Chanche, John Joseph, Bishop of Natchez, Mississippi, to Bishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1841 May 27

Chanche regrets exceedingly that Blanc was not at home when he was in New Orleans and that the uncertainty of where he was prevented Chanche from meeting him as he had intended when he left Baltimore. Chanche thought it well to come on here immediately and leave the information he so much needed to some future time. Father Joseph N. Brogard tells Chanche that Blanc will be in Natchez after Pentecost. Chanche is anxious to see Blanc before he returns to the north. Chanche finds the people here as he could expect but their means seem very limited. A priest would have been sufficient for a long time to come. No provision of any kind had been made for Chanche and there does not appear to be anyone to suggest what ought to be done. If he had only a pied a terre he should find himself comparatively easy. But he must not complain; the sacrifice is made. The congregation held a meeting a few days ago and empowered the trustees to give Chanche a deed of the old graveyard on which the church is to be built. When the deed is made, Chanche will appoint some persons to make collections. He fears that much cannot be done at this time. William St. John Elliott is sick and goes north next Monday. Matters must remain in status quo until ext fall. Chanche regrets that he did not defer his coming until that time. From a letter which Father Stephen Rousselon showed Chanche it would appear that Brogard wishes to leave Natchez and retire to some more quiet congregation. He has not yet announced his intention to Chanche. . . . . ms. torn here. He is not the person that would suit this . . . Ms. torn not therefore make any objection. Chanche would be sorry that Brogard should retire before Chanche's return in the Fall. Although he has no prospect of bringing anybody with him in the Fall, it would be better to be alone than with one who is not well with the congregation. Chanche sends his respects to Rousselon and to Father Maenhaut for his kindness. :: V-4-l A.L.S. 4pp. 4to.