Letter from [Giuseppe Merino and Agostino De Rossi?], slave priests in Tunis, to [Jean Le Vacher?], after 1668-07-05, Tunis
Tunis
Slaves (Christian)
Seravezza case
Incomplete letter. The author(s) are relieved that [Jean Le Vacher?] has arrived in Algiers, as in Tunis there has been a division among the Christians. After Le Vacher and Girolamo Da Sassari left, the Christians' devotion in the chapel of S. Luigi and in the residence of the French consul started to diminish, because of the conflict between the consul and Da Sassari. At the time Antonio Di Seravezza arrived in Tunis, having heard that there were not enough priests (he initially had wanted to go to Crete). The situation changed however, and Sassari decided to leave Tunis on 5 September 1668 and go to Rome to accuse the French consul. After his departure, Di Seravezza began to act as vicar apostolic. Besides Seravezza, there were two other priests in Tunis, both slaves; one was Agostino Rossi in the bagno of S. Croce with around 120 slaves, the other was Gioseppe Marino Della Pantelleria in the bagno della Concettione. Pantelleria had a conflict with Da Sassari and only said mass in his own bagno. Its also noted that consul Ambrosini [Jean Ambrozin] and Di Seravezza were having a dispute because the consul had taken a woman into his house, and also because he refused to return the robes of St. Antonius to the slaves.
Date discussed: 1671-08-06
Additional comments
The beginning and ending of the letter are missing. It was probably adressed to Jean Le Vacher, who left Tunis in 1666 and went to Algiers in 1668. The letter is probably written at the end of 1668 or at the beginning of 1669, as it was written after Girolamo Da Sassari's departure in September 1668. It was also written sometime after Jean Le Vacher (if he indeed is the "V.P.R." to whom the letter is addressed) arrived in Algiers, which also happened in 1668. The letter is probably written by Giuseppe Merino and Agostino de Rossi, both of whom were slave priests in Tunis. They are mentioned in the letter in the third person, but they also refer to themselves in the third person in other letters they wrote (and signed) together. The handwriting is also similar to other letters they wrote.
APF SOCG 430 236r-v, 268r-269v
1668-07-05
Adressed to [Jean Le Vacher?]
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 41, 305r, 330r-338r.
Incomplete letter; beginning and ending missing
Italian
Letter
727
Origin: Tunis
Destination: [Algiers]
Letter from [Jean Ambrozin] to [Jean Le Vacher], 1669-08-04, Tunis
Tunis
Capuchins
Franciscans
Slave priests
Seravezza case
From the letter of Bourdieu, [Ambrozin] has come to understand that [Jean Le Vacher] has not been able to write him a letter because of his sickness. He has been forced to remove Antonio Di Seravezza, who has been left in the position of Vicar [Apostolic] by Girolamo Da Sassari. Because Di Seravezza had a indecent conversation with a priest, he has been sent away from Tunis altogether, to Livorno. Whilst onboard Di Seravezza decided to go to Marseille, in order to plead an unjust cause of which [Ambrozin] declares he is guilty. It is noted that Di Seravezza has left much division behind. He made many Christians believe that Gioseppe della Pantellaria [Giuseppe Merino] has been excommunicated, because he kept saying mass in the house of [Ambrozin]. Others also told Merino that he was excommunicated.
Date discussed: 1671-08-06
Additional comments
The letter is probably written by Jean Ambrozin, the French consul in Tunis, since the writer states that he has thrown Antonio Di Seravezza out of his house, which Ambrozin is described doing in APF SOCG 430, 240r-v, 263r (database item 729).
APF SOCG 430 242r
1669-08-04
Adressed to [Jean Le Vacher]
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 41 305r, 330r-338r.
Incomplete letter. Ending is missing. Copy.
Italian
Letter
730
Origin: Tunis
Destination: [Algiers]
Letter from [Jean] Ambrozin to PF, 1668-06-28, Tunis
Tunis
Barbary (unspecified or several locations)
Capuchins
Slaves (Christian)
Algiers
Tripoli
Letter from Jean Ambrozin, French consul in Tunis, to PF. He writes that Father Girolamo Da Sassari (Capuchin and vicar in Tunis), has received some letters from Jean Le Vacher, in which he announces that he had been appointed vicar apostolic of Algiers with authority over Tunis and Tripoli. On receiving this news, Girolamo was about to leave the mission, but Ambrozin made him stay. Ambrozin now asks the cardinals not to let Jean Le Vacher return to the mission which he had served so badly for years. He praises Father Girolamo and accuses Le Vacher of several mischiefs, most of which regard money issues: Le Vacher stole money from slaves and merchants, and took possessions of the local church back to France.
Date discussed 1668-11-19
Additional comments
[Jean] Ambrozin
APF SOCG 254, 203r-204r
1668-06-28
Addressed to PF
For the summary of this document and for the decision by the general meeting of PF, see: APF SOCG 254, 228r-v, 229r 230r-231r, 232v, 233v (database item 403).
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 37, 247r, 259r-262v (same information as in the mentioned summary (database item 403); not in this database).
Italian
Letter
398
Origin: Tunis
Destination: [Rome]
Letter from [Marcello Costa] to PF, [1671 or later]
Tunis area
Conversion
Galleys
Capuchins
Slaves (Christian)
Slave priests
Tunis
Bizerte
Because PF asked for information about the missionaries in the infidel lands, Marcello Costa has made this report: a) since he arrived in Tunis, the Provicar Luigi Da Palermo assigned four bagnos to him, as there were many Christians that had not confessed. Now they not only confess, but have also taken Holy communion; b) because there are so many Christians, he usually only administers the sacraments during the most important feast days; c) he introduced the singing of the office of the death, every Saturday in the bagno of S. Francesco; d) in other bagnos (assigned to slave priests), he also takes confessions. There he found obstinate sinners who he made take penance and attend the sacraments; e) on Saturdays and during the nights of the feast days, he visits many bagnos. He takes confessions up to midnight, and during the morning he has to celebrate mass in his own chapels, of which he has two. He used to have four chapels, but because thare are more priests, he now only has two; f) he solved a very old problem that began during the time of Antonio Di Seravezza, between the French consul and the local Christians. The consul used to take the pezze da otto, which all Christian ships were required to pay to the church of Tunis; g) he has travelled to many different places to administer the sacraments, including at least four trips to Cantera and Bizerte, but also to Portofarino, Lamadia and Colombaia. There are around 2,000 Christians there, and it was very dangerous as he had to travel alone. There are Christian slaves in remote places that have not seen a priest since they were made slave. After his arrival they became very emotional, to which he consoled them and made them take confession; h) when he arrived he found some neglected altars which he cleaned; and i) when he arrived he found a women with three daughters that were in danger to lose their virginity and their faith.
