Hailandière, Bishop Celestin de la, Vincennes, Indiana, to Bishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1841 March 26

He would have answered Blanc's letter of February 19 sooner but he was embarrassed to speak about what Blanc asked for in his letter received yesterday. Father Francis M. Masquelet? was not sincere. Blanc can ask him for the letter in which Hailandière thanked him, after 3 months, to his great regret. He had been recommended highly by the Bishop of Coutances and at first he thought him very capable; he soon saw he had made a mistake. Masquelet? Talked nothing over with Hailandière, blamed everyone without distinction. Hailandière does not say he is a bad man but he is imprudent and presumptuous. He would not want to employ him near him; he will try to find a place for him. Hailandière sends $50 for Mr. Latapie; he cannot find his note at the moment. Hailandière thanks Blanc for his trouble and also thanks Father Auguste Jeanjean. If the Lord takes him, will Blanc get Hailandière any books or manuscripts Jeanjean may have on the Far West. Hailandière rejoices in the consecration of Bishops Chanche and Whelan. Blanc is to use all his efforts so that Father John Mary Odin does not refuse. A refusal would be an infinite evil for the diocese of Detroit. Blanc is to give Hailandière's regards to Father Louis Dufour; if he finds the New Orleans climate does not agree with him could he not come and try St. Louis. They are trying to finish their little cathedral; he believes it will be consecrated during the summer. He thinks Blanc would not refuse to come; nor would he refuse permission for one of two of their missionaries to collect a little in his diocese if only to repay the expenses of their trip., P.S. He sends respects to Father Rousselon. :: V-4-l A.L.S. French 4pp. 4to.