McCloskey, Father George
(New York, New York)
To Archbishop (John Baptist) Purcell
of Cincinnati, Ohio
McCloskey writes that he has just returned from the steamship office and has learned that all the berths are taken. The agents and Captain were pleased that Purcell wished to join them so they set apart the officers room for him. McCloskey sends his regards to Purcell's brother and to Father Collins.
II-5-b A.L.S. 2pp. 12mo.
1
1862 May 1
McMurdie, Father H.S., Mount Saint Mary's College
Emittsburg, Maryland
to (Orestes A. Brownson)
(Elizabeth, New Jersey)
Father, teacher of metaphysics at the College, is much concerned over some metaphysical problems which a former pupil who is nopw finishing his theological studies in Rome, sent him for explanation. So Father in turn is forwarding the propositions to Brownson, for a solution. He belongs to the old psychological school and of late has been using Brancherau as a text book. He outlines his objections to the propositions and asks Brownson's opinion. Msgr. (Joseph) Carriere, S.S. does not permit Branchereau to be taught in any Sulpician school. Consequently Father does not know what to use. If Brownson does not have time, no ill wilol be thought of him, and he should not hesitate to return same.
I-4-b A.L.S. 2pp. 8vo.
3
1862 May 2
Brownson, O(restes) A.
Elizabeth, (New Jersey)
To (Bishop James Frederick Wood)
Philadelphia
Brownson has read the article by the bishop in the Catholic Herald and Visitor to the editor of the publication concerning Brownson and the Review. The bishop's comments were unfavorable in tone, and this surprised Brownson. He has nothing to say regarding the course the editor will take due to the bishop's letter. The "official" stone of the bishop is unwarranted since Brownson feels that the bishop alone should have written him of his displeasure. The bishop wrote that the Review is not to be considered a Catholic review. Brownson's programme is not intended in that way. Brownson assumes all responsibilities of the Review; he submits the Review to the judgment of the Holy See. Brownson asks the bishop where in the Review he has given faulty impressions. Brownson believes a great injustice has been done him. If a specific charge, not a vague one, is made, Brownson will endeavor to rectify his error if there is shown that a wrong exists in the articles in the Review.
I-4-b A.L.S. (First draft) 3pp. 4to.
2
1862 May 2
(Rappe), A(madeus), Bishop of
Cleveland, (Ohio)
To (Archbishop John Baptist Purcell)
of (Cincinnati, Ohio)
He received Purcell's consoling letter; he never doubted Purcell's paternal sentiments. He is happy to learn of Purcell's intention to visit Rome. Rappe has decided to make the same voyage and has retained a place for the 8th of the month. He hopes they can meet for the long journey.
II-5-b A.L.S. (French) 2pp. 12mo.
1
1862 May 3
Kenrick, Francis P. Archbishop of
Baltimore, (Maryland)
To Archbishop (John Baptist) Purcell
of Cincinnati, Ohio
Kenrick says he has made up the half yearly pension payable to Dr. (Levi Silliman) Ives. The pension was deficient, and Kenrick has made up the $400.
P.S. The Bishop of Louisville sent $50. Father John A. Ryan, of Waterford, has collected for the poor here, and Kenrick regrets giving permission. Dr. Gould of Australia has written to caution us against a Dr. Barry who had charge of a college there and left in debt.
(Note by Purcell: He paid Dr. Ives $50 in New York before sailing for Europe).
II-5-b A.L.S. 2pp. 12mo.
3
1862 May 3
Putnam, Edw(ard)
Northwhitefield, M(ain)e
to (Orestes A. Brownson)
Putnam asks Brownson "to return the enclosed with a line signifying it," if he has not received a copy of "Bridle of Vanity." Putnam has little confidence in his publisher. He will send Brownson a copy if he hasn't one. Recently he attended a meeting of clergymen who attacked Brownson's ideas. They wondered if all other converts were in solidarity with Brownson. Putnam, a convert, feels there is too much of this "lowliness," which the "Tablet" recommends. He believes Brownson was not fair about "sacramental" in the last number of the Review. He comments at length on this.
