Leray, Father Francis Xavier, Vicksburg, Mississippi, to Archbishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1856 January 6

He has been here for 2 weeks, trying to arrange church matters and to organize the congregation. The law suit against the heirs of Father Stephen Montgomery has been arranged satisfactorily. A compromise has been made by which the church is to pay $2500 in 4 years without interest. Besides this the congregation owes $1000 toward a lot and house for the pastor. It is the same lot, adjoining the church, which Montgomery appropriated to himself and for which they have been obliged to pay $2300. Leray would not suffer a lien? on the church; all liabilities lie on individuals. The deed of the church property, given to Bishop John Joseph Chanche by Montgomery, is not legal and consequently the church and lot belong to the trustees. But they are willing to make another deed to the bishop as soon as he is elected. To meet these debts and complete the church, Leray thought there was no better plan than to rent pews. But the whole congregation seemed to be opposed to it and when Montgomery tried it they all rose against him. But today, in a meeting, all agreed to Leray's proposition so the pews will be rented and will bring in at least $1500. The congregation seems well disposed and a clergyman could do a vast amount of good if Blanc could find a good priest. As long as Leray is in charge he will do all he can to set everything right, though his own congregation will suffer. A Catholic man was married privately in Ireland to a member of the Episcopal church by a Protestant minister. A divorce has been obtained; could the gentleman be married in the church? He told Leray that 2 clergymen in Ireland told him that his marriage was not valid. If the Council of Trent has been published in Ireland, the case of clandestinity was the only ground for the decision. Not being certain that the decree has been accepted in Ireland, Leray will await Blanc's decision. Father Paul Marie Le Corre, whom Leray has seen only twice since he came up, is doing well and learning English fast. Leray made him hear Confessions on Christmas so he is of great service even now. They have church every Sunday in Jackson and in Vicksburg. :: VI-1-j A.L.S. 4pp. 8vo.