Foley, Thomas C., Bishop of Chicago,, Illinois, to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell, of Cincinnati, Ohio, 1871 July 19

An old priest of this diocese, Father J Clarke, of Winona, informed him that there is a charge of fraud existing against Father Julian Benoit of Fort Wayne who is a nominee for the see of that diocese. Clarke learned this from Father August Bessonies of Indianapolis, who wrote it to Bishop Martin John Spalding of Louisville who wrote it to Rome, thus setting aside Father Benoit. He thought it his duty to inform Purcell of this report as he was asked to present names for he appointment of Fort Wayne. Purcell is perhaps aware of what Foley has written. :: II-5-e A.L.S. 2pp. 12mo.