Canavan, Father Patrick, Monroe, Louisiana, to Archbishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1852 January 3

Returning this evening and receiving Blanc's letter together with Father Charles O'Reilly 's, Canavan gives an account of his last trip in the woods of Red River and swamps. He traveled about 10 miles down Red River and visited the Michael and Francis Latches families and others. He then went to L. Bossier with the object of getting him to be a committee man for the church at Shreveport ; Bossier seemed satisfied. Canavan baptized four negro children and one white. Returning to Shreveport, he had to remain until after Christmas. He hopes Blanc will read the subscription list with pleasure; he sends it inside no enclosure. Blanc misunderstood about the window frames; the architect will make them himself. Canavan supposes Blanc knows the particulars about Mrs. Mason's house from Mrs. Julia Dabbs . Canavan knew Dr. Father Aylward about 4 months; he hopes he will reform. Father Philibert Jordain can certify to Canavan's proceedings as just; he sent him to Father Auguste Martin May it please Blanc to pardon him and send Canavan someone immediately. Canavan has promised to go to Shreveport March 1, to call their meeting on church building and buy the lots. He fears these Yankees will object to haveing deeded to Blanc but Canavan sees it as practicable. The church at Monroe has not advanced as well as Canavan expected; the architect has been sickly. Canavan must talk to Blanc about renting a house in Shreveport; very expensive living in a hotel there and keeping a horse at $18 a month. P.S. Each of the committee will get subscribers among their friends. :: VI-1-c A.L.S. 2pp. 4to. 12