McMaster has received from Theard a copy of the "Appeal", to which he sees Leray's name signed together with others. He will publish the "Appeal" if Leray wishes, but he would advise Leray to consult other legal advice than that of Theard alone. Theard's affection for the deceased prelate Archbishop Napoleon J. Perche may have warped his judgment. Perhaps another lawyer, the Honorable Mr. Semmes would advise Leray not to admit the consolidarity of Perche's personal debts with the official obligations contracted as "trustee in fact" and "in equity" for the Catholic Church of New Orleans. Of one thing Leray can be assured, there will be no response to the "Appeal" outside of New Orleans, at least not more than a few thousand dollars. McMaster writes this out of friendship and regard for Leray, as a private note. If he published the "Appeal", he could not recommend it; when a like matter came up in the Archbishop John Baptist Purcell, case, he was among those who did not contribute one dime, saying it would be "contra bonos mores" to encourage Ecclesiastics engaging in secular speculations in hopes of making good their loses. He apoligizes for his abruptness, and asks Leray's blessing. :: I-2-e A.L.S.first draft 3pp. 12mo.