Letter XXII. To Cardinal Federigo Borromeo, Arona

He rejoices to hear of the excellent state of his health and expresses a wish to see him again and his mother.

Most illustrious and reverend Monsignobe, my most HONOUBED LoBD, — Your letter and the verbal reports of our Messer. Gentile console me once more for your absence, both on account of the excellent state of your health and the same kind remembrance and affection you seem to keep for me ; but more so still, that I find the same in your most illustrious mother, whom I shall feel so happy to meet in Rome, and admire once more that great prudence and other Christian virtues with which the Almighty has endowed her. I pray you will kindly offer her my respects, assuring her that in exchange for the affection she bears me, she will always find me ready to serve her in whatever she may deem me capable of doing, and I also trust, even if it is later on, to have the consolation of seeing you before I die. Meanwhile, we all pray God our Lord to keep you in good health, and increase His graces and favours. In conclusion, I greet you with all due reverence. — Your most illustrious and reverend Lordship's servant,

Philip Neri

Rome, October 24, 1592.