If L. 202 of August 1838, was really speaking about Bro. Raphaël, we must conclude that he failed his examination the following September. Consequently, he had to stay at St-Paul; but since he fell sick, the Founder no doubt recalled him, as he did others, since so long as they were sick they were in no danger of being conscripted, and he did not want to burden the Brothers of St-Paul with caring for them. As soon as they recovered, the Founder sent them back to St-Paul to continue their studies and their preparation for their certificate of competence. We may presume he obtained his certificate in either late 1839 or early 1840, since in May 1840 he will be sent to direct the school in Firminy, which he could not logically have done at the age of 22 without it.

21st July 1839

Father Superior,

Brother Raphaël is now completely recovered and is hurrying back to you to continue his studies to obtain his certificate at the next examination period. I was amazed at the progress he has made under your direction. Mary, our first Superior, will not let the tremendous service you have the great charity to do us go unrewarded. I would really like to have an opportunity to give you concrete proof of the extent of our gratitude.

Please accept the assurance of the perfect devotedness with which I have the honor to be, Fr. Superior, your most humble servant.

Champagnat

Edition: Translation from: Lettres de Marcellin J. B. Champagnat (1789-1840) Fondateur de l?Institut des Frères Maristes, présentés par Frère Paul Sester,1985.

fonte: Daprès lexpédition AFM, 112.12