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¹ The PRESBYTER to the lady ECLECTA and her children, whom I sincerely love, and not only I, but all true christians, ² in consideration of the true doctrine, we all profess, and in which we shall for ever persevere. ³ Grace, mercy, and peace be with you from God the father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ the son of the father, in consequence of your sincere piety, and social virtue. ⁴ It was a great satisfaction to me, to see the conduct of your children, was so agreeable to the directions, we received from the father.

⁵ and now, my lady, I beg our love may be mutual, since what I write, is no new prescription, but what was originally enjoin'd. ⁶ now love consists in the practice of the divine precepts. this is the precept you have originally receiv'd, as the rule of your conduct.

⁷ For there are many impostors started up in the world, who will not own that Jesus Christ was incarnate. such a one is an impostor and an anti-christ. ⁸ be upon your guard, that we may not lose the fruit of our labours, but that we may receive our full reward. ⁹ no renegado that deserts the doctrine of Christ, has any interest in the deity: he that adheres to the doctrine of Christ, has an interest both in the father, and in the son.

¹⁰ whoever comes to you unaccompanied with this doctrine, don't admit him to your house, nor treat him with the common term of civility. ¹¹ for he who shows that respect to such a man, is accessary to his wicked actions.

¹² I had many things to write to you, but I don't think it proper to commit them to paper and ink, because I hope to make you a visit, and deliver them by word of mouth; that so our joy may be compleat. ¹³ The children of your sister ECLECTA salute you. AMEN.