Letter from M.J. Curran to Hagan

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DigitalGeorgetown

Pontifical Irish College

Contributor

Curran, Michael J.

Hagan, John, 1873-1930

Description

Holograph letter from M.(J. Curran), Hotel Vancouver, Vancouver, British Columbia (Canada), to Hagan, with news from his fundraising campaign. Firstly, informing him of the two collections currently competing with him: Fr. Sweetman seeks funds to turn Mount St. Benedict into a missionary seminary and is less successful; Monsignor Barry Doyle, Ferns, collects very successfully for Near Eastern affairs from non–Catholics, denouncing his fellow-countrymen. In Boston he found most people absent, at least allegedly. Making allusions to a certain 'Curran' in Boston, a potential donor although [seeking the title Knight of St. Gregory]; illustrating how this 'title problem' besets fundraising anywhere. In Chicago he got things moving a little though Mrs. McWhorter has yet to return. Then stating generally that most support can be expected in the east, but that some subscriptions are certain in Chicago, and in California where the local Ancient Order of Hibernians man has pledged his help. Seán T's advice to come northwest unfortunately will not bear fruit beyond $150; seeking small subscriptions takes much time. Against warnings, hoping to gather one-to two-thousand dollars in California, though apprehensive about Doheny who may be absent due to a prominent law case. Promising to seek out [DiVasto] when back in New York. Regretting he will miss the move to the new College; suggesting he get other O'Connell relics to complement the bed and not to forget a stucco mask. Remarks on Ronayne's recovery; hoping Hagan will not get 'the Lord'. Expressing anxiety over the changes in the College constitution and the attempt of any religious congregation taking over. Urging him again to reconsider treatment of typhoid cases at a hospital; the cardinal himself made the point; the College should be beyond criticism. Sydney's withdrawal of support from Dineen is unjust, but assuming responsibility for the turn of affairs though he only expressed his sincere doubts about the student's aptitude for the pulpit. Asking whether T. Hughes Kelly or Nicholas Brady called; the latter was the millionaire he most relied on in New York but did not see; recommending best treatment; Brady bought the Villa Pallavicini on the Janiculum.