To an Unknown Correspondent, Asking His Verdict on a Book

In the words of the prophet we find the wise hearer named along with the excellent counselor. But I sent the book I have written on the divine apostle not so much to a wise hearer as to a just and clever judge. When goldsmiths want to find out whether their gold is refined and pure, they test it on the touchstone. In just the same way I sent my book to your reverence, because I want to know whether it is what it should be, or needs some refining. You have read it and sent it back, but you have said nothing to me on this point. Your silence makes me suspect that the judge has passed sentence of condemnation, but does not want to hurt my feelings by telling me so. Please put any such thought out of your mind, and do not hesitate to tell me your opinion of the book. [a]