Note 13 — PART ONE 1843–1861
Reading edition
Too great a reward for my poor labors is the sympathy of so courteous and lofty a soul as is manifested in the letter which you have done me the honor to write to me. In such a soul it is a matter of course that indulgence also must find a place; and if in this case it is excessive, this is one reason the more why it should arouse in me a lively sense of gratitude. For the rest, excess in kindly feelings is one of the least dangerous disorders in this world. May God preserve and reward the noble inclinations which he has bestowed upon you.
Pray accept the respectful expression of my gratitude, and the assurance of the high esteem with which I have the honor of signing myself
Your most humble and devoted servant
Alessandro Manzoni