Legendre, Father Edward E., St. Michael, Louisiana, to Archbishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1853 January 6

Although he resolved on entering the ministry, never to let himself be disconcerted, even when he met the disfavor of his Bishop, Legendre cannot console himself since the arrival of Father Louis Dufour, threatening Legendre with a letter. In his anxiety, Legendre felt the need of expressing himself. Blanc's letter, so just and wise, comforted him. To change his nature is impossible; he is not young, light, and conceited. He is more serious than light; the Ladies of the Sacred Heart can witness to that. He rarely leaves the presbytery without serious reason. Study is his refuge and his neighbors can testify that he is always up at 4 in the morning. Legendre likes the admission Blanc made in his letter about the position Legendre is in, "without model to follow, without wholesome advice" and always discouraged by the prospect of leaving St. Michael before long. But it is pure calumny to say that he stirred up opposition to the pastor. On the contrary he is most scrupulous in trying to be useful to him; he recounts his eminent qualities to soften the scandal caused by his brusqueness; Others would not have suffered with his patience the charges made publicly by the pastor. One should hear, for example, Father G. Valcourt Gauthreaux Gauthereaux. It seems there has been a question of organists and singers. Commissioned by the pastor to direct all this, Legendre has been prudent; there must be regard for certain people. An organist, Protestant and single, strange to see at the convent, came to replace Mr. Ferrand who was ill. He came back on Christmas, before Legendre's arrival, to direct the choir. Far from humiliating Ferrand, Legendre encourages him. But Dufour has decided to leave. P.S. Blanc's letter was without a signature and ended with an unfinished phrase. Legendre is very much attached to the pastor. He would willingly remain at the convent. Thinking he would be leaving here, Legendre felt he should make some visits; he will not do so in conformity with Blanc's recommendation. With the exception of one aged lady, he talks to women only in passing. It meets the needs of the Creoles who are all heart. :: VI-1-e A.L.S. French 6pp. 4to.