To the Procurator in Rome, Fr Francesco Dalmazzo

VI, 3219

He asks him to submit two petitions for benefactors of the Church of the Sacred Heart — he mentions the compromise for the purchase of the new land and the legal transfer of ownership of the old land — various assignments and news.

Turin, 9 July 1880

My dear Fr Dalmazzo,

I am sending you two petitions that you can present to Cardinal Gianelli or, perhaps better, to Cardinal Mertel. They are about two distinguished benefactors of ours, fervent Catholics. Madam Prat has already offered 65,000 lire (sixty-five thousand) for St Peter's Pence. She will send another sum shortly. If there are any expenses, they will be covered, but I would like to pay them myself so that I can say it is a gift. This will be much more effective.

Mr Caranti received a reply from Comm. Fontana saying that we would also take the cottage at the estimated price, and he replied yes. It would be good to talk to him. The agreement gives us time to make arrangements, which is good.

I am taking care of everything, especially the mortgage, and I am very hopeful. As soon as the notarial deed of transfer of the Church of the Sacred Heart to us has been drawn up, please let me know immediately. Everything read in the Chapter was approved.

As per your instructions, if we go bankrupt, we will take refuge in Patagonia with Fr Fagnano. So proceed with confidence.

If Mr Sigismondi needs the advance payment, either take it from the existing ad hoc sum, or write to us and we will arrange it.

May God bless us all, and believe that I am always in J.C.

Your most affectionate friend

Fr John Bosco