Chanche, Bishop John Joseph, Natchez, Mississippi, to Bishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1850 May 18

Chanche is happy that Blanc returned in good health from his visitation. In the parish of Tensas, opposite Natchez, the loss from high water is immense. Chanche had heard of this freak of Bishop Richard Vincent Whelan . He is told Whelan took his resolution in consequence of some trouble by a priest in his diocese. Very few would remain at the helm if they were to abandon it for such a reason. Chanche hopes Whelan has thought better of it and quietly returned home. The Archbishop wrote Chanche about Monterey, California . Chanche sent three American names as at the Council it was observed that because of the mixed population, an American would better reconcile all parties. Chanche did not write to Rome. He has not heard from Bishop Reynolds. Chanche thinks Father James M. Lancaster would be very good for Savannah. Chanche is not surprised at Father Pitrat 's leaving the diocese but he thought Pitrat had more regard for his own interests than to leave Blanc the way he did. He was writing a book when he was here. He kept it a secret, at least from Chanche and Father Raho. Milliken's Bend will be an interesting mission. Pius IX has returned; his hearty welcome proves the assertion that his flight was occasioned by the brutal outrages of a mob of foreigners. Chanche hopes this Lebanon monk, good or bad, will not come to him. Chanche's splendid bell has arrived. The Prince gave directions to send the bell free of all expense. The duties amounting to $250, freight, were paid by Mr. Byrne, $300. It was brought up the Hill for nothing and will be hung for nothing. He is going to call it Maria Alexandrina after Prince Torlonia and Princess. Chanche sends regards to Father Rousselon. Blanc will have heard of the death of Father De Courson, their superior general. Father Mariano Maller, C.M. left Cincinnati on the 7th for Detroit, Milwaukee, and St. Louis. :: V-5-m A.L.S. 3pp. 4to. 10