To Bishop Severus, on the Election at Rimini

Gregory to Severus, and so on. [a]

We learn from your fraternity’s letter that, in the choice of a bishop, some have agreed on Ocleatinus. Since we do not approve of him, they need not trouble themselves about him any further. But let the people of that city know that if they find anyone in their own church fit for the work, they are all to transfer their choice to him. Otherwise the bearer of this letter will point out a person I have told him of, in whose favor the notice of the election should be drawn up. Be prudent and careful, moreover, in your visitation of that church, so that its property may be kept intact and its interests looked after in the usual way under your management.