to all the brothers, to ask them to pray for the success of the steps which Bishop de Pins is taking to obtain the legal authorization of the Institute.

This circular is generally dated 1829, but we think that is a copyists error. In the register, it is found among a group of letters from 1836-1837. But Fr. Jean Coste, in OM, I, p. 427, places Bishop De Pins trip to Paris in 1828, and Bro. Louis-
Laurent (Pierre Zind) gives the same date in his article in the Bulletin de lInstitut, vol. 22, p. 165. We have retained the latter date.

In addition, the copy is unsigned, and the style raises some doubt as to whether it was actually written by Fr. Champagnat. Some secretary may have drawn it up, following the outline the Founder gave him, which is still enough to allow us to put his name to it.

Our Very Dear Brothers,

God has loved us from all eternity; he chose us and drew us out of the world. The Blessed Virgin has planted us in her garden, and she sees to it that we lack for nothing.

His Lordship the administrator is leaving for Paris, and while he is taking care of the business of the Gallican Church, he will also represent our interests before the king. The attention and zeal he has shown for our establishment should arouse our gratitude and our thanks toward this good father. We will therefore offer our supplications, prayers, wishes and thanksgiving for all men, for kings and for those who are of high rank, so that we may lead a peaceful and tranquil life in piety and all purity of conduct, for this is agreeable to God who wills that all be saved (Timothy 2).

Upon receipt of our letter, recite the Litany of the Blessed Virgin with the children for nine consecutive days, at the end of the morning classes or at the visit to the Blessed Sacrament, to ask for a safe and successful journey for the His Lordship and those traveling with him.

We thank you for your good wishes and we wish you, too, a Happy New Year.