Elder, Bishop William Henry, Natchez, Mississippi, to Archbishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1857 June 3

Elder arrived at his new home on Saturday morning. He thanks Blanc for having priests enough here to enable him to celebrate the Solemnity of Pentecost and his possession in a fitting manner. Elder was met at Vicksburg by Father Francis Rene Pont and two of the leading Catholics, Antonio Genella and Mr. O'Donovan, who sat on the boat with him for more than an hour. At Natchez Elder was met by Father Mathurin F. Grignon and six or seven gentlemen including Elder's brother John Elder and Mr. Tessier of Louisiana. Sunday morning there was a procession of the children of the schools and a number of gentlemen followed by the sanctuary boys. A number of the gentlemen dined with them at Grignon's invitation. Elder is grateful and feels encouraged by the kindness from all. Pont came down Monday and explained the state of the church at Vicksburg. Father Jeremiah O'Connor is going up with Pont this afternoon. Elder thanks Blanc for directing O'Connor here. Elder will be in New Orleans at the time Blanc suggests except that instead of the 14th he would rather go Monday or Tuesday. He might take the occasion to visit the Gulf Coast. The transfer of the property will have to be executed here which will make it necessary for Blanc to come to Natchez. Elder asks about the expediency of insuring their church and house. P.S. Pont thinks there is no necessity for him to stay at Vicksburg with O'Connor. Pont will remain some 8 days for the return of a man who has promised him some land for an asylum. Then he will have time for a retreat. Elder will be thankful if Blanc can allow Father Jean Honoré Dubernard to remain here until Pont is ready for service again. :: VI-1-l A.L.S. 4pp. 12mo.