To sixteen-year-old Giovanni Cagliero

E I, 199

Satisfied with his improved health, he invites him to prepare for his clerical clothing and offers to cover the costs of the nine years of study that lie ahead.

Turin, 7 October 1854

My dear Cagliero,

I am pleased that you are improving in health; we await you here whenever you are ready, provided that you are well, happy and cheerful as usual.

It is good for you to prepare for your clothing day, and as for the mantle we’ll see what Count Pelletta wants to do; we’ll talk about it later.

You will tell your mother and your brother that, to do you a favour, I will cover the expenses for the nine years, which are the nine courses you have to take, food, books, laundry, health, sickness, etc. under the following conditions:

1. Before 1854 ends I will have paid off all my previous debts

2. From January to the end of June, 1855, fr. 500

3. The rest six months later.

This way, I know how much I have to spend, your relatives will be relieved of expenses, and you will have peace of mind. Your good behaviour will make up for everything.

Greet your family, pray for me, and may the Lord bless you and keep you.

Believe me when I say I am

Yours most affectionately

D. Bosco