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

If those rumors were described in a conversation, he could surely contradict them but to speak of them publicly, Blin must wait for a positive order from Blanc. What made him consult Blanc about ministering to those outside his jurisdiction was that Father Julien Priour absolutely refused his consent. The parties not wishing to understand that they could not be married by the priest they wished to have, resolved to go to the judge if Blin refused. So he acted to prevent a greater evil. If the regulations transmitted by Priour, are Blanc's, they seem very severe. They forbid a priest to administer to a sick person, even in danger of death without the permission of the pastor. All these discussions about jurisdiction arise less from the love of God than from love of money. Blin still owes 700 piastres, not for his personal needs, but for his foundations. Since he cannot expect anything from his parishioners, he would be glad to know whether Blanc could come to his aid. He could prove that he is the first subscriber, not only here but at Pat(t)erson. He knows the situation of the priests at Abbeville, Pont des Braux and Houma from Blanc's description. At least Blin's generosity was not an obstacle to that of the parishioners but the effect was contrary to what he expected. Another example of jurisdiction; Priour, having asked Blin's authorization to respond to an invitation to perform a baptism would bring a fee higher than that of a whole year, Mr. Grévemberg will tell Blanc with what good will Blin complied. He attended but did not partake. St. Mary's of the Assumption performs marriages in St. Mary's parish, Blin knows, but he has never exacted the formalities nor partaken. He would authorize any of his confreres to bless marriages in his jurisdiction. He even asked that they sometimes preach in English at Pat(t)erson but this favor has never been granted him. Blanc is to tell Blin if he should refuse those who come without authorization from their pastor. He wants to preserve the concord with his neighbor whom he reproaches much less for his precision than for taking him from a diocese where. 900 priests live in perfect harmony. V-5-l - A.L.S. - French - 4pp. - 4to. - {4}