Familiar Letters

...smoldering and consigned to oblivion, it might be fanned back into flame. For if he harbors an evil spirit against me, he is sufficiently punished in that he hears and sees things about me every day, and many things that he himself would not want. Furthermore, what you wrote in the beginning—that it was demanded by everyone before all else—is completely devoid of truth. For I was never, in any way I have fully explored, requested, sought, or asked by him. Unless perhaps he calls the exhortations of some of his friends for him to seek that position a "demand." Yet, how much they were mistaken was declared a little later: when he sought it himself and through his friends, he could obtain nothing but a rejection. Farewell.

A small, decorative blue initial L begins the letter.LEONARD TO COLUCCIO. I will respond to your letters more accurately when I have gained more leisure. Now, I will settle these common matters. First, I see what you advise, and I will follow your counsel so that I do not stray beyond the mark. As for those religious men who desire to transfer themselves to Gaul, I will take care that the documents are brought to you as quickly as possible. Concerning the location of the city of Rome, if the disturbances allow, I will quickly make you fully informed, I hope. That our Bonifacius has returned safely is most pleasing to me. As for Salutato, I will take diligent care that it is done just as you request. We are here constantly in arms, and so it happens that I am less able to apply myself to letters. For the inconstancy and perversity of the Roman people is so great that no place is left for peace. Yesterday, before...

Note regarding the miseries that were in the city at that time.