I wrote to the assembly, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first among them, doesn't accept what we say.

Every one has always had a good word for Demetrius, and the Truth itself speaks for him. Yes, and we also add our good word, and you know that what we say about him is true.

I had many things [to say when I began] to write to you, but I prefer not to put it down with pen (reed) and black (ink);