2

New Orleans, July 1, 1861

My dear Bishop,
The whole cannonade of the North w.
not have shaken me more than the announcement of yr.
course-but I [stood?] the fire, because I had confidence in
my Leader-nevertheless, inquries are rife upon the streets
and when forced to answer, I co. but say he the Bp. is right -
but I condemn the act. [What?] condemn the right?
Yes. He is too [fast?] for me. I know he is right because
he has reasons for [what?] he has done. I condemn the act,
only [true?]. I am not in [posession?] of those reasons - but
when I ascertain them, I feel confident I shall approve
then. Now I never was afraid of you before - but - I am now
because I know your propensities, and I am afraid that
these have had more influence in determining your course,
than the [exegencis?] of our cause. I pray you write to
me. I do not desire a full explanation of your reasons,
[]. it may be imprudent to give them by letter in these times