Additional comments
The issue of the money that the ships had to pay to the church of Tunis, actually started before Antonio Di Seravezza was in Tunis; it has been a problem at least since Girolamo Da Sassari. The writer of the document is probably Marcello Costa, who indeed arrived in Tunis in 1671.
APF SOCG 438, 352r-v
[1671 or later]
Original; end missing
Italian
Report
772
Origin: Tunis
Destination: Rome
Letter from Agostino De Rossi and Gioseppe Marino Della Pantelleria, slave priests in Tunis, to [Jean Le Vacher], 1669-07-12, Tunis, Bagno di S. Croce
Tunis
Capuchins
Franciscans
Slave priests
Seravezza case
Letter from Agostino De Rossi and Gioseppe Merino Pantalarescho [Giuseppe Merino Della Pantelleria] to [Jean Le Vacher]. With this letter they respond to the request to send information about Girolamo Da Sassari and the situation in Tunis; they are both slave priests, one is owned by the brother of the Dey, and the other by Sidi Mamet Hoge. They are staying in Tunis with Girolamo Da Sassari's successor, i.e. Antonio Di Seravezza, who is very different from Da Sassari. It is also noted that Le Vacher is still very beloved in Tunis. They send a letter to PF about the behaviour of Da Sassari and Di Seravezza. Di Seravezza does not follow the good example of [Jean Le Vacher] and does not live in poverty as he should. When Da Sassari left, Di Seravezza was the only free priest in Tunis who could fulfill the office of vicar apostolic. He took over Da Sassari's position however, without any offical ceremony. Di Seravezza's behaviour in office has often been very violent and scandalous. They hope that Rome will send a new prelate who will restore the church of Tunis.
Date discussed: 1671-08-06
Additional comments
APF SOCG 430 238r-v, 266r
1669-07-12
Adressed to [Jean Le Vacher]
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 41, 305r, 330r-338r.
Possibly a copy; signed
Italian
Letter
728
Origin: Tunis
Destination: [Algiers]
Letter from Agostino De Rossi and Gioseppe Merino, slave priests in Tunis, to [Jean Le Vacher], 1669-09-21, Tunis
Franciscans
Seravezza case
Slaves (Christian)
Slave priests
Tunis
Letter from Agostino De Rossi and Gioseppe Merino. They write this letter to inform [Jean Le Vacher] about the state of the church of Tunis. Last June they also asked for the copies that Le Vacher sent to Rome, as had been requested. They want to inform Le Vacher about the departure of [Antonio Di] Seravezza, who had been left in his position by Girolamo Da Sassari. The departure of Di Seravezza and also his general behaviour has led to division, as one can see in the decree that had been issued against them. He does this because he wants to deprive [Merino] from the Mass that he says every day in the house of the consul; whats worse, is the fact that thousands of people have been estranged from the religion, because of the quarrel of one person. Di Seravezza wanted to be the enemy of the consul, even tough he eats his bread. They are both priets, one [De Rossi] can't leave the Bagno of S. Croce because he is a slave, the other [Merino] has been placed under interdict. Whilst he does not really believe that he has placed under interdict (because Di Seravezza does not have the power to do so), it still affects the minds of the people. In the letter, they ask Le Vacher to solve the problems in Tunis. Everybody still has good memories of the time when he was vicar apostolic in the city, so they ask Le Vacher to come to Tunis, if the situation in Algiers allows it. When Antonio Di Seravezza left on 4 August on a French ship to Marseille he left the interdict to his secular partisans; he also against the custom and respect that they ought to have for the Holy sacrament, gave them the Holy oils.
Date discussed: 1671-08-06
Additional comments
The letter is not always very clear, but some details appear in other letters. In APF SOCG 430 236r-v, 268r-269v (database item 727) it is described that it is Merino who says mass in the house of the consul, and that it is De Rossi who cant leave the bagno because he is a slave (however, Merino also appears to have been a slave).
Agostino De Rossi and Giuseppe Merino
APF SOCG 430 264r-v
1671-09-21
Adressed to [Jean Le Vacher]
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 41 305r, 330r-338r.
With the decree they probably mean: APF SOCG 430, 229r (database item 721).
Copy; signed
Italian
Letter
738
Origin: Tunis
Destination: [Algiers]
Letter from Antonio Catalaro, a slave in Tunis, to [Antonio Di Seravezza?], 1670-02-02, Tunis
Franciscans
Conversion
Seravezza case
Slaves (Christian)
Tunis
Letter from Antonio Catalaro [a slave in Tunis], to [Antonio Di Seravezza]. In another letter dated 24 October, he told Di Seravezza that 24 people converted to Islam, but now on 21 January, there are 60 who have converted, and everyday others follow. Its noted that since Di Seravezza left them, they are living like animals. It has been seven months since he left, and still he has not been able to remove the Lutherans, and enable himself to return and console their souls. They do not believe that the French king would fail to do justice, if he would have visited. Since it has already been quite some time, they do not believe that he will ever come back. There are six thousand souls in the hands of the barbarian enemies, and Christians are dying without receiving the sacraments. If the pope and PF would hear these things, they do not know what would happen. Di Seravezza is to blame for their situation, as he reports that things are going well, despite the current events. At the end of the letter, Catalaro asks Di Seravezza to hand the letter to PF.
