The dossier was sent from Montbrison on 8th February 1834 (cf. L.40), and reached the Ministry of Public Instruction on the 15th. From there it was sent to the Royal Council which on the 28th approved the Statutes with certain modifications on minor points.

Father Champagnat learned of this decision only much later, because it was sent through the Ministry of Public Instruction to the prefect, who was to speak directly with the Founder about the suggested modifications. Without further delay, he sent this thank-you note to Mr. Ardaillon, to whom he attributed this initial success, hoping that by doing so he could induce him to continue his efforts toward the final goal (cf. L. 57).

J.M.St.J.

Mister Ardaillon,

I know I am very late in expressing to you the gratitude which you deserve for the important favor you requested and obtained for me and my entire house, but at least I am doing so as soon as I heard about it. Our statutes were approved by the Royal Council on 28th February 1834, and placed in the general handbook of primary instruction, Nº 6, for the month of April.

What an important service you have done us! His Lordship the archbishop and all our friends are overwhelmed with joy.

I had the honor of seeing Mrs. Ardaillon on that occasion, to tell her how obliged we are to you. I also saw several outstanding citizens of St-Chamond: Mr. Victor Dugas, Mr. Richard, etc…all of them are very much involved in our efforts.

You are certainly aware, Sir, that to put the final touch to this important favor, His Majesty Louis-Philippe must sanction this authorization by a royal ordinance. If he failed….

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 la minute autographe, AFM, 132.3 bis, p. 74