Letter 2.21 to Bishop Maximianus of Syracuse (March 592)
Gregory to Maximianus, bishop of Syracuse
Felix, a most distinguished man, who bears this letter, has informed us that there is a presbyter in those parts who appears worthy of promotion to the rank of bishop, due to merit of his upright live. Therefore let your Fraternity arrange for him to be brought before you, and examine him diligently over the danger to his soul, of which I am certain. If you perceive that he deserves to be promoted to this rank, take care to send him to us, so that we can consecrate him bishop over a place that we shall provide for him, with the Lord's disposition.
We recommend the bearer of this letter, Felix, a most distinguished man and my private secretary, to your Fraternity, with justice observed, so that he can find your paternal good-will in that he will justly demand.
(trans. Martyn 2004: 206, slightly altered by J. Szafranowski)