Canavan, Father Patrick, Monroe, Louisiana, to Archbishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1852 June 28

Having received two of Blanc's letters, Canavan hastens to inform him about Monroe. The last 15 days Canavan has been out looking for subscriptions for their church. He succeeded very well. They will get mechanics to work immediately and have everything arranged for Blanc's coming in the fall. Mrs. Julia Dabbs has arrived and says Blanc will have Father George Blackney, S.J. with him to preach. Canavan hopes to have 20 or more for Confirmation. He has baptized 5 these last days. Shreveport is a very hard place; they defame the church and the priests. He can procure the lots there and a chance to build a house this fall. He hopes Blanc will send that gentleman on there and let him make his own mission. A few there do not like to deed to Blanc. Canavan's eyes are very weak at present from the sun. In two years infidelity and paganism will withdraw from northern Louisiana. When Canavan came to Monroe, one came to Mass the two first Sundays; now the greater part come. SO will it be in Shreveport. When Canavan was in New Orleans, Father Rousselon gave him $6 for Masses. Canavan was glad to hear from his great old fellow sufferer, Father J. Corry of Albany. :: VI-1-c A.L.S. 2pp. 4to.