How did Pope Nicholas V gain the trust of Pope Eugenius IV?

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Montúfar, Antonio: Saint Francis of Assisi Appearing Before Pope Nicholas V, with Donors — Nicholas V *Saint Francis of Assisi Appearing Before Pope Nicholas V, with Donors*, oil on canvas by Antonio Montúfar, 1628; in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. 107.95 × 87.63 cm.

Pope Nicholas V, born Tommaso Parentucelli, earned the trust of Pope Eugenius IV through his demonstrated merit, extensive diplomatic experience, and dedicated service to the church.

His path to gaining this confidence included several key milestones:

Diplomatic Service: After spending 20 years in the household of Cardinal Niccolò Albergati, where he accompanied the cardinal on numerous diplomatic missions, Parentucelli proved his capability in international affairs.
Council of Ferrara-Florence: During the Council of Ferrara-Florence (1438–1445), he led critical discussions with the Armenians, Copts, and Jacobites to address doctrinal differences with the Latin church.
Missionary Success: He successfully undertook various missions on behalf of the pope, culminating in his diplomatic achievement in pacifying German electors at the Diet of Frankfurt in 1446.

Recognizing these contributions, Eugenius IV appointed him bishop of Bologna in 1444 and eventually elevated him to the rank of cardinal shortly before his own death.1