Duffo, S.J., Father J.J., Vermillionville, Louisiana, to Archbishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1854 January 14

Blanc wished to have news from time to time during the days Duffo will spend at Lafayette . Nothing new, baptisms, burials, catechism. They are beginning to come back from the fear which kept them from the church. Father Ange Marie Jan, whom Duffo saw recently, thinks that Father Stephen Rousselon is perhaps on his way to Attakapas. If Duffo did not fear that Rousselon was gone, he would have written him in order to spare Blanc. Emile Veasey does not seem satisfied; Duffo can imagine that he does not find the same satisfactions in his present position as he did before. After being embarrassed four or five days in procuring the most necessary things, Duffo has decided to board with old Mr. Labat . Emile continues to do as he did before Duffo's arrival. As he is entirely independent of Duffo, Duffo has nothing to command from him. His only work is to ring the Angelus twice a day; he serves mass at the Church when Duffo does not say it at the convent. For baptisms and other functions, Duffo often finds himself alone. Emile accompanied him once to Grand Coteau, another time to Val Martin 's. Other visits which would have been useful, Duffo has had to forego. The carriage being in poor condition, he limits himself to visits of strict necessity; on sick calls he uses the carriage and horse of the interested parties. Emile being bored, repeats in the village, they say, many things which could make Duffo's position difficult. For instance he repeats that Duffo disapproves everything that is done here. He does not know from where he draws that conclusion. At first Duffo was impatient in finding the things necessary for the sacraments but at last got them at St. Martin and Grand Coteau. The registers, especially for burials, are not complete. From the end of August to December 20, many burials were made; none registered. He is still asking in vain for the list of these burials. Duffo hopes that Rousselon's first visit will settle everything. :: VI-1-g A.L.S. French 2pp. 4to.