Letter 2017: If you haven't yet learned about my son Nicasius's praiseworthy character and honorable way of life, then accept as...

If you have not yet come to know the praiseworthy character and honorable upbringing of my son Nicasius, accept in their stead a most ample surety: my friend Promotus, a man conspicuous for his virtue and refinement, with whom he has long been joined in a familiarity well known to you; and weigh the good qualities of this excellent young man by Promotus's judgment. For a fair inference is one that is drawn from the weight and esteem of one's friends. For my own endorsement carries less weight, since the standing of the more eminent man tips the scale. To his honor it must be granted that the young man be regarded by you not as a newcomer who must be submitted to examination, but as one already approved.