To the Spiritual Director of the Pious Work of the Refuge, Giovanni Borel

E I, 22

Health situation — asks for news about the progress of the Oratory during his stay in Castelnuovo

Castelnuovo, 22 August 1846

Dear Father,

I am in Castelnuovo; my journey went well, although I was quite exhausted from the donkey. My health has greatly improved: eating, drinking, sleeping and nothing more, walking through these hills that breathe pure, fresh air; even in just a few days, they have changed my colour and shape. I truly know the hand of God that cooperates with my health I feel stronger and more robust than I did before this latest illness, and at the same time, the burning sensation that tormented me has disappeared. Deo gratias.

I don’t know if the heat has also subsided in Turin: we are breathing truly invigorating fresh air, despite a drought that is devastating the entire countryside and causing the poor farmers to utter nothing but lamentations and sighs of misery, though they are very resigned to the divine will. Tonin is excellent company and keeps me wonderfully cheerful; how many kisses on the hand he would give you and Fr Pacchiotti if he could!

How many times during the day do I think of the Oratory! Give me some news, especially about last Saturday’s procession.

Please give my regards to everyone who has any connection with us, and shake hands with Fr Pacchiotti, Fr Bosio and Fr Vola.

I will write to you again soon.

Vale in Domino, vale.

Your affectionate servant and friend

Fr Bosco

Ps. Tonin asks you to give the enclosed letter to Cavalli.