Larnaudie, S.J., Father Frederick, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to Archbishop John Mary Odin, C.M., New Orleans, Louisiana, 1863 October 2

The roof, vault, and part of the wall of the sanctuary of his church fell down yesterday morning. The altar, candlesticks, vases, etc. are broken. It is impossible to say Mass there. He has had recourse to Colonel Oliver P.? Gooding in command here; he has given him some hope. The damage is between $1500 and $2000. The military authorities seem a little more favorable to them; they obtain passes easily. The government allows Larnaudie 200 rations a day which he distributes to the poor. Father Victor Clerouin will not leave for about 10 days; Larnaudie hopes he can send Father J. Francis Abbadie, S.J. to that church to say Mass on Sunday up to the beginning of November. The cause of the disaster may be poor materials but the bomb which exploded in Larnaudie's church on May 28, 1862 may be the cause. A word to General Nathaniel P. Banks on Odin's part might make him look favorably on the request Larnaudie hopes the commandant will make for his church. :: VI-2-g A.L.S. French 4pp. 12mo.