I-4-b A.L.S. 4pp. 12mo.
1
1862 May 5
English, Thomas B.
Jackson, Mo.
To D.J. Sadlier and Co.
New York, New York
English wishes to subscribe to the Review for the current year. Missouri has been without mail since August last. Brownson's radicalism disturbs English. He decries violence. The whole question of slavery was compromised by the formation of the Constitution, he feels. Hence, slavery cannot be said to be the cause of the war. The cause of the strife was forgetting the references to it in the Constitution. He feels the South has been unduly alarmed and their confidence destroyed and that thus they were rushed into secession. Let the North abolish abolition and cut out the cause for the disturbance. Why cannot the cause of the disturbance be settled as peacefully as it was set up? The fiction of state suicide is fallacious. If a state can change its condition by secession it becomes a foreign state. He fears Brownson will do harm by mixing religion and politics. He does not expect any notice, but hopes Brownson will not consider him a secessionist.
I-4-b A.L.S. 3pp. 8vo.
1
1862 May 5
Wood, James F., Bishop
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
to O(restes A.) Brownson
Elizabeth, New Jersey
The publication of the notice in the Herald Visitor which Brownson complained of was considered by the bishop to be a pastoral duty. He holds no personal animosity toward Brownson.
I-4-b A.L.S. 1p. 12mo.
2
1862 May 6
Randall, Henry S.
Cortland Village, N.Y.
To (Orestes A. Brownson)
(Elizabeth, New Jersey)
Randall reminisces on the last visit of Brownson. He enjoys talking to the Brownson who is so "good-natured and chatty." He wishes Brownson were his neighbor. Randall inquires as to Brownson's political crusade. He is tolerant man regarding opinions. The Eagle and several buildings around have burned down. His home was robbed the other night. Has Brownson the Documentary History of New York yet? He would give Brownson a copy. The war has dulled his outlook on life.
I-4-a A.L.S. 4pp. 12mo.
1
1862 May 9
Brownson O(restes) A.
Elizabeth, New Jersey
to (Father Henry) McMurdic
(Emmitsburg, Maryland)
The propositions negatived by the sacred congregation have been sent to Brownson. The proposition could have no reference to the synthetic philosophy taught by Brownson and Gioberti. Brownson never met any of the prohibited propositions. He maintains that God Himself is the objective light of the intellect. The Sacred Congregation could not mean to deny this. The error is in confounding cognition with intuition. The second proposition denies the ideal formula that we apprehend existence as well as being. The fourth proposition is that cognition of God does not involve the cognition of existence. The trouble here is that the idea is taken as intellectual apprehension and not as the object of that apprehension. The seventh proposition is inadmissible because it identifies the creative act of God with the act of Running Himself. Brownson would not condemn any of the propositions. The propositions are not a fair statement of the teachings of the Ontologists. Brownson is no more an Ontologist the he is a Psychologist. His philosophy starts from the original synthesis of things. He does not hold that God can be intuitively known.
I-4-h A.L.S. (Photostat) 8pp. 12mo.
1
1862 May 9
Hewit, H(enry) S.
(Cincinnati, Ohio)
To O(restes) A. Brownson
(Elizabeth, New Jersey)
Hewit informs Brownson that his health is broken, and that he is suspended from duty because of calumny and misrepresentation. He wishes Brownson to write in his behalf to the Secretary of War. He may be ordered to Washington to have this matter investigated.
I-4-b A.L.S. 2pp. 8vo.
1
1862 May 11
Brownson, (Orestes) A.
(Elizabeth, New Jersey)
To Cha(rle)s Sumner
(Washington, D.C.)
