Page:Don-bosco-pine.djvu/212

 the Catholic Associations of the city. The Church itself, with its many mementos was the object of pious admiration, forming as it does a mausoleum befitting the respectful gratitude of the Apostle's Sons and Co-operators. At three o'clock some four thousand persons had gathered about the tomb—that being the hour fixed for the commemorative service. In the seats for the presidents were His Grace the Archbishop of Sebaste, Msgr. Cagliero, Msgr. Spandre, the Very Rev. Don Rua with his chapter, Msgr. Catalanotto and representatives of Co-operators, together with the chief members of the Turin Clergy and laity.

"The band of the Valdocco Oratory had the honor of commencing the function. Msgr. Spandre then addressed the gathering, his natural gift of eloquence displaying itself in a brilliant piece of oratory that touched a chord in every heart in a eulogium on Don Bosco, 'the indefatigable Apostle of Youth, the benefactor of humanity.' An autograph letter from Pius X was read, the Te Deum was sung by all present, and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament was given. Other distinguished speakers then addressed the assembly, and letters and telegrams of congratulation were read. A message of thanks to the Holy Father was then proposed and our Rector Major, Don Rua, congratulated the great gathering and thanked them for the tribute offered to the memory of our holy Founder, and to himself on the feast of his patron Saint. He then called on His Grace, Archbishop