When the wax model of the statue of Pope Julius was ready, Michael Angelo sent to Florence for the ordnance founder to the Republic, Maestro dal Ponte, of Milan, to cast it for him.

This master's leave of absence was signed on May 15, 1507.

Just before the casting Michael Angelo wrote to Buonarroto:-- "_To_ BUONARROTO DI LODOVICO SIMONI, _in Florence, at the Shop of_ LORENZO STROZZI, _Wool Merchant, in Porta Rossa, Florence_.
"BUONARROTO,--I have received yours by the hand of Master Bernardo, who has arrived; by it I hear all are well except Giovansimone, who has not yet recovered.

I am very sorry, and it grieves me not to be able to help him.

But soon I hope to be with you, and I will do something that will please him, and you others, too.