Blin, Father J.E., Charenton, Louisiana, to Bishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1849 June 12

In the regulations Blanc has established relative to the freedom of each one in the choice of a priest for marriages, funerals, etc., Blin does not believe Blanc has stated that it must be authorized by the person's own pastor. He wants to know how to act in this regard. Blin gave Father Rousselon the reply Blanc asked for. A pastor for the places indicated would do better than an assistant. If he found only thorns at Franklin, he would find some roses at Patterson. The morals preached by the Episcopal minister are more to their liking in Franklin. It is not thus at Patterson. A priest is ardently desired there. They have planted trees around the church and an orange orchard for the pastor, have given a fine vestment to the church and the cemetery is enclosed. Up to now the fees are nil; they do not seek the priest for funerals or marriages. Six times he had blessed such marriages without a fee. Things would change with a priest there. Easter Communions were more numerous than at L'Anse. A number of Americans come to church although they cannot understand him. They say that at Charenton the church is frequented a little more than usual. He has delightful place for a studious priest but it must be someone with money. For expenditures of $1400 Blin has received $350. V-5-k - A.L.S. - French - 4pp. - 4to. - {4}