56. Scalabrini to Corrigan¹²²

         May 30, 1901

Most Reverend Excellency:

With heart full of gratitude I thank you, esteemed Archbishop for the many signs of friendship with which you have wanted to comfort me. The precious remembrance of my Jubilee and your offer of hospitality have moved me deeply. May God reward Your Excellency for so much goodness and grant as many blessings as I desire for you from the bottom of my heart.

            Many, many thanks for the gift that I will use for the Jubilee Mass on June 17. The work on my cathedral took longer than I expected and therefore its reopening had to be delayed. This mishap has put off my departure to the middle of August. I will come as a private person and therefore I will take up lodging with the missionaries so that I may observe more closely how matters proceed. I would even like to gather them in order they may make the spiritual exercises with me; hence, a suitable place would be needed. Father Gambera will look into this in agreement with Your Excellency. As of now, I humbly ask faculties to exercise the priestly ministry.

            Years ago Your Excellency was asking for an Italo-Greek priest for the Albanians. At the time I did not have one. If you still need him, one is now available. He is a nephew of Bishop... ordained in Greece and residing in Rome. If Your Excellency wishes to have him I will send him when you want me to.