Brownson asks Sumner to give the Secretary of War a letter from him in behalf of Dr. Henry S. Hewit, formerly with Grant's army, and later was Brigade Surgeon in the General Smith's army. At the surrender of Fort Donaldson, he was released from service. He is ill now at Cincinnati. He was Brownson's family physician. The Doctor wishes to redeem himself in Washington. The military operations against the Rebels cease to interest Brownson. He feels the war is won. But wonders what will be the fruits. The struggle now is to present a shameful compromise. He asks if there is not great danger?
I-4-b A.L. (first draft) 1p. 4to.
2
1862 May 12
Brownson, O(restes) A.
(Elizabeth, New Jersey)
To E(dwin) M. Stanton
(Washington, D.C.)
Brownson champions the cause of Dr. H(enry) S. Hewit, formerly Grant's army medical director. He is ill at Cincinnati. The doctor believes his case to be misrepresented. He wishes to be ordered to Washington where he may clear himself. Brownson further explains the doctor's mannerisms.
I-4-b A.L.(first draft) 1p. 4to.
2
1862 May 12
Brownson, O(restes) A.
Elizabeth, (New Jersey)
To Charles Sumner
(Washington, D.C.)
Brownson encloses a letter which he wants Sumner to give to the Secretary of War. The letter is in behalf of Dr. Henry S. Hewit. Dr. Hewit was medical director, Brownson believes, at Pittsburg Landing of General Grant's army. He was Brigade Surgeon, and at the taking of Fort Donaldson was on General Smith's staff. He was suspended from duty by order of the Secretary, and now is in ill health in Cincinnati. Brownson believes that there has been some mistake about Hewit, he is a tender-hearted man, and a physician who never spares himself when his services are needed by his patients, yet he has a manner that might deceive strangers and led them to think he is cruel and hard-hearted. Hewit wishes to be ordered to Washington where he may present such credentials as will relieve him from suspension, so he may obtain a sick furlough. Brownson no longer is interested in the military operations against the enemy, the battle is won. But what are the fruits? The real struggle comes now.
I-4-h A.L.S. (Photostat, Harvard Library) 2pp. 12mo.
2
1862 May 13
(Elder), William Henry, Bishop of Natchez
Corinth, (Mississippi)
To Archbishop J(ohn) M(ary) Odin, (C.M.)
New Orleans, Louisiana
(Elder) is well and has come here to try to make some arrangements to supply the spiritual wants of the men. Father (Julian M.) Guillou met so little encouragement that he went home. (Elder) hopes to bring him back. He saw Father (Felix Dicharry) Dichiarry last Sunday. He is in good health. (Elder) thinks of visiting some of the other bishops to consult about spiritual necessities. He left home May 5. Odin can address letters care of Father (Patrick F.) Coyle, female College Hospital, Corinth.
VI-2-f A.L.S. 2pp. 4to.
4
1862 May 13
Underwood, T. Hulbert
New York City, (New York)
To O(restes) A. Brownson
(Elizabeth, New Jersey)
Underwood would like a notice or review of "Our flag" in the July number of the Review.
I-4-b A.L.S. 1p. 12mo.
1
(1862) May 14
(Pie), L(ouis) E(dward), Bishop of Potiers
Rome, (Italy)
To Archbishop (John Baptist Purcell)
of (Cincinnati, Ohio)
It is one of Pie's dearest memories to have known Purcell when Pie was at St. Sulpice from 1837 to 1839. Purcell's letter gives him a desire to see and talk with him. His heart desires only that he be worthy of a place in Purcell's affections. He will be home Sunday morning and they can talk at leisure concerning the subject which Purcell proposed.
II-5-b A.L.S. (French) 3pp. 12mo.
1
1862 May 15
McGinnis, Ja(me)s
Cincinnati, Ohio
to O(restes) A. Brownson
New York, (New York)
On May 26th different Catholic congregations will hold a Fair for the House of the Good Shepherd, lasting about ten days. A daily paper will be published, the proceeds of which will go to the Fair. As editor of this paper, McGinnis asks Brownson to contribute a short article or two. He assures Brownson that the majority of thinking Catholics are with him in his defense of the layman's right to think, speak and write freely.
