Byrne, Bishop Andrew, Little Rock, Arkansas, to Archbishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1857 April 2

Byrne received Blanc's letter and handed the letter directed to Blanc from Ireland to the young man for whom it was intended. It would have afforded the greatest gratification to be present at the presentation of the pallium but the uncertainty of finding another boat and to avoid the expense of reshipping at Napoleon hastened his departure. the Sisters of Mercy are well; they are thankful to the Ursulines for the hospitality extended when they arrived. Blanc would be doing a great favor if he could prevail upon Father Constantine Maenhaut to let Byrne have the lots attached to the old church. Maenhaut deeded Byrne only 2 lots with the buildings. The rest of the lots would yield sufficient space to add to the present building and make a good garden for an institution. If Byrne had those lots he would establish the convent of the Sisters of Mercy on them, leaving the old church as a wing. :: VI-1-l A.L.S. 3pp. 4to.