To Waldenian pastor Luigi De Sanctis

E I, 223

He expresses his willingness to help him in any way he can

Turin, 26 May 1855

Dear Sir,

Eager for our friendship not to be limited to words alone, I was waiting for an opportunity to demonstrate it with some action.

Furthermore, from your writings and words, it seems to me that you are not entirely at peace, and I was waiting for a favourable opportunity to reveal to you the deep feelings I have for your eternal salvation; and you, since you have given me the gift of your friendship, to reveal to me face to face your hopes and fears.

Not with the intention of arguing, which should not be between friends, but to discuss and learn the truth, I was therefore eager to see you again.

Now I will tell you frankly that I desire and wish with all my heart the salvation of your soul, and that I am willing to make all spiritual and temporal sacrifices to assist you.

All that remains is for you to tell me whether you feel at peace and able to save yourself; whether you believe that a good Catholic can be saved within the current religious system; whether you feel that a Catholic or a dissident has greater guarantees of salvation.

Be assured, however, that nothing that passes between us, whether in writing or in conversation, will ever cause you any harm in your civil, social or religious position, for I assure you that everything will be said and kept under the strictest friendly secrecy.

You will be surprised by this letter of mine: but that is how I am: when I form a friendship, I long to continue it and do everything in my power to ensure my friend’s happiness.

May the good God bless you and keep you safe; and I offer you my deepest respect in whatever way I can.

Your Dear and distinguished Lordship’s

most affectionate friend

Fr John Bosco