Additional comments
Antonio Catalaro
APF SC Barbaria 1, 175r
1670-02-02
[Adressed to Antonio Di Seravezza]
copy; signed
Italian
Letter
878
Origin: Tunis
Destination: unknown
Letter from Antonio Di Seravezza to [PF], 1670-07-02, Tunis
Capuchins
Franciscans
Seravezza case
Slave priests
Tunis
Petitions for missionary patents
Letter from Antonio Di Seravezza to PF. They already heard from Girolamo Da Sassari about the things that Gio' Ambrogini [Jean Ambrozin] has done. He took the alms intended for the church, and his successor Gio' Livighieri [Jean Le Vacher] continued this practice. Da Sassari tried to force Ambrozin to pay back the money, the consul subsequently threatened to burn him, after which Da Sassari had to leave the city. Da Sassari informed him that if he saw a way to take the money from the consul, Di Seravezza should do this. For now the consul should no longer be allowed to interfene in the alms. The consul however told him that he would continue with the collection of the alms, as his predecessor had also done. Di Seravezza informed him that the reason his predecessor had collected the alms, is that he had also been vicar as well as consul. Therefore he should not interfene with the buisiness of the church; PF was made aware of this in the translated statement that he sent to them, by the commissionary general of Terra Santa, Father Chintana. He has been away for almost a year without being able to do anything. Now he has put the case into the hands of the nuncio, as had been ordered by the general of the Capuchins; one can read this from the attached document. He ordered him to go to the nuncio [Pietro Bargellini] and let him talk to the king [of France]. However the nuncio did not want to do this, nor did he want to give Di Seravezza's writings to the king. Because the cardinals of PF were in conclave they could also not help him. Eventually the nuncio sent him a letter, the same of which Di Seravezza also sent to PF. Because he could not be helped in Paris or by PF, he decided to return to Tunis. The case has damaged the church of Tunis, and he was informed of this, by the letters that the Christians in the city sent him. Di Seravezza does not know what to do anymore, since the nuncio does not want to speak to the king. He hopes however that PF will bring the case to the king so that he will do justice. He also wishes that the poor slaves who have no hope to be freed will at least receive spiritual consolation from PF. When he returned in Tunis they gave him a letter from Livighier [Jean Le Vacher], who wrote that PF had sent him Di Seravezza's confirmation. Even though he knew that Di Seravezza was in Marseille, he did not send it to him; it is for this reason that he asks PF if they know how to help them. They have heard from Girolamo Da Sassari and read in the letters of the Christians, and the letter written by Angiolo Ranuzzi, the archbishop of Dalmatia, the request to send him the patents. He needs the patents so that he will be better able to serve the church, the slave priests will acknowledge him, and he will be able to manage the money. If they decide to send it to him they can do this by means of the general of the Capuchins, who will send it via Genua and Tabarca to Tunis. PF dedicdes: 1) that the vicar apostolic [Jean Le Vacher] should be asked to give exact information about the case of the consul; 2) the superior of the Minor Observants should be asked to recall Antonio Di Seravezza; and 3) the patents of Girolamo Da Sassari should be revoked.
Date discussed: 1670-11-10
Additional comments
Antonio Di Seravezza
APF SOCG 424, 252r, 255v
1670-05-10
Adressed to [PF]
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 39, 197r, 201r-202v (database item 669).
See for the Antonio Di Seravezza mentioned translated statement APF SOCG 430, 248r-249v, 255r-256r (database item 734).
See for the letter PF sent to Jean Le Vacher to ask for more information about the consul: APF LETTERE 55, 74v (database item 609).
Original; signed
Italian
Latin
Letter
753
Origin: Tunis
Destination: Rome
Letter from Antonio Di Seravezza to PF, 1668-06-27, Tunis
Tunis
Algiers
Seravezza case
Franciscans
Extensive letter from Antonio Di Seravezza, Minor Observant working in Tunis to PF. He writes about the merits of his companion Girolamo Da Sassari, and also about how disastrous it would be, were Jean Le Vacher to receive authority over the mission in Tunis while residing in Algiers (as noted from a letter that Le Vacher sent to Da Sassari). Being that both cities are far apart, and the fact that Le Vacher only thinks about his own interests, Di Seravezza believes he would be very harmful to the mission. The letter signed and dated 27 June 1668.
Date discussed 1668-11-19
Additional comments
Antonio Di Seravezza
APF SOCG 254, 205r-206v
1668-06-27
Addressed to PF
For the summary of this document and for the decision by the general meeting of PF, see: APF SOCG 254, 228r-v, 229r 230r-231r, 232v, 233v (database item 403).
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 37, 247r, 259r-262v (same information as in the mentioned summary (database item 403); not in this database).
Italian
Letter
399
Origin: Tunis
Destination: [Rome]
Letter from Antonio Di Seravezza to PF, 1669-06-26, Tunis
Tunis
Other religious orders
Seravezza case
Franciscans
Letter from Antonio Di Seravezza, a Minor Observant working in Tunis, in which he complains about the fact that Giuseppe della Pantellaria [Giuseppe Merino della Pantelleria] does not recognize his authority; the letter signed and dated 26 June 1669. PF notes state that Di Seravezza abusively signs with "vicar delegate" despite having no such title (Jean Le Vacher, missionary of CM, is vicar apostolic of Tunis). At their meeting of 10 September 1669 the cardinals decide: a) that Di Seravezza should be written to stating that he should not exercise faculties that he does not have; and b) that Le Vacher should be instructed to put an end to these disorders.
Date discussed 1669-09-10
Additional comments
Antonio Di Seravezza
APF SOCG 420, 465r, 466v
1669-06-26
Addressed to PF
Italian
Latin
Letter
649
Origin: Tunis
Destination: Rome
Letter from Carlo D'Ancona to [the PF Secretary, Paluzio Altieri], 1574-07-290, Tunis
Tunis
Capuchins
Slave priests
Letter from Carlo D'Ancona to [PF Secretary]. After staying for a long time in Malta he finally arrived in Tunis. There he received the patents of provicar apostolic from Jean Le Vacher. He sends a copy of the patents with the letter. There are five priests in Tunis, one of them is Marcello Costa, who had been provicar before D'Ancona's arrival. The other four are slaves and are not that skilled. To cause no trouble he left them in possession of the bagnos. However they now want the income from the bagnos to regain their liberty, whilst hurting the poor slaves. D'Ancona is sure that should PF decide to restrict the service in the bagnos to priests with patents, things would go a lot better. One of these Maltese slave priests is celebrating mass in the Bagno di S. Croce, and wants to take care of other bagnos as well. D'Ancona wants to know if he needs to take the cure of the bagno out of his hands, or if he should keep it as it is. D'Ancona also asks PF for the confirmation of the patents that he received from Jean Le Vacher.
Date discussed: 1674-06-26
Additional comments
Carlo D'Ancona
APF SOCG 448, 168r-v
1674-07-29
Adressed to [the PF prefect]
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 44, 170r, 189r-v, 47 (database item 673).
For the mentioned patents, see: APF SOCG 448, 142r (database 781).
