To Mrs Zeglia Cesconi
E III, 1605
Recommends reducing the study hours of her son in poor health – need for free time – for now, it is preferable for him to remain with tutor Fr Mantovani than to be at college.
Turin, 29 January 1872
Dear Mrs Cesconi,
I was very anxious for news of our Victor, and while I thank you for taking the trouble, I am very sorry that my little friend’s health does not yet allow him to write himself.
I have looked at the study timetable, but I find it too long. If you want his health to improve you absolutely must slow down his mental activity, and I am convinced that two hours a day is enough until October. After that, we will see.
Victor needs mental relief, light physical movement, variations in subjects and of air. So, the trip you plan to take him on sounds excellent; but don't forget to bring him to Turin, even if only for a short while, so that we can pray together at the altar of Mary Help of Christians.
As for going to college, don’t think about that for now. Fr Mantovani is an excellent teacher, and that is enough for dear Victor at present. When he is in perfect health, we will see, and God will let us know what is best to do.
You will say that I am speaking as if I am the boss, therefore forgive me for the liberty I am taking; it is only to express my thoughts.
In the meantime, please give my regards to Fr Mantovani and our Victor, whom I am expecting in Turin, and encourage him to place his hope in Our Lady, who wants him all for herself.
May God bless us all, and pray for me, who with deep gratitude profess that I am
Your Distinguished Madam’s
humble servant
