17. Finally, We beseech the father of mercies to consider your labors and sorrows and to grant all your wishes. With the deepest Christian love. We give to you, venerable brothers, to all your clergy, and to the faithful entrusted to your care, Our apostolic blessing, as a witness of Our special love for you and as a pledge of heavenly help and consolation.

Given in Rome, at St. Peter's, on the sixth day of January, 1886, in the eighth year of Our pontificate.

LEO XIII