Gregory to Adeodata, an illustrious lady. That we made delay in giving the relics which your Glory requested, we did not postpone of our own will; rather, a mishap in a matter that preceded us caused us to hesitate. But Almighty God, beholding the devotion of your heart, and being admonished by signs of miracles, did not suffer you to be cheated of your intention. Yet He willed that your desire be deferred by a small delay for this reason: that, being taught by the miracles, both your love might grow in veneration of the saints, and the exultation of your joys might become the greater. Since, then, in the fulfilment of the thing your Glory requested your vows have been accomplished, we exhort you that you carefully keep the commandments of Him whose heralds you venerate.
And just as with religious devotion you build earthly places for the honours of the saints, so also make haste to procure for yourselves a dwelling together with them in the heavens, so that both here you may deserve to have them as helpers in all things, and in the life to come as companions.