Original; signed
Italian
Letter
782
Origin: Tunis
Destination: [Rome]
Letter from Casimiro di Monte Vecchio, Rafel Gronosios, Francesco Galerio Spalero, Antonio Bermezó, Charlos Bontemps Escrivain, Francesco Caratelo, Giuseppe Renda to [Jean Le Vacher], 1670-01-30, Tunis
Tunis
Capuchins
Franciscans
Other religious orders
Seravezza case
Letter from Casimiro Di Monte Vecchio, Rafel Gronosios, Francesco Galerio Spalerio, Antonio Bermezò, Charlos Bontemps Escrivain, Francesco Caratelo, and Giuseppi Rendi. They did not write earlier about the situation in Tunis, as they did not yet know that [Le Vacher] had been chosen by PF as vicar apostolic. Girolamo Da Sassari who had been vicar apostolic before, left after a conflict with consul Ambrosini [Jean Ambrozin], which was about the money that each ship in Tunis should give to the chapel of Sant'Antonio. He left Antonio [Di Seravezza] in his place, but there was never a clear understanding of who the vicar apostolic was. They declare that they never really accepted the authority of Di Seravezza. His behaviour in office was very indecent and he had a group of five or six men around him who did exactly as he said. A freed female slave was housed in the residence of the French consul [Jean Ambrozin], where Di Seravezza also lived. The latter forbade her to sing and at one time she was beaten up. Di Seravezza told the consul that he no longer wanted to stay in his house because the woman used it as a brothel. The consul was furious and sent him away; this is the reason why Di Seravezza illegitimately placed the chapel of the consul under interdict (i.e. forbidding masses in the chapel). However, Gioseppe Marino [Giuseppe Merino] kept celebrating mass in the chapel. The authors of the letter use citations from Bonacina's De Censuris in order to make clear that the interdict is illegitimate since the reason was not made public. Di Seravezza and his group do not fear God for leaving so many Christians without the possibility of confession, and they also have denied Merino the access to the bagnos. The authors of the letter think it best if he [Le Vacher] did not grant the authority of vicar apostolic to anybody else, but instead came to Tunis himself; if he is not able to come, then he should at least send some reputable priests.
Date discussed: 1671-08-06
Additional comments
APF SOCG 430 240r-v, 263r
1670-01-30
Adressed to [Jean Le Vacher]
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 41 305r, 330r-338r.
Original; signed
Italian
Latin
Letter
729
Origin: Tunis
Destination: [Algiers]
Letter from Christomo Da Genova and Giuseppe Maria Da Bologna to [PF], 1683-09-08, Tunis
Algiers
Bizerte
Capuchins
Slaves (Christian)
Letter from Gristomo Da Genua [Christomo Da Genova], and Giuseppa Maria De Bologna. Since Gio' LeVascher [Jean Le Vacher] has recently been killed in Algiers by the Barbarians (as has been reported through various channels), they regard it their duty to report the event to PF. PF is of the understanding that the reasons behind Le Vacher's death are not yet clear. Due to the distance and the fact that the country is in great disarray, it has been hard find concrete answers. Some say that Le Vacher (in his function of French consol), informed the French army about the decision taken by the tribune of the Divan, to make slave 500 French Christians, who were staying there for commerce. Because they were consequently saved, the anger was directed towards Le Vacher. He was tied to a canon that was fired, blowing him into 1000 pieces. Some say, he ws killed because they wanted to stop the French army from bombarding the city, and also because after the Turks had freed all the French slaves, the ships still continued to attack the city. Others said that Le Vacher had given a signal from his house to the French army.
Additional comments
The content of this letter is practically the same as another one, the only difference being that that one has (besides Giovanni Maria Da Bologna), also been signed by Francesco Gatta (instead of Christomo Da Genova). This one seems to have been written by Giovanni Maria Da Bologna, after which Christomo Da Genova added his name. Whereas in the other letter, Francesco Gatta seems to have been the principal creator of the letter.
Christomo Da Genova
Giuseppe Maria Da Bologna
APF SC Barbaria 2, 43r
1683-09-08
[Adressed to PF]
original; signed
Italian
Letter
909
Origin: Tunis
Destination: [Rome]
Letter from de Martin to the PF vice-prefect [Luigi Capponi], 1647-07-17, Tunis
Tunis
Slave priests
Bizerte
Letter from the French consul in Tunis to Cardinal Capponi, attesting that the package of letters from the Levant, which Julien Guérin is sending to PF were all open (except for three of them), when Guérin received them from a slave priest who had obtained them from a Maur, who said he had found them on the road from Bizerte.
Additional comments
de Martin
APF SOCG 64, 253r, 276v
1647-07-17
Addressed to [Luigi Capponi]
The found letters were not filed in this volume, but the note from Guérin, which accompanied them, is a few folios down: APF SOCG 64, 259r, 270v, (database item 131).
Original; signed; letter in French; PF notes in Italian.
French
Italian
Letter
129
Origin: Tunis
Destination: Rome
Letter from Fabrizio Spada to the PF secretary, Urbano Cerri, 1677-11-19, Paris; with an attached letter from Francesco Gatta, 1677-09-02, Tunis
Tunis
Other secular missionaries
Letter from the nuncio to France Fabrizio Spada, to Urbano Cerri, PF secretary. He recommends a Spanish boy of 16 to be taken into the care of PF. The attached letter from Francesco Gatta (a missionary in Tunis) to the nuncio, recounts how this boy endured many sufferings because his brothers and Father wanted him to become a Jew, as they had; the boy however refused. He is now in Livorno, but wants to go to Rome when his quarantine finishes. During their meeting of 7 February 1678 the cardinals decided to help this boy, and write to a certain "Iulio de’ Angelis" in Livorno, to find out if he knows anything about the case.
Date discussed 1678-02-07
Additional comments
Fabrizio Spada
Francesco Gatta
APF SOCG 467, 165r, 166r-168v
1677-11-19, Paris; 1677-09-02
Addressed to Urbano Cerri
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 48, 23r, 31r-v (database item 677).
