Gregory to Maximianus, bishop of Syracuse. Felix, a man of consular rank, the bearer of these presents, has informed us that there is in those parts a certain presbyter who, by the merit of his life, appears worthy to be advanced to the rank of the episcopate. Let your Fraternity therefore have this man brought before you, and, as I am confident you will, examine him diligently, on account of the peril of the soul. And if you perceive him to be worthy of advancement to this rank, take pains to send him to us, so that, with God so ordaining, we may be able to ordain him pastor in the place for which we have made provision. As for Felix, the bearer of these presents, a man of consular rank and a chartulary, we commend him to you, saving your Fraternity's justice, so that in those matters which he justly requests he may find brotherly affection. (Cf. John the Deacon, book I, chap.)