Doogan, Father Robert, Alexandria, Louisiana, to Bishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1840 November 23

Having returned from a short mission Doogan briefly gives Blanc its results. He met with the kindest reception and success beyond expectation. The assembly was large; some came nearly twenty miles. They would build a small church if he would promise to visit them once a month. The place is about 16 northeast. Doogan baptized 26 on Tuesday and three the following morning before he started. Three Protestants made application for baptism; he left a catechism. Doogan's congregation in town is increasing daily and some are beginning to approach the sacraments. Mrs. Louise Biosset tells him that all the Protestant females attend every Sunday. The parish judge and lawyers and doctors have attended. A minister who advertised he would preach at the union church had only three Yankees. They have had no meeting of the trustees as yet as some were absent. They have returned but the district judge is on the circuit. He is an Irishman and Doogan expects him to be a warm friend of the Church. Doogan requires the Council of Trent and Challoner's Meditations which he asked for in the last letter. He is no judge of wine so asks Blanc to send some. Also, to allow Mr. Kelly to make a cassock for him. Blanc is to let him know if Father Stephen Rousselon has received his letter and if not to call at Mr. Rush's and get it. The vestments for which Mrs. Biosset wants the lace are black. His suit is rich but he would be glad if he had an old one on the mission. :: V-4-k A.L.S. 4p. 4to.