Hannin, Father Edward, Cleveland, Ohio, to Archbishop John Baptist Purcell, of Cincinnati, Ohio, 1871 September 22

Hannin had hoped that the suspension of Father E.M. O'Callaghan would bring the other 5 priests to their senses. But this is not the case, as they are going through the diocese asking priests to sign a petition for O'Callaghan. This plan might be very well in others but in them it is as bad as O'Callaghan's since they attack the principle of church government. Hannin asks Purcell if it would not be well to force them to retreat and repair the damage done. He has drawn up a form of retraction which he sends to Purcell starting that he has no desire except to do his duty. Hannin is of the opinion that to require the retraction would bring out these priests in their true colors. Besides repairing the scandal it will show whether they intend to respect the authority of the diocese or go on in that spirit of opposition. :: II-5-e A.L.S. 2pp. 12mo.