Barnabo, Alexander Cardinal Prefect, Rome, Papal States, to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell, Cincinnati, Ohio, 1868 March 31

With great sorrow Barnabo has received Purcell's letter of Jan. 28, announcing the death of the Bishop Frederick Baraga of Marquette . He asks that names of candidates for the see be sent as soon as possible. Care should be taken that notes indicating qualifications drawn up at the meeting of bishops be of sufficient clearness. As regards the candidates for the see of Marquette as proposed by the plenary council, the Sacred Congregation can do nothing because none of the notes indicate any peculiar notable qualities. The notes said that Bishop George Carrell was in the best of health, yet they have learned since that he is gravely ill. Consequently, a coadjutor should be chosenat once and a list of candidates is expected immediately from Purcell. The answers to the questions proposed by the Apostolic see last June have been received. Barnabo adds to this letter another serious matter. He has heard that Bishop Peter Paul Lefevere is not as diligent in the administration of his diocese as this office requires, with certain inconveniences resulting daily in the church. If Purcell has any feelings in the matter he should make them known to Barnabo as prefect. This is signed by John Simeoni as secretary. No. 3 :: II-5-d L.S. Latin 1pg. 8vo.