Larnaudie, S.J., Father Frederick, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to Archbishop John Mary Odin, C.M., New Orleans, Louisiana, 1861 July 19

He write in regard to the affairs of their church. Expenses from February 1861 to February 1862 amount to $4,872; receipts to $3,000, leaving a deficit of more than $1800. There is only one remedy. The ownership of the church must be transferred to the diocese. The lawyers whom he has consulted told him that there were only two ways to make the transfer: to obtain an act of the Legislature or to sell the church at public auction. A public auction offers the best possibility of overcoming resistence especially if, as he hopes, the trustees agree. A lady whom he knows very well appears disposed to purchase it herself in order to make a gift to the diocese. However, he cannot count absolutely on her promise which was only conditional. Since he is almost sure of leaving the post in October, he would prefer to let things alone and to have his successor assume the responsibility. On the other hand things are urgent enough and the trustees seem to be favorably disposed. He asks Odin to tell him what he ought to do and he wishes to have Father Aloysius Curioz, S.J. informed of his orders. He asks permission to bless a pyx. :: VI-2-e A.L.S. French 4pp. 8vo.