I am, thanks to God, sufficiently tranquil, and free, unless I deceive myself, from all the passions of my youth.

I enjoyed good health for a long time, but for two years past I have become infirm.

Frequently, those around me have believed me dead, but I live still, and pretty much the same as you have known me.

I could have mounted higher; but I wished not to do so, since every elevation is suspicious.

I have acquired many friends and a good many books: I have lost my health and many friends; I have spent some time at Venice.