Hannin, Father Edward, Cleveland, Ohio, to Bishop Amadeus Rappe, 1870 September 8

Hannin has learned today that certain gentlemen, claiming to be Rappe's friends, and acting in his name have called on certain ladies to obtain the substance of certain confessions with a view to destroying the accusations made against him in Rome. Religion must suffer from such proceedings. If Rappe feels that injustice has been done him, there are other remedies without recourse to such means. Hannin asks why Rappe did not appeal or ask to have an ecclesiastical court in Cleveland. Rome is too paternal and jealous of the peiscopate to deny any bishop the chance to prove his innocence. In Hannin's opinion this will be prejudicial to Rappe in Rome if made know there. Cardinal Alexander Barnabo in his letter to Purcell exhorted Rappe to Cleveland immediately, but Rappe has remained in the diocese nearly 2 weeks. This will keep alive party spirit and increase the difficulties of administration. When Hannin was three days in Cleveland a petition was handed to him with affidavits of the nature mentioned. When he told them due regard would be paid to them, they promised that party proceeding would be stopped. Hence his surprise on finding them continuing. Such affidavits will not gain favor because of the subject of the statements. It is said that vile names are to be used against the priests who opposed Rappe. If this continues Hannin will do his duty. Hannin will probably speak to them but a word from Rappe will be more effectual. A.L.S. This letter will show Purcell the state of affairs and the course Hannin is pursuing. :: II-5-d A.L.S. 5pp. 8vo.