Seton, Mgr. Robert, Jersey City, New Jersey to James F. Edwards, Notre Dame, Indiana, 1895 October 24

Some of Edwards' questions about the Catholic University are too difficult for one like him who is left out from any official connection. It is rather singular that Seton should not have been named a Trustee instead of Mgr. John M. Farley especially since New York is already on the board in the person of the Archbishop Michael Augustine Corrigan. It was an intended oversight animated from the "Corrigan influence". Seton has encouraged the University by his lectures which have attracted the attention of the more intelligent class. He makes not doubt whatever but that he has not done a pleasing thing to those in high places and to those high in confidence of the authorities in New York and Newark. Bishop Winard Wigger and Mgr. JanuariusDe Concilio are both opposed to the University. The Rector, Bishop John J. Keane has given Seton an opportunity to do honor to himself by selecting him to read a paper before the parliament of Religions. Mgr. De Concilio felt mortified that he had not been chosen. Seton was unaware that there was any "inner history" about the affiliation of Notre Dame University to the Catholic University. Edwards must excuse him if he has touched upon a sore spot. Seton is afraid that well-meaning friends will make him a laughing stock by such talk as that of his decent from the English Royal Family. He leaves for Egypt soon. :: XI-1-m A.L.S. 4pp.