Barthe, Father Edward, Houma, Louisiana, to Archbishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1850 October 22

He hastens to reply to Blanc's letter of the 19th which he received on the 22nd. Blanc says that on his return from a long trip, he had received a letter from Berget and Braun claiming a payment and interest, and the cost of a suit. This is how it is: For bricks for the church, they owe these men $771.50 with interest since July 1, 1850. It will be paid, half in March 1851 and half in 1852. The administrators are still disposed to carry out the subscription they opened in Blanc's presence for the doors, the windows, and the floor and pews. All are disposed to continue until the work is finished. The name of the man who made the foundation is Paul Bache . He claims $300; only $134.56 is due him. Barthe lists the debts for the church giving the name and amount due for each individual which amount to $2066.74. Blanc makes no mention of the draft for $45 and a letter in which Barthe informed him of a financial difficulty in which he had to pay Messrs. Viguerie and Company? . This draft is only a loan which Barthe hopes to pay on November 20 when he comes to refresh his spirit at the retreat after 23 years of ministry. Since Blanc left Barthe went on mission in the Bayous but had to return after a week. He had an eruption similar to erysipelas and still has sores after three months. :: V-5-n A.L.S. French 4pp. 4to.