Kenrick, Francis Patrick, Archbishop of Baltimore, Maryland, to Archbishop John Mary Odin, C.M., New Orleans, Louisiana, 1863 January 14

It is greatly in favor of Father John McCloskey that he should have been recommended for Little Rock by Bishop William Henry Elder, who lived with him for many years. He is of excellent manners; but his care of the temporalities of Mount St. Mary's College, Emmitsburg so engrosses his attention that Kenrick fears he is not as studious and spiritual as a Bishop ought to be. He feels confident he would decline. He could not recommend him. Father John Bannon left St. Louis a year ago and went within the Confederate lines. He could not be promoted under these circumstances. He is otherwise much esteemed. Father Patrick John Ryan has good talents and, Kenrick believes, enjoys the confidence of his brother, Archbishop Peter Richard Kenrick. Bishop John Timon opposed his promotion but made no grave objection. Father Charles J.H. Carter, being a native of Kentucky, would scarcely be objected to as a resident of a free state. However, Kenrick is not anxious for his promotion. He is active, although advanced in age, and is likely to accept. His means are ample. He has good information, although not learned. His manners are gentlemanly and his business tact considerable. He is well tried and found faithful. Father Joseph Heidencamp is judged by Bishop Richard V. Whelan of Wheeling, who is now at Baltimore, wholly unfit. This does not imply moral disqualification. Whelan thinks favorably of McCloskey. :: VI-2-g A.L.S. 2pp. 16mo.