A. From Isidore to my lord and most beloved son in Christ, Archdeacon Braulio (610–620). When you receive a letter from me, dearest son, you should not hesitate to embrace it as you would a friend. Indeed, this is the next best consolation for those who are absent from each other, that if someone who is dear to you is not present, his letters may be embraced in his stead. I have dispatched a ring to you on account of my affection, and also a mantle for a cloak (amictus) of my friendship (amicitia), whence this word was drawn in antiquity. Therefore pray for me; may the Lord preserve you that I may be granted to see you in this life, and that you may make happy again by your return one whom you made sorrowful by your departure. I have also sent a booklet of the rules through Maurentius primic[l]erius. As for the rest I hope this finds you well, my most beloved lord and my dearest son.

B. From Isidore to my most dear and beloved Archdeacon Braulio in Christ (610–620). Since I am not able to enjoy the sight of you in person, I can at least enjoy your conversation, so that it is a consolation to me to learn from your letters that you whom I desire to see are safe.