I-4-b A.L.S. 2pp. 8vo.
1
(18)62 May 16
(Bailey), Carleton
Uplands, (Illinois)
To (Robert Seton
Rome, Italy)
Just as Carleton was about to write Father (Arnold) Damen, S.J. arrived to give a retreat. During the nine days of the retreat Damen brought back to their duty some 200 persons; also 600 who had attended to duties. (Bailey) concluded to write (Robert) about Grace (Bailey) and (Robert) can tell her the conclusion they have come to. (Bailey) would not want to do anything in respect to changing her school without Rosy's (Bishop James Roosevelt Bailey) approval and as he will not be back until September unless (Robert) writes to Bell (Isabel Seton) and has her speak to him and know what he thinks of it. If the war continues much longer (Bayley) will have to bring her home. Where is Harry (Seton)? (Bayley) has been hoping he would make them a visit. He wants to send Master Will(iam Seton 4) some money, but fears the man will not pay without the note to endorse. Kate and Rosy, Jr. are very well. Emma is improving slowly. Father Damen administered the Sacraments to her.
P.S. Cannot some of them come out with Harry? Will is to send (Bailey) the note Emma wrote to Grace yesterday but said nothing about change of school. (Monsignor Seton adds the note that the letter is from) Cousin Carleton Bailey whose farm in Illinois was called Uplands.
II-1-a A.L.S. 4pp. 12mo.
7
1862 May 16
Hecker, Father I(saac) T.
New York, (New York)
To (Orestes A. Brownson)
(Elizabeth, New Jersey)
Hecker has just received a note from Simpson, Esquire of London which he quotes. Simpson asks that Hecker inform him if Brownson's review is to cease. Under such a condition they desire to offer Brownson terms to write for their Quarterly. The Quarterly consists of editorial articles, communicated articles, short reviews and notice of current events. They are anti-revolutionary and anti-democratic, stick up for rights in opposition to interests, and hold that the Roman government has not a right to be oppressive. Brownson can send his reply to Hecker. Hecker has heard that Brownson is sick and asks him not to get sick when he is most needed.
I-4-b A.L.S. 4pp. 12mo.
1
1862 May 16
Randall, Henry S.
Cortland Village, N(ew) Y(ork)
To O(restes) A. Brownson
(Elizabeth, New Jersey)
The Documentary History is being sent by express; receipt is enclosed. When the books arrive, Brownson is asked to write Randall to that effect. He regrets the publisher's oversight in not sending Brownson a copy. The plates have been sold to a Broadway firm but he has written to secure another copy for Brownson. He regrets that Brownson is confined to his home with the gout.
P.S. He has been robbed of 3 gold watches and $150 in money.
I-4-b A.L.S. 2pp. 12mo.
1
(18)62 May 16
Seton, (Elizabeth) Elise
Cragdon, (New York)
To (Robert Seton
Rome, Italy)
(Robert's) letter of April 12 with note to Mr. Stewart was received on May 6. She is very thankful for his assistance and promises a speedy reimbursement as soon as Nell (Helen Seton) comes of age. One of (Robert's) Brooklyn sixes bonds paid $988. They have paid for the piano. Last week their Father (William Seton 3) sent (Robert) a bill for $600 to pay Isabel (Seton's) expenses. Bell can be there by the last of June. Em(ily Seton) is greatly disappointed that Madame Branda will not come with Belle. Harry (Seton) left last week for Baltimore. Will(iam Seton 4) writes he is now at the Mountain. Harry has a good chance of getting on the staff of General Gibbon, General (John Gray) Foster's brother-in-law. (Robert) speaks of visiting them in '63 and should tell them at what time Grace Bailey will secure (Robert) for a few weeks at Uplands. Little Roosevelt Bailey spent a few days with them last week. They have 2 Indian ponies and a Virginia mare lent them by Mrs. Foster, captured by the General. Emily has some cotton growing out of which she intends to make Father (Bernard) Smith a handkerchief. The Henrys occupy the cottage and like it very much; the children spend most of their time with (the Setons). So (Robert's) famous box reached him at last. The $200 (Elizabeth) borrowed last winter form (Robert) to pay the grocer was part of his February dividend as she sent only $150 which was his share of the rents. Bill's boat is on the creek; they hope it will be caulked and painted before Harry comes back. Their father looks very well. She encloses the letter of exchange, $600 for Bell.