Italian
Latin
Letter
661
Origin: Tunis
Destination: Rome
Letter from Francesco Gatta to [PF pro-secretary, Edoardo Cibo] 1679-09-15, Tunis
Bizerte
Capuchins
Corsairs
Mercedarians
Ransom
Renegades
Slaves (Christian)
Slave priests
Tunis
Letter from Francesco Gatta to PF. It has been eight months since he warned PF about some the developments in the church of Tunis. The ship that brought this letter though was taken by Neapolitans and the letters were lost. He stated that the spiritual goings of the church were progressing well. There have also been a few heretics that converted to Catholicism. This success is the work of the Capuchin priest Giuseppe Maria Da Bologna, Vicenzo Da Frascati in Tunis, and Chrisostomo Da Genua in Bizerte. However, there are also people working against them, creating discord. Some clerics are doing things that are a disgrace for the Holy faith. One year ago, one Mercedarian Spanish priest was killed by a rennegade, because he found this priests at home with his wife. In this case a Sardinian priest was wounded. After this the Sardinian priest was suspended for some time, but has since now returned. There was another case of a priest from Calabria (who already returned in Christinianity), but was very impertinent whilst staying in Tunis. He bragged about having been an outlaw in the countryside, murders that he committed, and his years in jail in Napels. After a conflict with the provicar, the vicar of Algiers [Jean Le Vacher] decided that they had to make a report on the case. Eventually the provicar, Giuseppe Maria, was forced to make him leave, as he had threatened to convert to Islam. Another priest, De Minimi, used to play cards from early morning until late at night. He won 80 piastre from a Christian slave of the Bascia, who gave him 200 beatings with a cane. The priest gave the money back, however he was also canned and almost killed. While visiting Algiers, he saw that the vicar apostolic, Jean Le Vacher, had some problems with the slave priests as well; he was also French consul at the same time. It has been a few days since another priest, Father Zoccolante (who just ransomed himself), was playing cards with a Greek Catholic. They became involved in a fight, and were both beaten with a cane. The Greek slave brought the case before the Bey, who imprisoned the priest. All priests in the city (both missionaries and slaves), were consequently brought to him. First, he asked the group whether priests were allowed to play cards, and other things which he will not tell PF because he does not want to cause offence. Gatta told the Bey that it was prohibited, and that there are penalties in this life and the next. The king told Gatta to punish the priest, and Gatta made him the slave of the Bascia. The slave was brought to the Bascia, his clothes were taken away, and he was beaten. The priest was imprisoned in the bagno of the Dogana. When they warned him that the Bascia also wanted to enslave the priest, he was released and allowed to travel to Livorno on an English ship. It has been two days since he left. There has been a civil war in this country for three years between two brothers, and the whole area is divided into two parties. Whilst the troubles do not impede them to do their spiritual work, the only problem is travelling to other places. Every now and then, he does travel to these missions together with Vincenzo Da Frascati. They heard that the Capuchins in Tuscany might send new missionaries, and they will follow PF in every decision they make regarding this matter; they do ask PF to be cautious in sending new people to a war-torn area. /
Date discussed: 1680-04-08
Additional comments
Francesco Gatta
APF SOCG 478, 260r-261v, 263r
1679-09-15
[Adressed to PF]
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 50 98r, 112v-113v (database item 683).
Original: signed
Italian
Letter
804
Origin: Tunis
Destination: [Rome]
Letter from Francesco Gatta to PF, 1681-05-18, Tunis
Barbary (unspecified or several locations)
Algiers
Bizerte
Corsairs
Galleys
Salé
Slaves (Christian)
Tripoli
Tunis
Letter from Francesco Gatta to PF. Gatta has informed PF as well as Gio' Levascer [Jean Le Vacher] the vicar apostolic in Algiers, about the most important matters of the mission in Tunis. Le Vacher released Gatta from his side to go to Tunis. Some people from Messina who had enough of the Pascia tried to be favored by the grand vizier of Constantinople, in order to obtain Turkish troops for Sicily. Giuseppe Marchese was secretly connected with Mamet Agha (the Turkish ambassador in Tunis), to intermediate in the wars that divided the country. By means of this ambassador, he sent his message to Constantinople. From the returning ship, they received no other news except that it disembarked from Naples in the Romagna; there Giuseppe boarded a ship together with four of his children. Gatta hopes that the ambassadors of the Christian princes will be wise enough to stop him. When he was in Algiers, he came to understand that in Salé, there were many Christian slaves who were left without a priest, because of the pest. Likewise, in Tétouan there are 500 Christian slaves without a priest. When Gatta asked the vicar apostolic for permission to go to Tétouan, however it was not granted. Then, the prefect of Tripoli, Da Castel'vetrano [Girolamo Da Castelverrano] saw that in his decree, Salé was annexed to the mission of Tripoli. As the city is 1,700 Italian miles away by sea, it is impossibile to serve them from Tripoli. Because the city has been abandoned, he begged Da Castelverrano to either visit once every seven years, send two companions there (and two others for Tétouan), or to ask PF to provide these cities with missionaries. Da Castelverrano promised him that he would go himself, but because years have passed and nobody has visited, he decided to inform PF. If they decide to send two missionaries, then it would be best to imbark from Marseille. The people who go there however, must be willing to suffer a lot, considering the people there are more barbaric and wild. He also sends PF a list of all the cities and places with Christian slaves, and their distance from Tripoli. List with distances from Tripoli: a) in Tripoli in Barbary, live a little more than a thousand Christian slaves of various nations. From Tripoli to Tunis, the distance is 500 Italian miles, from Tunis to Utica (today Porto Farina), the distance is 24 Italian miles, and from Porto Farina to Bizerte, the distance is 26 Italian miles; b) in Tunis there are around 2,000 Christian slaves, and a few free Christians. In Porto Farina and Bizerte (that are part of the same mission), there are around 200 ships and galleys. In Caponegro there are around 40 free Christians amongst whom soldiers and merchants. From Bizerte to Algiers, the distance is 450 Italian miles. In Algiers there are around 5,000 Christian slaves, even though the size of the city is only a quarter of Tunis. There are however, 46 ships, two galleys, and two other small boats. From Algiers to Orano, the distance is 300 Italian miles, from Oran to Melilla, the distance is 100 Italian miles, from Mellila to Pignon, the distance is 60 Italian miles; c) the places of Oran, Melilla and Pignon are under the king of Spain. Except for soldiers there are farmers, free people, and they have their own parishes and chapels. From Pignon to Tétouan, the distance is 80 Italian miles; d) in Tétouan, a city of the Moors, there are 500 Christian slaves and no-one to administer the sacraments. From Tétouan to Ceuta, also a Spanish city, the distance is 20 Italian miles, and from Ceuta to Tanger, a place in the hands of the English, the distance is 30 Italian miles and from Tanger to Salé, the distance is 200 Italian miles; and e) Salé is a place of the Moors, in the kingdom of Fez, and there are around 500 Christians without priests. The priests stay in Fez and cannot travel around because the countryside is filled with robbers. From Tripoli to Salé is 1,790 miles over sea. He is not sure whether one could do this in a year because of the difficulties of travelling and the few possibilities of doing so.
