For we don’t want you to be unaware, brothers, of our affliction that took place in Asia: we were completely overwhelmed—beyond our strength—so that we even despaired of life.

If you forgive anyone, I do too. For what I have forgiven—if I have forgiven anything—it is for you in the presence of Christ.

As it has been written:

The person who gathered much
did not have too much,
and the person who gathered little
did not have too little.

I repeat: No one should consider me a fool. But if you do, at least accept me as a fool, so I too may boast a little.

Now granted, I have not burdened you; yet sly as I am, I took you in by deceit!