Fontbonne, Father James, Lyons, France, to Archbishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1851 October 9

Blanc will be surprised to see this letter from Lyons. Fontbonne had been better at Philadelphia but became much worse. Some advised him to return to New Orleans; others to continue his trip. He did not see Father Boué as he had company that day. Fontbonne received Blanc's letter of May; it is truly unfortunate that that priest let himself be led by pride and disobedience. Fontbonne hopes the insurance company will pay and that Blanc can build a church which he can confide to whomever he deems best. Fontbonne saw His Eminence who thought he came to ask for a post; he was quick to tell Fontbonne that he had so many priests he did not know what to do with them. However they lack them in Canada and other places. France is no longer the same; it is poor and small. Fontbonne has not seen Father Stephen Rousselon ; he came to Fontbonne's hotel but he was absent. Fathers Duplay, Baron, Cotet, and Grange asked for news of Blanc and Rousselon. Fontbonne thinks by next spring he will return to Louisiana. :: VI-1-b A.L.S. French 2pp. 4to.