II-1-a A.L.S. 4pp. 16mo.
13
1862 May 16
Tasset, Father Fr(ancis)
Houma, (Louisiana)
to Archbishop (John Mary Odin, C.M,
New Orleans, Louisiana)
He seeks a dispensation for first cousins: Frejus Landry and Eurelia Henri. ... Their city is bulging with Federals.... (For complete calendar see original of 12 cards).
Cross references:
--------
1. Houma, Louisiana
2. Archbishop John Mary Odin, C.M.
3. Frejus Landry
4. Eurelia Henri
5. General Benjamin F. Butler
6. Father Charles M. Ménard
7. Dr. Helmilk
8. Colonel Keith
9. Mr. Weber
10. Mr. Bond
VI-2-f A.L.S. (French) 6pp. 4to.
14
1862 May 18
O'Reilly, Father Bernard
Hannibal, M(iss)o(uri)
To Archbishop (John Mary Odin, C.M.
New Orleans, Louisiana)
O'Reilly has just learned that there is hope that a letter can reach New Orleans. He is happy and well. So is Archbishop (Peter Richard Kenrick) of St. Louis whom he had the pleasure of seeing a few days ago. He has been uneasy about (Odin) and about Texas, and he desires to hear from him. His niece, Rose, is well and lives with a relative of his in St. Louis. He wonders how (James P.) Nash, Father (Louis C.M.) Chambodut, and Father (Michael) Shehan are. As soon as all things are set in order, he hopes to go to see (Odin).
VI-2-f A.L.S. 1p. 4to.
2
1862 May 18
Rosecrans, Father S(ylvester) H.
(Cincinnati, Ohio)
To Archbishop (John Baptist) Purcell
(in Paris, France)
Rosecrans preached a retreat in Brown County last week. He confirmed eight children and received a present from the mother of Pearlie Lincoln. Father (William) Dieters has pledged on oath never to drink but Rosecrans doubts him. He hopes (Father B,.) Seling wants to leave Columbus as Father (B.) Hemsteger is well. Rosecrans has offered to let him go to St. Mary's at the Furnaces where Father Rauch was. Father (Gerhard) Uhling will be here in fourteen days. Father (Joseph) Ferneding thinks it better to let him have Mt. Pleasant. Father Ferneding's new arrival is Herman Johanning. He will be examined next Wednesday and if he passes, will go into retreat at once. Ferneding was ill after Mass yesterday. Rosecrans received a huge installment of Beleke papers yesterday and a letter of Bishop (Amadeus) Rappe to G. Tod, Gov(ernor). Beleke wants Rosecrans to electioneer. Rosecrans will put the influential lay business in the hands of McGinnis. Prendergast has turned up at La Trappe. Father Benedict (Berger, O.C.) writes to Purcell sending a decree of the Pope about testimonials bodily. Rosecrans wrote him that possibly Father (Andrew) Kunkler might give him some information. Bishop (Martin J.) Spalding is sorry he cannot go to Boston due to engagements. Father Guilfoyle just came in with a case of conscience Conlan, an Oddfellow. Father James Kearney wants a relief for a few weeks for a visit with his mother. On his way to Boston Rosecrans will also stop in Pittsburgh to ordain Dr. Keogh's class of theologians. Father Frank O'Shea has gone crazy and is at Mt. Hope. Father (Thomas) Coppinger has preached an old sermon of Father Edward Purcell's. Rosecrans' brother left today to join Halleck. Rosecrans mentions Sister Anthony being in the skirmish at Farmington. He sends regards to Bishop Wood.
