Gallwey, R.S.H.J., Madame J., St. Michael, Louisiana, to Bishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1847 November 15

Last evening's mail brought Blanc's letter and as she had already given hers to Father John Lefranc and Blanc's questions required reflexion, she waited to reply today. She is confirmed in the opinion that a good confessor can effect much good in a religious community while a bad or ignorant one can do much harm. Father A. Pierre Ladaviere, S.J. is very feeble. He says his Mass with difficulty and in instructions, he loses his ideas and repeats. He could not go such a distance to say Mass. He might confess them without inconvenience to him. Sister is convinced that his removal would be a source of great pain to him. He has been truly kind and his very presence has silenced many slanderous tongues. Although age and infirmities have made considerable ravages, she would make a sacrifice to console him at the end of his career. Lefranc is respected by the Community although some feel his science is not profound. But he has only one object in view, God alone. He is esteemed in the parish; for him there is no distinction between rich and poor, white and black. His conduct toward Ladavière deserves much praise. If Lefranc could say Mass for them and take charge of the children they might retain Ladavière for their confessor. Since his return from New Orleans, Lefranc has had no rest as they have had an unhealthy season. If Blanc deems it necessary to remove Ladavière, they will receive Lefranc. :: V-5-h A.L.S. 4pp. 4to.