¹ To Aldhelm, archimandrite, richly blessed with learning and adorned with honeyed writings, who has remarkably accomplished among the Saxons what few attain in distant lands, even with toil and labor—Cellanus, born in the island of Ireland, an exile living in a remote corner at the farthest border of the Franks, the lowest and most insignificant servant of the glorious colony of Christ, sends greetings in the name of the perfect and secure Trinity.

² Like the swift flight of a bird, news of your eloquence in Latin has reached even our humble ears. Your reputation is not something that causes unease among discerning readers, for it is recognized without mockery or deceit, thanks to the pure brilliance of Roman speech. Though we have not had the honor of hearing you in person, we have read your chronicles, skillfully composed and beautifully adorned with a variety of literary flourishes. If it pleases you to offer some comfort to a distant soul, we ask that you send a few short sermons from your most eloquent lips. From your fountain of wisdom, may clear and refreshing streams flow forth to nourish the minds of many—especially to the place where lord Furseus rests in his holy and incorrupt body.