Gregory to Leo, bishop of Fano. Just as schismatics persisting in depraved zeal are to be rebuked and detested, so those returning to the bosom of mother Church are to be consoled, and no less to be cherished. Since therefore John, a religious man, the bearer of the present letter, upon receiving instruction, has been converted from the error of the Istrians to the unity of the holy Church, God having mercy; on this account we have foreseen to exhort your Fraternity, that you ought, with due reason preserved, to hold him in all things commended, and to protect him by your favor. To him also, lest after his conversion he should be able to succumb to any necessity, we have provided that something from the Church be allotted to him each year.
Since therefore he has earnestly begged to be commended to your Holiness, it is to be provided by you, for your own reward, that, as we have said, he may be supported by your consolations in all things.