But what is to be done to Palmatius, Maran (Vit. Bas. xxiv.) notes that he knows nothing about Palmatius, and supposes that by “persecutions” are meant not persecutions in the ecclesiastical sense, but severities in the exaction of tribute.  In Letter cxlvii. Basil calls Maximus “a very good man,” praise which he is not likely to have given to a persecutor.  Maximus succeeded Elias, and probably inaugurated a new régime of strict exaction. who, after so many exhortations of the brethren, still helps Maximus in his persecutions?  Even now they do not hesitate to write to him.  They are prevented from coming themselves by bodily weakness and their own occupations.  Believe me, very godly Father, our own affairs are much in need of your presence, and yet once more you must put your honourable old age in motion, that you may give your support to Cappadocia, which is now tottering and in danger of falling.