Barnabo, Alexandro, Cardinal Prefect, Rome, Italy, to Archbishop John Mary Odin, C.M., New Orleans, Louisiana, 1866 April 16

No. 2. Barnabo has received three letters from Odin, the latest dated February 24. By the pastoral letters in which is included the petition of those priests who are petitioning against the Archbishop's rules on the use and alienation of the funds of the Church, Odin's letter points out that they represent a small number of the priests. This Barnabo has pointed out to Father E.J. Foltier who drew up a petition supporting the claim of those priests. Barnabo hopes that Odin will be freed from this kind of complaint. Those who complain are subject to Odin during their appeal anyway. Barnabo also wants to acknowledge Odin's check for 5500 francs which is a manifestation of the good will of the people of his diocese in the troubles of the Apostolic See and of support for the confraternity of St. Peter. To those participating in this the Pope sends his Apostolic Benediction. On the erection of the new Vicariate Apostolic of Montana Barnabo suggests that this matter be taken up with Archbishop Martin John Spalding of Baltimore to be discussed in the Plenary Council soon to be held, to see if there is some one besides one of the Jesuits to be the Vicar Apostolic since the Superior General of the Jesuits has already consulted him about the difficulty of caring for the new vicariate where they already are working among the Indians who are in great want. Barnabo also sends a script granting the faculty sought to absolve a man who contracted marriage before a Protestant minister. He is also pleased that Odin will permit Father Timothy Bermingham to collect for the diocese of Charleston. H. Capalti signs as secretary. :: VI-2-l L.S. Latin 3pp. 4to.