Chambost, Father Charles, Plaquemine, Iberville, Louisiana, to Father Etienne Rousselon, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1854 November 6

Although he had made all his preparation to go down next Monday for the retreat, he must bother Rousselon about the Know-Nothings who have begun their routine here. There weeks ago they decided to kill Chambost at the altar. So in order to give them a better view, Chambost sang the High Mass but they did not carry out their plan that day. On All Saints day, they sent a bold young man from Donaldsonville to make maneuvers on horse back in the midst of the procession. Chambost sent him then order to withdraw but when he refused, Chambost said nothing more but his brother August Chambost turned around and treated him insolently. After the procession he threatened August with a knife. Chambost told the people who wished to deal with him not to do anything, that he was a scatterbrain and a stranger. But the know-Nothings did not want peace and immediately after the mass they came, three among them armed to teeth, and demanded satisfaction. Chambost replied that satisfaction implied injury and he had done nothing against them. He asked them to vent their ill feelings elsewhere. They said they wanted to stop the religious fanaticism, that Chambost monopolized everything at the church and the college. His brother ran to tell them to be quiet but he was knocked down by a blow to his eye. Then the assassins wanted to make a rush on the professors and students but Chambost barred the way. They threatened to kill him but finally withdrew. On Sunday they came but saw the Catholics in such good order that they did not dare to do anything. August had only the black eye to which they applied leeches. The administrators wanted to go down to the city to see Rousselon about this; Chambost stopped them. They have resolved to take these assassins to court and also to see the French consul. Chambost told them he would confer with Rousselon. Chambost is also going to write to FatherNapoleon Joseph Perché . Never has the church or college gone so well. Their professors are well. :: VI-1-h A.L.S. French 4pp. 4to.