Although not one of the original twelve companions of Francis, Leo was one of the first to join him after the approbation of the first Rule of the Friars Minor (1209–1210) and perhaps was already a priest. In the course of time he became Francis's confessor and secretary, and from about 1220 up to the time of Francis's death Leo was his constant companion. He was with Francis when the latter retired to Fonte Colombo near
Rieti in 1223 to re-write the rule of the order, and he accompanied him on his subsequent journey to Rome to seek its approval. The year following, Leo was present on Mount La Verna when Francis received the
stigmata. Francis called him "Frate Pecorello di Dio" because of Leo's simplicity and tenderness. Leo nursed Francis during his last illness. Soon after Francis's death, Leo came into conflict with those whom he considered traitors to Francis and his ideal of poverty, especially
Elias of Cortona. He protested against the collection of money for the erection of the Basilica of San Francesco, and broke in pieces the marble box which Elias had set up for offertories for the completion of the basilica at
Assisi. For this Elias had him scourged, an unpopular move which consolidated the opposition to Elias. It was likely compiled after his death based on stories that he told and on his writings. == In literature ==