Elder, William Henry, Bishop of Natchez, Vicksburg, Mississippi, to Archbishop John Mary Odin, C.M., New Orleans, Louisiana, 1865 January 23

Odin's letter of the 11th reached him Saturday. At the present value of currency his diocese would lose $550 to $600 in gold. Philip Rotchford has always been a king friend; it would be unworthy to annoy him. If Rotchford feels safe to pay it after the war, Elder can wait. If he prefers to settle it now through the Sisters, would they be willing to pay in specie after the war? He begs Odin to arrange it as he judges fairest. If the $3000 were paid now would the deficit be supplied some future time? If Odin receives any for Elder he can deposit it with Thomas? Layton, as also the $442 which Odin purposes paying himself. Elder has been in Vicksburg since Christmas. He is waiting for the arrival of Father Charles Van Quechelberge whom he has appointed pastor; he is the best for the post. They are to have a Catholic Commander at Natchez, General John Davidson. :: VI-2-i A.L.S. 2pp. 4to.