P.S. Father Caspar (Borgess) wants his Sodality of the Immaculate Conception in George Street affiliated and diploma obtained and he wants the Decrees of the Congress of Rilis after 1825.
II-5-b A.L.S. 3pp. 4to.
15
1862 May 19
Mina, Father Ve. M(odest)e
(Bonnet Carré, Louisiana)
To Father N(napoleon) J(oseph) Perché
New Orleans, (Louisiana)
Mina forwards the manuscript of the Ordo for 1863 by way of E. Dumez. In case Perché cannot decipher it, he should send it to Mina and he will make a copy although the thought alone grieves him. He asks him to add the nota, as last year, but corrected, under the rubric for December 24.
P.S. He has given Dumez $10 for as many Masses as Perché will celebrate or have celebrated as soon as possible.
VI-2-f A.L.S. (French) 1p. 4to.
2
1862 May 20
Brownson, S(arah) H(ealy), Mrs.
Elizabeth, N(ew) J(ersey)
To Mrs. Henry Hewit
( )
All were disappointed that Nattie did not come and stop over Sunday with the Brownsons. Mr. Brownson received a letter from (Henry S.) Hewit last week and immediately wrote to Stanton and Senator Sumner and to Dr. Hewit. All were delighted at the honorable notice General Grant made of Dr. Hewit in his official report. Henry (F. Brownson) is in the army of the Potomac; he belongs to the 3rd artillery. It is about two weeks since the Brownsons last heard from him. Sarah is out sailing with Edward this afternoon. She intends to visit Mrs. Hewit this summer but not immediately. Jimmie White was married last week; Sarah was one of the bridesmaids. She is president of a Soldiers Aid Society.
I-4-g A.L.S. (Photostat, Odiorne collection) 2pp. 12mo.
3
1862 May 21
Brownson, O(restes) A.
Elizabeth, N(ew) J(ersey)
To R(ichard) Simpson
( , England)
Father (Isaac T.) Hecker sent Brownson an extr4act of Simpson's letter, concerning his new ly Home and Foreign review), and offering Brownson the chance of being one of its contributors. Brownson has not yet despaired of being able to continue Brownson's (Quarterly) Review, and while he continues it he cannot write for any other. Simpson has been fighting a hard battle in Great Britain and has shown bravery and skill. He hopes he will win though he has as obstinate oscurantisti to contend with as Brownson has. Brownson started as one of the oscurantisti because he thought he must. After he saw the battle must come, he shrank from it, and Simpson had a good deal to do with nerving him up to the fight. Unless they have manliness and freedom within the Church it is idle to hope for any considerable extension without. They must have a reform at Rome and by Rome. They cannot have the interests of religion and society sacrificed for the sake of maintaining an imbecile and tyrannical temporal government for the Pope.
P.S. Since this is in the handwriting of Brownson's secretary, the signature and P.S. is in Brownson's.
I-4-h L.S. (Xerox copy, courtesy of Downside Abbey Archives, near Bath, England) 3pp. 4to.
4
1862 May 21
Brownson, O(restes) A.
Elizabeth, N(ew) J(ersey)
To Charles Sumner
(Washington, D.C.)
Sumner's speech in the Senate on the confiscation of Rebel property makes clear to Brownson the distinction between Rebels as criminals and Rebels as enemies. Brownson felt that the Union was bound by the restrictions of the constitution in dealing with them; yet he felt that the Union had a right to compel them to pay the expenses of the war. Brownson is not satisfied with the President's slave question policy. If McClellan and Halleck win the two impending battles it will be too late to free the slaves as a military necessity. The President does enough to irritate but not enough to subdue. Brownson's son Edward (P. Brownson) will soon write to Sumner, his previous letter and his application to General Fremont were without Brownson's knowledge. Brownson does not want his son to go into the army, but Edward is bend on it and Brownson would hold it a favor if Sumner would have the Secretary appoint him. Edward is a good boy, large, strong, healthy and with experience should make a good officer. Something has been gained. The capital is free (from invasion), slavery has been excluded in the territories, and abolished in some southern states by General Hunter. Brownson believes Hunter's order legal and that the President has no authority to restore the Negroes in those states.
