A letter written in Italian using blue ink on unlined paper aerogramme. Written by Vasco Mangiavacchi to his mother in Italy, the letter talks briefly about recent arrival at Bonegilla migrant centre and waiting his turn for work to be allocated to him.  Digital copy.

Letter from Vasco Mangiavacchi to his family in Montepulciano Italy
Bonegilla  9 March 1956
Dear mum and family,
As you can see even today I return to give you news, I am in good health, as I hope you are all as well as our neighbours.
We have now been here eight days, but we have not been to work yet as they have had to sort the others that arrived before us: but now it will be our turn and we hope that each of us will find work in their skill area. They certainly are a little slow in placing us and furthermore Saturdays and Sundays are holidays here, therefore we need to be patient. You must know that after 7 days here they give you unemployment benefits, therefore since yesterday we have been earning a little money. The food and board is free. I have a little money put aside; too bad for those that have run out of money. Anyhow it’s only a matter of days and everyone will be sorted. As for the climate, it’s quite nice here, however autumn is starting and it’s becoming a little cooler. Is it still cold there? I hope not. I wonder how those four flowers in the garden are faring. With all that cold weather!
And now mum, how are you? You worry me a little with your silences even if you aren’t well. Please look after yourself: You must promise me this, to always look after yourselves: as soon as I can I will send you some money. You will say no! Because you (will say) that you don’t need it! A little on the side
(Overleaf)
will always help. And you still need my help just as you did when I was at home: therefore don’t say no! Here when you work you have money left over, not like as it was in France and in Argentina, it’s very different.
Dad where are you working? Please say hello to the farm manager and to Bologna, I’ll write a nice postcard. How are you, I hope you are well. Do you still see Pulcino and Cecio? Have a glass there on my behalf because there’s no drinking here. Please say hello to the Bianchi and their family. Now I’ll finish off sending you many many dear greetings. Kisses to you mum, dad, Iride and Olga your Vasco. Dide say hello to Rita Casaccini and family. Vasco
Greetings to Luigino and Giancarlo, Lina and family.

(On side of letter front page)
Iride, is Rita still (working) at Olivetti? I have written to her but not seen an answer. I sent the letter there. Certainly after eight days it is not possible to receive an answer. Let me know something. Thanks kisses Vasco.

Letter

9 March 1959

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