To such an extent am I convinced in my fixed imagination of our success, and have put it to my capital account.

I already foresee our militia system, established on a permanent basis, and combined with that of the territory, carrying our city to the skies.

I contemplate a fortification of Florence, not temporary, as it now is, but with walls and bastions to be built hereafter.

The principal and most difficult step has been already taken; the whole space round the town swept clean, without regard for churches or for monasteries, in accordance with the public need.

I contemplate in these our fellow-citizens a noble spirit of disdain for all their losses and the bygone luxuries of villa-life; an admirable unity and fervour for the preservation of liberty; fear of God alone; confidence in Him and in the justice of our cause; innumerable other good things, certain to bring again the age of gold, and which I hope sincerely you will enjoy in company with all of us who are your friends.