household of Pope Hilary by whom he had been made a bishop. When
Declan with his disciples arrived in Rome Ailbe received him with
great affection and gladness and he bore testimony before the Roman
people to his (Declan's) sanctity of life and nobility of blood. He
(Declan) therefore received marks of honour and sincere affection
from the people and clergy of Rome when they came to understand how
worthy he was, for he was comely, of good appearance, humble in act,
sweet in speech, prudent in counsel, frank in conversation, virtuous
in mien, generous in gifts, holy in life and resplendent in miracles.

9. When Declan had spent a considerable time in Rome he was ordained
a bishop by the Pope, who gave him church-books and rules and orders
and sent him to Ireland that he might preach there. Having bidden
farewell to the Pope and received the latter's blessing Declan
commenced his journey to Ireland. Many Romans followed him to
Ireland to perform their pilgrimage and to spend their lives there
under the yoke and rule of Bishop Declan, and amongst those who
accompanied him was Runan, son of the king of Rome; he was dear to
Declan.

10. On the road through Italy Bishop Declan and Patrick met. Patrick
was not a bishop at that time, though he was (made a bishop)
subsequently by Pope Celestinus, who sent him to preach to the Irish.
Patrick was truly chief bishop of the Irish island. They bade
farewell to one another and they made a league and bond of mutual
fraternity and kissed in token of peace. They departed thereupon
each on his own journey, scil.:--Declan to Ireland and Patrick to
Rome.

11. Declan was beginning mass one day in a church which lay in his