Dumartrait, Adrien, St. Martinville, Louisiana, to Bishop Antoine Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1843 June 29

The council of the fabrique of St. Martin's, after Blanc's letter of January 10, 1842, informing them that Father Martin had been appointed pastor, hoped that Martin would be grateful to Blanc for having been chosen. 17 months have gone by; the trustees noticed last year that Martin in his sermons was a little too excited. At Blanc's visit last year, the council preferred to say nothing in the hope that the pastor would be more prudent. Two illnesses affected Martin's health. Blanc sent Father Lucas whom he had just ordained and who arrived January 1. They thought Martin would take care of the assistant out of his salary or fees. On May 15 Martin wrote that he asked for a salary for his assistant. The council, referring to a similar request by Father Charles Boutelou de St. Aubin, were of the opinion that they could fulfill Martin's request. Martin asked for things for saying Mass and they approved what was indispensable. The fabrique is much indebted because of the new church. Martin thought they had refused and on June 18, from the pulpit, made an attack on the members of the fabrique. The two trustees present did not make a reply but the next day a special meeting was called. Dumartrait encloses the reply published in the Gazette Attakapas. On June 25, from the pulpit, Martin began another indictment. The President and treasurer, as well as Neuville De Clouet, were forced to speak out against Martin. Martin had announced that he intended to resign. At a meeting held that day the trustees decided to accept his resignation. They asked Martin to make any observations in writing or communicate them to the trustees who would do what they could. Lucas took no part in these discussions. He will be given money to provide for his needs. Desiré Leblanc, president, ésaire Labbé, John Baptiste Derbè, Valery Martin, and Charles Olivier Duclozel sign with Dumartrait. A.L.S. French 5pp. folio Enclosure: