52. Scalabrini to Corrigan¹¹⁵

         Piacenza, August 12, 1897

Most Reverend Excellency:

Please forgive me for the involuntary delay of this answer. I was always waiting that Father Giuseppe Strumia would return as soon as possible as you desired, but his family’s affairs and then the illness which befell him, against all prevision have caused a delay.

            It is now with great pleasure that through him I am able to send you my most cordial respects. I must also add my sincere thanks for the assistance you keep giving to the Italian Missions. I dare once more to warmly recommend to your protection these poor priests of the Congregation of St. Charles, who intend to do their best to support Your Excellency’s charity and zeal.

            Your two feast-days of St. Augustine and St. Michael are approaching. As of now I send infinite heartfelt good wishes, imploring from God every most desired success: Ad multos annos. Despite the passing of some small clouds on our sky, I feel that Your Excellency’s noblest spirit is still the same as before, just as mine is.

            The accident that happened to Father Zaboglio and to two other persons already dead has brought me an immense pain.¹¹⁶ We must adore God’s judgments and repeat with the utmost possible resignation: Fiat Voluntas tua (Your will be done).

            I recommend myself to your prayers and with the highest esteem and veneration for Your Most Reverend Excellency, I remain

Your very affectionate and humble servant and confrere,

John Baptist, Bishop of Piacenza