To Baron Feliciano Ricci des Ferres of Cuneo

EII, 409

He declares himself ready to provide some assistance to a young man recommended to him but expelled from Valdocco for an explicit act of insubordination.

Turin, 3 November 1859

Illustrious and Distinguished Sir,

I was delighted to receive your Lordship’s esteemed letter in which, with your usual kindness, you recommend young Rossi.

This poor boy, among other things, was compromised along with others in this house who, against my orders, wanted to go out for lunch in a place that was not acceptable. I sent for them while they were having lunch, and I had them called again after lunch, because it pained me too much to take serious measures against twenty or so wayward young people.

Only four finally surrendered and humbled themselves; the others proved much more unflinching.

After lunch, they went wandering around the city; in the evening, they went to dinner at the same place and came home late at night half drunk, among the latter was Rossi.

Since I had repeatedly threatened to throw them out of the house if they persisted, I was forced to do so with the utmost regret. However, following your letter, I will keep Rossi here for a few days and see if I can place him elsewhere, as I hope.

As for the other young man you mention, either we will discuss it in person or I will write to you again once the large number of young people currently gathered in this house have been settled.

I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your generous donation to this house and assure you that I will pray to the Lord to bless you and your family. With my deepest respect, I remain

Your Distinguished Lordship’s

most obliged servant,

Fr John Bosco