THE APOSTLE OF YOUTH
CHAPTER VI
DON BOSCO'S PROTECTOR, GRIGIO
You remember the bears that avenged the prophet Eliseus and the tame wolf of St. Francis of Assisi. So history connects the name of Don Bosco with a mysterious dog sent to be his protector during these most dangerous years of his life,—a beautiful, strong grey dog, whom they named "Il Grigio," the grey. Sometimes returning from Turin to Valdocco late at night, he pursued his way without a thought of danger, though the place was full of quagmires and thick hedges, safe hiding places for assassins. One night a vague fear assailed him, when suddenly a huge dog approached, wagging his tail; turning, he walked beside Don Bosco and escorted him to the Oratory, but refused to enter. Afterward, whenever he was late, the dog was sure to appear on one side or other of the lonely road.
Three times Grigio saved his life. One dark winter night Don Bosco took a short cut home. He noticed two men who had a suspicious appearance, and hurried his pace toward an inhabited house. In vain; one of the men rushed forward and threw a cloak over his head, and his mouth was instantly gagged. All hope had left their victim's heart, when suddenly a terrible howl was heard, more like the growl of an in-
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