To the People of Naples, on Their Wish for Paulus

Gregory to the gentry and the common people living at Naples.

The letter you sent us has made plain what you think of our brother and fellow bishop Paulus. We are glad for you that your experience of him over a few days has been such that you want him as your cardinal bishop. But since in matters of the highest importance there should be no hasty decision, we will, with Christ’s help, settle after careful thought what is to be done next. Meanwhile, as time goes on, you will come to know his character better. [a]

So, dearest sons, obey this man, if you truly love him, and meet his wishes with devoted minds and in peaceful agreement. Let the affection of your love for one another bind you so closely together that the enemy who flies around you in his rage may find no way through any of you to creep in and break up your unity. And when we see this bishop offering to God the fruit of souls that we long for, and God himself approves, we will afterward do whatever divine inspiration may suggest to our heart, both about him and about your wish.