Familiar Letters

daybreak, the Romans, having left the city with certain royal auxiliaries, attempted to occupy the Milvian Bridge. Our men guard the tower above that bridge so that no one can cross without the Pope's permission. There was vehement fighting there for several hours. Finally, cavalry sent to the aid of our men, who were struggling, put the Romans to flight, with a few killed and many wounded. They returned into the city with their customary rashness and gathered on the Capitoline Hill. They called the multitude together. It was a feast day: the idle populace, hot with wine, ran about. Weapons were snatched up in haste. Standards were brought out. They proceeded to go to attack the Pope's residence. Our men, in turn, prepared to press forward, prepare their missiles, exhort, stand firm, and wait for the attack of the people with a brave spirit. Before the Mole of Hadrian, it was ill-pacified for us, and we were to throw up a rampart. Night, however, broke off the conflict. That night, watches were kept throughout the whole city. I do not know what end the matter is going to have. You be glad, and if you know anything about the Pisa Babel affair, make me more certain. August 2nd, from the city, 1405.

A red initial L begins the new letter.LEONARD TO COLUCCIO. I write to you: what was the state of our affairs. Then these things followed: on the 8th of August, certain Roman citizens came to the Pope for the sake, as they said, of composing differences. These men, after many things were transacted in the auditorium...