Elder, Bishop William Henry, Natchez, Mississippi, to Archbishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1859 July 9

For the Rector of the American College at Rome, Elder has heard that Bishop Michael O'Connor of Pittsburgh wants a coadjutor, partly so he can devote himself to the establishment of the institution—whether as rector or in some other capacity Elder does not know. Elder thinks O'Connor the best choice, if he would accept and Rome consents. Other Bishops would be good, too; John McCloskey of Albany, Martin John Spalding of Louisville, and James Frederick Wood, Coadjutor of Philadelphia. The last, because of his position, might be best. Among the priests suitable for the post are Father John McCaffrey of Mt. St. Mary's, whose health is bad, but otherwise he is qualified. He knows the character and wants of Americans, and can use his knowledge. He speaks of the qualities needed in such a position. Father James A. Corcoran of Charleston, Father John J. Conroy of Albany, Father Jeremiah W. Cummings, or best of all, if they do not get him for Mobile, Father John Quinlan of Cincinnati. Elder was at Woodville and Bayou Sara recently, and was told that Father P. McMahon had given up charge of Jackson . Since Blanc has told Elder he did not need Englishspeaking priests, could he send one there who would attend Woodville and Fort Adams. Elder received the check for $1000, less $4.00, the price of exchange, from Dr. Michael O'Reilly of Madison County, and will send it to Blanc, with his other collections for the American College. He wants to know who would be good to take charge of the Boys' Asylum. He thinks the cathedral will be opened Sunday, Aug. 14, and invites Blanc to come as celebrant of the first Mass in the beautiful Cathedral. As Father Philip Grace is gone, Elder is writing to Father P.? McGrane to beg him to preach. In case he declines is there a Jesuit or a Vincentian who could do the favor. He could change the date if Aug. 14 is unsuitable. :: VI-2-b A.L.S. 4pp. 8vo. 18