So that, in fine, I should not have to restore to the heirs of Julius, in order to be quit of the contract, anything which I have hitherto received; the tomb itself, completed after the pattern of that of Pius, sufficing for my full discharge.

Moreover, I undertake to perform the work within a reasonable time, and to finish the statues with my own hand." He then turns to his present troubles at Florence.

The pension was in arrears, and busybodies annoyed him with interferences of all sorts.

"If my pension were paid, as was arranged, I would never stop working for Pope Clement with all the strength I have, small though that be, since I am old.

At the same time I must not be slighted and affronted as I am now, for such treatment weighs greatly on my spirits.