Corresp: Walter Elliott to Fr. Leon, OCD, 1919, 7/13/1886-05/28/1925

This letter was written by Elliott to a French Carmelite, Father Leon, in response to an article against Americanism that he had written in "Messager de Ste.Terese, 1919-1920." Elliott also sent a copy of the letter to the New Orleans Carmel (original in Paulist Archives, Americanism Papers, Washington, D.C.) In the letter, Elliott describes himself as the oldest living Paulist, who was received by Hecker in 1868. He reviews controvery, states that it was the French version that was the cause of the Americanist controversy. "That controversy never existed in our country." Michael A. Corrigan, who had once wished to be a Paulist, gave it his imprimatur and Cardinal John Farley of New York was supporter, too. Adds, "...It is from Father Hecker that I learned to love St. Teresa";..she is a great official patron of ours. St. John of the Cross is the same." Speaks of Hecker's devotion to John of the CRoss, to the extent that first house was entered. Hecker's request put him among our notable sponsors; he was insrumental in getting Poor Clares to this country. (?) Great lover of contemplation. And obedient, without fault. Elliott ends with assurance: What you love we love, namely the contemplative spirit as the inspiring force of all Catholic activity.