THE VENERABLE DON BOSCO
when we shall have passed into the domain of history. Let us be satisfied in respecting authority, whether civil or religious." The child persisted, but was adroitly silenced by the catechist.
On leaving the chapel Don Bosco was accosted by a stranger of distinguished appearance, who congratulated him on the clear reply he had given to the boy's difficult question.
"You came to criticise?" asked Don Bosco with a smile.
"Perhaps so," was the answer.
"May I ask, sir, to whom I have the honor of speaking?"
"I am Urbain Ratazzi, the prime minister."
"What?" exclaimed Don Bosco in admiration, "the great Ratazzi?"
"Yes, Father, and in future you need not dread interference. Though the Archbishop's acts do not meet with my approval, yet I am glad he was not banished during my administration."
The interview lasted an hour; Ratazzi visited the Oratory and departed so well pleased that, while he remained in power, Don Bosco had in him a faithful protector and advocate. These two men, both renowned in Italy and beyond it, met later in more than one friendly conference; for Ratazzi esteemed Don Bosco and in his turn the Apostle of Turin hoped to induce the prime minister to adopt the methods of reform he had found so
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