To fourteen-year-old Marquis Emanuele Fassati

E II, 928

‘Make an effort: work hard, be diligent, submissive, obedient, keep moving, as long as you pass your exams.’

Turin, 1 June 1866

Dear Emanuele,

In your dear letter, which you kindly sent me, you asked me to pray that the Blessed Virgin would grant you good will and energy to study. I did this willingly and wholeheartedly throughout the month of Mary. I don’t know if my prayers have been heard. I would very much like to know; although I have reason to believe it is the case.

Papa, maman and Azelia are well; I often see them at half past five in the evening, and most of our conversation is always about you.

The others are always worried that you will not continue your studies and thus add to the many disappointments you have already had this year.

I always console them, relying on Emanuele’s intelligence, goodwill and promises. Am I wrong? I believe not.

Just two more months, and then what a great party if your exams go well!

So, dear Emanuele, I will continue to pray for you.

Make an effort: work hard, be diligent, submissive, obedient, keep moving, as long as you pass your exams.

God bless you, dear Emanuele; always be a comfort to your parents with your good behaviour: pray also for me, who am with all my heart

Your most affectionate friend

Fr John Bosco