To the Vicar Apostolic of Montevideo, Giacinto Vera

E V, 2565

Sorry that he did not visit Italy, he thanks him for his kindness to the Salesians — he asks for confidential information about the situation in Villa Colón.

Marseille, 16 July 1877

Your Excellency,

I felt great consolation when the newspapers announced Your Excellency’s arrival in Italy, but unfortunately, in Genoa, I was only able to pay my respects to the Archbishop of Buenos Aires, as you were detained in your diocese by serious business. Patience. We hope that God will grant us this consolation at another time.

It is a little late, but I must fulfil my duty: to thank Your Excellency for the kindness and charity you show to my Salesian sons. Every letter they write to me never fails to mention some special acts of kindness that you deign to show them.

May God reward you, Your Excellency, and continue to protect us. The Salesians will redouble their efforts to repay the kindness of such a charitable and affectionate father. In the meantime, I place all my sons under your authority so that you may advise them, warn them, and, if necessary, correct them. When there is someone who can be admitted to holy orders, I place him entirely in your hands.

If you would be so kind as to give me confidential information about the true state of Villa Colón and what could be done for the greater glory of God, you would do me a great favour.

Please accept the humble tribute of the prayers offered in Salesian houses for the preservation of Your Excellency. I implore you to bless us all, and with the utmost respect and profound gratitude, it is my great honour to be able to profess that I am

Your Excellency’s

humble servant

Fr John Bosco