Gregory to Alexander, praetor of Sicily. He who does not doubt the charity of a son, does not refuse to commend to him those whom he loves. And therefore, since the patrimony of the Church of Ravenna, which is situated in Sicily, is said to be so diminished as if there were no one who could there transact its affairs, it was necessary for our most reverend brother and fellow-bishop Marinianus to think about the ordering of that patrimony, lest it should decrease further. And since, for its governance, he has sent his deacon John, greeting you with fatherly affection, we ask that to him, as to one sent by us, you may, as we trust of you, extend your charity in all things.