To the Provincial of Marseilles, Fr Paul Albera

E IX, 4227

Cholera epidemic in Marseille — various business matters in the vicinity — requests a note detailing what is needed for the spiritual exercises of the brothers and news of the mental health of Father De Barruel — cholera orphans to be accepted — his own health is fluctuating — greetings to all

Mathi, 9 August 1885

My dear Fr Albera,

It seems that even our houses in Marseilles are not spared from tribulations. However, when God passes by, he certainly brings justice, but he always leaves his mercy and his blessing behind. The first was smallpox; now cholera is beginning.

Let us trust in God, who is our Father, let us pray to him, but let us keep to the right path: good conduct and frequent communion; and the Blessed Virgin will fulfil her role as mother, and we need not fear.

I do not know if we will be able to talk during the spiritual exercises, but in the meantime, send Fr Rua a note of what you need and then we will all take care of everything.

I believe you will have heard about a matter in Navarre. The matter that concerns us here has been promptly dealt with. Now proceed with the matter of St Margaret.

Tell me a little about whether our dear but poor Fr De Barruel continues in his obsessions or shows any remote sign of improvement, because his relatives feel that in his current state he is no longer able to hear the confessions of the faithful.

Offer to take in the cholera orphans as you did last year; God will help us.

My health had been deteriorating daily for some time, but now, as I write to you, I seem to be in perfect health. I believe this is the effect of the great pleasure I take in writing to you.

Tell our friends and benefactors that we pray for them every day during Mass and in the devotions we perform morning and evening at the altar of Mary Help. You will give me great pleasure by giving me detailed news and recommending me to their special prayers.

May God bless you, your family, the novices, the sisters, and keep you all in His holy grace. Everyone sends their regards in J. C. and I am

Your most affectionate friend

Fr J. Bosco

P.S. Many in Marseilles promised to accompany you to the spiritual exercises. I believe that this is currently impossible. In such cases, do as you can. I give you all the necessary authority.