Additional comments
Francesco Gatta
APF SC Barbaria 1, 502r-503r
1681-05-18
Adressed to [PF}
original; signed
Italian
Letter
899
Origin: Tunis
Destination: [Rome]
Letter from Girolamo Da Sassari to PF, 1666-09, Tunis
Capuchins
Petitions for faculties
Letter from Girolamo Da Sassari to PF in which he recounts how Jean Le Vacher has left the mission in Tunis, and has given the faculties of vicar apostolic to Da Sassari (although he did not want to be vicar). Da Sassari states how this task is going against the rule of poverty to which, as a Capuchin, he has to obey. He therefore asks if PF can send another priest to exercise the office of vicar with two others who can help him, or enable him in some way to fulfill this task without burdening his conscience. At the general meeting of the 15 November 1666, the cardinals decide that Da Sassari has to stay in Tunis until a new vicar apostolic will arrive. In the meantime, however, he will be declared vice-prefect of the mission and will be given the faculty to use money for his needs. Moreover, they order that the nuncio to France be asked if Jean Le Vacher cannot return; if not, the superior general has to be asked to send another missionary.
Date discussed 1666-11-15
Additional comments
Girolamo Da Sassari
APF SOCG 254, 108r-109v
1666-09
Addressed to PF
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 35, 276r, 285r-v (same information; not in this database).
Italian
Latin
Letter
390
Origin: Tunis
Destination: Rome
Letter from Girolamo Da Sassari to PF, 1667-04-24, Tunis
Tunis
Letter from Girolamo Da Sassari to PF, in which he thanks the decree granting him the faculties of vice-prefect of the Tunis mission. He promises to do his best to to live up to his new role. The letter dated the 24 April 1667.
Additional comments
Girolamo Da Sassari
APF SOCG 254, 118r
1667-04-24
Addressed to PF
Italian
Letter
393
Origin: Tunis
Destination: Rome
Letter from Girolamo Da Sassari to PF, 1668-06-26 Tunis
Tunis
Algiers
Capuchins
Tripoli
Slaves (Christian)
Letter from Girolamo Da Sassari to PF in which he describes the persecutions that he and the other Christians suffered in Tunis and how they came to an end. He writes that he has received a letter from Jean Le Vacher saying that he will become vicar apostolic in Algiers, with full authority over the church of Tunis. This surprises him greatly, since the mission was assigned to him with a PF decree on 25 November 1666. He moreover accuses Jean Le Vacher of greediness. Lastly he asks for a missionary patent for Father Antonio Di Seravezza, his companion. The letter signed and dated 26 June 1668.
Date discussed 1668-11-19
Additional comments
Girolamo Da Sassari
APF SOCG 254, 209r-210r
1668-06-26
Addressed to PF
For the summary of this document and for the decision by the general meeting of PF, see: APF SOCG 254, 228r-v, 229r 230r-231r, 232v, 233v (database item 403).
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 37, 247r, 259r-262v (same information as in the mentioned summary (database item 403); not in this database).
Italian
Letter
401
Origin: Tunis
Destination: [Rome]
Letter from Giuseppe Maria Da Bologna and Francesco Gatta to [PF], 1683-09-08, Tunis
Algiers
Bizerte
Capuchins
Slaves (Christian)
Letter from Giuseppe Maria Da Bologna and Francesco Gatta to PF. Since Gio' LeVascher [Jean Le Vacher] has recently been killed in Algiers by the Barbarians (as has been reported through various channels), they regard it their duty to report the event to PF. PF came to hear about the event, by the means of CM in France. The reason for why he was killed is still not completely clear. BDue to the distance and the fact that the country is in great disarray, it has been hard find concrete answers. Some say that Le Vacher, in his function of French consol, informed the French army about the decision taken by the tribune of the Divan to make slave 500 French Christians, who were staying there for commerce. Because they were consequently saved, the anger was directed at Le Vacher. He was tied to a canon that was fired, blowing him into 1000 pieces. Others say, it was because they wanted to stop the French army from bombarding the city, and also because after the Turks had freed all the French slaves, the ships still continued to attack the city. Others said that Le Vacher had given a signal from his house to the French army.
Additional comments
The content of this letter is practically the same as another one, the only difference being that that one has (besides Giovanni Maria Da Bologna), also been signed by Christomo Da Genova (instead of Francesco Gatta). This one seems to have been written by Francesco Gatta, after which Giovanni Maria Da bologna added his name. Whereas in the other letter, Giovanni Maria Da Bologna seems to have been the principal creator of the letter.
Francesco Gatta
Christomo Da Genova
APF SC Barbaria 2, 44r
1683-09-08
[Adressed to PF]
original; signed
Italian
Letter
910
Origin: Tunis
Destination: [Rome]
Letter from Giuseppe Maria Da Bologna to Giambattista Da Sabbio, the Capuchin Procurator General, 22 February 1683, Tunis
Capuchins
Slave priests
Tunis
Letter from Gioseffo M'a da Bologna [Giuseppe Maria Da Bologna] to Gio Batt'a da Sabbio [Giambattista Da Sabbio]. He wants the Capuchin procurator general to know, that last year they found themselves in a difficult situation; there were three Fathers in Tunis, all having only one bath to serve, meaning that they only received six pezze da otto every month, plus the two or three they received on other occasions. That made around 20 in total. They paid four families they were staying with 10 pezze for wine and bread. Monsù le Vascher [Jean Le Vacher] knowing this very well, wrote to PF for help. He asked to let the priests stay in the bagno, or provide them with 36 pezze. Consequently, they were allowed to stay in the bagno, however this became obsolete after the arrival of the slave priests. Now the only priest left is Da Bologna, and he only has two bagno's left to serve; there are even enough slave priests present in the city to only serve one. The rent of the house has been raised by nine pezze, making a total of 45. He asks the procurator general to at least help the mission pay the higher rent.
