I write this not because I care for them, for they are not worth three halfpence between them, but because, if they come to talk to Lodovico, he must not be surprised.

Tell him by no means to lend them his ears; and if you want to know about them go to Messer Agnolo, the Herald of the Signoria, for I have written all the story to him, and he, out of his kindness, will relate it to you.

Of Giovansimone I have heard.
I shall be pleased if he goes to the shop of your master and is careful to do his best; and so comfort him, because, if all goes well, I have hopes of placing you both in a good position, if you will be discreet.

About that land which is beside that of Mona (92) Zanobia, if Lodovico likes it, tell him to see about it and let me know.

I think, according to what is rumoured here, the Pope will leave about the time of Carnival.
"The first day of February, 1506.
"MICHAEL ANGELO DI LODOVICO "DI BUONARROTA SIMONI, "Sculptor, in Bologna." Notwithstanding this warning, the silly old man, his father, wrote a scolding letter to his son about the workmen.