II Genoa, February 29, 1884

Excerpt of a Letter of H.E. the Archbishop of Genoa to H.E. Cardinal Simeoni, Prefect of the S. Congregation of Propaganda.

Following the example of other countries, already in previous years we tried to do something similar to that which the Sacred Congregation desires. However, due to the many difficulties, the efforts remained fruitless. Now, with the arrival of your authoritative invitation, I have encouraged the President of the Societies of St. Vincent de Paul to resume the efforts that had been interrupted at that time. For this holy purpose, the President has formed within the Society a committee with the task of studying the most opportune means for such an undertaking and of possibly putting them into practice. President of this Committee is Mr. Luigi Argento, an excellent Catholic, to whom I entrust this letter

to be given to Your Eminence, since by fortunate coincidence he is about to leave for Rome. I think it will be useful for all purposes if you will deign to give him an audience and talk with him on his matter. As soon as possible, I will report to the Sacred Congregation what I hope to be able to obtain in fulfillment of your venerated wishes. I bow to kiss the sacred purple and declare myself with the deepest respect.

The Devoted and Humble Servant of Your

Most Eminent Reverence, Salvatore, Archbishop