I-4-h A.L.S. (Photostat, Harvard Library) 3pp. 12mo.
2
1862 May 23
Randall, Henry S.
Cortland Village, N(ew) Y(ork)
To O(restes) A. Brownson
(Elizabeth, New Jersey)
Randall has just heard from Ward and Parry of New York that they have disposed of all their copies of Randall's life of Jefferson. Randall shall send him one from there in a few days, and asks if the other books have arrived safely. He hopes that Brownson is up and about again. In his letter Brownson differed from him but he regarded that as a good tonic and will answer after completing an engagement.
I-4-b A.L.S. 1pg. 12mo.
1
1862 May 25
Gardner, Anna
(Harwich Port)
To O(restes) A. Brownson
(Elizabeth, New Jersey)
The writer has derived much pleasure from the article in the Review on the subject of Emancipation. She praises Brownson for his fine work in behalf of Catholicism. In the past she was an abolitionist of the Garrison school. She would like a line of recognition in response to this letter.
I-4-b A.L.S. 4pp. 12mo.
1
1862 May 25
Sumner, Charles
Washington, D.C.
To (Orestes A. Brownson)
(Elizabeth, New Jersey)
Sumner hopes for a commission for Brownson's son, Secretary Staunton has prevented his bringing it up. There is a "hitch" of which he will speak when he meets Brownson. He is proud of Brownson's good opinion. The article which he quoted in his speech seems to free them from all constitutional scruple. He sees a cloud in the East. Nothing but great triumphs and a punitive policy on slavery can save us from foreign intervention. It may be called cruel but its effect in strengthening will be complete. It seems clear that if they do not condemn slavery they shall have to acknowledge the independence of the rebels. There is no alternative. History teaches this. But give us emancipation and the struggle will be glorified. Sumner cannot thank Brownson enough for his powerful article.
I-4-b A.L.S. 4pp. 12mo.
1
1862 May 27
Brownson, O(restes) A.
Eliz(abeth), N(ew) J(ersey)
To Charles Sumner
Washington, D.C.
Brownson, by this letter, introduces James F. Meline of Cincinnati. He is well grounded in German literature, especially German Catholic Literature. He is a Frenchman by descent, but a good patriot and no friend to slavery.
I-4-h A.L.S. (Photostat, Harvard Library) 1p. 12mo.
