He writes as though those awful months of the sack of Rome were still present to his memory.

"After all those trials, hardships, and perils, God Almighty has left us alive and in health, by His mercy and piteous kindness.

A thing, in sooth, miraculous, when I reflect upon it; wherefore His Majesty be ever held in gratitude....

Now, gossip mine, since we have passed through fire and water, and have experienced things we never dreamed of, let us thank God for all; and the little remnant left to us of life, may we at least employ it in such peace as can be had.

For of a truth, what fortune does or does not do is of slight importance, seeing how scurvy and how dolorous she is.