(To my disgrace I must say that we were too weak for that!) But whatever anyone else dares to boast about (I am speaking foolishly), I also dare to boast about the same thing.

Now as a fair exchange – I speak as to my children – open wide your hearts to us also.

I am not saying this as a command, but I am testing the genuineness of your love by comparison with the eagerness of others.

I do not say this to condemn you, for I told you before that you are in our hearts so that we die together and live together with you.

I say again, let no one think that I am a fool. But if you do, then at least accept me as a fool, so that I too may boast a little.