Since I was unable to write to all the Churches because I am suddenly sailing from Troas to Neapolis, as God's will commands, you will write to the Churches ahead of me, as one who possesses the mind of God, so that they too may do the same—those who are able sending messengers on foot, and the others sending letters through those whom you send—so that you may be glorified by a lasting work, as you are worthy.
I greet everyone by name, and the wife of the Procurator with her whole household and the children. I greet my beloved Attalus. I greet the one who is going to be counted worthy to travel to Syria. Grace will be with him always, and with Polycarp who sends him.
I pray that you may fare well always in our God Jesus Christ, in whom may you remain in the unity of God and under His oversight. I greet Alce, a name dear to me. Farewell in the Lord.