Odin, John M., Archbishop of New Orleans, Louisiana, to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell, of Cincinnati, Ohio, 1864 September 10

He received Purcell's favor requesting him to collect from Dr. Mercier a sum due to the Seminary. The bill was left at his house but he has not called to settle it. Father _____ Berthaud showed himself a good priest during his long residence in Louisiana; he was looked upon as a man of talents and a good preacher. He left the diocese of his own accord with the intention of entering a religious order. Berthaud will not give Purcell any grief. Poor Louisiana is in a sad condition. For want of hands its crops are almost an entire failure. All horses and mules have been taken by the government. Bishop William H. Elder had been exiled from his diocese but has been allowed to return again. His departure from Natchez was the occasion of a moving scene; the immense crowd knelt down for his blessing. They are under apprehension in Louisiana that the Catholic schools will be closed. The sisters and brothers refused to answer questions submitted to them. As yet no step has been taken by the military authority. :: II-5-b A.L.S. 4pp. 12mo.