Philip de Cabassoles was the bishop, a man of high rank and noble family.

His disposition, according to Petrarch's usual praise of his friends, was highly benevolent and humane; he was well versed in literature, and had distinguished abilities.

No sooner was the poet settled in his retirement, than he visited the Bishop at his palace near Vaucluse.

The latter gave him a friendly reception, and returned his visits frequently.

Another much estimated, his friend since their childhood, Guido Sette, also repaired at times to his humble mansion, and relieved his solitude in the shut-up valley.[G] Without some daily and constant occupation even the bright mind of Petrarch would have rusted, like the finest steel when it is left unscoured.