Lombard, Father Ed., Stigny, France, to Archbishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1855 August 27

Lombard has not forgotten the welcome Blanc gave him at his arrival in New Orleans and the hospitality during his stay from October 1851 to March 1852. He planned, during Blanc's stay in France, on Blanc's return from France, to have an interview with him in which he would renew his thanks and tell Blanc of the reasons for his return to France in 1852 and his plan to return to Blanc's diocese, if Father J.M. Morisot? Morysot? of Blanc's diocese whom Lombard met at the Foreign Missions last February had told him sooner of Blanc's impending departure for New Orleans. The posts which Blanc offered him did not suit Lombard, or rather he would not suit them. Although he is still young he would have to change his habits; especially he would have to travel on horseback which he does not do. Two days before leaving, Father Arthur William Duquesnay, pastor of St. Augustine's, told Lombard that he regretted to see him leave, that he had always hoped to get him as an assistant, Father J.M Lefranc having to quit these functions in the following July as St. Ann's church was to be finished by that time. It was too late then to change, Lombard's passage was paid. But he feels an attraction for New Orleans; he feels he could do more good there than in France. If Blanc thinks Lombard could become an assistant or pastor in his episcopal city, Lombard will always remember him with veneration. P.S. He sends his respects to Father Rousselon. :: VI-1-i A.L.S. French 4pp. 4to.