Kelly, James, New Orleans, Louisiana, to Archbishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1854 February 7

Kelly arrived in town last night. He hopes Blanc will not blame him for going contrary to his advice when he is acquainted with the circumstances under which Kelly left Natchitoches. For the last 3 or 4 months, Bishop Augustus Marie Martin took everything in the church out of Kelly's hands until he had little more to do than ring the bell. Blanc can imagine how Kelly felt living in Martin's house and receiving money and making him no return. Had Kelly means of his own to assist Martin, he would remain. With debts it will take Martin a long time to pay, Kelly could not even take his board from Martin. If there was a place in which Kelly could make his retreat, he would be grateful. He intended to stop at St. Michael with Father A. Pierre Ladavière, S.J. Ladevir but found he was not there. If Blanc receives any communication for Kelly from Natchitoches, he is to keep it for him. The trustees owe him some money for changing the new Catholic cemetery. He told Mr. Deblieux to direct it to Blanc. But should Martin offer anything from himself, Blanc is not to take it. Kelly will call at the gatehouse at 1 or 2 o'clock; he wishes to stop in New Orleans as short a time as he can. He sends respects to Father Rousselon. :: VI-1-g A.L.S. 3pp. 4to.