Additional comments
Giuseppe Maria Da Bologna
APF SC Barbaria 2, 11r-12v
1683-02-22
Adressed to Giambattista Da Sabbio
signed
Italian
Letter
903
Origin: Tunis
Destination: [Rome]
Letter from Giuseppe Maria Da Bologna, Francesco Gatta and Vincenzo Da Frascati to Jean Le Vacher, 1678-05-03, Tunis
Tunis
Capuchins
Mercedarians
Other religious orders
Ransom
Slave priests
Slaves (Christian)
Letter Giuseppe Maria Da Bologna, Francesco Gatta and Vincenzo Da Frascati to Jean Le Vacher. Three days ago they received a letter from Jean Le Vacher, in which he asked them to inform him about the scandals that have been taking place in the church of Tunis. They had previously informed him of the problems, and had followed Le Vacher's instructions, by trying to alter the habits of some slave priests. The most troublesome of them is Antonio Calendino, who claimed to be a priest but had no papers to back this up. He himself told the missionaries that he had been in prison for four years in Naples, after being condemned for murder. The missionaries wrote to the archbishop for more information about Calendino, but they never received an answer. They allowed him to administer the sacraments, as they were afraid that if they did not allow this, Calendino would expel the missionaries from the mission with help from his patron Ali Bei. The problems with him grew worse, as his patron (who has good ties with the ruling house) used him as jester, singing and playing the guitar, whilst receiving women in his house. He was walking around the bagnos causing problems and disturbing the mass. They could not do anything against him because they did not want to be forced to leave, which would have resulted in the misson being abandoned. Eventually he was ransomed after committing more scandalous acts, and sent on a boat to Livorno. After his departure, other Christians told the missionaries admitted truths about Calendino, that are so scandalous that they cannot be possibly true; however they will leave them for what they are.
The second scandal was on 17 October 1679 when Diego d'Avalos (a Mecedarian priest from Cagliari also known as Padre Diego), was called by a woman and entered her house. When the husband returned he tried to kill Diego with a pistol, but the priest escaped; the two met again and this time the husband shot Diego. Three or four hours later after having confessed, he died. Another priest was wounded in the hand during the altercation, for which mass had to be suspended for a month. As he wanted to better his live, the mass was eventually returned to him, and now he is living quietly and devoutly. The third scandal was when a Minim pirest Felice Da Marta, was playing cards. He did this so often that he neglected his priestly duties. Sometimes he was playing from the evening till morning, and many Christians complained about this. Felice was lucky and won 80 pezze da otto from Giuseppe Calibrò, a Sicilian slave of the Pasha. But later Felice was forced to pay the slave the money back. Because the priest was not the slave of an influential person it was easy to aprehend him, and to forbid him to ever play cards again; from that moment on, he did not play anymore.
The fourth scandal involved another priest, Carlo Vella Maltese Zocerlante, who was already ransomed but had not yet returned home. One day he was playing carts with a Greek, Constanino, who had also been ransomed. They had a fight about the game and blood was spilled. The Greek went to the missionaries to complain. The Greek was imprisoned by the Bey, who the next day called on the cities priests (both missionaries and slaves), and asked them if it was legal for a priest to play cards. The response given to the Bey, is that it is not legal, and even strongly prohibited. The Bey handed over the priest so that he could be punished. Whilst the Greek was enslaved again, they chained the priest inside his Bagno. They were warned however that the Greeks were trying to enforce the Bey to enslave Carlo again, hence why they put him on an English ship travelling to Livorno. Whilst these are the most imported things that happened, they are not completely sure about the exact dates, and the precise circumstances. They ask Le Vacher to not send any more slave priests to them, unless they are found to be exceptionally useful.
Date discussed: 1682-09-30
Additional comments
Judging by a later letter from Jean Le Vacher, this letter was originally sent to Jean Le Vacher, who then sent it (together with his own letter) to PF. See APF SOCG 498, f. 178r-179r (database item 807).
Giuseppe Maria Da Bologna
Francesco Gatta, Vincenzo Da Frascati
APF SOCG 498, 177r-v, 180r
1678-05-03
Adressed to Jean Le Vacher
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 51, 279r (not yet in this database).
Original: signed
Italian
French
Letter
806
Origin: Tunis
Destination: Algiers
Letter from Jean Ambrozin to [Jean Le Vacher], 1669-07-10, Tunis
Tunis
Capuchins
Franciscans
Slave priests
Seravezza case
Letter from Jean Ambrozin to [Jean Le Vacher], stating that he is happy that he is mentioned in his [Le Vacher´s] letters to Bourdieu, who told him that [Le Vacher] would like to know what happened to Da Sassari. They lived together for two years in good harmony until the advent of Antonio Di Seravezza, who told Da Sassari that he was not obliged to pray for the king [of France]. Ambrozin responded by saying that everyone who stayed in the French consulate should pray for the king. When these two priest said mass in the chapel of the consulate without calling to Ambrozin, it was clear to him that they disliked the French nation; it was whereafter he told Da Sassari that he had to live somewhere else. Da Sassari also said that he should pay for the maintenance of his chapel, and to give money to the chapel of Sant'Antonio. They tried to let the Dutch consul mediate between them and Ambrozin, and when Da Sassari realized he did not have a place to stay, he went to Livorno. It has been 10 months since he left and he has not sent a single letter in that time. He left Di Seravezza in his place, who talked about Ambrozin behind his back (for which he was also thrown out of the house). His accusation was based on a woman ransomed by the French (who he sent to Livorno), so that she could travel to her husband who resides in Sardinia. There are only two priests in this city, one who is not allowed to leave his bagno, and the other [Giuseppe Merino] who is a slave of [Agi Memet de Ainat], says the mass in the chapel of the consulate; it is for this reason, that Di Seravezza wants to excommunicate him. It is noted that something really should have been done against the scandalous behavior of Di Seravezza. If there are others priests who would like to come to Tunis, Ambrozin would be happy to receive them.
Date discussed: 1671-08-06
Additional comments
APF SOCG 430 244r-v, 260r
1669-07-10
Adressed to [Jean Le Vacher]
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 41 305r, 330r-338r.
Copy; signed
Italian
Letter
731
Origin: Tunis
Destination: [Algiers]
Letter from Jean Le Vacher to PF, 1654-01-24, Tunis
Tunis
Letter from Jean Le Vacher, vicar apostolic in Tunis to PF, accompanying an extensive report on his mission. Le Vacher stated that he wrote the report, when asked by PF (via Thomas Bérthe who is the superior of CM house in Rome). The letter signed and dated 24 January 1654.
Additional comments
Jean Le Vacher
APF SOCG 248, 298r
1654-01-24
Addressed to PF
See for the actual report: APF SOCG 248, 273r-280v 286v (database item 447).
