Follot, Father Francis C., Plaquemine, Louisiana, to Archbishop John Mary Odin, C.M., New Orleans, Louisiana, 1866 March 7

It is painful to send Odin this discouraging news but he must ask his advice. Michael Schlatre has just sent him a letter; he asks Follot to write to Odin and explain his idea. Follot gives an extract from his letter: "Schlatre spoke with Belfort Marionneaux March 4 concerning the church and his future course after the termination of the suit. Schlatre told him that it was necessary to know before the sale of the pews. Marionneaux said in substance that he intends to exhaust the Church property here first and if there be not enough to satisfy his claims he will look for church property elsewhere; that as Archbishop Blanc signed the contract so is his successor bound too." The subscriptions, collections, and other means have not brought in 400 piastres. The parish has been cheated of the greatest part of its workers and the flood threatens the same destruction as last year. As an individual, Follot offered Marionneaux 6000 piastres cash if he would let the rest go. But this seemed only to make him more demanding. Odin is to advise them what line of conduct to follow. Since Follot has been at Plaquemine, he has had his good share of trials. :: VI-2-k A.L.S. French 3pp. 4to.