Arturo Bottai met Maria Valtorta at the seaside in Viareggio when she was a child and remained, along with his family, a close friend of hers, visiting her, writing to her, and holding her in high esteem as a person and her writings.
He died at almost a centenary, holding the rank of inspector of the Italian State Railways. He was a commendatore and a truly excellent person.
Extremely meticulous, he subjected Maria Valtorta to an illuminating questionnaire, as well as revealing her character in everyday life through his correspondence.
Regarding the questionnaire, Maria Valtorta says:
“I ask you to keep these answers strictly private, and to remain absolutely silent with everyone, except those close to me, about my name, etc., etc.
But if one day the envy of men, moved by Satan, who hates me and the Work, knowing how many sinners we have snatched from him, were to cause harm by distorting reality, then, whether I am alive or dead, I authorize you to speak to re-establish the truth.
Because it is right; and it is serving God to defend His Work, a gift of Grace for us poor mortals who struggle with so many things that can cause us to lose the light that leads to God.”
