Elder, Bishop William Henry, Natchez, Mississippi, to Father Francis Xavier Leray, Jackson, Mississippi, 1858 February 24

Concerning the Conference at Vicksburg, Elder congratulates Leray and his reverend brothers on having led the way in so good a work. They will begin theirs at Natchez next month. What means could be taken by secular priests to protect them from losing their fervor. Such conferences will be among the most valuable. Elder finds nothing to object to in the Regulations submitted. The amount paid in case of absence, Elder would call a contribution. The subject of the conference ought to be stated in writing. They have held a partial conference here for consideration of the question Leray proposes. Elder has heard Catholic mistresses say there was no probability of raising children of slaves as Catholics if the mother was strongly opposed. In danger of death they must be baptised. For contractors: some think that the work makes strong food so necessary as to exempt from abstinence. About the surplice and stole in hospitals: if they adhere to the law of the Church, they are not answerable for evil consequences. Elder thinks Leray can get pure wine by inquiring of pries̀ts in New Orleans, for example Father Aubert. Father Grignon gets sauterne from Cavaroc and Company recommended by Father Rousselon. Or Leray might write to a priest in Cincinnati. Or apply to Father R. Gilmour of St. Patrick's Church. Did Leray ever find Elder's Brownson for October 1857; Elder thinks he left it at Leray's house. Leray is to give Elder the address of Mr. Semmes. :: VI-1-n A.L. Copy? 3pp. 4to.