I have been much
distressed on meeting a worthy man involved in very great
trouble. Being human, how could I fail to sympathise with a man
of high character afflicted beyond his deserts? On thinking in
what way I could be useful to him, I did find one means of helping him
out of his difficulties, and that is by making him known to your
excellency. It is now for you to extend also to him the same good
offices which, as I can testify, you have shown to many. You will
learn all the facts of the case from the petition presented by him to
the emperors. This document I beg you to take into your hands,
and implore you to help him to the utmost of your power. You will
be helping a Christian, a gentleman, and one whose deep learning ought
to win respect. If I add that in helping him you will confer a
great kindness upon me, though, indeed, my interests are matters of
small moment, yet, since you are always so good as to make them of
importance, your boon to me will be no small
one.