2
1862 May 27
Seton, Robert
Rome, (Italy)
To Father (William Seton)
( )
Robert has received his Father's letter and will treasure it. Isabel is well and has improved, though not as a student but as a Catholic lady. He started to write to Will but since he is in America he has put his letter aside and will write some other time. He wishes Will to let him know his intentions, pledging secrecy on anything confidential. If Will does not succeed in getting an appointment Robert advises him to offer himself to some General in the advance as a volunteer aid, willing to pay his own expenses, trusting to chance of distinguishing himself and having his name honorably mentioned. He recognizes Lizzie's handwriting on the subscription of his Father's letter and concludes that she and Em have safely returned from Washington. He tells Liz in detain how to address him. He sends love to the girls and once again stresses economy. He received the bill of exchange from his father. Isabel has a good deal to pay for schooling and her voyage home will take a good sum, so it is necessary that Em and Lizzie spend sparingly. As for himself, Robert could not be more comfortable in Rome. However his expenses are not light for he must pay 260 dollars a year for board and an unfurnished apartment, and everything else he must pay for himself. He is taking German lessons. Very few Bishops have arrived as yet from the United States. He hopes their cousin from Newark will arrive within a few days. Dr. Smith is as kind as ever and has helped him out of difficulties. Mme. Granda asks a great deal after Em as does the portress [sic]. He looks back on the happy days he and his father spent at Cragdon and remembers the mint juleps and the long walks in the country. Next summer they will, God willing, meet again for a few more happy days. Robert has received the first numbers of the resuscitated (New York) Freeman's Jouornal. He does not like the tone of it about the war but our country can afford not to notice such angles as Pere Huc. He would be much obliged to Liz for a year's subscription and also the monthly Rebellion Records. He now takes the Weekly Herald but since once a week is too seldom to get detailed knowledge of the United States, he wants Liz to subscribe to a semi-weekly paper for him. He avidly devours all news of the current war. History cannot record in any age so grand a demonstration of energy, military adaptability and patriotism on th epart of both North and South. The weather in Rome is not unpleasant. Bishops and priests from everywhere are arriving daily. Garibaldi has made an Escapade up near the Tysol which came near hastening the final issue for Italy. When Austria can come to an understanding with Prussia, she will probably commence operations. The present state of the peninsula cannot last long. The Kind of Sardinia returned to Turin on hearing of the Brescia affair in a demonstration in Naples. The Pope is still in the Vatican in spite of the Garibaldinians, Mazzinians, Piedmontese and all the rest of the villainous crew who have pirated the Arsonian ship. Robert sends love to Aunt Catherine and wishes to be remembered to Griffin, Corky, Bagley and Uncle Samuel.
P.S. He has recently heard from Mr. Filicchi who asked for his Father.
II-1-a A.L.S. 8pp. 12mo.
1
1862 May 30
(Harrison, R.U.), Mother St. Pierre (Margaret)
Galveston, (Texas)
to Archbishop (John Mary Odin, C.M.
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Two weeks ago Mother St. Pierre wrote by way of (H) de St. Cyr, and today she replies to (Odin's) letter of May 15 which Father (Louis C.M.) Chambodut gave her three days ago. The $75 about which (Odin) speaks will be given to her. The $150 which Mrs. (Coffey?) Coffee sent him last November and the $50 from (Father Michael?) Sheehan in March have been placed to (Odin's) credit by Chambodut. (The Ursulines) still owe Chambodut very much and could pay him but he does not like Confederate notes. (Odin) does not know how much she regrets not having him with them in these unhappy times of war. Chambodut and Father (Joseph) Anstaett are devoted to their Community and they feel that they owe them a great deal for their devotion, but devotion without enlightenment, judgment and prudence will not suffice to direct a religious Community. They have ceased to bother (Odin) about a change of confessors but they do not desire it any less, and they beg the Lord to send them a bishop. Her heart is sad when she considers the members which compose their Community and that she is without a good head to help her carry her difficult burden. Chambodut will tell him all the troubles which took place at Galveston on May 23-25. The 24th was for them a day of martyrdom. They expect to be placed far from their convent by the military authorities who say that they will be exposed to insults and bad treatment by the Federals if they remain. They prefer their convent. She believes the Confederates intend to burn the city if the enemy cannot be prevented from landing. (Odin) saw by her letter of May 13 that they had 50 day students, but since these troubles there remain only 6 day students, 3 boarders and 4 orphans. She sends her respects to Father Perché and Mother St. Séraphine, to whom she wrote two letters in April and May.
VI-2-f A.L.S. (French) 4pp. 12mo.
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1862 May 31
St. Stanislas, R.U., Sister Marie de
Galveston, (Texas)
To Archbishop (John Mary Odin, C.M.
New Orleans, Louisiana)
Sister St. Stanislas sends to Father (Louis C.M.) Chambodut a reply which she owes to the Ursulines of the Beaujeu. She asks (Odin) to carry it to its destination. Awaiting his return they will pray every day for him.
VI-2-f A.L.S. (French) 2pp. 8vo.
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