To various members of royal or imperial families

E IX, 4398

Detailed report on Salesian work around the world — request for help for the upcoming missionary expedition

Turin, 15 November 1886

Your Excellency [Majesty],

The humble undersigned has devoted himself entirely for more than 43 years to the education and upbringing of poor and abandoned young people of both sexes, for whom approximately 180 houses have been opened in Italy, France, Spain and America. Approximately 200,000 children from all nations receive a good education in this way and are trained in science or various trades, according to their particular aptitudes.

To this end, he founded a society of clerics and lay people who assist him in his religious and social activities. Every year, nearly 30,000 children leave the various houses after learning a trade or completing their studies; they are thus returned to society, where they become useful and virtuous citizens.

Furthermore, over the last eight years we have undertaken the task of civilising Patagonia, Tierra del Fuego and the adjacent islands, which are still in a state of barbarism. Two years ago, other missionaries were sent to Brazil to educate and civilise the savage tribes that still populate much of this vast empire. Eight expeditions of priests, master craftsmen and sisters have already been sent to South America, and more than 40 houses have been opened there to gather and educate young people.

In early December, a new caravan of over 30 people will depart from Turin and travel to America with the aim of civilising the Indians [indigenous peoples] of Patagonia and Brazil. The expenses to be incurred are considerable, because everything must be provided for, so the undersigned has decided to appeal to the charity of all good people.

He also dares to address Your Excellency, knowing your zeal for the good of religious and civil society. The printed appeal attached provides more details about the purpose of the work.

In the hope that Your Excellency will deign to honour his humble request with a favourable response, the undersigned, together with his children, will pray to the Lord to shower his most abundant blessings upon Your Excellency and your family.

I am pleased to take this opportunity to assure Your Excellency of the deep respect with which I have the honour of being

Your most humble and obedient servant

Father John Bosco