bishop is a slave. He expresses his feelings under such circumstances and begs Bruté's prayers.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 2pp. 4to. & folio
5
(1817) Dec. 12
David, Father J(ean)
(Bardstown, Kentucky)
to Father (Simon Gabriel) Bruté
Baltimore, (Maryland)
David writes of a spectacle seen only in Europe or Rome. Bishop (Louis William) DuBourg has visited them for ten days with his little band. They planned an episcopal reception but the Bishop came on with Father (Guy Ignatius) Chabrat to St. Thomas. The first to come was the Bishop himself who took his meal at the seminary. Bishop (Benedict Joseph) Flaget rendered honors due a bishop and erected for him a throne opposite to his own. DuBourg assisted at the Sunday Mass and gave a sermon on the gospel of the First Sunday of Advent. The first vespers of the Immaculate Conception he celebrated pontifically, and gave the benediction. David gives the details of the ceremonies. DuBourg said it reminded him of a papal Mass without the Pope and the Cardinals. He found their church and seminary attractive, something he did not expect to find in the midst of the forests. He found few things to criticize in the cathedral which they hope to have covered by the new year. They have not held a synod as they had proposed. DuBourg will return when they have finished the cathedral. It appears that then there will be three bishops because Bruté may know that they are going to make David coadjutor of Bardstown. He would like to avoid this but Flaget insists. He will write to the Cardinal explaining why he wants to escape the appointment to Philadelphia or Baltimore. When they have that consecration DuBourg says they will have a synod or as DuBourg says a council. the two prelates left yesterday for St. Louis. They will stay a few days in Louisiana. The people of St. Louis have raised over $1,000 which DuBourg has given to David to support his group. They are all there with the exception of Aquaroni, Caretti and Ferrari with two youths, and those working with Father (Stephen Theodore) Badin. The number of guests is now 24 which with their own 17 makes 41 of which 27 are ecclesiastics to whom 3 will be added when they receive tonsure--the cradle of the church for Kentucky, Tennessee, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri Territory, Mississippi, and lower Louisiana, the little grain of mustard seed. The faithful of St. Louis under Father Henry Pratte, the curé of St. Genevieve, appointed provisionally by Flaget for that purpose, Father Felix d'Andreis being in charge there, has made arrangements to repair the presbytery for DuBourg and two assistants. DuBourg plans to bring his group there in the spring. They will have need of the English he teaches them because Americans are settling around St. Louis and on the banks of the Missouri. He asks whether he dare say a word about Bruté's letter to Wharton. All there admire Bruté's zeal but think he speaks too strongly. His invectives will arouse only heat and hate. The conversion of Wharton would be a miracle. It is best not to act on first feelings but to wait and seek the advice of wise persons.
P.S. His nomination is a secret there; Flaget has informed Archbishop (Ambrose) Maréchal. If Bruté writes he is to avoid any title that would betray the fact.
II-3-n A.L.S. (French) 3pp. folio
4