The elder to the chosen lady and her children, whom I love in the truth; and not only I, but also all who know the truth,

And now I ask you, lady, not as though I were writing you a new commandment, but the one we have had from the beginning, that we love one another.

Watch yourselves, that you do not lose what you have worked for, but that you may receive a full reward.

Though I have much to write to you, I do not want to use paper and ink, but I hope to come to see you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete.