Kelly, Father James, Natchitoches, Louisiana, to Bishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1846 July 21

As Blanc gave Kelly permission to come here he now returns his thanks and lets him know that he hopes to leave shortly. He would have left as soon as Father Hector Figari, C.M. Figary arrived but two objects detained him: the English catechism he used to teach and his power to render many services to the Sisters Religious of the Sacred Heart . But it appears they are not coming. If Kelly proposes anything, it is immediately opposed, not by Father Joseph Giustiniani, C.M. but by Figary whose whole career seems to be opposition. It was by this that he sunk the Lazarists at the Cape $24,000 in debt without Father John Timon, C.M. being aware of it. Kelly told Timon four years ago what would happen. Mr. Blanchard 's wife died last week and Figary would not say Mass for her. Blanchard is a convert. Giustiniani is heartsick; Kelly is not surprised he has written to Timon to move him or Figary. Kelly once exposed himself in company with other Irishmen at Cape Girardeau to save Figary from mob violence. Figary wishes to attend Alexandria ; when he is out he is his own master. Figary is a virtuous priest but his delight is to have plenty of money. The only means Giustiniani has at present is to conceal what little money he gets. Kelly was promised something here for his time; he does not know if they will give it. That will not keep him if he wants to go. :: V-5-f A.L.S. 4pp. 4to.