To the pupils at the college at Mirabello Monferrato

E II, 755

‘I come among you as a father, friend, and brother; just give me your hearts for a few moments, and then we will all be happy.’

Turin, July 1864

To my dear boys at Mirabello

I have delayed, my beloved boys, in visiting you as I promised, but what I regret is not even being able to go for the feast of St Aloysius. I am now considering how to compensate you for the delay with a longer stay among you. On Tuesday evening, God willing, I will be in Mirabello on the last train of the night. But why warn you? Isn’t it enough to come as usual?

No, my dear boys, it is not enough. I need to speak to you in public to tell you some things that I know you will like, to speak to you privately about things that are not pleasant, but that you need to know; and then to whisper in your ear to break the horns of the devil who would like to become master and lord of some of you.

Here I would like to note that during a recent visit, I was able to speak with some individuals who need special attention. I kindly request your rector to inform them on my behalf that I have a pressing need to speak to their souls, their hearts, and their consciences, but that my intention is solely to do good for their souls.

Moreover, I tell you that during my frequent visits, I have seen things that give me great consolation, especially those who go to Holy Communion in an exemplary manner and do their duties in an exemplary way. I have also noticed the minor oversights of some, but I do not make much of them.

In the midst of all this, do not worry in the least: I come among you as a father, friend and brother; just give me your hearts for a few moments, and then we will all be happy. Be happy for the peace and grace of the Lord, which will surely enrich your souls; I am happy that I will have the great and long-awaited consolation of seeing you all in friendship with God the Creator.

But that is all for the soul. Is there anything for the body? Certainly, after we have given the soul what it needs, we will not leave the body fasting. I would like to ask the Prefect to give the necessary orders to ensure that we have a pleasant day and, weather permitting, that we can all go for a walk together.

May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you always; and may the Holy Virgin make you all rich in the true wealth which is the holy fear of God. Amen.

Pray for me who am, with all my heart,

Yours most affectionately in Jesus Christ

Fr John Bosco

P.S. Special greetings to the priests, teachers, assistants and the Provera family, especially to dear papà.