The reply to his previous letter (L. 252) has not convinced Fr. Piccolet that he would do well to contact the Brothers of the Cross; on the contrary, it seems to have increased his admiration for the Little Brothers of Mary. That is why, this time, he does not write directly to Fr. Champagnat, but to his superior, Fr. Colin. The Superior of the brothers is not at all offended, but that still does not make it possible for him to supply brothers. They will not go to Cluses until 1937.

Venerable Canon,

Writing to Father Superior General was exactly like writing to us, for we act in perfect unison with him, and we like to follow his wishes. We have already told you, in our last letter, that it is impossible for us to promise you brothers for next year. The days which have since elapsed have not removed the difficulties which block our desire to further your zeal. Please believe that we would be very pleased to go work in the field in which you are so greatly interested, if our means permitted and if the different religious orders already established in Savoy could not suffice to spread religious instruction and shelter those who would wish to consecrate themselves to teaching.

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, AFM, RCLA 1, pp. 129-130, nº 158, éditée dans CSG, I, 285