Chronicles of Notre Dame du Lac
Edward Sorin, CSC -- Translated by John M. Toohey, CSC, 1895

---

1841-1842

pg 12             The frequent and regular exercises of these good Religious 
             could not fail to draw on them the attention of their fellow 
             travellers.  Without transgressing the bounds of politeness and 
             respect, they more than once addressed questions to F. Sorin 
             which called for explanations of some length; twice, amongst 
             others, they gave rise to public controversy which each time 
             happily terminated in favor of the truth.  The reasons brought 
             forward seemed to make a deep impression on a worthy American 
             gentleman and his daughter, and they both promised to study the 
             Catholic religion seriously.  The captain himself appeared to be 
             shaken in his convictions.  Some years afterward, it was reported 
             that he was converted.  However this may be, he certainly 
             deserved well of the little family, who have always gratefully 
             remembered him.
                  In Havre, he had been very urgent with Father Sorin to make 
             him take a place amongst the cabin passengers, and the refusal of 
             the latter seemed even to provoke him.  On the eve of the 
             landing, taking F. Sorin aside on deck, he said to him: You 
             doubtless remember, sir, how I urged you at Havre: permit me 
             today to congratulate you: you have edified me, sir, amongst your