Item 5 - Copy letter from Bishop Edmond John Fitzmaurice

1 p.; typescript

Copy letter from Bishop Edmond John Fitmaurice to Fr. Brendan O’Callaghan OFM Cap., referring to his growing frustration over the involvement of the Holy See in their local agreement. Writing hastily from a boat as he prepares to sail, the bishop questions why a petition has been sent to Rome, stating he believed establishing the Wilmington residence was a private matter between themselves. He strongly objects to the phrasing used by the Irish Capuchin Provincial, arguing that it makes it look as though the bishop is ‘begging the Capuchins to come’, when in reality it was the order that requested entry. Citing the Latin proverb ‘litera scripta manet’ (the written word remains), he voices concern that future generations or successor bishops might misinterpret the document. He concludes by stating he will sign a modified document for Rome’s inspection upon his return in early September, and urges the order to accept the simple residency permission offered and ‘be content’.