¹ I have such great confidence in the kindness of your soul that I am not content merely to draw from its purest fountain alone, but I also invite others to be refreshed with me by its benefit—especially since the generosity extended in this way becomes the gain of the giver, and the recipient is so enriched by the gift that the one who imparts it is in no way diminished. Rather, like interest, it increases through its expenditure, my most blessed lord and brother, singularly to be honoured above all with the highest esteem.

² Thus, I fulfil the inescapable duty of charity, which enriches the one who pays it rather than diminishing him, and I take the liberty of presenting an opportunity for a good work by commending those who are in distress. I trust that my request will contribute to your merit, and for this reason, I could not refuse to extend the mercy that ecclesiastical compassion customarily offers to the afflicted, to the bearer of this letter, who has suffered captivity in the region of Lyons. Would that the generosity of the faithful might be as ready as his necessity is plainly urgent! And since, though in some sense he is personally free, he remains bound by the servitude of his wife and children, I ask your offices, most esteemed ones, that you may maintain your customary kindness in offering him consolation. Furthermore, I ask that you support him with letters addressed to his superiors wherever he may seek assistance.

³ My fellow servants in Christ, especially my most esteemed brother, the priest Memorius, are in excellent health along with me. May the Lord our God preserve your blessedness in His Church for its benefit and grant you a long and prosperous life. Most blessed lord and brother, singularly esteemed above all, whom I honour with the highest regard.