Latin
Letter
448
Origin: Tunis
Destination: Rome
Letter from Jean Le Vacher to PF, 1664-03-13, Tunis
Tunis
Mission reports
Slaves (Christian & Muslim)
Ransom
Extensive report by Jean Le Vacher on the situation in Tunis, which lists his missionary work, the behavior of other priests, and the case of several Maltese [Vincenzo Piccinini and Giuseppe and Francesco Guerara] who took 1000 pezze from the Dey, which he had destined for the redemption of a slave in Messina. He moreover reports that there are no priests left in Tripoli. At PF general meeting of 30 June 1664, the cardinals decided that Le Vacher should be asked for more information about the Dey's money; that CM superior [René Alméras] should be asked whether new missionaries would be available for this mission; and lastly that Le Vacher should order the priests that they abstain from usury and commercial activities, on the pain of interdiction to say mass.
Date discussed 1664-06-30
Additional comments
Jean Le Vacher
APF SOCG 254, 65r-v, 67r-v
1664-03-13
Addressed to PF
The draft of a letter answering this letter of Jean Le Vacher can be found on: APF SOCG 254, 66r (database item 385).
Italian
Latin
Letter
384
Origin: Tunis
Destination: Rome
Letter from Jean Le Vacher to René Alméras, 1648-06-22, Tunis
Tunis
Plague
Non-Catholic Christians
Letter from Jean Le Vacher to the superior of CM in Rome (René Alméras) reporting: a) the death of Julien Guérin on 23 May 1648; b) that of Jacques Lesage [spelled Le Sagè] in Algiers approximately 20 days before; c) the slow recovery from his own brush with the plague; d) details regarding Julien Guérin's place of enterment; and e) an incident caused by the discovery of a well-preserved corpse in the Christian cemetery in Tunis, and the conflict it caused between the Roman Catholics and the Greek Orthodox; this prompted the local administration to rule that from then on the Greek would bury their dead in a different cemetery.
Additional comments
Jean Le Vacher
APF SOCG 65, 207r-v, 208v
Cited in P. Coste, ed., Saint Vincent de Paul: Correspondence, Conferences, Documents (Brooklyn, NY: 1985-2010), vol. 3, doc. 1057, p. 349, fn. 4.
1648-06-22
Addressed to René Alméras
Original; signed, dated; Italian
Italian
Letter
138
Origin: Tunis
Destination: [Paris]
Letter from Jean Le Vacher to the PF secretary [Mario Alberizzi], 1666-04-23, Tunis
Tunis
Slaves (Christian & Muslim)
Ransom
Renegades
Letter from Jean Le Vacher to Mario Alberizzi, in which he explains what happened with the sum of 1,000 pezze that is in the possession of PF, and also claimed by "some Maltese in Rome." He writes that this sum was given by the late Dey to Giuseppe Guevara, a renegade, for the purpose of ransoming a slave in Messina (Sicily). Shortly after he received this money, Guevara fled together with Francesco Guevara, Serafino and Vicenzo Piccinini, their families and some other renegades, and they went to Rome. On hearing this, the Dey called all priests and the most important Christian slaves, and ordered them to write to the pope that his money should be given back to him; the Dey threatened to otherwise have it paid by the free and enslaved Christians in Tunis. The pope ordered that this money be held for the Dey, who continued to claim it up until his death; after his death the Divan took over his claim. Le Vacher advises not to give the money to anyone without a clear receipt, in case the Tunisian authorities attempt to extract it from the local Christians, be they free or enslaved. Le Vacher also mentions that Francesco Guevara threatened him many times in order to force him to write to PF in support of Guevara's request for money. Le Vacher advises to spend part of it for the redemption of Vincenzo Piccinini, a brother of Giuseppe Guevara who is abused, because he helped the Guevara brothers escape. The letter dated 23 April 1666.
Additional comments
Jean Le Vacher
APF SOCG 254, 137r-138r
1666-04-23
Addressed to PF
This is a response to a letter from Jean Le Vacher to PF, see: APF Lettere 51, 17r (database item 845).
Italian
Letter
396
Origin: Tunis
Destination: [Rome]
Letter from Julien Guérin to the PF secretary [Francesco Ingoli], 1646-11-21, Tunis
Tunis
Slave priests
Conversion
Renegades
Letter from Julien Guérin to PF: a) requesting the faculty to grant a marriage dispensation to a couple who had formerly renegated the Christian faith but currently live like Christians, so that they could legitimize their children; b) relating about other converts as well as certain Turks who live like Christians; and c) decrying the scandal caused by slave priests who celebrate mass twice and sometimes thrice a day for the love of money. Regarding the last point, Guérin asks that all those who celebrate mass twice or thrice a day be excommunicated, as it causes him much grief. PF decided to forward all three issues to the pope.
Additional comments
Julien Guérin
APF SOCG 64, 258r-v, 271v
1646-11-21
Addressed to [Francesco Ingoli]
See for the response: APF ACTA 17, 315v, 320v-321r (database item 122).
See for the minutes of the PF general meeting discussing this letter: APF ACTA 17, 320v-321r, issue 10 (database item 122).
Original; signed; Italian
Italian
Letter
130
Origin: Tunis
Destination: [Rome]
Letter from Julien Guérin to the PF secretary [Luigi Capponi], 1647-07-15, Tunis
Tunis
Algiers
Slaves (Christian)
Renegades
Plague
Franciscans
Letter from Julien Guérin to Cardinal Capponi, accompanying a few letters he is forwarding to PF and which he received from a Maur. Guérin apologizes that the letters are open, but he found them in this state. Guérin also mentions that: a) the plague lost some of its virulence; b) some apostates came back to the Church; c) Christian matters are going well; some Christian priests won their freedom and left, but others arrived in their stead; d) the current priests live well and help the Christians by giving them good examples; e) there are three slaves of the Minor Observant Franciscan Order who are tied to their owner for 2,000 piastre, and Guérin is asking Capponi to write to their General, because they are in danger; f) he himself is doing everything he can to help the local Christians; and g) regarding the dispensation he had previously requested for the two apostates who wanted their union recognized, there is no more need for that, since they both have died.
Additional comments
Julien Guérin
APF SOCG 64, 259r, 270v
1647-07-15
Addressed to [Luigi Capponi]
See for the PF decisions on these subjects: APF ACTA 17, 315v, 320v-321r, issue 10 (database item 122), and APF ACTA 17, 574r, 577v (database item 123).
For the letter of the French consul in Tunis attesting that the letters in the package had all been opened: APF SOCG 64, 253r, 276v (database item 129).
For another letter by Guérin with a similar content: APF SOCG 65, 206r-v, 209v (database item 137). For item g) see APF SOCG 64, 258r-v, 271v (database item 130).
Original; signed; Italian
Italian
Letter
131
Origin: Tunis
Destination: [Rome]