To Canon Luigi Cottolengo in Chieri

E X, 4630

Amicable settlement of the accident caused by the canon’s nephew to young Chicco, nephew of the canon of Carmagnola

Turin, 3 March 1862

Dear friend in the Lord,

Here briefly is the state of our matter. The young Chicco has almost completely recovered, except for his big toe. Since the first surgeon made a great deal of noise about it, he was politely replaced by another with a more paternal spirit.

As for taking your nephew back in, imagine if I could refuse! Only two things are needed:

1. Make him aware that his behaviour is truly reprehensible; and you are capable of doing this wisely.

2. Write a letter to Canon Chicco in Carmagnola apologising for what happened and asking him to say a few simple words to Don Bosco so that he will readmit your nephew as before.

This Canon Chicco is the uncle of the sick boy; but he is a man of great kindness and character, so much so that he did not want anyone in the world to know about it, and arranged for his nephew to stay here in Turin with a relative to prevent any publicity. I do not want, he said repeatedly, that this should cause the slightest harm to young Cottolengo, nor cause any distress to his uncle.

As for the expenses you mention, the relatives are not concerned; in the end, everything will be easily settled because we are dealing with honest people.

I hope that in a few days this unfortunate incident will be resolved amicably. All yours in the Lord,

Your most affectionate and obliged servant and friend

Fr John Bosco