On his return from Chicago, Spalding received the letter of Father Peter Kindekens in reference to the Belgian College in which Spalding has a lively interest. Kindekens informs him that with Lefevere's consent he is to be first rector of the American College at Louvain . Spalding requests that Lefevere communicate his ideas to Kindekens. More than three years ago Spalding warmly recommended the project to Cardinal Engelbert Sterckx Archbishop of Mechlin who gave him a letter and approved a promised cooperation. But the Archbishop Francis Patrick Kenrick of Baltimore threw "cold water" on the project and Spalding could think of no suitable rector. His remarks follow: 1. He prefers a house bought for the purpose if funds can be raised and only mentioned a hired house as a beginning; 2. The chief difficulty in the way of American bishops contributing would be the fear that they might not get a suitable share of the students. Spalding thinks if those students who are able to pay or have burses were divided by the rector or rather by the Archbishop of Mechlin in proportion to the contributions it would be fair and would invite contributions; 3. In order that the rector might be free from the great responsibility it might be better that the distribution be made by the Archbishop of Mechlin; 4. Other students, not paying or sent by particular bishops might be adopted by American Bishops as at All Hallow's Seminary in Ireland; 5. He would suggest that the College be placed under the general control and supervision of the Archbishop in whose diocese it is situated and under the patronage of all Belgian prelates; 6. A prospectus with the general principle and regulations be sent to all the Bishops of the United States for their signature and approval before the rector goes to Belgium. Spalding has no doubt most of the bishops here would contribute if they had some assurance that they would receive the worth of their contribution in students. On this condition Spalding will contribute one thousand dollars or perhaps more if necessary some time next spring or as soon as it may be wanted if all be satisfactory; 7. Father Kindekens should start as soon as possible after the program will be fully settled but not sooner. These are Spalding's views in addition to what he has already written to Kindekens at whose appointment he rejoices greatly. Bishop Michael O'Connor 's views correspond with his except that he thinks the Catholics of Belgium will found the College without their help. P.S. Bishop O'Connor is going to Belgium. He joins in urging the appointment of Father Kindekens. The Archbishop of Baltimore has at length given his approval of the College in a letter to the Archbishop of Mechlin entrusted to Bishop O'Connor. Spalding forgot to say that in the Prospectus references should be made to the faculty and to obtaining good German priests through the College and also of giving higher education to American students. :: III-2-i A.L.S. 6pp. 8vo.